Samsung Galaxy Watch 3: A Comprehensive Look

The Enduring Appeal of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3: A Retrospective Look

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 3, released in 2020, occupies a unique space in the smartwatch landscape. While newer models have since emerged, the Watch 3 continues to hold its own, offering a blend of classic design, robust features, and a user-friendly experience. This retrospective look delves into the various facets of the Galaxy Watch 3, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and enduring appeal.

A Design that Stands the Test of Time

Classic Aesthetics and Premium Build

The Galaxy Watch 3 immediately impressed with its elegant design. Available in both 41mm and 45mm sizes, the watch featured a rotating bezel, a hallmark of Samsung’s smartwatch design, which provided intuitive navigation. The stainless steel or titanium case options, coupled with a genuine leather strap, exuded a premium feel. This classic aesthetic, reminiscent of traditional wristwatches, set it apart from the more futuristic designs of some competitors. The rotating bezel, in particular, was lauded for its tactile feedback and seamless interaction, making scrolling through menus and notifications a breeze.

Display and Durability

The Super AMOLED display on the Galaxy Watch 3 was vibrant and crisp, offering excellent visibility even in bright sunlight. The Corning Gorilla Glass DX provided robust protection against scratches and minor impacts. The watch also boasted an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, making it suitable for everyday wear and various activities.

Health and Fitness Features: A Comprehensive Suite

Advanced Health Monitoring

The Galaxy Watch 3 was packed with health-monitoring features, including:

ECG (Electrocardiogram): Capable of detecting atrial fibrillation (AFib), the ECG feature provided valuable insights into heart health.

Blood Oxygen (SpO2) Monitoring: Measuring blood oxygen saturation levels, this feature helped users track their respiratory health.

Blood Pressure Monitoring: While requiring calibration with a traditional blood pressure monitor, this feature offered convenient blood pressure readings on the wrist.

Sleep Tracking: Providing detailed sleep analysis, including sleep stages and sleep score, the Watch 3 helped users understand their sleep patterns.

Fall Detection: This safety feature automatically detected falls and sent an SOS message to emergency contacts.

These health-tracking capabilities solidified the Watch 3’s position as a comprehensive health companion.

Fitness Tracking and Workout Modes

The Galaxy Watch 3 offered a wide range of fitness tracking features, including automatic workout detection for various activities like walking, running, cycling, and swimming. It also provided personalized coaching and workout programs through the Samsung Health app. The built-in GPS accurately tracked outdoor workouts, and the heart rate sensor provided real-time heart rate monitoring.

Software and Performance: Tizen’s Strengths and Limitations

Tizen OS and User Interface

The Galaxy Watch 3 ran on Samsung’s Tizen OS, which was known for its smooth performance and intuitive user interface. The rotating bezel, combined with the touch screen, made navigation effortless. The Tizen OS offered a variety of watch faces and apps, although the app ecosystem was not as extensive as Wear OS or watchOS.

Performance and Battery Life

The Exynos 9110 processor provided smooth performance for everyday tasks. The battery life, while not exceptional, was adequate for most users, typically lasting a day or two depending on usage. While heavy GPS usage or continuous health tracking drained the battery faster, general use provided acceptable longevity.

Connectivity and Smart Features

The Galaxy Watch 3 offered robust connectivity options, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and LTE (on select models). It supported notifications from smartphones, allowing users to stay connected on the go. It also featured Samsung Pay for contactless payments and the ability to control music playback.

The Galaxy Watch 3 in Today’s Context

Enduring Value and Relevance

Despite the release of newer Galaxy Watch models, the Watch 3 continues to offer excellent value for its price. Its classic design, comprehensive health and fitness features, and user-friendly interface make it a compelling option for those seeking a reliable and stylish smartwatch.

Strengths Revisited

Classic Design: The timeless design and rotating bezel remain a major draw.

Health Features: The comprehensive suite of health-tracking features, including ECG and SpO2 monitoring, is still relevant.

User Experience: The intuitive Tizen OS and rotating bezel provide a smooth user experience.

Build Quality: The premium build quality ensures durability and longevity.

Limitations and Considerations

Tizen OS: The limited app ecosystem compared to Wear OS is a drawback.

Battery Life: While adequate, the battery life is not as impressive as some newer models.

Software Updates: Tizen is no longer being developed for watches, so newer software features will only be available on WearOS based samsung watches.

Accuracy: While the health sensors are generally accurate, they are not medical-grade devices.

Who is the Galaxy Watch 3 For?

The Galaxy Watch 3 is an excellent choice for individuals who:

Appreciate a classic and elegant smartwatch design.

Prioritize health and fitness tracking features.

Prefer a user-friendly interface with intuitive navigation.

Seek a reliable and durable smartwatch for everyday wear.

Are happy using a watch that will no longer recieve major software updates.

A Lasting Legacy

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 stands as a testament to Samsung’s commitment to crafting high-quality smartwatches. Its blend of classic design, robust features, and user-friendly experience has cemented its place as a beloved device among smartwatch enthusiasts. While newer models offer advancements in technology and features, the Galaxy Watch 3’s enduring appeal lies in its timeless design and its ability to deliver a comprehensive and reliable smartwatch experience. It remains a solid option for those who value a blend of style, functionality, and value.