Samsung is launching a cheaper smartwatch

By Alex Choros

Last updated 14 June 2024

Samsung is adding a smartwatch to its "FE" portfolio of devices - gadgets a step below its premium offerings without veering into budget territory. Dubbed the Galaxy Watch FE, the new smartwatch will retail for $399 when it hits Australian shelves on July 1.

A cheaper price point does naturally mean some compromises. The Watch FE is only available in a 40mm size, while the Galaxy Watch 6 is also available in 44mm. The Galaxy Watch FE's 1.2-inch display is also a touch smaller than the 1.3-inch screen on the 40mm Galaxy Watch 6. Other differences include a slightly smaller battery, an older processor, and 1.5GB of RAM rather than 2GB.

Otherwise, the Galaxy Watch FE has most of the hardware specs you'd expect from a modern smartwatch. These include NFC payments, GPS, sapphire crystal glass on the screen, and IP68 and 5ATM water resistance. The Galaxy Watch FE runs WearOS 4 with Samsung's OneUI Watch 5 software on top, just like the manufacturer's flagship watches. As such, you'll get an identical feature set.

For comparison, the Galaxy Watch 6 typically retails for $549, making the Galaxy Watch FE $150 cheaper. It's worth noting that EOFY sales have made the Watch 6 more affordable, however. Samsung itself is selling the Galaxy Watch 6 for $384.30 right now, and we've seen it as cheap as $320.99 on Amazon. Optus is also including the Watch 6 as a bonus with Galaxy S24 plans as part of its EOFY deals.

Samsung is expected to introduce a Galaxy Watch 7 in July, alongside updates to its foldable phone portfolio. As such, the Galaxy Watch FE might make more sense in the context of a new smartwatch lineup, rather than when compared to last year's models.

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