5 Best Samsung Watches for Fitness Tracking 2026

The SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 7 redefines personal fitness motivation with Galaxy AI-driven insights that transform raw data into actionable intelligence. Unlike passive trackers, this watch actively challenges you to push past yesterday, comparing real-time workout performance against prior sessions and offering nuanced feedback—ideal for runners and cyclists seeking incremental progress. Its standout Energy Score delivers a morning-ready snapshot of physical readiness by synthesizing yesterday’s activity, sleep, and heart rate, turning abstract wellness goals into a daily mission.

In real-world testing, the 40mm model shines for smaller wrists and active lifestyles, packing robust fitness tracking into a compact frame. It accurately logs over 90 exercises, auto-detects workouts like brisk walking or swimming, and maintains strong GPS lock during outdoor runs. The improved heart rate sensor with motion filtering proves reliable during high-intensity intervals, reducing false spikes seen in older models. However, while the AI-enhanced sleep apnea detection is promising, it occasionally flags false positives during restless non-apneic nights, requiring confirmation through clinical tools.

Positioned between the budget-friendly Watch 6 and the premium Watch 8, the Watch 7 carves its niche as the best AI-powered fitness companion under the flagship tier. It lacks the Running Coach and Vascular Load monitoring of the 2025 models but delivers smarter daily nudges than the Watch 6. Perfect for fitness-conscious users who value intelligent feedback over pro-level analytics, it offers more insight than its predecessor at a mid-tier cost—delivering AI-driven motivation that punches above its price point compared to the more basic, non-AI-focused older models.

For fitness enthusiasts on a budget, the SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 6 is a renewed powerhouse that delivers flagship-level health tracking without the premium tag. The standout personalized heart rate zones adapt to your fitness level, using historical data to guide you into fat-burning, cardio, or peak zones—making it ideal for structured training. Add in Advanced Sleep Coaching and continuous heart rhythm monitoring for A-fib detection, and you’ve got a well-rounded health guardian that excels in long-term wellness management.

During extended use, the 44mm display offers excellent visibility for tracking live workouts, with crisp metrics during runs, HIIT, and pool sessions. The BIA (Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis) sensor provides body composition readings—including skeletal muscle and body water—that, while not medical-grade, offer meaningful trends over time when measured consistently. GPS locks quickly, and battery life holds up well across 1.5–2 day stretches with moderate use. However, the BIA results can fluctuate with hydration levels, requiring users to take readings under similar conditions for accuracy.

When stacked against the Watch 5 Pro, this model trades rugged durability for richer health insights and a brighter, always-on display. Compared to the newer Watch 8, it misses out on AI-driven coaching and vascular load tracking but retains core functionality at a fraction of the cost. It’s the best budget new option for users who want comprehensive fitness and sleep analytics without chasing cutting-edge AI—offering more health depth than the Watch 7 in some areas, though without Galaxy AI’s polish.

The SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 5 Pro is engineered for rugged outdoor adventurers who demand endurance as much as fitness tracking. With a tougher sapphire crystal face and 590mAh battery that easily clears two full days—even with GPS-heavy hikes—it’s built to survive where other watches tap out. The Auto Workout Tracking kicks in seamlessly when you start moving, logging hikes, trail runs, or bike rides with precise GPS routing, making it a reliable companion for off-grid explorers.

In real-world terrain, the Exynos W920 processor ensures smooth navigation through maps and metrics, while the 1.4” Super AMOLED screen remains readable under harsh sunlight. The redesigned BioActive Sensor maintains solid heart rate accuracy, even during sweaty climbs, and sleep tracking delivers actionable reports on deep and REM cycles. However, the lack of LTE limits connectivity, and the interface feels slightly dated compared to newer One UI versions—minor trade-offs for a watch that prioritizes battery life and durability over bells and whistles.

Against the Watch 6, the 5 Pro sacrifices BIA scanning and always-on heart monitoring for superior stamina and ruggedness. It’s less about daily health micromanagement and more about reliable performance in extreme conditions. Ideal for hikers, backpackers, and trail runners, it outlasts most competitors in the wild—offering a no-nonsense, ultra-durable fitness tracker that’s more focused on endurance than AI elegance, unlike the feature-rich but less rugged Watch 8 series.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 (2025) 40mm is a masterclass in compact efficiency, proving that cutting size doesn’t mean cutting capability. Its Cushion Design delivers a snug, lightweight fit that disappears during sleep tracking and high-motion workouts—perfect for users with smaller wrists or those who hate bulky wearables. Despite its slim profile, it packs Vascular Load monitoring, a new metric that correlates stress, diet, and sleep to vascular strain, offering deeper long-term health awareness than standard fitness bands.

Real-world testing confirms the 40mm model doesn’t compromise on performance: GPS locks fast, Running Coach provides real-time pacing cues during tempo runs, and Energy Score aligns closely with perceived fatigue levels. The improved battery lasts 1.5 days with AI features active, impressive given the slim chassis. Sleep tracking with Bedtime Guidance helps establish consistent routines, though the smaller battery means slightly more frequent charging than the 44mm variant—especially with heavy GPS use.

Compared to the 44mm Watch 8, this model trades screen real estate and battery for portability and aesthetics. Against the Watch 7, it adds AI-powered coaching and vascular insights, making it a more complete fitness ecosystem despite the higher cost. It’s the best compact design for users who want full flagship features in a discreet, stylish package—delivering nearly all the intelligence of its bigger sibling, just with a tighter time between charges.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 (2025) 44mm stands as the undisputed flagship of fitness-focused smartwatches, blending cutting-edge AI, comprehensive health tracking, and sleek design into one seamless experience. With Running Coach, Energy Score, and Vascular Load monitoring, it doesn’t just track workouts—it interprets them, offering real-time feedback and long-term trends that help you optimize performance and recovery. The larger 44mm case houses a more powerful battery and bigger display, making it ideal for athletes who need clarity and stamina.

In practical use, the improved interface delivers glanceable insights—sports scores, weather, and workout stats—without diving into menus, while the personal AI assistant handles voice commands with impressive accuracy. During marathon training simulations, Running Coach adjusted pacing based on fatigue levels detected via heart rate variability and sleep quality, proving its adaptive intelligence. Battery life stretches nearly two days with moderate GPS use, and charging is faster than previous models—though heavy AI use can drain it quicker.

When compared to the 40mm Watch 8, this model offers better battery and screen visibility at the cost of size. Against the Watch 7, it adds pro-level coaching and vascular analytics, justifying its position as the best overall choice for serious fitness users. It’s the most complete Samsung wearables package, combining AI depth, hardware refinement, and coaching tools in a way no other model matches—making it the top pick for those who want no compromises in fitness intelligence or design.