Best Smartwatch for Samsung S20 (S20, S20+ & S20 Ultra) – Buyer’s Guide

Picture this: you’re in an important meeting or an interview for the job of your dreams when your smartphone starts beeping all of a sudden, what do you do? Do you risk coming across as rude by checking your phone, or do you silence it and spend the entire meeting feeling concerned? 

With a smartwatch, you don’t have to compromise your meeting to check your phone, you could simply glance at your wrist quickly and in a much more subtle manner. This is merely one of the many scenarios where having a reliable smartwatch around your wrist can be of great value. 

To celebrate the release of the new Samsung Galaxy S20, S20+ & S20 Ultra, we’re going to go over some of the best smartwatches for Samsung Galaxy S20. We’ll also address a number of frequently asked questions that we often see floating around the internet, so stick around. 

List of The Best Smartwatch for Galaxy S20:

1. Samsung Galaxy Active 2 – Best smartwatch for Galaxy S20 overall
2. Fossil Gen 5 – Runner-up 
3. Samsung Galaxy Watch – Best for traditionalists
4. Fitbit Versa 2 – Best budget smartwatch for Galaxy S20
5. Samsung Gear S3 – Best for minimalists
6. Garmin Vivoactive 3 Music – Best for avid music listeners
7. Mobvoi TicWatch E2 – Another good budget option

Comparison Table:

The 7 Best Smartwatches For Samsung S20

Without any further ado, here are the best smartwatches for Samsung S20 that you can get today.

1. Samsung Galaxy Active 2

Boasting a compact and lightweight construction, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 is one of the most practical smartwatches for fitness enthusiasts. Not only that, but the watch is also very stylish, which means that you can totally wear it for any occasion, be it casual or formal. 

The Galaxy Watch Active 2 is equipped with the vivid AMOLED display that Samsung is famous for. We’re also quite fond of the high contrast ratio that this watch boasts. The Galaxy Active 2 is a notably durable smartwatch, as it’s highly resistant to both water and dust. 

Features-wise, the Active 2 is packed with an impressive array of fitness features that you’ll find extremely helpful. Such features include sleep, workout, and consumption tracking. To boot, the smartwatch is equipped with advanced sensors that can track up to 39 distinct activities. 

The Galaxy Active 2 is available in two different models, the 40mm model and the 44mm model. Not only do the two versions vary in size, but they also vary in terms of specs. For instance, the former model houses a 247mAh battery, whereas the latter model is housing a 340mAh battery. 

Just like all of Samsung’s smartwatches, the Galaxy Active 2 is powered by Tizen OS. If you’ve previously had a Samsung smartwatch, you know that Tizen OS runs smoother than a fresh jar of skippy. Not to mention that Tizen OS doesn’t consume a whole lot of power.

Pros:

• Boasts a design that’s suiting for all occasions 
• Compact, lightweight, and remarkably durable
• The operating system is thoroughly trouble-free
• Easier navigation with the digital rotating bezel
• Offers vivid display and a superb contrast ratio
• The battery life is satisfactory on both versions

Cons:

• You don’t have access to many third-party apps
• The watch requires a pretty long time to charge

Final Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 is a prime example of what a fitness-oriented smartwatch should look like. While not the most app-friendly, it gets the job done beautifully. 

2. Samsung Galaxy Watch

If you’re in search of a smartwatch that has that traditional look of a regular watch, then you may want to consider the Samsung Galaxy Watch Design-wise, the watch is a few millimeters thicker than the Galaxy Active 2 at 46mm. It’s also slightly heavier and a little more rugged. 

The unit features a 1.3-inch AMOLED screen that’s embellished with Corning Gorilla Glass DX+ for added protection. The Galaxy Watch also features Samsung’s rotating bezel, allowing you to interact with the UI more fluently. It’s worth noting that the watch is resistant to water and dust. 

When it comes to features, the Galaxy Watch boasts an incredible array of fitness features such as a sleep and heart rate monitor. It also offers features that can assist with your meditation and breathing. Other features include a barometer, a gyro sensor, and an accelerometer. 

Being a Samsung device, the Galaxy Watch runs on Tizen OS, which we’ve already established as a smooth and exceedingly efficient operating system. However, you won’t get to reap the app compatibility benefits that you’d get from a device that features Google’s Wear OS. 

Pros:

• Traditionalists will find this watch super appealing
• Features a remarkable battery life of 72-96 hours
• Vivid AMOLED display with Corning Gorilla Glass
• Smooth performance and a user-friendly interface
• Equipped with a splendid range of fitness features

Cons:

• The smartwatch doesn’t offer fluid app compatibility 
• The price tag is oddly higher than that of the Active 2 

Final Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy Watch is a top contender for the title of the perfect smartwatch for Galaxy S20 with its traditionalist look and exceptional battery life, but we feel it’s a bit too pricey. 

3. Fossil Gen 5

Fossil is one of the most prominent names in the world of smartwatches, and the Fossil Gen 5 smartwatch is a testament to the manufacturer’s adeptness. The Fossil Gen 5 features one of the best smartwatch designs to ever hit the market. It’s elegance at its purest form. 

This smartwatch features a 328ppi AMOLED screen that does a brilliant job of displaying vivid colors and deep levels of black. As far as features, the Gen 5 has a built-in GPS and provides features such as heart rate and sleep monitoring. It also offers near-field communication. 

The Cardiogram app allows the user to check things such as diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea. The battery life on this watch is anywhere from 24-48 hours, which isn’t very impressive. The unit runs on Wear OS, so you’ll be able to download a wide range of third-party apps. 

Pros:

• Offers GPS tracking and near-field communication
• The AMOLED screen displays rich and vivid colors
• Certainly one of the best-looking watches out there
• Offers a superb array of fitness and health features
• Allows access to a superb range of third-party apps

Cons:

• Disappointing battery life compared to other devices
• The unit weighs exponentially more than other units

Final Verdict

The Fossil Gen 5 is one of the best smartwatches that run on Google’s Wear OS, and it’s surely a good fit for the Galaxy S20. However, it doesn’t offer the best battery life out of the bunch.

4. Fitbit Versa 2

The Fitbit Versa 2 is another highly affordable option that you can opt for if you’re restricted by a tight budget. This smartwatch is arguably the lightest smartwatch on the market as it weighs just around 5 grams, making it an ideal pick for both women and children.

The watch is equipped with an AMOLED screen that provides bright colors and a fitting contrast ratio. It also has an always-on function. The Versa 2 offers a great range of fitness features such as a step counter, heart rate sensor, and other activity trackers that you’ll find very helpful.

The Versa 2 houses a battery that can last for up to 5 days on a single charge. What’s more, the watch allows you to issue payments via NFC. Sadly, however, it doesn’t offer GPS tracking, so it won’t be of any help as far as navigation, and you’ll have to use your phone’s GPS feature.

The Fitbit Versa 2 is totally waterproof and sweatproof. To add, the construction is pretty rugged compared to other watches. The watch runs on Google’s Wear OS, meaning that you can enjoy access to an extensive range of third-party apps via Google Play Store.

Pros:

• The construction is lightweight yet highly durable
• Features one of the best battery lives on this list
• The watch allows you to make payments via NFC
• Offers the user access to a ton of third-party apps
• One of the most affordable smartwatches available

Cons:

• The watch doesn’t offer a GPS tracking functionality
• Setting this smartwatch up can be quite challenging 

Final Verdict

If you’re a fitness fanatic and you’re looking for a smartwatch that weighs remarkably less than most smartwatches on the market, the Fitbit Versa 2 won’t disappoint. 

5. Samsung Gear S3 

The Samsung Gear S3 is yet another device that adopts that classic look for a regular, good old watch, making it an ideal option for traditionalists and minimalists. The Gear S3 offers a 1.3-inch AMOLED screen that’s quite similar to that of the Galaxy Watch minus the protective glass. 

Just like all of Samsung’s smartwatches, the Gear S3 features the rotating bezel that allows you to navigate your way around it without having to resort to touch controls. Some notable features include GPS tracking, workout tracking, a step counter, and a heart rate monitor. 

The Samsung Gear S3 houses a 380mAh battery that can last for 3 days on a single charge. To add, the unit is completely resistant to water and dust. Employing Tizen OS, the Samsung Gear S3 offers an incredibly smooth performance. But again, not the most ideal app compatibility. 

Pros:

• Features AMOLED display with superior contrast
• Equipped with a terrific range of fitness features
• Superlative design that fits all types of occasions
• Features built-in GPS tracking for easy navigation

Cons:

• We’re not impressed with this watch’s battery life
• The device is a little overpriced for what it’s worth

Final Verdict

The Samsung Gear S3 is doubtlessly a highly compatible smartwatch with Samsung S20, but it seems to fall short on a few things compared to other Samsung counterparts, in our opinion. 

6. Garmin Vivoactive 3 Music

If music is the primary deciding factor for you, you’ll definitely find the Garmin Vivoactive 3 to be an extremely winsome option. As you can probably tell from the name, this is a smartwatch that prioritizes music addicts by offering an internal storage space that can handle up to 500 songs. 

The Vivoactive 3 features a 1.2-inch LCD screen, which is probably the only thing that we have against it. Don’t get us wrong, the screen does its job beautifully, but when head to head with a vivid AMOLED screen, the Vivoactive 3’s LCD screen simply pales in comparison. 

The design of this smartwatch is pretty simplistic compared to that of any of the Samsung units reviewed in this article. But simplicity isn’t always a gripe, in fact, it lends this watch remarkable aesthetics that minimalists will surely appreciate and find easier to deal with. 

One of the things that set the Garmin Vivoactive 3 from the rest of the competition is its superb battery life. This smartwatch can remain on for up to 7 days on a single charge, which is simply unbelievable. However, if you enable both GPS and Bluetooth, a single charge will last 5 hours. 

The Vivoactive 3 boasts a remarkable array of features, including sleep tracking, stair counting, and heart rate monitoring. Into the bargain, you get to use advanced metrics such as VO2 Max. The unit uses a proprietary OS that runs smoothly but doesn’t offer great app compatibility. 

Pros:

• Houses a battery that can last for up to 7 days
• The construction is lightweight and comfortable
• Provides numerous health and fitness features 
• Allows you to download up to 500 different songs
• The watch allows the user to stream music easily

Cons:

• We would’ve preferred AMOLED instead of LCD
• Access to third-party apps is considerably limited

Final Verdict

The Garmin Vivoactive 3 Music is an ideal smartwatch to pair with your Galaxy S20 if you’re into music. However, you may want to try before you buy in order to see if you like the LCD screen. 

7. Mobvoi TicWatch E2

The TicWatch E2 from Mobvoi is one of the most affordable units on the market, but that doesn’t mean that it’s lacking in terms of functionalities. If simplicity is something that you cherish, this is a smartwatch that you’ll certainly find appealing as it features a minimalistic design. 

The unit is equipped with a 1.39-inch OLED touchscreen that does a great job of displaying rich colors and deep levels of black. With this watch embracing your wrist, you can see who’s calling and receive notifications without having to pull out your phone. It also features Google Assistant.

The Mobvoi TicWatch E2 runs on Google’s Wear OS, meaning that you have access to Google Play Store from which you can pick from a superb range of apps that you can access from your watch. We recommend downloading the Mobvoi app to enjoy the watch’s full potential. 

As far as battery life, this watch can run for up to 24-48 hours on a single charge, depending on how frequently you use it. We’d also like to point out that the TicWatch E2 is IP67-certified. This means that you can use it to track swimming without worrying about water rendering it useless. 

Pros:

• One of the most affordable watches on the market
• Features an OLED screen that displays vivid colors 
• Grants you access to a broad range of useful apps
• It’s IP67-certified, so you can use to track swimming
• Boasts built-in GPS tracking and Google Assistant 

Cons:

• Doesn’t provide any payment solutions whatsoever
• The performance isn’t as smooth as other watches

Final Verdict

If you’re restricted by a tight budget and paying a whole lot of money for a smartwatch doesn’t sound like a good idea to you, we highly recommend you give the TicWatch E2 a try. 

How to Pick a Smartwatch for Galaxy S20

Smartwatches are a dime a dozen nowadays, which makes the process of narrowing down your choices quite challenging. To guarantee the most bang for your money, we suggest you take the following factors into consideration. 

1. Compatibility

The first thing you need to inspect when in the market for a smartwatch is compatibility. After all, you don’t want to spend money on a device that doesn’t integrate with your phone. For instance, you can’t opt for an Apple Watch Series 5 since it’s only compatible with iOS devices. 

If you decide to order any of the products reviewed in this article, you won’t have to worry about compatibility, as all seven of those smartwatches are compatible with the Galaxy S20. However, if you decide to buy a different watch, you need to make sure it’s compatible with your handset. 

2. Display Type

When sifting through smartwatches, you’ll notice that almost all available smartwatches feature either LCD or AMOLED display. In LCD display, the light is produced with the aid of a backlight, while in AMOLED display, each pixel is responsible for emitting its own light. 

In simple words, AMOLED display has the ability to put up richer colors than LCD display. Also, smartwatches that boast AMOLED display tend to be superior when it comes to saturation. But while AMOLED display offers a wide range of colors, LCD display offers much cleaner whites.

3. Notifications

When in the market for a smartwatch, you need to make sure that you end up with a device that can notify you of incoming calls, text messages, and emails. It’s safe to assume that all watches available today offer this feature, but still, you must counter-check before placing the order. 

In addition to the above-mentioned notification, your smartwatch should be able to keep you up to date with your social media accounts. Typically, a watch would faintly buzz as a way to notify you of anything, which is very convenient because you won’t have to glance at it every so often. 

4. Operating System

At the end of the day, selecting the right operating system is a matter of personal preference. It’s worth noting that most of the smartwatches on the market today utilize Google’s Wear OS, while other units run on proprietary operating systems such as Tizen OS and Watch OS. 

Considering that you’re trying to buy a smartwatch for a Samsung handset, the top choice would be a smartwatch that features Samsung’s Tizen OS. However, you need to keep in mind that it’s not the most app-friendly operating system out there. Nevertheless, it runs quite smoothly.

The Samsung Galaxy S20 is still an android handset, meaning that you can go for a smartwatch that runs on Wear OS. The aforementioned operating system is known for its extensive range of third-party apps. However, it can be a bit laggy, especially if the watch’s CPU is outmoded.

5. Battery Life

One of the most important factors to inspect when shopping for a smartwatch is battery life. You don’t want to end up with a smartwatch that requires a recharge two or three times a day. At the very least, you should invest in a smartwatch that has a battery life of 24 hours. 

6. Key Features 

It’s always nice to have a smartwatch that offers a broad range of features, but if these features aren’t exactly essential for you, then what’s the point of having them? You need to write down a list of the required features that you would want in your smartwatch before making a purchase. 

Moreover, by making a list of the required features, you can help save some pretty penny. Some features that you might want to consider having in your watch include cellular connectivity, sleep and heart rate monitoring, water and dust resistance, and apps compatibility. 

7. Product Warranty

Smartwatches don’t come cheap, and repairing them can be quite costly as well. That’s why you need to buy a product from a reputable brand that gives a solid repair and replacement warranty of at least one year, and not a knockoff product that offers nothing but a tempting price tag. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

On our quest to find the best smartwatches for the Galaxy S20, we couldn’t help but notice a few recurring questions that don’t have definitive answers. This section of the article attempts to answer these questions. 

Do Samsung Watches Work With Other Phones?

As long as you have an Android handset that’s running on Android 5.0 or higher and that has at least 1.5 GB worth of RAM, a Samsung smartwatch will be a good fit. Not only that, but you can also use a Samsung smartwatch on an iPhone 5 or newer with iOS 9 or later. 

Which Phones Are Compatible With the Samsung Galaxy Watch?

The Samsung Galaxy Watch is compatible with a wide range of handsets, from HTC, Oppo, and Vivo, to HTC, Google, and Motorola, among many more. Check out the full list here. 

Are Apple Watches Compatible With Samsung Phones?

Sadly, you can’t pair an Android device with an Apple watch. Apple smartwatches are designed solely for iOS devices. 

Can a Galaxy Watch Active 2 Text?

You can see and respond to texts in one of three ways: you can either dictate what you want to text, you can send emojis, or you can use a Smart Keyboard to draw what you want to say. 

Is the Galaxy Watch Active 2 Better Than the Galaxy Watch?

We feel like the only aspect in which the Galaxy Watch has the upper hand over the Active 2 is battery life. Aside from that, the Galaxy Watch Active 2 is definitely the more superior option. 

Final Thoughts 

All of the above-mentioned products should perform quite nicely with the Galaxy S20 as well as its peers from the same series. With that, we conclude our exposition of the best smartwatches for Samsung Galaxy S20. Which one of the above-mentioned products do you think is the best?