Galaxy Watch 6 Classic vs Galaxy Watch 4 Classic: The Right Upgrade!
The Galaxy Watch 6 Classic has emerged as an elegant new smartwatch, reintroducing the popular rotating bezel from the early Galaxy Watch 4 Classic.
Enhanced by performance and extended battery life, it’s a notable contender in the market. However, the question remains: can it outshine its 2-year older predecessor, the Watch 4 Classic? Beyond the upgraded display and chipset, what unique features does the Galaxy 6 bring to the table?
In this comprehensive comparison, We dive into the overall details of both the watches and the intricacies to determine whether sticking to the more affordable Galaxy Watch 4 Classic makes sense or whether it would be wise to spend a higher price on the new and improved Watch 6 Classic is the way to go.
Table of Contents:
1. Galaxy Watch 4 Classic VS Galaxy Watch 6 Classic: Key Differences
| Galaxy Watch 4 Classic | Galaxy Watch 6 Classic |
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2. Galaxy Watch 4 Classic VS Galaxy Watch 6 Classic: Design & Build
- IP68 & 5ATM
- Mil-Std Certified
- Armor Aluminum Frame
When it comes to design and build, both the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic and Galaxy Watch 6 Classic offer impressive quality but in their own unique ways.
The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic sports a lightweight aluminum body, weighing 52 grams for the 46mm variant and 46.5 grams for the 42mm version. The design follows the same rounded design as a signature edition from earlier Galaxy watches.
One thing that was a nuisance is removing the strap or band from the Watch 4 Classic if you feel like using a different one. It was a pin design that is not suitable for people who are not habitual with it.
It is available in 2 primary colors: black, silver, and two exclusive editions like “Thom Browne Edition & Bespoke Edition”. You also get greater safety with Corning Gorilla Glass DX+ protection and IP68 water resistance, which gives you up to 50 meters of protection against splashes.
On the other hand, the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic caters to users’ demands by bringing back the iconic rotating bezel although the bezel is reduced and slimmer now for upgrading the display. This physical feature is highly valued by those wearing gloves for sweaty hands, as it allows for easy menu and app navigation.
The Classic model comes in a larger size and has a heavy build to it as well, with a weight of up to 59 grams for the 47mm variant and 52 grams for the 43mm variant. Its build quality is superior, boasting Sapphire display glass an upgrade from the last Galaxy 4 Classic’s Gorilla Glass DX.
For strap removal you will be happy to know, there is just one click away to remove the strap now, with just a push of a button you can now remove or change the bands of your Galaxy Watch 6 Classic.
And for greater looking and durability, there is a “Stainless Steel frame”, which is similar to the Watch 4 Classic as well. The Classic version is available in two colors, Black and gray, and shares the same IP68 rating for water and dust protection.
3. Galaxy Watch 4 Classic VS Galaxy Watch 6 Classic: Display
- AMOLED PANEL
- Improved Display Resolution
- Sapphire Crystal Protection
The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic impresses with its Super AMOLED panel, boasting 450 x 450 pixels for the 46mm variant and 396×396 pixels for the 42mm variant. Although outshone by Watch 6 Classic’s upgraded resolution, it remains commendable.
Corning Gorilla Glass DX+ offers daily durability, yet falls short of Watch 6 Classic’s Sapphire. The convenient rotating bezel aids app switching, shared with Watch 6 Classic. The Always-On Display persists for immediate glances. While not the latest, the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic delivers a solid performance with its display technology, protection, and user-friendly features for a compelling smartwatch experience.
In comparison, the Galaxy watch 6 classic features a captivating Super AMOLED display, now with an upgraded 1.5 inches with 480 x 480 pixels, so you will be getting improved display visuals with 453ppi. It is a massive bump from two years back Galaxy Watch 4 Classic which had only 321 ppi.
Its 2000-nit peak brightness, double that of Watch 5, coupled with Always-On functionality, ensures vibrant visuals in any setting. And there are eight new watch faces which are unique to the watch 6 classics.
The 30% larger display integrates a slimmer rotating bezel, enabling seamless navigation and app access. This addresses past limitations, while Sapphire Crystal glass offers upgraded protection compared to last year’s Gorilla Glass DX+.
4. Galaxy Watch 4 Classic VS Galaxy Watch 6 Classic: Performance
- Similar Health & Fitness
- Upgraded Chipset And RAM on Watch 6 Classic
- Few New Features on Watch 6 Classic
The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic showcases impressive performance features, sharing the Exynos chipset with its Watch 6 classic counterpart. The upgraded processor and clock speed, along with 1.5GB RAM and 16GB storage, contribute to its snappy responsiveness. Sporting the Exynos W920 chipset, a 5 nm marvel, it boasts a 1.18GHz dual-core punch. While lag-free, it falls slightly short of the Watch 6’s specs.
Health and fitness enthusiasts are catered to with diverse sports modes, ECG for heart rate, and the BioActive Sensor for body composition. The PPG Sensor tracks blood pressure, while sleep activity monitoring enriches the experience.
Notably, skin temperature and track run features, introduced in the Watch 6 Classic, are absent. The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic exemplifies smooth performance and comprehensive health monitoring.
In comparison, the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic enhances user experience with an upgraded chipset, offering faster app usage and responses. Powered by Exynos W930 on 5nm architecture, it boasts a Dual-core 1.4 GHz CPU and Mali-G68 GPU, improving GPS loading and stats. While it is not by many upgrades from two years back Watch 4 which had a 1.18Ghz clock speed, but still quite an upgrade.
And for RAM you get 500MB more, giving you 2GB of RAM, enabling better multitasking, while 16GB ROM provides ample storage and remains the same as Watch 4 Classic. Over 90 workout modes and BioActive Sensor for heart monitoring are key fitness features.
Sleep tracking, blood oxygen readings, ECG, and more health tools are present. Accurate 3D Hall sensor tracks bezel rotation. Bluetooth 5.3 and Wi-Fi support seamless connectivity. The Galaxy Watch 6 Classic offers a compelling smartwatch experience for fitness and health-conscious users.
5. Galaxy Watch 4 Classic Classic VS Galaxy Watch 6 Classic: OS & UI
- Android Wear OS
- One UI 3 VS OneUI 5
As for the software experience, after the Galaxy Watch 3’s Tizen which had lots of user dissatisfaction from users, you get Android OS on Galaxy watches, for the Watch 4 Classic you get Android OS based on Samsung’s One UI Watch 4.5, it’s an older version compared to latest Watch 6 Classic but with the custom interface of Samsung’s custom Wear OS skin.
One UI Watch 4.5 is still great at first glance, with customizable watch faces, full typing experience with a QWERTY keyboard, and making calls as you get dual-SIM support on One UI Watch4.5. There is Visual Accessibility for improving better control of your watch and more.
And if you look at the newer Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, it elevates the watch experience with Android Wear OS 4 and One UI 5. Upgraded interfaces from last year’s Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, now offer dynamic watch faces and customization while retaining personalization options.
Essential Google apps might be absent, but Assistant, YouTube Music, and WhatsApp provide convenience. Sleep insights, SOS, fall detection, and heart rate zones enhance features. Improved UI includes text dictation and a larger keyboard, and a sleeker bezel and brighter display enhance usability.
For Samsung flip/foldable users, flex mode enables control over the timer, photography, and zoom via the rotating bezel on the wrist. The watch’s impressive OS and UI bring a comprehensive and personalized smartwatch experience.
6. Galaxy Watch 4 Classic VS Galaxy Watch 6 Classic: Battery Life
- 425mAh & 300mAh (Watch 6 Classic)
- 361mAh & 247mAh (Watch 4 Classic)
- Wireless Charging with Qi
The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is equipped with battery capacities of 361mAh for the 46mm variant and as low as 247mAh for the 42mm model. While both versions offer a one-day or 24-hour battery life, they feature Qi wireless charging for added convenience.
However, achieving a full charge requires a minimum of 2 and a half hours, making it notably slower compared to the newer Watch 6 Classic. In terms of battery performance and charging speed, the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic falls behind its successor, the Watch 6 Classic.
In contrast, the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic exhibits a greater battery capacity compared to the Watch 4 Classic from two years ago. Available in two sizes, the 47mm model houses a 425mAh battery, while the 43mm version accommodates a 300mAh battery, yielding improved battery longevity.
When utilizing the Always-On display, the watch sustains approximately 30 hours of usage, whereas deactivating this feature extends the battery life by an additional 10 hours, resulting in roughly 40 hours of operation. With these capabilities, the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic comfortably endures a full day of diverse activities.
During intensive usage, battery life may diminish to approximately 26-27 hours. The watch is compatible with 10W Qi Wireless charging, offering a practical and versatile solution, including the option for reverse charging other Galaxy devices.
7. Galaxy Watch 4 Classic VS Galaxy Watch 6 Classic: Specs
And if you are looking for more detailed head-to-head specs of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic vs. Galaxy Watch 6 Classic Classic, here are all the major specifications of the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic Classic VS the Regular Galaxy Watch 4 Classic down below:
| Specs | Galaxy Watch 6 Classic | Galaxy Watch 4 Classic |
| Display | 47mm: 1.5-inch Super AMOLED display, 480×480 resolution, Sapphire Crystal, (453ppi), Always-on display
43mm: 1.3-inch Super AMOLED, 432×432 resolution, Sapphire Crystal, Always-on display |
46mm: 1.4-inch Super AMOLED display, 450×450 resolution, Gorilla Glass DX, (321ppi), Always-on display
42mm: 1.2-inch Super AMOLED, 396×396 pixels resolution (330ppi), Gorilla Glass DX, Always-on display |
| Dimensions | 47mm: 46.5 x 46.5 x 10.9 mm Weight: 59 g43mm: 42.5 x 42.5 x 10.9 mmWeight: 52 g |
46mm: 45.5 x 45.5 x 11 mm Weight: 52 g42mm: 41.5 x 41.5 x 11.2 mmWeight: 46.5 g |
| Protection | 47mm: Glass front (Sapphire crystal), aluminum frame, Physical rotating bezel 43mm: Glass front (Sapphire crystal), aluminum frame, Rotating bezel 5ATM + IP68, MIL-STD-810H*does not guarantee ruggedness or use in extreme conditions |
46mm: Glass front (Sapphire crystal), aluminum frame, Physical rotating bezel 42mm: Glass front (Sapphire crystal), aluminum frame, Rotating bezel 5ATM + IP68, MIL-STD-810H*does not guarantee ruggedness or use in extreme conditions |
| Platform | OS: Android Wear OS 4, One UI Watch 5 Chipset: Exynos W930 (5 nm) CPU: Dual-Core 1.4Ghz Cortex-A55 GPU: Mali-G68 |
OS: Android Wear OS, OneUI Watch 3 Chipset: Exynos W920 (5 nm) CPU: Dual-Core 1.18Ghz Cortex-A55 GPU: Mali-G68 |
| Sound | Built-in Loudspeaker | Built-in Loudspeaker |
| Storage | Ram: 2GB ROM: 16GB |
Ram: 1.5GB ROM: 16GB |
| Connectivity | eSIM, Wi-Fi 802.11, BT 5.3, GPS, NFC | eSIM, Wi-Fi 802.11, BT 5.3, GPS, NFC |
| Battery | 47mm: 425mAh 43mm: 300mAh Fast Charging ( 45% charge with 30 min Charging) Wireless Charging: Qi Wireless |
46mm: 361mAh 42mm: 247mAh Fast Charging ( 45% charge with 30 min Charging) Wireless Charging: Qi Wireless |
| Features | Natural language commands and dictation
Samsung Pay |
Natural language commands and dictation
Samsung Pay |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, compass, heart rate, barometer, thermometer (skin temperature), 3D Hall sensor | Accelerometer, gyro, compass, heart rate, barometer |
| Compatibility | Android 10 or higher | Android 6.0/higher & RAM 1.5 GB or higher |
| Connectivity | LTE (available in select models)
Bluetooth 5.3 Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n 2.4+5GHz NFC GPS/GLONASS/Beidou/Galileo |
LTE (available in select models)
Bluetooth 5.0 Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n 2.4+5GHz NFC GPS/GLONASS/BDS/Galileo |
| Colors | Black, Silver | Black, Silver, Thom Browne Edition, Bespoke Edition |
8. Verdict
In conclusion, comparing the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic and Galaxy Watch 6 Classic sheds light on their respective strengths and considerations.
For those seeking an affordable option with genuine performance and the coveted rotating bezel, the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic presents a compelling choice. While its battery performance is commendable, it falls slightly short of the new Watch 6 Classic.
Conversely, the Watch 6 Classic offers a range of upgrades, including a brighter and slightly larger display, a substantial battery boost compared to its predecessor, and enhanced performance.
The inclusion of new sensors further adds to its appeal. If you’re contemplating a switch from the Watch 4 Classic and are offered a favorable trade-in value, upgrading to the Watch 6 Classic proves to be an enticing proposition. Ultimately, the decision hinges on your budget, priorities, and willingness to embrace the latest advancements that are available in the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic.
(Should you buy it?)
Get the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, if
- You require a new Galaxy Watch with Rotating Bezel;
- You need a durable watch with greater protection;
- You want an amazing display in a Galaxy Watch.
Get the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, if
- You must need the rotating bezel and a bigger display;
- You like a solid build watch with durability;
- You want updated performance in a Galaxy Watch.
Mohammad Shariful Islam is the CEO and MD of Apple Gadgets, a leading e-commerce and retail chain for gadgets in Bangladesh. He has a passion for technology, entrepreneurship, and holds a decade of experience in gadget E-Commerce. He’s committed to providing the best possible shopping experience for customers by delivering the latest and trendy gadgets.
