The connected watch will probably be one of the most present high-tech gifts under the tree. It must be said that now there is something for every taste and budget. Samsung hopes to assert itself there with its Galaxy Watch 5, which is sold for around 300 euros (depending on the equipment). We tested this watch for several weeks.
We would like
its simplicity. An Android owner will easily get used to the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5: there are the same gestures as on the smartphone. So just swipe up to see all applications, swipe down to see the possible settings, swipe right to go to the previous screen… The possibility of having different and varied maps by swiping swiping left – to see the balance of his night, his heart rate, the weather or his agenda – is also an interesting feature. In any case, a physical button marked in red takes you back to the start screen: In our opinion, this can be useful for someone who is not familiar with technology.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch is similar to what’s found on Android. LP/Aubin Laratte
his style. On the wrist, the networked watch turns out to be space-saving. It weighs 33.5g (for 44mm), about the same weight as an Apple Watch compared to 52g on the previous edition. Despite its attractive weight, the screen is clean and uncluttered, with a nice finish. The basic bracelet, very simple, will not please everyone, but it is possible to change it. The AMOLED screen is of very good quality and is easy to see in spite of the sun or bright light.
We liked it less
A watch without a Samsung phone. It’s a nasty surprise if you (like us) aren’t warned. Some features of the Galaxy Watch 5 are reserved for owners of a Samsung Galaxy smartphone. Therefore, creating an electrocardiogram and measuring blood pressure is possible only through the Samsung Health Monitor application, which is only available on the Galaxy Store and itself is accessible only through a smartphone from the Korean brand. It’s a big black dot to keep an eye on. Also, in a broader sense, note that the watch only works with an Android smartphone.
its autonomy. Samsung expects an autonomy of up to 40 hours for its watch. Our test confirms it: Hard to imagine going two days without charging. Good point though: it recharges quickly. We can therefore imagine charging it every time we don’t “use” it to keep the battery on (in the shower, in front of the TV, etc.). A “power saving mode” also allows you to extend its autonomy when you start the last battery percentages (in this case, however, its functionality will be limited). Another feature, “watch only”, turns off all functions except the watch face, theoretically allowing up to three days of autonomy.
Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is a beautiful smartwatch that we think is very good value for money. This one is all the better since, according to Marken, it benefits from good end-of-year discounts. However, we can regret the “stuck” of the watch, as Apple can do with its watch, even if the positives, the device’s ease of use and its style outweigh the few black dots.