Gadgets

Samsung Galaxy Watch FE Review: Repacked but Reliable

Published

6 months ago

October 8, 2024

Empowerment

At a glance

Expert’s Rating

Pros

Responsive auto-tracking

Clean Wear OS software

Classic design

Affordable

Cons

Older processor

Not the best battery life

Some hiccups with non-Samsung phone

Our Verdict

Samsung has, for all intents and purposes, repackaged the Galaxy Watch 4 with a new strap to create the Galaxy Watch FE. It’s a temptingly cheap price but there are rivals with better features, including Samsung’s own.

Price When Reviewed

This value will show the geolocated pricing text for product undefined

Best Pricing Today

Price When Reviewed

From $199

Best Prices Today: Samsung Galaxy Watch FE

$179.99

$199

Samsung’s FE line stands for ‘fan edition’. These models often come at a cheaper price than the standard models, but most people will recognize the name from smartphones in the Korean tech giant’s lineup.

But the FE line now expands beyond phones and tablets, as the latest Samsung Galaxy Watch FE goes to prove. Designed as a more cost-friendly alternative to the Watch 7 series, this model is mostly a repackaged version of 2021’s Galaxy Watch 4 – with the same processor, a similar design and a few tweaks including longer software support.

I’ve spent some time with the Samsung Galaxy Watch FE, exercising, sleeping and more, to discover if this is the budget smartwatch for you.

Design & Build

Three colors

IP68/5ATM

26.6g

Putting Galaxy Watch 4 similarities aside, the Watch FE has a style and build akin to 2024’s Watch 7. It has a smaller screen and a bigger bezel, but it retains the classic face shape that blends seamlessly with any outfit.

The Watch FE is available in three colors: gold with a light pink band, fully black, or silver with a blue band. I tested out the latter and I loved the fresh pastel feel, and the colored threads in the band are also a nice unique touch.

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Price & Availability

The Galaxy Watch FE costs £199/$199 for the regular model and $249 for the LTE option (which is US only). UK readers can buy it directly from Samsung, Amazon, Argos, or Currys. Those in the US can get it from Samsung, Best Buy, and Amazon.

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Should you buy the Samsung Galaxy Watch FE?

Let’s be honest, the Samsung Galaxy Watch FE is just a repackaged version of the Watch 4, although that doesn’t mean it’s inherently bad.

The Watch 4 was a solid smartwatch, and so is this. There’s a wide range of tracking features available, with auto detect and sleep tracking being particularly impressive. The design is sleek and classic, and Wear OS is still superior to other software alternatives outside of Apple.

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