Five smartwatches offer better value than Samsung Galaxy Watch 9
Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 9 starts at $380, prompting analysts to recommend several alternative models that provide comparable features at lower prices.
Samsung introduced the Galaxy Watch 9 in July 2026 alongside its new foldable phones. The smartwatch adds a larger battery, a Qualcomm processor, a raise-to-talk function and expanded health tracking, but its price begins at $380 for the 40 mm version and $410 for the 44 mm model, with an additional $50 for cellular connectivity. Critics note that the upgrades are modest compared with the 2025 Galaxy Watch 8.
One alternative is the Galaxy Watch 8, released a year earlier. It shares the same design, AMOLED display and health-tracking capabilities, and Samsung’s latest software update is expected to bring most of the Watch 9’s new health features to the older model. Retailers list the Watch 8 for about $300, offering a lower-cost entry point for Samsung phone users, though it requires daily charging and lacks fast-charge support.
Google’s Pixel Watch 4 provides a pure Wear OS experience at a similar price point. Reviewers highlight its design, multi-day battery life and quick charging, while noting that some advanced health functions are locked behind a subscription. The Pixel Watch 4 can track health metrics without a Pixel phone, and its price may fall further after the Pixel Watch 5 launch in August.
The 2024 Galaxy Watch 7 is another budget option, with the 44 mm LTE version selling for around $270. It retains a circular dial, accurate fitness tracking and dual-band GPS, and will receive some of the Watch 9’s health updates via a software upgrade.
For users focused on fitness, the Garmin Venu 4 offers precise health monitoring, a week-plus battery life and a sleek design at $550, though it lacks LTE and a broad app ecosystem. The Amazfit Balance 2, priced at $300, matches many of the Watch 9’s specifications, adds up to 21 days of battery life, and includes features such as a golf mode, but also has a limited app store.
Overall, the alternatives provide comparable or superior features at lower price points, making them viable options for consumers hesitant to pay premium prices for the Galaxy Watch 9.