Samsung Galaxy Watch Active vs Galaxy Watch Active 2 – Key Differences

The Galaxy Watch Active 2 is the successor to the Galaxy Watch Active, and it comes with new features that make it a better smartwatch than its predecessor. It comes in two sizes and features ECG and blood pressure measurements as well as equipped with a speaker. Beyond this, both the Active 2 and Active spot the same design, appearance, and activity tracking features. In this post, we are comparing the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active vs Galaxy Watch Active 2 to determine the differences that differentiate these two.

Note that unlike the Active, the Active 2 comes in two sizes; 40mm and 44mm, and each of these sizes is available in Bluetooth and LTE models. The Active is only available in 40mm size and there’s no LTE version. In this comparison, we’re comparing the 40mm Active 2 against Galaxy Watch Active.

The LTE and Bluetooth models are the same in every aspect except that the LTE version comes with an eSIM that enables cellular connectivity. As a result, it can make and receive calls without your phone. The Bluetooth model can also make and receive calls but requires your phone to be nearby.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Active vs Active 2 Specifications Compared

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What’s The Difference?

The Galaxy Watch Active 2 just like its predecessor, has an aluminum frame paired with silicone straps. Although, the LTE version of the Active 2 has a stainless steel 316L frame paired with leather straps. It’s the same super AMOLED display on both smartwatches. In the fitness tracking section, both watches will track all the way you move like your steps, sleep, heart rate, and stress. You get 39 preloaded sports modes on both watches. Furthermore, there is a 4GB storage capacity on both watches that allows for onboard music storage, and each of these two also has the ability to reply to notifications.

The battery life of the Active and Active 2 is almost the same. I get about 2 days with the 44mm Active 2 which is very similar to what you get with the Active.

Now let’s talk about the differences between the Galaxy Watch Active and Active 2

1. Active 2 is available in two sizes and versions

While there is only a 40mm unit of the Active, you have the option o choose between the 40mm and 44mm Active 2. You also get the option to choose between the Bluetooth and LTE versions.

2. Active 2 has a bigger display size

The 40mm Active 2 has a 1.2 inches display size which is bigger than the 1.1 inches display of the Active. The 44mm has a 1.4 inches display size.

3. Active is more compact and slimmer

Although the Active 2 is one of the slimmest and most compact smartwatches, the Active is slightly more compact and slimmer. It also weighs a little less.

4. Galaxy Watch Active lacks a speaker

While the Active 2 has both a microphone and speaker, the Active has only a microphone. This means that while you can receive calls on the watch, you can’t make calls directly from the watch as it will go through your phone. Meanwhile, the Active 2 allows you to make and receive calls directly from the watch. This also means that you must connect a Bluetooth headphone to listen to music with the Active.

5. Active 2 Features ECG and Blood pressure measurements

The Galaxy Watch Active 2 being a more comprehensive fitness tracker features ECG and blood pressure measurements which are not available in the Active.

Which is Better?

Although each of these two is a fantastic choice for tracking your active life, the Active 2 has a more sophisticated design with a wider display that let you see more at a glance, while being a more comprehensive fitness tracker with the presence of ECG and blood pressure measurements.

On the other hand, the Galaxy Watch Active is a cheaper alternative.