5 smartwatches you should buy instead of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

Key Points:

• Samsung launched the Galaxy Watch 9 in July 2026, featuring larger batteries, a new Qualcomm processor, raise-to-talk functionality, and enhanced health tracking, but with a price increase to $380 for the 40mm model and $410 for the 44mm, excluding cellular variants.
• The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 remains a strong alternative, offering similar design and health features at a lower price point around $300, with upcoming software updates promising many of the Galaxy Watch 9’s new health capabilities.
• The Google Pixel Watch 4 is recommended for those seeking a pure Wear OS experience, providing excellent design, multi-day battery life, and comprehensive health tracking, with a price advantage and an anticipated price drop ahead of the Pixel Watch 5 launch.
• The Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 offers exceptional value as a Wear OS device, especially the 44mm LTE model priced around $270, featuring a comfortable circular design, accurate health tracking, and software support through 2028.
• For users prioritizing advanced fitness and health tracking with long battery life, the Garmin Venu 4 and Amazfit Balance 2 are notable options, with the Garmin focusing on elite health tools and the Amazfit offering up to 21 days of battery life and robust fitness features at a $300 price point.