Samsung’s 2025 Galaxy Watch lineup is, well, a bit lackluster. The term “interesting” seems to be the best description for the Galaxy Watch 8, Watch 8 Classic, and second-gen Watch Ultra. While ‘interesting’ is often used when there’s not much else to say about a product, this lineup truly feels that way. With a solid tech foundation, they don’t seem to excite, though they’re certainly functional and reliable.
One thing I wish Samsung would do is add a little more variety in color options.
While I’m not picky when it comes to smartphone hues, the same can’t be said for smartwatches. These gadgets serve both as tech tools and fashion accessories, so color, design, and overall aesthetics play a bigger role than you’d think. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 will offer a vibrant Coral Red option, but the Watch 8 sticks to the basics with only graphite and silver, and the Watch 8 Classic is limited to the classic black and white options.
The 2025 Galaxy Watch Ultra sounds a little more exciting, with Titanium Blue, Titanium Gray, and Titanium Silver options, but let’s be real – even “blue” sounds a bit underwhelming.
What’s more, the lack of size options for rugged watches is frustrating. The first-gen Galaxy Watch Ultra, as well as the Apple Watch Ultra, both came in a single size, and it looks like the next-gen Galaxy Watch Ultra won’t offer more variety either. Sure, a smaller version might mean a shorter battery life, but there’s definitely a market for a compact rugged smartwatch. If Garmin can offer different sizes, why can’t Samsung?
Even the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic’s single-size design is confusing, especially since the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic had two sizes. Samsung seems to be going backwards in terms of customization. Why limit options when they’ve been successful before?
What about the Galaxy Watch Fan Edition (FE)? For me, this is the best value in the Galaxy Watch lineup. It’s not packed with every high-end feature, but it gives you a solid smartwatch experience for an affordable price. Samsung should definitely consider launching a new FE soon, perhaps based on the Galaxy Watch 6 or 7, which would offer great value at around $200.
And while it’s just a fantasy for now, imagine a Galaxy Watch Edge – super slim, lightweight, with a gorgeous AMOLED display and top-notch fitness tracking. It’s totally possible, and I hope Samsung considers pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the smartwatch space.