The Samsung Gear S3 is a smartwatch that has been on the market for a few years now, but it still remains a popular choice among consumers. This device offers a wide range of features, making it a great option for those who want a watch that can do more than just tell time.
In this article, we will provide an in-depth review of the Samsung Gear S3. We will discuss its design, features, performance, and overall value. Whether you are considering purchasing this watch or simply want to learn more about it, this review will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Samsung Gear S3 is a stylish smartwatch that is available in two versions: the Classic and the Frontier. The Classic has a more traditional look with a silver finish and a leather strap, while the Frontier has a sportier look with a black finish and a silicone strap. Both versions have a 1.3-inch Super AMOLED display that is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass SR+.
Materials Used
The Gear S3 is made of stainless steel, which gives it a premium look and feel. The watch is also rated IP68 for water and dust resistance, meaning it can withstand being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes. The rotating bezel, which is used to navigate the watch’s interface, is made of stainless steel as well and has a knurled texture that provides a good grip.
Display Quality
The Gear S3’s display is one of its standout features. The 1.3-inch Super AMOLED screen has a resolution of 360 x 360 pixels, which makes text and images look sharp and clear. The display is always on, which means you can glance at your watch to check the time or see notifications without having to wake it up. The display is also bright and vibrant, making it easy to read even in direct sunlight.
In terms of customization, the Gear S3 allows you to choose from a variety of watch faces, some of which are customizable with different colors and complications. You can also download additional watch faces from the Galaxy Store.
Overall, the design and build quality of the Samsung Gear S3 are top-notch. The watch looks and feels premium, and the display is one of the best you’ll find on a smartwatch.
Features and Performance
User Interface
The Samsung Gear S3 comes with a user-friendly Tizen operating system that allows for easy navigation through its various features. The rotating bezel is a standout feature that makes it easy to scroll through menus and apps. Additionally, the touchscreen display is responsive and vibrant, making it easy to read notifications and messages.
Battery Life
The Gear S3 has a 380mAh battery that can last up to two days on a single charge, depending on usage. The wireless charging dock is magnetic, making it easy to snap the watch into place for charging. The battery life is impressive for a smartwatch of this caliber, especially considering its always-on display and the number of features it offers.
Fitness and Health Tracking
The Gear S3 has a range of fitness and health tracking features, including a heart rate monitor, GPS, and a variety of workout modes. It also has a built-in barometer that can track altitude, which is useful for hikers and climbers. The watch can also track sleep patterns, which can be helpful for those looking to improve their sleep habits.
In terms of performance, the Gear S3 is fast and responsive. The Exynos 7270 processor and 768MB of RAM ensure that apps open quickly and run smoothly. The watch also has 4GB of storage, which is plenty for storing music and other files.
Overall, the Samsung Gear S3 is a well-designed and feature-packed smartwatch that delivers excellent performance and battery life. Its fitness and health tracking features are robust, and the user interface is intuitive and easy to use.
Compatibility and Connectivity
Operating System Compatibility
The Samsung Gear S3 is compatible with Android 4.4 and above and iOS 9.0 and above. It uses Samsung’s Tizen-based operating system, which is not Android Wear. This means that the Gear S3 has its own app store, which is not as extensive as the Google Play Store. However, it does have a decent selection of apps, including popular ones like Spotify, Uber, and Nest.
Connectivity Options
The Gear S3 has both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity options. It also has NFC (Near Field Communication) technology, which allows you to make mobile payments using Samsung Pay. The Gear S3 also has a built-in GPS, which can be used for fitness tracking and navigation.
In terms of Bluetooth connectivity, the Gear S3 can be paired with any smartphone or tablet that has Bluetooth 4.1 or above. This makes it compatible with most modern devices. The Wi-Fi connectivity option allows you to connect to a Wi-Fi network without needing to be paired with a smartphone.
The Gear S3 also has a feature called “Remote Connection”, which allows you to remotely connect to your smartphone or tablet using Wi-Fi or cellular data. This means that you can make and receive calls and texts, even if your smartphone is not nearby.
Overall, the Samsung Gear S3 offers a good range of connectivity options and is compatible with most modern smartphones and tablets. Its Tizen-based operating system may not be as popular as Android Wear, but it still has a decent selection of apps and features.
Price and Value
The Samsung Gear S3 was originally released with a price tag of $349/£349 (around AU$475). However, it is now available at a lower price point, making it a more compelling option for those looking for a smartwatch.
When considering the price and value of the Gear S3, it’s important to compare it to other smartwatches on the market. While it may be more expensive than some options, it offers a number of features that make it worth the investment for many users.
One of the standout features of the Gear S3 is its rotating bezel, which allows for easy navigation through apps and menus. It also offers GPS, speakerphone capabilities, and optional stand-alone LTE phone service, making it a versatile device for those on the go.
Additionally, the Gear S3 is waterproof and has a larger display than many other smartwatches, making it easier to read and interact with. It also offers a longer battery life than some competitors, which is a major selling point for those who don’t want to have to charge their watch every day.
Overall, while the Samsung Gear S3 may not be the most affordable smartwatch on the market, it offers a range of features and capabilities that make it a compelling option for those who are willing to invest in a high-quality device.
Conclusion
The Samsung Gear S3 is a solid smartwatch that has a lot to offer. It has a sleek design, a bright and clear display, and a long battery life. It also has a wide range of features, including fitness tracking, mobile payments, and voice control.
Overall, the Samsung Gear S3 is a strong contender in the smartwatch market. It offers a range of features and a stylish design, making it a good choice for anyone looking for a high-quality smartwatch.