The Galaxy Fit 3 stands at an intriguing crossroads between a smartwatch and a fitness tracker. Its appeal lies in a combination of an enticing price point of $60 and access to Samsung’s comprehensive health services through the Samsung Health app. For those already within the Samsung ecosystem, this device emerges as an affordable option that’s visually pleasing and less cumbersome for wearers with smaller wrists. However, its defining features—and limitations—make it a hybrid worth discussing for potential buyers, particularly those who prioritize basic health tracking over extensive smart functionalities.
Design-wise, the Fit 3 showcases a 1.6-inch AMOLED display that gives it the appearance of a conventional smartwatch. With dimensions that fit comfortably on smaller wrists, it boasts an elegant design enhanced by an aluminum frame, available in subtle hues like rose gold, silver, and dark gray. While the rectangular screen is narrower than typical smartwatch counterparts, this limitation is balanced by a streamlined aesthetic. However, the single physical button replaces the common features found on traditional smartwatches, suggesting a targeted focus on simplicity rather than multifaceted navigation.
One of the standout features of the Fit 3 is its battery life. Users can expect about three days of usage with the always-on display, and up to 13 days with lighter activities. This impressive longevity is attributed to its minimalist operating system, which lacks the richer features of more expensive counterparts like the Galaxy Watch. Fast charging also enhances user experience, as the Fit 3 can recharge from zero to full in just over an hour. This efficiency makes it easier to maintain consistent use for continuous activity and sleep tracking.
However, the Fit 3 falls short in terms of smart features, which is a critical component that differentiates smartwatches from basic fitness trackers. It does not support voice dictation nor mobile payments, and while it delivers notifications from a paired phone, interactivity is limited to accepting or declining calls and replying with preset messages. The design’s narrow screen restricts the information available at a glance, potentially frustrating users who rely heavily on direct interaction for tasks like messaging or taking calls.
In fitness tracking, the Fit 3 lacks built-in GPS, necessitating a connection to a smartphone for accurate outdoor exercise tracking. This dependence on a phone can be limiting for users seeking the freedom of untethered workouts. While it can track numerous activities and includes waterproofing for swimming, its overall performance in tracking accuracy can be compromised without mobile GPS. Heart rate monitoring is efficient but may lag slightly behind dedicated devices in detecting spikes.
Considering the Galaxy Fit 3’s price and features, it serves best as an entry-level device for Samsung phone users, merging style with essential health-tracking capabilities. While it won’t compare to high-end smartwatches in features or design, it’s a solid pick for individuals seeking straightforward health monitoring without heavy investment. With its compatibility issues and availability, potential buyers should also note that stock for the device is limited and may require a search through third-party retailers.
