Do you prefer a smaller, 41mm or larger, 45mm Galaxy Watch 3?

It’s been nearly two years since the original Samsung Galaxy Watch debuted. Over that period, it has remained one of the best Android smartwatches and one of the best Samsung smartwatches out there. It appears the wait was well worth it, however, as Samsung was able to shrink the cases slightly while still maintaining the screen sizes, add some exciting new colors and software optimizations, and build in advanced fitness tracking and sleep monitoring. Once again, we are getting two different sizes, so which Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 is better for you, the 41mm or the 45mm?

Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 41mm or 45mm Does size matter here?

The difference between 41mm and 45mm may not seem like that much until you picture each watch on your wrist. If you have a larger wrist like I do, the 41mm might look childish. If you’re graced with a smaller wrist, the 45mm might look clownish. The differences aren’t just down to appearance; there’s also the watch’s weight, casing material, and battery life to consider.

As you can see, the 45mm version comes in two distinct finishes: stainless steel and titanium, and due to its size and material makeup, it weighs more than the 41mm version. Oddly enough, the 45mm stainless steel watch weighs four and a half grams more than the 41mm version, but the 45mm titanium watch is actually the lightest of the variants.

Due to its larger enclosure, it should be no surprise that the 45mm watch has a larger battery than the 41mm version, but you might be surprised to learn that it’s almost 100mAh larger! Samsung says that the Watch 3 has a battery life of up to two days or more, but this varies based on the watch’s size. Given that the Galaxy Watch Active 2 lasts up to two days, I’d wager that the 41mm version is close to the two-day mark, while the 45mm version can push beyond 48 hours under the right circumstances.

Bottom line Which size should you choose

While we pointed out the difference between the sizes in terms of battery life, ultimately, your decision is going to come down to two factors. First, do you want a titanium finish? If so, then you’re going to have to get the larger 45mm version. Secondly (and most importantly), what size do you think looks better and is more comfortable for you? 45mm is a reasonably large watch size, so if you have small or even medium-sized wrists, you’re going to be much happier with the 41mm version. It still has a beautiful and perfectly readable display, and it isn’t that small (if you’re worried about that).

Whichever size Galaxy Watch 3 you choose, you’re going to be getting what is arguably the best smartwatch for Android users right now. It has all of the smart functionality you want, with enhanced running, sleep, and safety measures built right in. This watch even works with iOS, if you happen to frequent that camp as well. Ultimately, the Samsung Watch 3 is the next-generation smartwatch you’ve been looking for.

Big and bold

Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 (45mm)

Size and power

From $329 at Amazon
From $329 at Best Buy
From $329 at B&H

The 45mm Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 brings everything you’d want in an Android smartwatch. Two-day plus battery life, stainless steel and titanium finishes, and enhanced fitness, sleep, and safety features abound in this wearable.

A tinier timepiece

Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 (41mm)

A sleeker smartwatch

From $299 at Amazon
From $299 at Best Buy
$299 at Walmart

If you opt for the 41mm Samsung Galaxy Watch 3, you’re not going to be missing out on any of the bells and whistles of its larger sibling. Of course, the battery is a bit smaller, and there is no titanium version, but if you can get past those shortcomings, you’ve got yourself an excellent smartwatch.