Samsung Gear 2/3

[lupi]

Thinking about getting one of these as a gift. only negative I've seen is that it doesn't run native android. anyone have one to give a review?

 

[Commodus]

Thinking about getting one of these as a gift. only negative I've seen is that it doesn't run native android. anyone have one to give a review?

Don't have one, but there are two main concerns: apps, and the size of the Gear S3 (it has the looks, but it's definitely big).

The main issue with apps: Tizen is the Windows Mobile of smartwatch platforms. You do have Spotify (including streaming on cellular models) and other big apps, but it's not as well-supported as Apple's watchOS or Android Wear. Part of the problem is simply that you have to write apps specifically for the watch -- iOS and Android devs can just roll smartwatch support into their existing software.

It's a bit of a shame, too, since I hear lots of good things about both. I'll say this: if you're cost-conscious or your recipient doesn't have big wrists (or like big watches), go with the S2 or consider an Android Wear watch.

 

[lupi]

Looking to buy for a gift, and the more normal size of the s2 was something I liked.

 

[Oyeve]

They are fine as is Tizen. They have apps for all you need. Unless you wanna be a douche and play pacman or some junk like that. I have a few different Tizen watches and one android watch and I much prefer the Tizen ones. Samsung has a good selection of apps.

 

[Kazukian]

Haven't used a Samsung wearable, but the Android Wear apps aren't anything special, I wouldn't hesitate to buy a SS wearable.

 

[dawheat]

I have the S2 Classic and echo most of the comments. Previously I had the 1st gen Moto 360, the Gear Fit, and the original Gear.

The S2 Classic is my favorite, though it's not surprising as it's the newest. I find the basics (time, notifications, music control, etc) to be superior on the S2 due to the bezel navigation. It's easier and faster to navigate without paying attention vs swping-swiping-swiping. That being said, it's not hugely different and you'll get used to either for these basic tasks. Pedometer works fine and syncs to my phone, but most any watch can do that. I get 2 day battery life comfortably so no real complaints there. The Music player controls whatever is the active music app so it's flexible enough for me to not require 3rd party apps.

Honestly I found Android Wear a bit haphazard for the basics and none of the 3rd party apps really important to me. After the first few months after Android Wear came out, I found myself not even using any 3rd party apps.

The look and size is what makes it a keeper - it's low profile, looks like a normal watch, and can be worn with most any occasion (excluding truly formal). I don't find other smartwatches, including the square Apple watch, as versatile. The other round Android watches just stand out way more and look almost gaudy in comparison.
I'm interested in the S3 Frontier with a leather strap but don't find enough different to justify the cost and the larger size is a bit of a negative to me.