Compare Withings ScanWatch Nova vs Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)

P1 Withings ScanWatch Nova
P2 Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)

Comparison Takeaways

Withings ScanWatch Nova

Where It Has the Edge

  • cross-platform compatibility is 4.4 vs 2.4. Cross-platform support is strong, with Android and iOS compatibility plus Apple Health, Google Health Connect, and Google Fit...
  • companion app quality is 4.7 vs 3.5. The companion app is a standout, repeatedly praised for clear presentation, useful explanations, seamless syncing, and dashboard-style health...
  • health tracking accuracy is 4.6 vs 3.7. Health tracking accuracy is broadly praised, with reviewers comparing favorably against other devices and highlighting accurate sensor results.
  • style and design is 4.7 vs 3.9. Style and design are the most consistent praise point, with reviewers emphasizing the luxury analog look and traditional-watch...

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)

Where It Has the Edge

  • contactless payments is 4.5 vs 1.0. Contactless payments are supported through Samsung Wallet or Samsung Pay shortcuts.
  • touchscreen responsiveness is 4.3 vs 1.0. Touchscreen responsiveness and gesture operation are described as intentional and straightforward in the long-term review evidence.
  • music controls is 4.2 vs 1.0. Music features are useful for downloaded Spotify, streaming, media tiles, and larger storage for music.
  • third-party app support is 4.5 vs 1.5. Third-party app support is solid through Google Play, fitness apps such as Strava and Map My Run, and...
Average score
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
3.7
Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.1
activity auto-detection
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.0

Reviewers generally found automatic activity detection useful, especially for walking, cycling, and everyday movement, though a few false detections show it is not flawless.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.4

Workout auto-detection is broadly useful, with reviewers citing automatic workout detection and reliable walk detection, though manual starts remain better for some activities.

app ecosystem
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.4

The Withings ecosystem is a major strength when paired with the app and other Withings health devices, with integrations into major phone health platforms.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.5

The app ecosystem is a strength: reviewers mention many available apps, Google Play access, and expanded usefulness from the extra storage.

band quality
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.0

Band quality is mostly praised for included metal and fluoroelastomer options, but sizing and micro-adjustment complaints keep it from being universally positive.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.1

Band feedback is mostly positive for comfort, stability, and easy removal, though one reviewer noted dirt collecting in the strap holes.

battery life
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.6

Battery life is one of the clearest strengths, with reviewers repeatedly reporting weeks of use and far less charging anxiety than standard smartwatches.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.4

Battery life is one of the clearest strengths, often described as the best in Samsung’s lineup, though heavy GPS or always-on use can reduce it.

blood oxygen tracking
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.5

Blood oxygen tracking is consistently treated as a useful core health feature, usually easy to trigger and presented clearly in the app.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
3.9

Blood oxygen tracking is present across the health sensor set, but one long-term reviewer found SpO2 readings routinely low.

Bluetooth connectivity
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
3.0

Bluetooth is only lightly discussed, with one review tying workout drain to an extended phone connection rather than offering broad praise or criticism.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
3.5

Bluetooth support is present, including Bluetooth 5.3 mentions, but external sensor connections were criticized or described as unavailable.

brightness
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.1

Brightness is generally adequate thanks to automatic adjustment, though direct-sun visibility and reflections can still be an issue depending on the model.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.7

Brightness earns strong praise, with reviewers citing high nits, bright AMOLED output, and easy readability.

build quality
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.7

Build quality is repeatedly described as premium, watch-like, and appropriate for the price, especially because of the case, bezel, glass, and finishing.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.7

Build quality is consistently praised through the rugged titanium case, durable chassis, and robust construction.

button controls
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
3.8

The crown-based control system is simple and often intuitive, but one reviewer found the crown placement awkward because it presses toward the arm.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
3.7

Button controls are mixed: reviewers like the Quick/action button and programmable shortcuts, but one long-term reviewer disliked accidental presses and limited workout button behavior.

call handling
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
2.8

Call handling is basic: callers can be shown or alerted by vibration, but the watch does not replace phone-based call interaction.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.2

Call handling is supported through Bluetooth calling, speaker/mic use, and smartwatch features for calls and texts.

calorie tracking usefulness
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.5

Calorie tracking receives limited but positive evidence, with one reviewer finding estimated calories more accurate than a previous Fitbit experience.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.0

Calorie tracking is included as part of the activity metrics, but the evidence is limited to feature availability rather than deep accuracy testing.

charging convenience
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
2.9

Charging convenience is mixed: the long battery life reduces how often charging matters, but several reviewers disliked the proprietary or cheap-feeling charger.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
3.8

Charging is wireless and reasonably convenient, but one reviewer criticized the missing wall charging block.

charging speed
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
3.6

Charging speed is acceptable rather than exceptional, usually around two hours, with one reviewer reporting a faster recharge in real use.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.2

Charging speed gets limited but positive evidence, with one review reporting a full charge in about 95 minutes.

coaching features
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.1

Coaching is mostly app- and subscription-driven, with health scores, VO2 max context, and wellness programs providing guidance rather than deep on-watch coaching.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.5

Coaching features are a real addition, especially Running Coach, with reviewers describing personalized plans and guidance.

comfort
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.4

Comfort is widely positive, helped by lighter models, silicone strap options, and all-day wearability, although the metal band can feel heavy for some.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
3.9

Comfort depends on wrist and expectations: some reviewers found it comfortable, while others felt the weight or bulk.

companion app quality
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.7

The companion app is a standout, repeatedly praised for clear presentation, useful explanations, seamless syncing, and dashboard-style health tracking.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
3.5

The companion app setup is useful but split, with health and smartwatch settings divided between Samsung Health and Galaxy Wearable.

contactless payments
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
1.0

Contactless payments are explicitly absent, reinforcing that this is not a full-featured smartwatch.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.5

Contactless payments are supported through Samsung Wallet or Samsung Pay shortcuts.

cross-platform compatibility
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.4

Cross-platform support is strong, with Android and iOS compatibility plus Apple Health, Google Health Connect, and Google Fit integrations mentioned.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
2.4

Cross-platform compatibility is limited: reviews say it works with Android but not iPhone, with the best experience tied to Samsung phones.

customization options
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.2

Customization is practical rather than deep, covering notification permissions, menu order, workout order, OLED functions, goals, and strap choices.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.4

Customization is strong across programmable buttons, widgets, tiles, colors, and watch-face data.

display quality
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
3.9

Display quality is mixed-positive: the small OLED is sharp and legible, but its tiny monochrome format limits detail and smartwatch interaction.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.7

Display quality is a major strength, with repeated praise for the large, vibrant AMOLED display.

durability
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.6

Durability is supported by premium glass, water resistance, and real-world comments about the watch staying pristine through travel and use.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.7

Durability is a standout, backed by titanium construction, MIL-STD claims, scratch protection, and reviewer reports of little damage.

ECG functionality
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.4

ECG functionality is one of the strongest health features, with repeated praise for on-demand readings, medical framing, and AFib-related capabilities.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.1

ECG functionality is widely listed as part of the health feature set, though one review notes Samsung-phone pairing requirements for ECG and blood pressure.

fit
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
3.8

Fit depends heavily on the band: some reviewers achieved an easy, secure fit, while others struggled with bracelet sizing or looseness affecting tracking.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
3.8

Fit is polarizing: it can fit some larger wrists well, but reviewers also note the single 47mm size and large wrist footprint.

fitness tracking accuracy
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
3.7

Fitness tracking accuracy is good for casual use and workouts, but reviewers consistently caution that the Nova is not aimed at serious athletes.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.1

Fitness tracking accuracy is generally good for everyday and running use, though scientific testing places it below the top alternatives.

GPS accuracy
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
2.8

GPS is a recurring weakness because the watch lacks built-in GPS, relying instead on connected phone GPS that limits phone-free workouts.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.4

GPS accuracy is good in several reviewer tests and supports dual-frequency GPS, but scientific testing found some route deviation.

health tracking accuracy
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.6

Health tracking accuracy is broadly praised, with reviewers comparing favorably against other devices and highlighting accurate sensor results.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
3.7

Health tracking is feature-rich but mixed in accuracy, with strong sensor coverage offset by questionable antioxidant, HRV, and some sleep-stage findings.

heart rate accuracy
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.5

Heart rate accuracy earns strong marks in the reviews, including direct comparisons to other devices and even a chest strap.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.4

Heart-rate accuracy is strongest in running evidence, with one reviewer matching a Polar strap closely, while scientific testing calls it good rather than elite.

LTE connectivity
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
No score yet
Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.5

LTE is a consistent advantage because it is standard or broadly available, though one reviewer notes carrier setup can cost extra.

mapping and navigation
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
No score yet
Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
3.9

Navigation support is useful through offline maps, Google Maps routing, and GPS widgets, but one reviewer notes no built-in maps on-watch.

materials quality
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.7

Materials quality is consistently premium in the evidence, with stainless steel cases, sapphire glass, ceramic bezels, and polished finishing repeatedly cited.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.6

Materials quality is strong, centered on titanium, sapphire/robust design references, and corrosion-resistant claims.

menu navigation
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.0

Menu navigation is simple and crown-driven, generally praised as intuitive despite the tiny display.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.3

Menu navigation is mostly straightforward through swipes, app drawers, digital bezel haptics, and simple operation.

music controls
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
1.0

Music controls are explicitly missing, making the Nova a poor fit for users who want watch-based media control.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.2

Music features are useful for downloaded Spotify, streaming, media tiles, and larger storage for music.

onboard music storage
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
No score yet
Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.6

Onboard storage is a clear 2025 upgrade, repeatedly described as 64GB and useful for music, apps, and offline maps.

operating system experience
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
No score yet
Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.2

The operating system experience benefits from One UI 8/Wear OS updates, Gemini, Now Bar, and refreshed interface features.

outdoor visibility
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
3.4

Outdoor visibility varies by reviewer and model, with sunlight readability praised in one review but reflections and direct sun criticized in others.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.7

Outdoor visibility is excellent, with multiple reviewers saying the bright display remains readable in sunlight.

pairing reliability
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.5

Pairing and sync reliability are generally strong, with setup and app syncing described as simple or seamless.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.6

Pairing and setup reliability are positive where tested, with instant recognition and quick setup noted.

recovery insights
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
2.0

Recovery insights are weak or future-facing in the evidence, with one review noting recovery-related features were expected later rather than present.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
3.5

Recovery-style insights are mixed: vascular load interests some reviewers, while HRV and related metrics draw skepticism.

reliability
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
3.6

Reliability is mostly good for daily wear and forget-it use, but connection loss and false activity detection appear as caveats.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
3.5

Reliability is mostly acceptable but not flawless, with one review noting brief display interruptions and another calling performance not horrible rather than perfect.

safety features
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.8

Safety features center on heart-health alerts, AFib detection, ECG, and illness-related temperature signals, making this a strong health-first wearable.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.3

Safety features include fall detection, emergency siren references, sleep apnea alerts, and related health/safety setup options.

size options
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
3.1

Size options are limited on the regular Nova but improved by the smaller Brilliant model, so the evidence is mixed by variant.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
3.4

Size options are limited by the single large 47mm format, though the band can fit a range of wrists and the screen size appeals to some users.

sleep tracking accuracy
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
3.7

Sleep tracking is useful and often accurate enough for trends, but reviewers report missed split sleep, rosy or anxiety-provoking analysis, and limited sleep-stage detail.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
3.5

Sleep tracking is useful and improving, but reviewers disagree on sleep stages and awake-time accuracy.

smartphone notifications
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
3.0

Notifications are basic and polarizing: they can alert users, but the small display and lack of replies make them limited.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.3

Smartphone notifications are well supported, with reviewers noting detailed notification views and suggested replies.

smartwatch features
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
2.4

Smartwatch features are intentionally minimal, with reviewers repeatedly framing the Nova as a health-first hybrid rather than a phone-on-wrist device.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.2

Smartwatch features are broad, including LTE, calls, texts, Gemini, Now Bar, storage, and Samsung’s full watch software stack.

software smoothness
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.8

Software smoothness is strong around app syncing, although some activity/map issues suggest the software is not perfect.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.3

Software smoothness is generally good, with smooth app launches and more functional One UI behavior, despite occasional reliability caveats.

step counting accuracy
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.3

Step counting is one of the more reliable daily metrics, with reviewers praising the subdial and accurate step results.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.2

Step counting is positive in basic walking tests, but one reviewer notes accuracy drops when arms are not swinging.

stress tracking
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
No score yet
Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.1

Stress tracking is included in Samsung’s health sensor set, though the reviews provide feature evidence more than accuracy testing.

style and design
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.7

Style and design are the most consistent praise point, with reviewers emphasizing the luxury analog look and traditional-watch appeal.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
3.9

Style is divisive: some reviewers like the rugged, colorful, stylish look, while others find it bulky or not pretty.

third-party app support
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
1.5

Third-party app support is a clear limitation, with direct evidence that users wanting such access should look elsewhere.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.5

Third-party app support is solid through Google Play, fitness apps such as Strava and Map My Run, and a growing Wear OS app selection.

touchscreen responsiveness
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
1.0

Touchscreen responsiveness scores low because the watch has no touchscreen; all interaction is crown-based.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.3

Touchscreen responsiveness and gesture operation are described as intentional and straightforward in the long-term review evidence.

user interface
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
3.7

The user interface is intentionally minimalist: reviewers like its simplicity, but the small display makes notifications and richer interactions constrained.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.3

The user interface is improved and functional, though some reviewers dislike parts of the visual layout.

value for money
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
3.4

Value for money is mixed: reviewers admire the quality and health features but repeatedly flag the high price and subscription angle.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
3.3

Value for money is the main weak point because reviewers repeatedly question the high price and minimal 2025 hardware changes.

voice assistant quality
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
No score yet
Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.4

Voice assistant quality is a strength with Gemini, which reviewers describe as convenient, useful, and directly available on the wrist.

watch face quality
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
3.5

Watch face quality is positive overall, with analog hands, glow-in-the-dark indexes, subdial, and hidden display giving it a real-watch identity.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.7

Watch faces are a strength, with reviewers praising quantity, customization, and Samsung’s polished face designs.

water resistance
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.2

Water resistance is a strength, especially on the 10 ATM standard Nova, though Brilliant models are rated lower at 5 ATM.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.7

Water resistance is a strong feature, with reviews citing 5ATM/10ATM ratings, IP68 claims, and pool/rain/snow use.

wellness insights
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
4.1

Wellness insights are strong in the app, especially for health scores, trends, ECG review, dashboards, and actionable explanations.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
3.8

Wellness insights are useful but uneven: sleep coaching and vascular load get interest, while energy score and antioxidant index receive skepticism.

Wi-Fi connectivity
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
No score yet
Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.0

Wi-Fi support is present across connectivity mentions, including LTE/Wi-Fi model references.

workout tracking variety
Product 1: Withings ScanWatch Nova
3.7

Workout tracking variety ranges from limited basic modes in some reviews to more than 40 sports in others, so it is useful but not elite.

Product 2: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)
4.6

Workout variety is strong, with reviewers citing many tracked activities, multisport/triathlon capability, and broad exercise lists.