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Galaxy Watch 6 Classic Stainless Steel vs Aluminum Watch 6

The Galaxy Watch 6 Classic uses stainless steel while the standard Galaxy Watch 6 uses Armor aluminum. This material difference affects weight, durability, appearance, and price.


Quick Comparison

PropertyStainless Steel (Classic)Armor Aluminum (Watch 6)
Weight52-59g28-33g
Scratch ResistanceVery GoodGood
Dent ResistanceExcellentModerate
RepairabilityCan polish out scratchesHarder to repair
AppearancePremium, traditionalModern, sporty
Corrosion ResistanceExcellentGood (with coating)
Price Impact+$100Baseline

Durability in Real Life

Stainless Steel (Classic):

  • Resists scratches from daily contact
  • Highly dent-resistant — survives bumps well
  • Can be polished to remove light marks
  • Excellent for ocean swimmers (salt-resistant)
  • Maintains appearance for years

Armor Aluminum (Watch 6):

  • More prone to scratches (shows through coating)
  • Can dent from significant impacts
  • Harder to repair cosmetic damage
  • Still reasonably durable for daily wear

Which to Choose

Choose Stainless Steel (Classic) if:

  • Premium appearance matters
  • You work in professional settings
  • Durability is a priority
  • You want the rotating bezel (only available with steel)
  • You prefer traditional watch aesthetics

Choose Aluminum (Watch 6) if:

  • Lightweight is your priority
  • Budget is a concern ($100 savings)
  • Modern, sporty look appeals more
  • You want the lightest possible for sleep tracking
  • You prefer the gold color option (aluminum only)

Care Differences

Stainless Steel: Wipe with soft cloth, rinse after salt/sweat, occasional microfiber polish to maintain shine.

Aluminum: Wipe with soft cloth, rinse after activities, avoid abrasive surfaces. Scratches are harder to repair.


See Also: Classic vs Watch 6|Is Classic Heavier|What Size Should I Get