Are you thinking about getting an Apple Watch Series 8 but aren't sure if it's the right choice for you? With every new model, the question arises whether the latest features are really worth the purchase or whether the previous model is sufficient. In this buying guide, we take a close look at the Apple Watch Series 8, show you what it can do, and help you decide whether it meets your needs and whether the investment is worth it for you. Whether you're planning an upgrade or buying a smartwatch for the first time, here's how to find out if the Apple Watch 8 is the right choice for you.
The most important features of the Apple Watch 8 at a glance
display and design
Apple Watch Series 8 retains the proven Always-On Retina display, which offers a clear and bright view in all conditions. The design is sleek and modern, with rounded corners and narrow bezels that allow for a larger display area. Available in two case sizes (41 mm and 45 mm) and various materials such as aluminum and stainless steel, it also offers a wide range of colors to emphasize individual style.
performance and battery life
Powered by a powerful S8 chip, the Apple Watch Series 8 offers smooth performance for all apps and functions. The battery life remains the same as previous models at around 18 hours, which is enough for a whole day of normal use. However, thanks to the quick charge function, the watch can be recharged in a short time, which is particularly convenient for everyday use.
Connectivity and other features
The Apple Watch Series 8 offers extensive connectivity, including GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and optional cellular, so you can stay connected on the go. New features include the temperature sensor, which is mainly used for cycle tracking, and improved accident detection, which can automatically call for help in the event of a serious fall or car accident. Health functions such as ECG, heart rate monitoring, and blood oxygen sensor remain an important component, complemented by new software features in WatchOS 9.
Who would benefit from an Apple Watch 8?
The Apple Watch Series 8 is particularly worthwhile for users who value comprehensive health and fitness features while also wanting to use the latest technology from Apple. It is ideal for people who want to keep an eye on their health and fitness, thanks to features such as the new temperature sensor for cycle tracking, the ECG and the improved accident detection. The Watch 8 is also an excellent choice for users who are on the go and value seamless connectivity, for example through the cellular option. So if you are looking for a powerful and versatile wearable that supports you in your everyday life and monitors your health data, the Apple Watch Series 8 is a worthwhile investment.
Why the Apple Watch 8?
The Apple Watch 8 hits the sweet spot for many, offering advanced features at a more affordable price than the latest model. It's ideal for those looking for a modern, capable smartwatch that they can use reliably for several years without having to pay for the very latest features they may not need.Compared to the Watch 7 The Watch 8 offers important updates such as the temperature sensor and improved accident detection without making a drastic jump in price. If these additional features are important to you, but you don't want to pay the higher price of the Watch 9 If you want to pay a little extra, the Watch 8 could be just the right middle ground.
Review: What the Tech YouTubers say
The two tech YouTubers 6 Months Later and Marina Tech have extensively tested the Apple Watch 8 in their videos and examined whether it is worth buying. We have summarized their results:
Advantages
- Fast charging and reliable battery life: The Apple Watch Series 8 charges quickly, so it will be sufficiently charged during short breaks such as showering. Although the battery life lasts about a day, the fast charging can make up for this disadvantage somewhat.
- Large display and comfort: The 45 mm display of the Watch 8 offers plenty of space, but is still light and comfortable to wear. The Always-On Display function is particularly practical, as you can discreetly read notifications and the time without having to raise your arm.
- fitness and sleep tracking: The Watch 8 offers improved fitness tracking features, including customizable workout plans and sleep tracking that monitors the quality of your sleep in detail. These features are useful for keeping track of your health and achieving fitness goals.
- Reliable materials: The aluminum case in the Starlight color proves to be aesthetically pleasing and relatively scratch-resistant, although it is more vulnerable than the stainless steel or Ultra versions.
- New health features: The Watch 8 introduces new features such as the temperature sensor for cycle tracking and crash detection, which are particularly beneficial for women and as a safety feature in the event of an accident.
Disadvantages
- Iterative update: Many of the Watch 8's core features are already present in older models, and there are few exclusive new features, reducing the incentive to upgrade, especially for users of older models like the Series 5.
- Battery life could be better: Although the battery life is sufficient for daily use, it is often not enough for intensive use and without regular charging, which can be a disadvantage for users who want to wear the watch all the time.
- Susceptibility to scratches: The aluminum case of the Watch 8 is prone to scratches, which could be a problem for users who value a flawless appearance. If you want a more durable watch, you should opt for the stainless steel version or the Apple Watch Ultra.
- Temperature sensor and crash detection limited usefulness: The temperature sensor is mainly useful for women who use cycle tracking. Crash detection is a good safety feature but is rarely needed, which limits its usefulness in everyday life.
- Minor differences to the Series 7: The transition from Series 7 to Series 8 brings few significant improvements, which reduces the incentive for Series 7 users to upgrade.
Overall, the Apple Watch Series 8 offers solid improvements in areas such as health features and display, but for many users, especially those who already own a newer Apple Watch, the added value may be minimal compared to older models.
Conclusion: Who is the Apple Watch 8 worth it for?
The Apple Watch Series 8 is a great choice for anyone looking to buy their first smartwatch or upgrade from an older model like the Series 6 or below. The Series 8 offers the ideal balance between modern features and an affordable price. With a number of improved features such as the temperature sensor and crash detection, while still being affordable, it offers the perfect middle ground between the Series 7 and Series 9. However, for Series 7 owners, the upgrade is probably not worth it, as the differences between the two models are minimal and no significant new features have been added. So if you are looking for a solid and modern device that is not only powerful but also attractively priced, the Apple Watch Series 8 is the right choice.
FAQ - your questions about the Apple Watch 8
1. What are the main differences between the Apple Watch Series 8 and Series 7?
The Apple Watch Series 8 offers some new features compared to the Series 7, including a temperature sensor, which is especially useful for women's cycle tracking, and crash detection, which automatically notifies emergency services in the event of a serious accident. Otherwise, most features, such as the always-on display and fitness tracking, are similar.
2. Is it worth upgrading from an older Apple Watch like the Series 6 to the Series 8?
Yes, upgrading from an older Apple Watch like the Series 6 to the Series 8 is worth it because of the improved health and safety features, faster performance, and larger display. These new features offer a noticeable step forward and improve the user experience.
3. How long does the battery of the Apple Watch Series 8 last?
The Apple Watch Series 8 offers a battery life of about 18 hours with normal use. With the quick charge function, the watch can be fully charged within a short time, which is particularly convenient for everyday use.
4. Is the Apple Watch Series 8 waterproof?
Yes, Apple Watch Series 8 is water resistant to a depth of 50 meters (WR50). It can be worn while swimming, but is not suitable for deep-sea diving or high-speed activities.
5. What new health features does the Apple Watch Series 8 offer?
New health features on Apple Watch Series 8 include a temperature sensor for cycle tracking and Crash Detection, which can automatically call for help in the event of an accident. These features complement existing health and fitness tools such as ECG, heart rate monitoring and blood oxygen sensor.
