The Apple Watch Series 11 has established itself as a leader in the smartwatch market, bringing forth a range of new features and improvements over its predecessors. Key updates include 5G connectivity for the cellular model and innovative health features such as hypertension notifications and Sleep Score analysis. However, the competition remains fierce, particularly from Samsung's latest offering, the Galaxy Watch 8, which serves as a strong alternative for users who prefer a smartwatch compatible with Android phones.
The Galaxy Watch 8 boasts a lightweight design and provides access to the Gemini assistant along with Samsung's suite of health features, including the new Running Coach. If you're not committed to either the Apple or Android ecosystems, it's beneficial to explore both options to determine which smartwatch aligns better with your needs. Below, we have compiled essential comparison points to assist with your decision-making process.
Before diving into the features, the first noticeable difference between the two smartwatches is their design. The Apple Watch Series 11 maintains the signature square frame that has characterized previous models, featuring a sleek profile and an edge-to-edge display. In contrast, the Galaxy Watch 8 showcases a circular display that appeals to those who prefer a more traditional watch aesthetic. However, the Galaxy Watch 8 has a unique squircle form, with a square base that differentiates it from typical round watches.
In terms of size, the Apple Watch Series 11 is available in 42mm and 46mm options, while the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 comes in 40mm and 44mm versions. This slight difference in size may make the smaller Galaxy Watch 8 a more suitable choice for individuals with smaller wrists. Regarding display technology, the Apple Watch Series 11 features an OLED Retina display, whereas the Galaxy Watch 8 utilizes a Super AMOLED display. The Galaxy Watch 8 shines with a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, surpassing the Apple Watch Series 11's maximum brightness range of 1 to 2,000 nits. Additionally, while the Galaxy Watch 8 is only available in aluminum (black or grey), the Apple Watch Series 11 offers both aluminum and titanium options in various finishes, including jet black, rose gold, and silver for aluminum, and slate, gold, or natural for titanium.
Both smartwatches come equipped with essential health sensors, including ECG, advanced heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen levels, and temperature tracking, though they each have unique offerings. The Galaxy Watch 8 includes a skin analysis feature that monitors carotenoids and advanced heart metrics, while the Apple Watch Series 11 introduces a hypertension warning system that alerts users to potential high blood pressure. While this feature does not replace a blood pressure monitor, Apple emphasizes its value as a preliminary screening tool.
Sleep tracking capabilities also differ between the two watches. The Galaxy Watch 8 features a Bedtime Guidance tool designed to help users determine an optimal bedtime based on their circadian rhythm, potentially enhancing sleep quality. In contrast, the Apple Watch Series 11 now provides a Sleep Score, which rates sleep quality on a scale from 1 to 100, alongside data on interruptions and total sleep duration. Additionally, the Galaxy Watch 8 integrates the Gemini voice assistant, which can manage more complex queries compared to Siri on the Apple Watch Series 11.
When it comes to fitness coaching, the Galaxy Watch 8 offers the Samsung Running Coach, which aims to improve running performance, while the Apple Watch Series 11 features Workout Buddy, designed to motivate users during their workouts. Both devices provide fall detection and SOS alerts, but the Apple Watch Series 11 goes a step further with additional safety features, including vehicle crash detection.
In terms of battery performance, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 and the Apple Watch Series 11 are relatively comparable, with both devices easily lasting over 24 hours—ideal for sleep tracking purposes. Testing showed that the Galaxy Watch 8 can last approximately 30 hours on a single charge, while the Apple Watch Series 11 typically ranges from 27 to 32 hours per charge.
When considering price, the Galaxy Watch 8 starts at $350, while the Apple Watch Series 11 is available at a slightly higher starting price of $399. For those trying to weigh their options, the following chart provides a clear side-by-side comparison of the two popular smartwatches.
In conclusion, both the Apple Watch Series 11 and the Galaxy Watch 8 bring unique features and benefits to the table. Depending on your preferences, whether it be design, health features, or compatibility with your smartphone ecosystem, it's essential to evaluate each watch's offerings to find the best fit for your lifestyle.
