Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 vs Watch 7: Which Is Better?
The Galaxy Watch 8 is faster, more accurate, and more durable than the Watch 7, but differences are subtle. For UK users with a Watch 7, upgrading may not be essential.
Watch 8: £283 (40mm), £326 (44mm); Watch 7: £214
Design and Display
The Galaxy Watch 8 closely resembles the Watch 7, both featuring a 1.4-inch AMOLED display (450x450 pixels) for the 44mm model. The Watch 8 has slimmer bezels and is slightly lighter.
Materials and Build
The Watch 8 uses an enhanced aluminium alloy for better scratch resistance and meets the MIL-STD-810H standard. Personalize with straps at retailers like Amazon UK or Currys, available in 40mm or 44mm sizes.
Performance and Hardware
The Watch 8 features the Exynos W1000 chip, 20% faster than the Watch 7’s W930, improving app opening and menu scrolling.
RAM and Storage
Both models have 2GB RAM and 16GB storage, but the Watch 8 feels more responsive due to One UI 8 Watch optimizations and better battery efficiency.
Health and Fitness Tracking
The Watch 8’s upgraded BioActive sensor offers 15% more accurate heart rate, sleep, and stress measurements during sports activities.
New Health Features
- Skin temperature during workouts
- Enhanced fall detection
- AI-driven sleep coaching
Galaxy Watch 8 vs Watch 7 Comparison
| Feature | Galaxy Watch 7 | Galaxy Watch 8 |
|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos W930 | Exynos W1000 |
| RAM | 2GB | 2GB |
| Storage | 16GB | 16GB |
| Display | 1.4" AMOLED | 1.4" AMOLED |
| Resolution | 450x450 | 450x450 |
| Battery Life | Up to 40 hours | Up to 48 hours |
| Water Resistance | 5ATM + IP68 | 5ATM + IP68 + MIL-STD-810H |
| New Sensors | - | Temperature during sports |
| AI Sleep Tracking | No | Yes |
| Fall Detection | Yes | Improved |
| Weight (44mm) | 33.5g | 32.8g |
Is the Galaxy Watch 8 Worth It?
The Watch 8 is ideal for new buyers or those without a Watch 7, offering future-proof features. Watch 7 owners may find the upgrade less urgent.
Can You Make Calls with the Watch 8?
Yes, the LTE variant allows phone-free calls, while the Bluetooth model requires a connected phone. Both include high-quality microphones and speakers.
Battery and Charging
The Watch 8 lasts up to 48 hours, with 10W fast charging in ~75 minutes, an improvement over the Watch 7’s 40 hours.
Software and Updates
Both run Wear OS 6 with One UI 8 Watch, but the Watch 8 will receive updates for four years, outlasting the Watch 7.
Straps and Accessories
The Watch 8 uses a new strap connector, making older 20mm bands incompatible. New ventilated, sweat-resistant sport bands are available at smartwatch-straps.co.uk with free UK delivery.
Price and Availability
The Watch 8 starts at £283 (40mm), with the LTE model at ~£326. The Watch 7 is now ~£214, often discounted at retailers like Amazon UK or Currys.
Save Smart
- Choose the Watch 7 for budget savings
- Opt for the Watch 8 for future-proofing
- Look for Black Friday deals
FAQs: Galaxy Watch 8 vs Watch 7
Is the Watch 8 Compatible with Samsung Phones?
Yes, with Android 10+ and 1.5GB RAM, best with Galaxy phones.
Does the Watch 8 Have ECG and Blood Pressure?
Yes, both are certified for use in the UK.
Is It iPhone Compatible?
No, support stopped after the Watch 5.
How Water-Resistant Is It?
5ATM and IP68, safe up to 50m.
Can You Swim with It?
Yes, in freshwater; avoid diving or high pressure.
Conclusion
The Galaxy Watch 8 offers superior performance, accuracy, and longevity compared to the Watch 7, making it the better choice for UK users seeking the latest tech. The Watch 7 remains a solid, budget-friendly option.
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