OVERALL
ALTERNATIVES
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
Scored using Smartwatches Methodology v2.0
Smartwatches Methodology v2.0
Mathematical & Unbiased Scoring
Products in this category are scored under Frontumo Smartwatches Methodology v2.0: technical specifications plus grades from 3,488 independent expert reviews and 5,192 video reviews, with 0% commercial bias.
Explore Smartwatches Methodology v2.0

Apple Watch Series 8 41mm Review | 126 Data compared

Avg. price:~£320Screen size:?Battery life:0.88 daysDisplay type:OLED

Apple Watch Series 8 41mm Review: Compare 126 technical specifications and 22 expert and video reviews to see how this product ranks in the Smartwatches category and whether it is worth buying.

8.4

Overall score

Score
8.4/ 10
✕
What it is
An overall evaluation of the smartwatch's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.
When it matters
When you need a quick reference to identify the best smartwatches on the market.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 94% of models
Score components

70%

8.2

Technical score

30%

8.8

Review score ( 10 · 12)

Review score 30% · 8.8 · based on 22 independent reviews
Every model in this category gets the same split: reviews 30%, technical score 70%. This model has enough reviews, so its review score is the weighted average of their grades. 15 more reviews are not scored yet.
★Better than 94% of smartwatches
8.2

Technical score

Technical score
8.2/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of the smartwatchx27s technical performance, covering seven key areas: health, fitness, display & design, hardware, battery, smart features and connectivity.
When it matters
When you want to compare smartwatches based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 90% of models
Score components

24%

8.0

Health

21%

9.9

Fitness

16%

4.3

Battery

14%

10

Smart features

12%

9.0

Connectivity

9%

8.2

Display & Design

4%

7.7

Hardware

★Better than 90% of smartwatches
8.8

Review score

Review score
8.8/ 10
✕
What it is
Average grade from independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers, 1–10.
How we count it
Grades: Each review's own score is converted to 1–10; without one, we grade the review ourselves.
Weighting: Big test sites count more, short reviews half as much as full tests. A video review counts half.
Share: Reviews are 30% of the overall score for every model in this category; each of the 5 needed reviews that is missing counts as 7/10.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 99% of models
Grades by review (22)
10 reviews: 6 with a printed score, 4 estimated from the review. 12 video reviews, each counting half as much as a written test. Share in the overall score: 30%, the same for every model in this category.
Text reviews 4
✓ explicit
2

7.8%

9.6

techgearlab.com

7.8%

9.0

trustedreviews.com

≈ estimated
2

6.3%

8.0

gsmarena.com

3.1%

9.0

techpickstream.com

Video reviews 1

3.1%

8.0

DC Rainmaker

estimated from the review
Shop star ratings are not part of this score.
★Better than 99% of smartwatches
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Best prices

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Best rankings

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).All: ranking among all products in the database.
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Technical Specifications of smartwatch Apple Watch Series 8 41mm

Technical score
Technical score
8.2/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of the smartwatchx27s technical performance, covering seven key areas: health, fitness, display & design, hardware, battery, smart features and connectivity.
When it matters
When you want to compare smartwatches based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 90% of models
Score components:

24%

8.0

Health

21%

9.9

Fitness

16%

4.3

Battery

14%

10

Smart features

12%

9.0

Connectivity

9%

8.2

Display & Design

4%

7.7

Hardware

8.2
Review score
Review score
8.8/ 10
✕
What it is
Average grade from independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers, 1–10.
How we count it
Grades: Each review's own score is converted to 1–10; without one, we grade the review ourselves.
Weighting: Big test sites count more, short reviews half as much as full tests. A video review counts half.
Share: Reviews are 30% of the overall score for every model in this category; each of the 5 needed reviews that is missing counts as 7/10.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 99% of models
Grades by review (22)
10 reviews: 6 with a printed score, 4 estimated from the review. 12 video reviews, each counting half as much as a written test. Share in the overall score: 30%, the same for every model in this category.
Text reviews 4
✓ explicit
2

7.8%

9.6

techgearlab.com

7.8%

9.0

trustedreviews.com

≈ estimated
2

6.3%

8.0

gsmarena.com

3.1%

9.0

techpickstream.com

Video reviews 1

3.1%

8.0

DC Rainmaker

estimated from the review
Shop star ratings are not part of this score.
8.8
Popularity
Popularity
7.5/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the smartwatch.
When it matters
When you prefer to purchase a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 64% of models
Popularity:
Apple Watch Series 8 41mm has a popularity of 7.5 points, which is higher than 64.4% of smartwatches.
7.5
Value for money
Value for money
8.5/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the smartwatch's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for a smartwatch with a good balance between quality and price.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 90% of models
Score components:

60%

8.4

Overall score

40%

8.8

Price

8.5
Brand name
Apple
Heart rate monitor
yes
Heart rate monitor
yes
â–² Better than 11% of models
This smartwatch includes a heart rate monitor. 10.5% of smartwatches include a heart rate monitor.
Blood oxygen monitoring
yes
Blood oxygen monitoring
yes
â–² Better than 33% of models
This smartwatch supports blood oxygen monitoring. 33.4% of smartwatches support blood oxygen monitoring.
Availability may vary by region or model.
ECG
yes
ECG
yes
â–² Better than 84% of models
This smartwatch supports ECG. 83.6% of smartwatches support ECG.
Availability may vary by region or model version. May require a compatible phone, software version, or app setup.
Irregular heart rate warnings
yes
Irregular heart rate warnings
yes
â–² Better than 52% of models
This smartwatch supports irregular heart rate warnings. 51.9% of smartwatches support irregular heart rate warnings.
Show more
What reviewers say
Accelerometer
yes
Accelerometer
yes
â–² Better than 1% of models
This smartwatch includes an accelerometer. 0.6% of smartwatches include an accelerometer.
Barometer
yes
Barometer
yes
â–² Better than 51% of models
This smartwatch includes a barometer. 50.6% of smartwatches include a barometer.
Gyroscope
yes
Gyroscope
yes
â–² Better than 30% of models
This smartwatch includes a gyroscope. 30.2% of smartwatches include a gyroscope.
Cadence sensor
yes
Cadence sensor
yes
â–² Better than 69% of models
This smartwatch includes a cadence sensor. 69% of smartwatches include a cadence sensor.
Cadence may require external sensor/app pairing on some models.
Distance tracking
yes
Distance tracking
yes
â–² Better than 4% of models
This smartwatch supports distance tracking. 4.1% of smartwatches support distance tracking.
Show more
What reviewers say
Battery life
0.88 days
Battery life
0.88 days
â–¼ Worse than 96% of models
Market range: <1 days – >16 days
This smartwatch offers a battery life of 0.88 days which is shorter than that of 96.1% of smartwatches and equal to that of 1.7% of smartwatches.
Converted from roughly 18-24 hours of battery life.
Battery life in training mode
7 h
Battery life in training mode
7 h
â–¼ Worse than 78% of models
Market range: <5.5 h – >48 h
This smartwatch lasts 7 h in training mode which is shorter than 77.7% of smartwatches and equal to that of 4.6% of smartwatches.
Battery life with GPS on
7 h
Battery life with GPS on
7 h
â–¼ Worse than 81% of models
Market range: <5.75 h – >43 h
This smartwatch lasts 7 h with GPS on which is shorter than 81.1% of smartwatches and equal to that of 4.7% of smartwatches.
Battery power
282 mAh
Battery power
282 mAh
â–¼ Worse than 59% of models
Market range: <195 mAh – >475 mAh
This smartwatch has a battery capacity of 282 mAh which is smaller than the batteries in 59% of smartwatches and equal to those in 0.3% of smartwatches.
Battery capacity varies by case size/model variant.
Charge time
75 min
Charge time
75 min
â–² Better than 76% of models
Market range: <60 min – >150 min
This smartwatch charges in 75 min which is faster than 76.2% of smartwatches and equal to the charge time of 3.3% of smartwatches.
Show more
What reviewers say
Operating system
watchOS
Operating system
watchOS
★ Better than 96% of models
This smartwatch runs watchOS which is more advanced than the operating system in 95.7% of smartwatches and the same as that in 4.3% of smartwatches.
OS detail: watchOS (26.2).
Software update frequency
regular
Software update frequency
regular
★ Better than 94% of models
This smartwatch has regular software update support which is more active than that of 94% of smartwatches and equal to that of 6% of smartwatches.
Updates are released regularly throughout the year.
Third-party app support
yes
Third-party app support
yes
â–² Better than 52% of models
This smartwatch supports third-party apps. 52.4% of smartwatches support third-party apps.
Notifications
yes
Notifications
yes
Category Benchmark
This smartwatch supports notifications. 0.3% of smartwatches support notifications.
Voice assistant support
yes
Voice assistant support
yes
â–² Better than 32% of models
This smartwatch supports voice assistants. 32.4% of smartwatches support voice assistants.
Show more
What reviewers say
Cellular module
yes
Cellular module
yes
â–² Better than 82% of models
This smartwatch includes a cellular module. 82.2% of smartwatches include a cellular module.
SIM cards
1
SIM cards
1
â–² Better than 2% of models
Market range: <0 – >5
This smartwatch uses 1 for cellular connectivity which is more advanced than that of 2% of smartwatches and the same as that of 98% of smartwatches.
eSIM
GPS
yes
GPS
yes
â–² Better than 44% of models
This smartwatch supports GPS. 43.9% of smartwatches support GPS.
Galileo support
yes
Galileo support
yes
â–² Better than 62% of models
This smartwatch supports Galileo navigation. 61.6% of smartwatches support Galileo navigation.
Compass
yes
Compass
yes
â–² Better than 47% of models
This smartwatch includes a compass. 47.5% of smartwatches include a compass.
Show more
What reviewers say
Screen size
?
Display type
OLED
Display type
OLED
â–¼ Worse than 50% of models
This smartwatch uses a OLED display type which is less advanced than that of 50.3% of smartwatches and the same as that of 9.6% of smartwatches.
LTPO panel wording.
Resolution
352x 430
Resolution
352x 430
â–² Better than 50% of models
This smartwatch has a display resolution of 352x430 which is lower than that of 50.1% of smartwatches.
Pixel density
326 ppi
Pixel density
326 ppi
â–² Better than 46% of models
Market range: <207 ppi – >461 ppi
This smartwatch has a pixel density of 326 ppi which is higher than that of 46.2% of smartwatches and equal to that of 8.1% of smartwatches.
Display brightness
1,000 nits
Display brightness
1,000 nits
â–² Better than 59% of models
Market range: <450 nits – >2k nits
This smartwatch reaches 1,000 nits of display brightness, which is higher than that of 59.4% of smartwatches and equal to that of 26.5% of smartwatches.
Show more
What reviewers say
CPU speed
2x 1.5 GHz
CPU speed
2x 1.5 GHz
â–² Better than 77% of models
This smartwatch uses a CPU configuration of 2x1.5 GHz which is faster than that in 77.2% of smartwatches and equal to that in 1.2% of smartwatches.
Derived from core-count and per-core clock notation
Processor model
Apple S8
Processor model
Apple S8
★ Better than 95% of models
This smartwatch uses the Apple S8 processor model.
RAM
1 GB
RAM
1 GB
â–² Better than 31% of models
Market range: <0.5 GB – >2 GB
This smartwatch has 1 GB of RAM which is larger than the RAM in 31.3% of smartwatches and equal to that of 45.8% of smartwatches.
Internal storage
32 GB
Internal storage
32 GB
â–² Better than 85% of models
Market range: <0 GB – >32 GB
This smartwatch uses 32 GB for internal storage which is larger than that of 84.7% of smartwatches and equal to that of 13.4% of smartwatches.
External memory slot
no
External memory slot
no
Category Benchmark
This smartwatch does not include an external memory slot. 0.3% of smartwatches include an external memory slot.
Show more
What reviewers say

Apple Watch Series 8 41mm vs the average smartwatch

246810TotalHealthFitnessBatteryConnectivityDisplay & DesignSmart featuresHardware
  • ECG support
    ECG
    yes
    â–² Better than 84% of models
    This smartwatch supports ECG, the average smartwatch does not. 16.6% of smartwatches support ECG.
    Availability may vary by region or model version. May require a compatible phone, software version, or app setup.
  • More frequent updates
    Software update frequency
    regular
    ★ Better than 94% of models
    This smartwatch receives regular software updates, while the average smartwatch receives ended updates.
    Updates are released regularly throughout the year.
    regular vs ended
  • More advanced operating system
    Operating system
    watchOS
    ★ Better than 96% of models
    This smartwatch runs a more advanced operating system than the average smartwatch (watchOS vs Proprietary OS).
    OS detail: watchOS (26.2).
    watchOS vs Proprietary OS
  • Temperature sensing
    Temperature sensor
    yes
    â–² Better than 73% of models
    This smartwatch includes a temperature sensor, the average smartwatch does not. 26.8% of smartwatches include a temperature sensor.
    Temperature readings may be skin/ambient trends, not core-body medical values.
  • Crash detection capability
    Crash detection
    yes
    â–² Better than 87% of models
    This smartwatch supports crash detection, the average smartwatch does not. 12.6% of smartwatches support crash detection.
  • Built-in cellular module
    Cellular module
    yes
    â–² Better than 82% of models
    This smartwatch includes a cellular module, the average smartwatch does not. 17.9% of smartwatches include a cellular module.
  • Fall detection
    Fall detection
    yes
    â–² Better than 79% of models
    This smartwatch supports fall detection, the average smartwatch does not. 21.3% of smartwatches support fall detection.
  • HRV tracking
    HRV tracking
    yes
    â–² Better than 59% of models
    This smartwatch supports HRV tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 40.8% of smartwatches support HRV tracking.
  • 13.1% better value for money
    Apple Watch Series 8 41mm has a higher value-for-money score than the average smartwatch (8.5 vs 7.5).
    8.5 vs 7.52
  • ECG support
    ECG
    yes
    â–² Better than 84% of models
    This smartwatch supports ECG, the average smartwatch does not. 16.6% of smartwatches support ECG.
    Availability may vary by region or model version. May require a compatible phone, software version, or app setup.
  • Temperature sensing
    Temperature sensor
    yes
    â–² Better than 73% of models
    This smartwatch includes a temperature sensor, the average smartwatch does not. 26.8% of smartwatches include a temperature sensor.
    Temperature readings may be skin/ambient trends, not core-body medical values.
  • HRV tracking
    HRV tracking
    yes
    â–² Better than 59% of models
    This smartwatch supports HRV tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 40.8% of smartwatches support HRV tracking.
  • VO2 max measurement
    VO2 max measurement
    yes
    â–² Better than 52% of models
    This smartwatch measures VO2 max, the average smartwatch does not. 47.6% of smartwatches measure VO2 max.
  • Irregular heart rate alerts
    Irregular heart rate warnings
    yes
    â–² Better than 52% of models
    This smartwatch supports irregular heart rate warnings, the average smartwatch does not. 48.1% of smartwatches support irregular heart rate warnings.
  • Weight tracking
    Weight tracking
    yes
    â–² Better than 61% of models
    This smartwatch supports weight tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 39.1% of smartwatches support weight tracking.
    Weight tracking may rely on manual app entry or smart-scale sync. Some models rely on third-party integrations.
  • External heart rate monitor support
    External heart rate monitor compatibility
    yes
    â–² Better than 57% of models
    This smartwatch supports external heart rate monitor compatibility, the average smartwatch does not. 42.7% of smartwatches support external heart rate monitor compatibility.
  • Barometer sensor included
    Barometer
    yes
    â–² Better than 51% of models
    This smartwatch includes a barometer, the average smartwatch does not. 49.5% of smartwatches include a barometer.
  • Cadence tracking
    Cadence sensor
    yes
    â–² Better than 69% of models
    This smartwatch includes a cadence sensor, the average smartwatch does not. 31.1% of smartwatches include a cadence sensor.
    Cadence may require external sensor/app pairing on some models.
  • Route support
    Route support
    yes
    â–² Better than 50% of models
    This smartwatch supports route support, the average smartwatch does not. 50% of smartwatches support route support.
    Route support available via companion app.
  • 45 min shorter charge time
    Charge time
    75 min
    â–² Better than 76% of models
    Market range: <60 min – >150 min
    This smartwatch charges faster than the average smartwatch (75 min vs 120 min). The average smartwatch charges in 120 min.
    75 min vs 120 min
  • Supports wireless charging
    Wireless charging
    yes
    â–² Better than 76% of models
    This smartwatch supports wireless charging, the average smartwatch does not. 24.5% of smartwatches support wireless charging.
    Wireless charging supported via proprietary charger (not standard Qi).
  • Built-in cellular module
    Cellular module
    yes
    â–² Better than 82% of models
    This smartwatch includes a cellular module, the average smartwatch does not. 17.9% of smartwatches include a cellular module.
  • Maps support
    Maps support
    yes
    â–² Better than 69% of models
    This smartwatch supports maps, the average smartwatch does not. 31.5% of smartwatches support maps.
    Maps via Apple Maps app.
  • NFC functionality
    NFC
    yes
    â–² Better than 57% of models
    This smartwatch supports NFC, the average smartwatch does not. 43.4% of smartwatches support NFC.
  • Supports Wi-Fi
    Wi-Fi support
    yes
    â–² Better than 57% of models
    This smartwatch supports Wi-Fi, the average smartwatch does not. 43.3% of smartwatches support Wi-Fi.
  • Galileo satellite support
    Galileo support
    yes
    â–² Better than 62% of models
    This smartwatch supports Galileo navigation, the average smartwatch does not. 38.5% of smartwatches support Galileo navigation.
  • Newer Bluetooth version
    Bluetooth version
    5.3
    â–² Better than 88% of models
    This smartwatch supports a newer Bluetooth version than the average smartwatch (5.3 vs 5). The average smartwatch uses 5.0.
    5.3 vs 5.0
  • UWB chip
    UWB chip
    yes
    ★ Better than 98% of models
    This smartwatch includes a UWB chip, while the average smartwatch does not. 2.3% of smartwatches include UWB.
    U1 chip.
  • 400 nits higher display brightness
    Display brightness
    1,000 nits
    â–² Better than 59% of models
    Market range: <450 nits – >2k nits
    This smartwatch has higher display brightness than the average smartwatch (1000 nits vs 600 nits). The average smartwatch reaches 600 nits.
    1,000 nits vs 600 nits
  • 13.1 g lighter weight
    Weight
    31.9 g
    â–² Better than 83% of models
    Market range: <29 g – >80 g
    This smartwatch is lighter than the average smartwatch (31.9 g vs 45 g). The average smartwatch weighs 45.0 g.
    31.9 g vs 45.0 g
  • Stronger display glass
    Display glass type
    Ion-X
    â–¼ Worse than 54% of models
    This smartwatch uses Ion-X display glass, while the average smartwatch uses mineral glass.
    Ion-X vs mineral glass
  • Better case material
    Case material
    aluminum, stainless steel
    â–² Better than 83% of models
    This smartwatch uses aluminum, stainless steel for the case material, while the average smartwatch uses polycarbonate.
    aluminum, stainless steel vs polycarbonate
  • 0.9 mm thinner watch body
    Thickness
    10.70 mm
    â–² Better than 75% of models
    Market range: <9.8 mm – >14.1 mm
    This smartwatch is thinner than the average smartwatch (10.7 mm vs 11.6 mm). The average smartwatch thickness is 11.6 mm.
    10.70 mm vs 11.6 mm
  • 2 mm narrower band
    Width of band
    20.0 mm
    â–² Better than 66% of models
    Market range: <20 mm – >22 mm
    This smartwatch has a narrower band width than the average smartwatch (20 mm vs 22 mm). The average smartwatch band is 22.0 mm wide.
    20.0 mm vs 22.0 mm
  • 7 mm narrower watch width
    Width
    35.0 mm
    â–² Better than 88% of models
    Market range: <34.6 mm – >46.8 mm
    This smartwatch is narrower than the average smartwatch (35 mm vs 42 mm). The average smartwatch width is 42.0 mm.
    35.0 mm vs 42.0 mm
  • Better band material
    Band material
    silicone, leather, nylon
    â–² Better than 65% of models
    This smartwatch uses silicone, leather, nylon for the band material, while the average smartwatch uses silicone.
    silicone, leather, nylon vs silicone
  • 4 mm shorter watch height
    Height
    41.0 mm
    â–² Better than 82% of models
    Market range: <39.5 mm – >51 mm
    This smartwatch is shorter than the average smartwatch (41 mm vs 45 mm). The average smartwatch height is 45 mm.
    41.0 mm vs 45 mm
  • More frequent updates
    Software update frequency
    regular
    ★ Better than 94% of models
    This smartwatch receives regular software updates, while the average smartwatch receives ended updates.
    Updates are released regularly throughout the year.
    regular vs ended
  • More advanced operating system
    Operating system
    watchOS
    ★ Better than 96% of models
    This smartwatch runs a more advanced operating system than the average smartwatch (watchOS vs Proprietary OS).
    OS detail: watchOS (26.2).
    watchOS vs Proprietary OS
  • Crash detection capability
    Crash detection
    yes
    â–² Better than 87% of models
    This smartwatch supports crash detection, the average smartwatch does not. 12.6% of smartwatches support crash detection.
  • Fall detection
    Fall detection
    yes
    â–² Better than 79% of models
    This smartwatch supports fall detection, the average smartwatch does not. 21.3% of smartwatches support fall detection.
  • Emergency SOS
    Emergency SOS
    yes
    â–² Better than 57% of models
    This smartwatch includes Emergency SOS, the average smartwatch does not. 42.8% of smartwatches include Emergency SOS.
  • Third-party app support
    Third-party app support
    yes
    â–² Better than 52% of models
    This smartwatch supports third-party apps, the average smartwatch does not. 47.6% of smartwatches support third-party apps.
  • 28 GB more storage
    Internal storage
    32 GB
    â–² Better than 85% of models
    Market range: <0 GB – >32 GB
    This smartwatch offers more internal storage than the average smartwatch (32 GB vs 4 GB). The average smartwatch provides 4 GB of storage.
    32 GB vs 4 GB
  • Faster CPU speed
    CPU speed
    2 x 1.5 GHz
    â–² Better than 77% of models
    This smartwatch uses a CPU configuration of 2x1.5 GHz, while the average smartwatch uses 1 GHz.
    Derived from core-count and per-core clock notation
    2x1.5 GHz vs 1 GHz
  • More advanced processor model
    Processor model
    Apple S8
    ★ Better than 95% of models
    This smartwatch uses the Apple S8 processor model, while the average smartwatch uses Silicon Labs EFM32 Giant Gecko.
    Apple S8 vs Silicon Labs EFM32 Giant Gecko
  • 6.12 days day/s shorter battery life
    Battery life
    0.88 days
    â–¼ Worse than 96% of models
    Market range: <1 days – >16 days
    This smartwatch offers 0.9 days of battery life, while the average smartwatch offers 7 days.
    Converted from roughly 18-24 hours of battery life.
    0.88 days vs 7 days
  • 13 h shorter GPS battery life
    Battery life with GPS on
    7 h
    â–¼ Worse than 81% of models
    Market range: <5.75 h – >43 h
    This smartwatch lasts less with GPS on than the average smartwatch (7 h vs 20 h). The average smartwatch lasts 20 h.
    7 h vs 20 h
  • Lower IP rating
    IP rating
    IP6X
    â–¼ Worse than 90% of models
    This smartwatch has a lower IP rating than the average smartwatch (IP6X vs IP68).
    Also reported with 50M water-resistance rating.
    IP6X vs IP68
  • 12.25 h shorter training battery life
    Battery life in training mode
    7 h
    â–¼ Worse than 78% of models
    Market range: <5.5 h – >48 h
    This smartwatch lasts less in training mode than the average smartwatch (7 h vs 19.25 h). The average smartwatch lasts 19.25 h.
    7 h vs 19.25 h
  • Not compatible with Android
    Android compatibility
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 95% of models
    This smartwatch is not compatible with Android, the average smartwatch is. 95.3% of smartwatches are compatible with Android.
  • Basic battery type
    Battery type
    Li-ion
    â–¼ Worse than 51% of models
    This smartwatch uses a Li-ion battery, while the average smartwatch uses Li-Po.
    Li-ion vs Li-Po
  • Basic display type
    Display type
    OLED
    â–¼ Worse than 50% of models
    This smartwatch uses OLED display technology, while the average smartwatch features AMOLED.
    LTPO panel wording.
    OLED vs AMOLED
  • 5,534 m lower max altitude
    Maximum altitude
    3,000 m
    â–¼ Worse than 59% of models
    Market range: <3k m – >9.1k m
    This smartwatch supports a lower maximum altitude than the average smartwatch (3000 m vs 8534 m). The average smartwatch reaches 8534 m.
    Apple lists a 10,0 ft / 3,0 m operating-altitude limit for standard non-Ultra models.
    3,000 m vs 8,534 m
  • 2.46x more expensive
    Apple Watch Series 8 41mm is more expensive than the average smartwatch (£320 vs £130).
    £320 vs £130
  • 5,534 m lower max altitude
    Maximum altitude
    3,000 m
    â–¼ Worse than 59% of models
    Market range: <3k m – >9.1k m
    This smartwatch supports a lower maximum altitude than the average smartwatch (3000 m vs 8534 m). The average smartwatch reaches 8534 m.
    Apple lists a 10,0 ft / 3,0 m operating-altitude limit for standard non-Ultra models.
    3,000 m vs 8,534 m
  • 6.12 days day/s shorter battery life
    Battery life
    0.88 days
    â–¼ Worse than 96% of models
    Market range: <1 days – >16 days
    This smartwatch offers 0.9 days of battery life, while the average smartwatch offers 7 days.
    Converted from roughly 18-24 hours of battery life.
    0.88 days vs 7 days
  • 13 h shorter GPS battery life
    Battery life with GPS on
    7 h
    â–¼ Worse than 81% of models
    Market range: <5.75 h – >43 h
    This smartwatch lasts less with GPS on than the average smartwatch (7 h vs 20 h). The average smartwatch lasts 20 h.
    7 h vs 20 h
  • 12.25 h shorter training battery life
    Battery life in training mode
    7 h
    â–¼ Worse than 78% of models
    Market range: <5.5 h – >48 h
    This smartwatch lasts less in training mode than the average smartwatch (7 h vs 19.25 h). The average smartwatch lasts 19.25 h.
    7 h vs 19.25 h
  • Basic battery type
    Battery type
    Li-ion
    â–¼ Worse than 51% of models
    This smartwatch uses a Li-ion battery, while the average smartwatch uses Li-Po.
    Li-ion vs Li-Po
  • Not compatible with Android
    Android compatibility
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 95% of models
    This smartwatch is not compatible with Android, the average smartwatch is. 95.3% of smartwatches are compatible with Android.
  • Lower IP rating
    IP rating
    IP6X
    â–¼ Worse than 90% of models
    This smartwatch has a lower IP rating than the average smartwatch (IP6X vs IP68).
    Also reported with 50M water-resistance rating.
    IP6X vs IP68
  • Basic display type
    Display type
    OLED
    â–¼ Worse than 50% of models
    This smartwatch uses OLED display technology, while the average smartwatch features AMOLED.
    LTPO panel wording.
    OLED vs AMOLED
  • Less practical form
    Form
    rectangular
    â–¼ Worse than 72% of models
    This smartwatch uses a rectangular form, while the average smartwatch uses round.
    rectangular vs round
  • 10 °C lower max temperature
    Maximum operating temperature
    35.0 °C
    â–¼ Worse than 82% of models
    Market range: <35 °C – >60 °C
    This smartwatch handles a lower maximum operating temperature than the average smartwatch (35 °C vs 45 °C). The average smartwatch reaches 45.0 °C.
    35.0 °C vs 45.0 °C
  • No smart alarm
    Smart alarm
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 53% of models
    This smartwatch does not support a smart alarm, the average smartwatch does. 52.7% of smartwatches support smart alarms.

Video reviews

Hands-on testing, unboxing, and real-world video evaluations

8.0
DC Rainmaker
≈ estimated
15/09/2022
Hands-on review · sports, fitness and watchOS 9 tests
Verdict
Apple Watch Series 8 41mm is a modest hardware update, mainly worth it for owners of Series 3 or older, though it is clearly a better watch experience.
Not graded yet
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What reviewers agree on

Based on 10 · 12

Accurate tracking, safety features and a comfortable design impress, but battery life disappoints and iPhone-only compatibility frustrates.
Praised
Mixed views
Criticised
Pick a topic to see who said what

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

uk.pcmag.com
15/09/2022
Not graded yet
9.6
techgearlab.com
✓ explicit
24/01/2023
Full review · App library
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 8 is tough to beat for iPhone users, with a large app library and accurate health tracking, though battery life is average.
dcrainmaker.com
15/09/2022
Not graded yet
hodinkee.com
16/09/2022
Not graded yet
9.0
trustedreviews.com
✓ explicit
04/11/2022
Long-term test · Health and fitness
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 8 is the best smartwatch around, with accurate fitness tracking, but it lacks the Ultra's flatter screen and Action Button.
digitaltrends.com
15/09/2022
Not graded yet
techradar.com
23/09/2022
Not graded yet
10
heise.de
✓ explicit
25/03/2023
Hands-on test · Comfort and display
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 8 is the best smartwatch for iPhone owners, with a bright display and comfortable wear, though its battery is short.
9.6
chip.de
✓ explicit
29/11/2022
Test report · Battery and fitness
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 8 is a strong all-round watch with a sharp display and fitness features, but its 34-hour battery is short.
spiegel.de
19/09/2022
Not graded yet
9.0
computerbild.de
✓ explicit
09/07/2024
Hands-on test · Crash detection
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 8 is a comfortable, feature-rich iPhone watch with good messaging and crash alerts, though its battery is short.
watchgeneration.fr
27/09/2022
Not graded yet
frandroid.com
23/09/2022
Not graded yet
10
lesnumeriques.com
✓ explicit
01/10/2022
Full review · Health and sport
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 8 suits iPhone owners who want accurate health tracking and a large, bright screen, though battery life is short.
clubic.com
16/09/2022
Not graded yet
8.0
smartworld.it
≈ estimated
06/10/2022
Full review · New sensors
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 8 is still the best smartwatch on the market, though it adds few features and lasts about a day and a half.
techprincess.it
15/09/2022
Not graded yet
andreagaleazzi.com
15/09/2022
Not graded yet
global.techradar.com
26/09/2022
Not graded yet
today.it
27/09/2022
Not graded yet
9.0
tg24.sky.it
≈ estimated
17/11/2022
Month-long test · Everyday use
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 8 suits iPhone owners well, with a bright display, crash detection and overnight temperature tracking, though it needs charging daily.

Third-party reviews

Read buyer reviews on Amazon →

What we like about Apple Watch Series 8 41mm

  • Comprehensive health monitoring including ECG, blood oxygen, and new temperature sensing for cycle tracking.
  • Fast charging capability allows for quick top-ups during daily routines like showering.
  • Bright Always-On Retina display provides excellent clarity and is easy to read in various lighting conditions.
  • Seamless integration with iPhone and other Apple devices for notifications, calls, and media control.
  • Sleek and comfortable design that fits well on smaller wrists without feeling bulky.
  • Highly responsive user interface with the powerful S8 chip ensuring smooth app performance.

What we don't like about Apple Watch Series 8 41mm

  • Battery life typically requires daily charging, which can be inconvenient for those wanting consistent sleep tracking.
  • Limited upgrade value for current owners of the Apple Watch Series 7 as features and design are very similar.
  • Exclusive compatibility with iPhones makes it unusable for Android smartphone users.
  • Incremental improvements rather than major innovations compared to previous generations.
  • Curved edges of the screen can occasionally make it difficult to tap icons in the extreme corners.
  • Higher price point compared to the Apple Watch SE without offering significantly more for casual users.

Verdict

The Apple Watch Series 8 41mm features a compact 10.7mm thin design with a 1.69-inch Always-On Retina LTPO OLED display (352 x 430 pixels) and a peak brightness of 1,000 nits. Powered by the 64-bit dual-core S8 SiP, it includes 32GB of storage, a 282mAh battery offering up to 18 hours of typical use, and is certified IP6X dust-resistant and WR50 water-resistant. Main pros include its advanced health tracking suite with a new dual-sensor temperature reader for cycle insights, ECG, and blood oxygen monitoring, alongside critical safety features like Crash Detection and Fall Detection. However, some cons include its iterative design that remains largely unchanged from the Series 7, its lack of compatibility with Android devices, and a battery life that still requires daily charging for most users.

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