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 45mm Review | 126 Data compared

Avg. price:~£360Screen size:1.90 inchBattery life:0.88 daysDisplay type:OLED

Apple Watch Series 8 45mm 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.

8.2

Overall score

Score
8.2/ 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 91% of models
Score components

70%

8.2

Technical score

30%

8.3

Review score ( 10 · 12)

Review score 30% · 8.3 · 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 91% 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
8.3

Review score

Review score
8.3/ 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
â–² Better than 83% of models
Grades by review (22)
10 reviews: 8 with a printed score, 2 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
4

7.4%

10

expertreviews.co.uk

7.4%

10

tomsguide.com

7.4%

9.0

trustedreviews.com

7.4%

8.0

stuff.tv

Video reviews 3

2.9%

9.0

The Quantified Scientist

2.9%

9.0

Tom Hyphen

2.9%

8.0

DC Rainmaker

estimated from the review
Shop star ratings are not part of this score.
â–²Better than 83% of smartwatches
  • apple-watch-series-8-45mm
  • apple-watch-series-8-45mm
  • apple-watch-series-8-45mm
apple-watch-series-8-45mm
apple-watch-series-8-45mm
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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 45mm

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
8.3/ 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
â–² Better than 83% of models
Grades by review (22)
10 reviews: 8 with a printed score, 2 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
4

7.4%

10

expertreviews.co.uk

7.4%

10

tomsguide.com

7.4%

9.0

trustedreviews.com

7.4%

8.0

stuff.tv

Video reviews 3

2.9%

9.0

The Quantified Scientist

2.9%

9.0

Tom Hyphen

2.9%

8.0

DC Rainmaker

estimated from the review
Shop star ratings are not part of this score.
8.3
Popularity
Popularity
5.7/ 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–¼ Worse than 54% of models
Popularity:
Apple Watch Series 8 45mm has a popularity of 5.7 points, which is lower than 53.1% of smartwatches.
5.7
Value for money
Value for money
8.4/ 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
â–² Better than 86% of models
Score components:

60%

8.2

Overall score

40%

8.6

Price

8.4
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
308 mAh
Battery power
308 mAh
â–² Better than 54% of models
Market range: <195 mAh – >475 mAh
This smartwatch has a battery capacity of 308 mAh which is larger than the batteries in 53.9% of smartwatches and equal to those in 0.2% 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 (9).
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
1.9 inch
Screen size
1.9 inch
★ Better than 94% of models
Market range: <1.2 inch – >1.82 inch
This smartwatch has a screen size of 1.9 inch which is larger than the screens of 93.8% of smartwatches.
Some sources mention multiple/uncertain size variants.
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
396x 484
Resolution
396x 484
â–² Better than 69% of models
This smartwatch has a display resolution of 396x484 which is higher than that of 69.3% of smartwatches.
Pixel density
329 ppi
Pixel density
329 ppi
â–² Better than 56% of models
Market range: <207 ppi – >461 ppi
This smartwatch has a pixel density of 329 ppi which is higher than that of 56.1% 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

Apple Watch Series 8 45mm 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 (9).
    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.
  • 11.1% better value for money
    Apple Watch Series 8 45mm has a higher value-for-money score than the average smartwatch (8.35 vs 7.5).
    8.35 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.
  • 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.
  • 0.5 inch larger screen size
    Screen size
    1.90 inch
    ★ Better than 94% of models
    Market range: <1.2 inch – >1.82 inch
    This smartwatch has a larger screen size than the average smartwatch (1.9 inch vs 1.4 inch). The average smartwatch screen is 1.40 inch.
    Some sources mention multiple/uncertain size variants.
    1.90 inch vs 1.40 inch
  • 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
  • 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
  • Better band material
    Band material
    silicone, leather, nylon, stainless steel
    â–² Better than 85% of models
    This smartwatch uses silicone, leather, nylon, stainless steel for the band material, while the average smartwatch uses silicone.
    silicone, leather, nylon, stainless steel vs silicone
  • 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
  • 6.2 g lighter weight
    Weight
    38.8 g
    â–² Better than 64% of models
    Market range: <29 g – >80 g
    This smartwatch is lighter than the average smartwatch (38.8 g vs 45 g). The average smartwatch weighs 45.0 g.
    38.8 g vs 45.0 g
  • 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 (9).
    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.
    Includes conversion from feet to meters.
    3,000 m vs 8,534 m
  • 2.77x more expensive
    Apple Watch Series 8 45mm is more expensive than the average smartwatch (£360 vs £130).
    £360 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.
    Includes conversion from feet to meters.
    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

9.0
Tom Hyphen
≈ estimated
08/08/2023
Long-term test · a year of daily use
Verdict
Apple Watch Series 8 45mm is still a strong buy for Apple users, especially those upgrading from older models or buying a first Apple Watch.
9.0
The Quantified Scientist
✓ explicit
20/09/2022
In-depth review · heart rate, sleep, GPS and step tests
Verdict
Apple Watch Series 8 45mm has some of the best heart rate and sleep tracking, but short battery life and weak oxygen readings hold it back.
8.0
DC Rainmaker
≈ estimated
15/09/2022
In-depth review · sports, fitness and watchOS 9 tests
Verdict
Apple Watch Series 8 45mm is a modest upgrade, worth it from Series 3 or older but not from a Series 7.
Not graded yet
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What reviewers agree on

Based on 11 · 12

Fitness, health and safety tracking earn praise, but battery life splits reviewers and most see little reason to upgrade.
Praised
Mixed views
Criticised
Pick a topic to see who said what

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

10
tomsguide.com
✓ explicit
07/07/2023
Full review · Health and safety
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 8 adds useful health and safety features like crash detection, but it looks almost identical to the Series 7.
10
expertreviews.co.uk
✓ explicit
13/07/2023
Hands-on review · Fitness and safety
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 8 is the best conventional smartwatch for iPhone owners, but it lasts only about 18 hours between charges.
8.0
stuff.tv
✓ explicit
17/02/2025
Full review · Comparison with SE
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 8 is still excellent, but it offers little over the Apple Watch SE, so upgrading makes sense only from Series 4 or older.
theverge.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, but it is a minor update that lacks the Ultra's Action Button and flat screen.
uk.pcmag.com
15/09/2022
Not graded yet
10
heise.de
✓ explicit
25/03/2023
Full review · Smartwatch for iPhone
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 8 is well built, easy to use and full of features for iPhone owners, but its battery life is short.
8.0
china-gadgets.de
≈ estimated
10/03/2023
Hands-on test · Samsung comparison
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 8 45mm is a well-built, bright smartwatch whose Always-On display stands out, though watch-face navigation is limited.
spiegel.de
19/09/2022
Not graded yet
lesnumeriques.com
01/10/2022
Not graded yet
frandroid.com
23/09/2022
Not graded yet
7.9
test-achats.be
✓ explicit
15/05/2023
Lab test · Feature checklist
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 8 45mm suits iPhone owners who want GPS and heart-rate tracking, but its battery life is weak and it has no WhatsApp app.
9.0
numerama.com
✓ explicit
24/12/2011
Hands-on test · Temperature sensor
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 8 45mm is the most versatile watch for iPhone owners, but its new temperature sensor only covers cycle tracking for now.
smartworld.it
06/10/2022
Not graded yet
andreagaleazzi.com
15/09/2022
Not graded yet
9.0
tg24.sky.it
≈ estimated
17/11/2022
Month-long test · Health and sport
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 8 remains an excellent smartwatch for iPhone owners, with new crash detection and overnight temperature tracking, but its battery needs a charge each morning.
techprincess.it
15/09/2022
Not graded yet
today.it
27/09/2022
Not graded yet

Third-party reviews

Read buyer reviews on Amazon →

What we like about Apple Watch Series 8 45mm

  • Large, clear Always-On Retina display with slim bezels
  • Comprehensive health tracking including ECG, Blood Oxygen, and new temperature sensor
  • Premium build quality and comfortable design for daily wear
  • Excellent app ecosystem and seamless integration with iPhone
  • Safety features such as Fall Detection and the new Crash Detection
  • Fast charging capabilities (0-100% in about an hour)

What we don't like about Apple Watch Series 8 45mm

  • Short 18-hour 'all-day' battery life requires daily charging
  • Minimal hardware and design changes compared to Series 7
  • Curved screen edges can lead to accidental taps or difficulty hitting corner icons
  • Lack of a physical 'Action Button' found on the Ultra model
  • Requires an iPhone for setup and full functionality
  • Charging brick (wall adapter) not included in the box

Verdict

The Apple Watch Series 8 45mm is a premium smartwatch featuring a 1.9-inch Always-On Retina LTPO OLED display with up to 1,000 nits of brightness and a 396x484 pixel resolution. Powered by the dual-core S8 SiP and 32GB of storage, it includes advanced health sensors for ECG, blood oxygen, and a skin temperature sensor for cycle tracking, alongside safety features like car crash and fall detection. Its main pros include an exceptional user experience, comprehensive fitness tracking, and a durable IP6X dust-resistant and WR50 water-resistant build; however, it is constrained by a short 18-hour battery life and limited compatibility exclusively with iPhones.

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