Apple Watch Series 8 Vs. Series 7: Which Should You Buy?

Hey everyone! Choosing a new smartwatch can be a real head-scratcher, right? Especially when you're looking at two top-tier models like the Apple Watch Series 8 and Series 7. Both are packed with features, but there are some key differences that could sway your decision. So, let's dive in and break down the Apple Watch Series 8 vs. Series 7, so you can figure out which one is the perfect fit for you. We'll cover everything from design and display to performance and health features. By the end, you'll be able to make a smart choice – no pun intended!

Design and Build: Subtle Yet Significant Changes

Let's kick things off with the look and feel. The Apple Watch Series 7 and Series 8 share a very similar design language. Both rock the sleek, rounded-corner display that we've come to love. You get the same familiar shape, which is a great starting point, but it isn't exactly the same. The Series 8 continues with the same display sizes: 41mm and 45mm, and it has the same edge-to-edge display introduced on the Series 7, offering more screen real estate than previous models. This means you get to see more of your apps and information at a glance, which is super convenient.

Now, about the materials. Both watches are available in aluminum, stainless steel, and, for the high-end folks, titanium. The aluminum models are the most budget-friendly, while the stainless steel and titanium options add a touch of luxury and durability. The construction quality on both is top-notch, so you can expect these watches to withstand everyday wear and tear. You are free to wear them while working out or even in the pool. Apple has always been on point with their build quality. However, the Series 8 brings a few subtle upgrades that are worth mentioning. While the changes aren't drastic, they contribute to the overall experience. The case design is virtually the same, but the internal components have received a few tweaks for better durability, which could come in handy if you're a bit clumsy like some of us! The Series 8 is also rated IP6X dust-resistant, which is a step up from the Series 7's IP6X rating, meaning it's even better at keeping out those pesky dust particles.

Then there is the glass, while both have exceptional strength and scratch resistance, the Series 8’s front crystal is improved. It's a subtle change, but it's designed to be more durable. The Series 8 is pretty much the same shape and size as the Series 7. The Series 8 is just a hair thicker and heavier, and, honestly, you're not going to feel the difference on your wrist. So, if you're a fan of the design of the Series 7, you'll be right at home with the Series 8. The changes are more about refining the existing design rather than reinventing the wheel. The differences are not always obvious, but they improve the overall product.

Display: Brightness and Always-On Enhancements

Alright, let's talk about the displays, since we interact with these watches all day long. The Series 7 already had a fantastic display, offering a vibrant and immersive experience. The display on the Series 8 maintains the same edge-to-edge design, so you get all that extra screen real estate we talked about earlier. Both watches feature an Always-On Retina display, which means you can always see the time and your watch face complications without having to raise your wrist. That's a huge convenience for checking notifications or tracking your activity without any extra effort.

The Series 8 takes things up a notch with a slightly brighter display. Apple bumped up the maximum brightness, making it easier to see your watch face in direct sunlight. This is a subtle, but useful upgrade, especially when you're out and about on a sunny day. The difference is more noticeable than you might think. When you’re outside, the brightness makes it easier to read the screen. Whether you're checking your workout stats or just glancing at the time, the improved visibility is a welcome addition. This is particularly noticeable if you use your Apple Watch for outdoor activities, like running or cycling.

Besides the brightness, the display technology is similar on both models. Both offer crisp details, vibrant colors, and smooth animations, making the user experience enjoyable. Both Series 7 and Series 8 offer a great viewing experience. While the Series 8's brighter display is a nice perk, it's not a deal-breaker if you are happy with the Series 7's screen. If you're upgrading from an older Apple Watch, you'll definitely appreciate the edge-to-edge design, the Always-On display, and the overall quality of the display on both models. However, the brightness on Series 8 provides the better experience overall.

Performance: The Power Within

Under the hood, both the Apple Watch Series 7 and Series 8 deliver smooth and responsive performance. Both watches are powered by Apple's custom-designed silicon. The Series 7 features the S7 SiP (System in Package), and the Series 8 introduces the S8 SiP. Here’s the deal: The S8 chip is essentially the same as the S7 chip. It offers the same processing power, so the performance you get is similar. You're not going to notice a huge difference in speed or responsiveness when switching between the two.

What does this mean in practice? It means that you can expect the same smooth performance on the Series 7 and Series 8. Apps launch quickly, animations are fluid, and multitasking is a breeze. Whether you're navigating the interface, using apps, or tracking your fitness activities, both watches handle everything with ease. Apple is known for its optimization. So, despite having similar chips, you are still going to get a great experience.

The S8 chip might have slightly better power efficiency, which could potentially result in a tiny improvement in battery life. While this is technically true, the difference is very small and won't be noticeable during regular use. Both watches offer similar battery life, typically lasting around 18 hours with normal usage. The battery life can vary based on your usage patterns, so if you're a heavy user who is tracking workouts or using GPS frequently, you might need to charge your watch more often. The overall performance is pretty close, and you're not missing out on anything major by sticking with the Series 7.

Health and Fitness Features: The Heart of the Matter

Alright, let's get into the health and fitness features. This is where both watches really shine. The Apple Watch has always been at the forefront of health technology, and both the Series 7 and Series 8 come packed with an impressive array of sensors and features. Both watches include an optical heart rate sensor, an electrical heart sensor for taking ECGs (electrocardiograms), and the ability to track blood oxygen levels. These are all crucial for monitoring your heart health and overall well-being. They can also detect falls, which can be life-saving features for some people.

The Series 8 introduces a new temperature sensor, which has two main benefits. First, it can be used for advanced cycle tracking to provide more accurate insights into your menstrual cycle. Secondly, the temperature sensor is also used to provide more precise sleep tracking data. The new temperature sensing capabilities are a nice addition. The Series 8 can also detect if you've been in a car crash using its improved motion sensors. The Series 8 adds crash detection, which can automatically call emergency services if a severe car crash is detected. It's an important safety feature. The feature is able to tell when the wearer has been in a car accident and call emergency services, giving the location and other details about the situation.

Both watches support a wide range of fitness tracking activities, including running, swimming, cycling, and more. You can track your workouts, set goals, and monitor your progress using the built-in activity app. They also provide detailed metrics and insights to help you optimize your training and stay motivated. With the inclusion of things like heart rate monitoring, the watches become great tools for understanding your body and improving your overall fitness. Both models are compatible with Apple Fitness+, providing access to a huge library of workout videos and guided meditations.

Battery Life and Charging: Staying Powered Up

Battery life is a critical factor for any smartwatch, and both the Series 7 and Series 8 offer similar performance in this area. With typical usage, you can expect to get around 18 hours of battery life. However, this number can fluctuate depending on your usage patterns. If you're someone who is constantly tracking workouts, using GPS, or making calls, your battery life might be slightly shorter. Apple has optimized the charging process to make it more convenient. Both watches support fast charging, which means you can quickly top up your battery when you're running low. With the fast charging feature, you can charge your watch to 80% in about 45 minutes.

Both watches use the same magnetic charging cable, making it easy to charge them on the go. The Series 8 might have a slightly improved power efficiency, which could translate to a minor advantage in battery life, but the difference is not usually noticeable during regular use. The real-world battery life experience is very similar for both models. For most users, the 18-hour battery life should be sufficient for a full day of use. If you need extended battery life, you can enable low-power mode, which disables certain features to conserve battery power. However, be aware that this will affect some features.

Software and Ecosystem: Seamless Integration

Both the Series 7 and Series 8 run on watchOS, which is Apple's operating system for the Apple Watch. WatchOS is known for its user-friendly interface, intuitive navigation, and a wide array of apps and features. The Series 8 comes with the latest version of watchOS out of the box, and the Series 7 can be updated to the latest version as well. This means that both watches offer the same software experience, including access to all the latest features, updates, and security patches. You'll get the same access to features like notifications, activity tracking, health monitoring, and various apps.

The App Store on the Apple Watch provides access to a huge collection of apps. You can download apps for fitness, communication, productivity, and entertainment, expanding the functionality of your watch. The ecosystem is very smooth. Apple's ecosystem is known for its seamless integration. The Apple Watch integrates perfectly with other Apple devices, such as iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers. You can easily share data, sync information, and control your devices from your wrist. If you are already invested in the Apple ecosystem, the Apple Watch is a great choice because of the tight integration. From the same features to the same ease of use, you'll be happy with the experience.

Which Apple Watch Should You Buy: Series 7 or Series 8?

So, which watch should you go for? Here's the breakdown to help you make your decision:

• If you want the latest features and don't mind spending a little more: Go for the Apple Watch Series 8. You'll get the new temperature sensor, car crash detection, and the slightly brighter display. It's a great choice if you want the absolute latest and greatest. The Series 8 offers a slight advantage in a few areas, it may be the better choice for many.
• If you're on a budget or don't need the latest features: The Apple Watch Series 7 is still an amazing option. You'll get the same great design, performance, and health features at a lower price. It's a great value for the money, especially if you can find it on sale. The Series 7 is still an excellent smartwatch, and the price makes it even more appealing.

In conclusion, both the Apple Watch Series 7 and Series 8 are excellent smartwatches. They offer a premium experience with a focus on health, fitness, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. The Series 8 refines some features and adds the new temperature sensor, making it the more advanced option. However, the Series 7 remains a fantastic choice, especially if you are looking for a bargain or don't need those specific upgrades. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget, your needs, and how important the latest features are to you. I hope this comparison has helped you make the right choice! Good luck!