If you’re looking for a new Samsung Galaxy smartwatch to use with your Samsung Galaxy smartphone or any other Android phone, two models you might consider are the Galaxy Watch 8 and the Galaxy Watch Ultra. Yes, these are now a generation old, having been replaced by the Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2. But as far as the Galaxy Watch 9 goes, it’s not a huge improvement in features over the Galaxy Watch 8. The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is a substantial upgrade, however, as it’s much more durable. But you’ll save by opting for the older model that’s still current and supported.
That said, if you’ve narrowed your decision to these two previous generation models, probably because you can find them at a good price, it’s important to understand the differences because these two smartwatches are designed for very different people. The Galaxy Watch Ultra is a larger, more rugged watch with improved features, but also a price to match, while the Galaxy Watch 8 is the better option for most users.
What are the main differences?
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is, as noted, an ultra-rugged variant, designed primarily for outdoor adventures. Its sturdier design includes titanium and higher water resistance at 10 ATM compared to the Watch 8’s 5 ATM rating. However, Samsung states that neither watch is suitable for diving or high-speed water activities. That said, the Ultra can withstand higher altitudes, which can be ideal for mountain climbers. However, it is larger and heavier overall, meaning it may not be suitable for everyone as an everyday watch.
But the most notable difference from a practical standpoint is battery life. The Galaxy Watch Ultra has a 590 mAh battery rated to last up to 48 hours in power saving mode and up to 100 hours in power saving mode. The Galaxy Watch 8 has a smaller 325mAh or 435mAh battery (depending on size) and is rated to last up to 30 hours with the always-on display, and up to 40 hours without it. Besides the standard Galaxy Watch 8, there is also the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic variant, which adds a rotating bezel and increases the battery to a 445mAh cell, although the rated battery life is the same.
The rest is pretty much the same between them
Beyond these differences, operationally these two smartwatches are very similar. They run on the same Exynos W1000 processor, although the Galaxy Watch 8 has half the storage, at 32GB versus 64GB, which is worth noting if you plan to download a lot of apps and/or store music and maps offline. Both feature the same sensors, including the Samsung BioActive sensor, and work with the Samsung Health app. They capture the same workout data and vital signs, although you get a customizable quick button with the Galaxy Watch Ultra as well as a built-in emergency siren and time-sensitive night vision. Additionally, both watches offer precise GPS tracking with Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), including support for GLONASS, Galileo, and Beidou. Both will be updateable to the latest WearOS and One UI, with the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy Watch 8 now offering the One UI 9 beta.
So your decision really depends on the needs. If you’re an outdoor adventurer or field worker who needs something ultra-rugged and durable, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra might be a better fit and worth the extra money. The life per charge is also longer, which might be enough to sway your decision. But it is also bigger, bulkier, heavier and costs more. In comparison, the Galaxy Watch 8 and Watch 8 Classic are better everyday watches that will suit most average users. You’ll just need to be prepared to charge it every day and a half or so and find the right time to charge your Galaxy Watch so it can work all day and night.
