Apple Watch Series 10 vs 8
Elisabeth Christ
Updated October 2024
The Apple Watch has long been synonymous with innovation in the smartwatch industry, and each new release pushes boundaries in both technology and design. With the debut of the Apple Watch Series 10, we find ourselves at a crossroads between the cutting-edge and the tried-and-true, as we look back to compare it with the Apple Watch Series 8. Both devices offer premium experiences, yet they cater to slightly different user preferences. In this in-depth comparison, we will explore how the Series 10 elevates the game while the Series 8 still holds strong. From design nuances to enhanced features, let’s examine where these two Apple heavyweights diverge, and what that means for those deciding which one best suits their wrist.
Key Takeaways
The Apple Watch Series 10 introduces new advancements like gesture control, enhanced health monitoring, and a brighter LTPO3 display, making it ideal for users seeking the latest in wearable tech. The Series 8, however, offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing core features such as fitness tracking, health sensors, and an efficient low-power mode. For those who desire cutting-edge technology, the Series 10 is superior; for users satisfied with dependable functionality, the Series 8 remains an excellent choice.
Apple Watch Series 10
Ultra-Slim Apple Smartwatch with Impressive Improvements
✓ WR50 and IP7X-rated water resistance
✓ Always-On Retina LTPO3 display
✓ WatchOS 11
✓ New sleep apnea detection
Apple Watch Series 8
Revolutionary Smartwatch with Various Advanced Sensors
✓ Made from 100% recycled aluminium
✓ LTPO OLED with up to 1,000 nits peak brightness
✓ Apple’s S8 chipset
✓ New accelerometer and gyroscope
#1 Design & Price
Apple Watch Series 10 vs 8
The Apple Watch Series 10 marks a subtle yet definitive evolution in design, offering a sleeker and more refined appearance. Available in two sizes—42mm and 46mm—the watch balances elegance with function. Its aluminum or titanium bezel gives it a polished, premium feel, and while it’s slightly bulkier than the Series 8, it still maintains a lightweight form, with the larger 46mm model weighing in at just 36.4 grams. With a thickness of only 9.7mm, the Series 10 feels unobtrusive on the wrist. Priced starting at $399 for the aluminum version and reaching $699 for titanium, this model targets users who appreciate luxury as much as functionality.
Meanwhile, the Apple Watch Series 8 offers a design that feels instantly familiar, maintaining the curved rear rectangle and thin bezels that have defined recent Apple Watch iterations. Its more compact form, especially with the 41mm and 45mm options, will appeal to those seeking a slimmer profile. Made from 100% recycled aluminum, the Series 8 provides an eco-friendly edge to its sleek design. At a price point of $399 for the base model and $499 for the cellular version, it is positioned as a more affordable alternative, while still delivering a sophisticated look. Whether you’re drawn to the slightly heavier build of the Series 10 or the lighter, minimalistic Series 8, both offer exceptional craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal.
#2 Features & Performance
• Smart Features
Apple Watch Series 10
The Apple Watch Series 10 introduces an advanced level of convenience with features like the double-tap gesture control, allowing users to answer calls or navigate through apps with a simple motion. Powered by the S10 SiP with a 64-bit dual-core processor, it runs the latest watchOS 11, ensuring smoother multitasking and faster app load times. The LTPO3 display, available in both 42mm and 46mm sizes, showcases vibrant colors with a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, making it more readable under direct sunlight. In terms of connectivity, the Series 10 offers second-generation Ultra Wideband, alongside Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, and optional LTE. These additions provide seamless interactions, from music playback to FaceTime calls with its new voice isolation feature, which drastically reduces background noise.
Apple Watch Series 8
On the other hand, the Apple Watch Series 8 runs on the S8 chipset with watchOS 9, providing reliable performance for most daily tasks, although slightly less powerful compared to the Series 10. Its 1,000 nits OLED display remains impressive, particularly for a device in this price range. While the Series 8 lacks gesture controls, it still excels in offering core smart features such as customized workout views, redesigned Compass, and Sleep Focus mode. Users seeking a straightforward, reliable smartwatch experience with fewer bells and whistles may find the Series 8 more than adequate.
• Wellness Monitor
Apple Watch Series 10
Apple continues to focus on health and wellness in the Series 10 with the introduction of new features like sleep apnea detection, which works through accelerometer data (although not available in the U.S.). Additionally, the Vitals app provides comprehensive monitoring of heart rate, respiratory rate, and wrist temperature, creating a more robust wellness profile for users. Its ability to measure vitals accurately enhances its appeal to those invested in preventive health.
Apple Watch Series 8
Meanwhile, the Series 8 doesn’t fall far behind. It comes equipped with key wellness tools such as Cycle Tracking, Crash Detection, and Emergency SOS, all of which are bolstered by its high-g accelerometer and gyroscope sensors. Moreover, its wrist temperature sensing—though only activated during sleep—provides valuable insights into overall health. Both watches prioritize wellness, but the Series 10’s new Vitals app and sleep apnea detection offer a slight edge in comprehensive health monitoring.
• Fitness Tracking
Apple Watch Series 10
When it comes to fitness, the Series 10 refines its approach with customized interval workouts, heart rate zones, and an improved GPS system. Its integration of L1 GPS, GNSS, Galileo, and BeiDou makes it one of the most precise fitness trackers in Apple’s lineup. Whether you're a runner, cyclist, or swimmer, the Series 10 enhances every workout with accurate metrics and seamless syncing with fitness apps.
Apple Watch Series 8
The Series 8 continues to impress with a solid suite of fitness tracking features, including its enhanced Sleep Tracking, heart rate monitor, and Workout app. While it doesn’t boast the same level of advanced GPS capabilities as the Series 10, it still offers comprehensive fitness tools that make it a great option for those looking to stay active and monitor their progress with precision. The Series 8 also excels in offering a range of pre-built workouts, making it a dependable fitness companion for everyday users.
#3 Battery & Connectivity
Apple Watch Series 10
Battery life is one of the key areas where the Apple Watch Series 10 shines. With a standard 18-hour battery life that can extend to 36 hours in low-power mode, this smartwatch offers longevity for all-day use. Notably, it supports fast charging, reaching 80% in just 30 minutes, and an 8-minute charge gives you up to 8 hours of sleep tracking—a feature that ensures you're never caught without power when you need it most. Its connectivity suite includes Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, and an optional LTE model for users who prefer cellular capabilities.
The Series 8 also offers an 18-hour battery life and up to 36 hours in low-power mode, matching its successor in endurance. However, the Series 10 edges out the Series 8 with its second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, which enhances connectivity features, especially for those who utilize their smartwatch for hands-free, location-based services. The Series 8 still supports fast charging, but it doesn’t quite match the efficiency of the Series 10’s rapid refueling.
Apple Watch Series 10 vs 8
Final Thoughts
Apple Watch Series 10 vs 8
In the grand scheme, both the Apple Watch Series 10 and Series 8 deliver impressive performance, but the Series 10 pushes boundaries in ways that the Series 8 does not. Those looking to stay ahead of the curve will gravitate towards the Series 10’s innovations, while the Series 8’s balanced approach ensures it stays relevant for those seeking a more affordable yet capable option.
The Series 10 builds upon its predecessor with enhanced performance, refined design, and innovative features like gesture control and sleep apnea detection. Meanwhile, the Series 8 continues to be a reliable, well-rounded smartwatch, perfect for users who want all the essential health and fitness features without venturing into cutting-edge territory. Ultimately, choosing between the two depends on whether you prioritize the latest advancements or prefer a familiar and affordable option with a proven track record.
If you like to read more on smartwatches, check out our other relevant guides here:
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Garmin Vivoactive 5 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
Garmin Vivoactive 5 vs Coros Pace 3
Garmin Venu 3 vs Garmin Fenix 8
Garmin Enduro 3 vs Fenix 7 Pro
Author
Elisabeth Christ
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