Are you debating which Apple Watch Series to buy between the Series 8 and 9? You're not alone! As the Apple watch series gets updated occasionally, new features and changes are introduced to the device, which may make users think twice. This blog post will describe significant improvements, changes, and advancements incorporated into these two models. So whether you are a fitness freak or a tech lover or simply need a stylish piece of equipment, read on, and we will provide you with all the information you need. Please follow us in this exciting analysis and stay with us to find out more and assist you in making the right choice!
Apple Watch Series 8 vs. Series 9: Which Model Should You Buy?
Considering that a new model of Apple Watch, the Apple Watch Series 9, is out there, buying a smartwatch may be a considerable investment. Although both the Series 8 and Series 9 have great features, the differences will enable you to make the right choice.
Feature |
Apple Watch Series 9 |
Apple Watch Series 8 |
Launch Date |
Announced: September 12, 2023 |
Announced: September 7, 2022 |
Release Date |
Released: September 22, 2023 |
Released: September 16, 2022 |
Dimensions |
45 x 38 x 10.7 mm (1.77 x 1.50 x 0.42 in) |
45 x 38 x 10.7 mm (1.77 x 1.50 x 0.42 in) |
Weight |
42.3 g (41mm), 51.5 g (45mm) |
42.3 g (41mm), 51.5 g (45mm) |
Build |
Glass front, ceramic/sapphire crystal back, stainless steel frame |
Glass front, ceramic/sapphire crystal back, stainless steel frame |
SIM |
eSIM |
eSIM |
Protection |
IP6X certified, 50m water resistant, ECG certified (region dependent) |
IP6X certified, 50m water resistant, ECG certified (region dependent) |
Display Type |
Retina LTPO OLED, 2000 nits (peak) |
Retina LTPO OLED, 1000 nits (peak) |
Display Size |
1.9 inches |
1.9 inches |
Resolution |
484 x 396 pixels (~326 ppi density) |
484 x 396 pixels (~326 ppi density) |
Display Protection |
Sapphire crystal glass |
Sapphire crystal glass |
Always-on Display |
Yes |
Yes |
Operating System |
watchOS 10, upgradable to watchOS 10.5 |
watchOS 9.0, upgradable to watchOS 10.5 |
Chipset |
Apple S9 |
Apple S8 |
CPU |
Dual-core |
Dual-core |
GPU |
PowerVR |
PowerVR |
Internal Memory |
64GB |
32GB 1GB RAM |
Main Camera |
No |
No |
Selfie Camera |
No |
No |
Sound |
Loudspeaker |
Loudspeaker |
3.5mm Jack |
No |
No |
WLAN |
Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, dual-band |
Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, dual-band |
Bluetooth |
5.3, A2DP, LE |
5.3, A2DP, LE |
Positioning |
GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, QZSS, BDS |
GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, QZSS, BDS |
NFC |
Yes |
Yes |
Infrared Port |
No |
No |
Radio |
No |
No |
USB |
No |
No |
Sensors |
Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, barometer, always-on altimeter, compass, SpO2, VO2max, temperature (body) |
Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, barometer, always-on altimeter, compass, SpO2, VO2max, temperature (body) |
Additional Features |
Temperature sensing (0.01˚ accuracy), Ultra Wideband (UWB) support (gen2 chip) |
Temperature sensing (0.01˚ accuracy), Ultra Wideband (UWB) support |
Battery Type |
Li-Ion 308 mAh, non-removable |
Li-Ion 308 mAh, non-removable |
Charging |
Wireless, 0-80% in 45 min (advertised) |
Wireless, 0-80% in 45 min (advertised) |
Colors |
Graphite, Silver, Gold, Red |
Graphite, Silver, Gold |
Check Out: Apple Watch SE vs Series 8: Key Differences and Which is Right for You
1) Display and Brightness
The Apple Watch Series 8 and Series 9 are available in 41mm or 45mm Retina display, and the Series 9 pushes it further with enhanced brightness. The Series 9 has a peak brightness of 2000 nits, meaning texts and apps can be easily read and used even in bright light, for example, in the sun. On the other hand, the Series 8 has a peak brightness of 1,000 nits, which might be okay for regular use but does not offer the improved visibility of the Series 9.
2) Performance Comparison
The new Apple Watch Series 9 has an S9 chip, an improved chip from the previous watch models. The design has enhanced the animation and the speed, especially the use of Siri. If you are an everyday Siri user or want the apps to look and work even better, then Series 9 is the best. On the other hand, the Series 8 has an S8 chip while the S5 has an A13 Bionic chip, though the latter is slightly more advanced. It is still fast and reliable but slower and more efficient than the Series 9 because the battery drains relatively fast. The S9 chip has 60 percent more transistors than the S8 chip and is 30 percent faster; hence, the interaction between the watch and the user is very smooth.
Check Out: Apple Watch SE vs Series 9: A Comprehensive Comparison
3) Siri Functionality
Concerning Siri, the Series 8 uses cloud-based processing. This entails that it has to access the Internet to provide you with the answers you seek, which can be rather time-consuming. On the other hand, the Series 9 handles most of the Siri commands on the watch. This makes it easier and more efficient to answer questions related to health and fitness. Like any Apple device, the Series 9 will provide a faster and more efficient service if you often use Siri.
4) Connectivity
Most operations are performed through the connection to the Internet, which results in certain lags while processing the requests. The Series 9, on the other hand, has improved connectivity features, which make it capable of performing many operations even if it is offline. This is convenient and efficient for users, especially when they require information quickly while on the move.
If you need better performance, better Siri, and better connectivity, then the Apple Watch Series 9 is the best choice. The Series 8 still makes for a good buy, especially if one wants to avoid acquiring the most current gadget.
Check Out: How to Change the Apple Watch Band
5) Unique Features
The best feature of the Series 9 is the one-handed Double Tap interaction, which lets the user control their watch with a simple thumb and index finger tap. This improvement mainly helps people with fine motor disabilities, as it helps with answering calls and opening applications. The Series 8 is still a durable gadget, but it does not boast this feature that might matter to people needing a more straightforward way of controlling their devices.
6) Eco-Friendliness
Regarding the environment, the Apple Watch Series 9 takes the lead regarding the construction of the model. This Series 9 is made with 100% post-consumer aluminum, and new watch bands have been made using up to 68% recycled materials. Thus, this commitment to sustainability can appeal to buyers who want to reduce the effects of their consumption on the environment. The Series 8, which was released earlier, uses different sustainable materials.
Check Out: How to Pair an Apple Watch With a New Phone
7) Storage and Band Options
The Series 8 has 32 GB of storage, and the Series 9 has twice that, at 64 GB. This additional capacity might be helpful for those who often download media files to the watch. Regarding design, both models are available in different colors. While the Series 8 comes with aluminum models in Starlight, Midnight, Silver, and (PRODUCT)RED, the Series 9 adds one more option, Pink, hence more variety.
8) Price Consideration
Price is always a concern when making any purchase. The Apple Watch Series 9 GPS model is available at $399 and $499 for GPS and LTE, while the Series 8 was launched at $429. Nonetheless, cheap deals for the Series 9 are often offered, where the device can be purchased for $299, depending on the dealer. The Series 8 could be a more affordable choice without depriving you of the basics of a smartwatch if you're working with a limited budget.
Check Out: How to Unpair an Apple Watch
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Final Verdict
Ultimately, it all comes down to your preference; would you prefer the Apple Watch Series 8 or the Series 9? To get a higher brightness level, comfortable touch controls, and more environmentally friendly casing – Series 9 is the right choice. However, if all these do not concern you, then the Series 8 is still a good smartwatch, and you'll spend less bucks. Consider your daily routine and how much you will pay for a perfect watch. For many people, the Series 8 is good enough and is a great deal, especially for owners of the earlier models.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between Apple Watch 8 and 9?
The new watch has better Siri functions integrated within it, twice the storage space of 64GB, and a new two-tap operation method.
Is it even worth upgrading from the Apple Watch 8 to the Apple Watch 9?
Yes, the Apple Watch 9 has some nice improvements in speed and hands-free features, making it a good choice if you're upgrading from an older version.
Does Series 9 have a blood oxygen monitor?
No, the Apple Watch Series 9 does not come with a working blood oxygen sensor anymore.
Does Series 8 have ECG?
Yes, the ECG app is available on Apple Watch Series 4 and later, including Series 8, and it is a single-lead ECG.