The Apple Watch has consistently been at the forefront of wearable technology, offering users an array of health, fitness, and connectivity features. With each new release, Apple raises the bar, and the transition from Series 8 to Series 9 is no exception. Whether you’re a current Apple Watch user considering an upgrade or a first-time buyer, understanding the differences between these two models can help you make an informed decision. Let’s delve into the key differences between the Apple Watch Series 8 and Series 9.
Design and Display
Apple Watch Series 8
- Design: The Series 8 maintains the classic Apple Watch design with rounded edges, a digital crown, and a side button. It comes in two sizes, 41mm and 45mm, and is available in a variety of materials including aluminium, stainless steel, and titanium.
- Display: It features a bright Always-On Retina display with narrow borders, providing a large screen area that’s easy to read in any light condition.
Apple Watch Series 9
- Design: The Series 9 retains the familiar design but with subtle refinements. The display bezels are slightly thinner, offering an even larger screen area without increasing the overall size of the watch.
- Display: The Series 9 introduces an enhanced Always-On Retina display with higher peak brightness, making it even more visible under direct sunlight. The screen is also more power-efficient, contributing to longer battery life.
Performance and Battery Life
Apple Watch Series 8
- Processor: Powered by the S8 chip, the Series 8 delivers fast performance and smooth operation for everyday tasks.
- Battery Life: Offers up to 18 hours of battery life with typical use, supported by optimised power management features.
Apple Watch Series 9
- Processor: The Series 9 debuts with the new S9 chip, which promises faster processing speeds, better graphics performance, and improved energy efficiency. This chip enhances the overall responsiveness of the watch.
- Battery Life: Despite the performance boost, the Series 9 maintains the same 18-hour battery life as its predecessor, thanks to the more efficient display and processor.
Health and Fitness Features
Apple Watch Series 8
- Health Monitoring: Includes all the essential health monitoring features like ECG, blood oxygen sensor, heart rate monitoring, and sleep tracking.
- Fitness Tracking: Provides comprehensive fitness tracking with advanced metrics for workouts, including new running metrics and improved cycling tracking.
Apple Watch Series 9
- Health Monitoring: Builds upon the Series 8’s capabilities with enhanced sensors for more accurate readings. It introduces a new skin temperature sensor that offers better insights into overall health and well-being.
- Fitness Tracking: The Series 9 expands its fitness tracking features with improved algorithms for more accurate tracking of various activities. It also supports new workout types and offers more detailed post-workout analytics.
Connectivity and Smart Features
Apple Watch Series 8
- Connectivity: Supports Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi, and optional LTE for cellular connectivity.
- Smart Features: Comes with built-in GPS, Siri voice assistant, Apple Pay, and a range of apps for communication, navigation, and entertainment.
Apple Watch Series 9
- Connectivity: Upgrades to Bluetooth 5.1, providing better range and faster data transfer. It also offers enhanced Wi-Fi performance and maintains optional LTE connectivity.
- Smart Features: The Series 9 enhances Siri’s capabilities with on-device processing for faster responses and improved accuracy. It also introduces new safety features, such as improved fall detection and crash detection, leveraging advanced sensor fusion technology.
Software and Compatibility
Apple Watch Series 8
- Software: Runs on watchOS 9, offering a wide range of features and compatibility with the latest apps and services.
Apple Watch Series 9
- Software: Launches with watchOS 10, introducing new watch faces, enhanced health and fitness features, and better integration with Apple’s ecosystem. It also supports backward compatibility with previous watchOS versions, ensuring a smooth transition for upgraders.
Price and Availability
Apple Watch Series 8
- Price: Starts at a slightly lower price point, making it a more budget-friendly option for those looking for a robust wearable experience.
- Availability: Widely available in various configurations and styles.
Apple Watch Series 9
- Price: Comes at a premium price, reflecting the enhanced features and improvements. Offers excellent value for those seeking the latest technology and performance.
- Availability: Available in a similar range of configurations and styles, with additional limited-edition options for early adopters.
Our Recommendation
Both the Apple Watch Series 8 and Series 9 offer exceptional features that cater to a wide range of users. The Series 8 remains a solid choice for those who want a reliable, high-performance smartwatch with comprehensive health and fitness tracking. On the other hand, the Series 9 takes everything great about the Series 8 and adds notable improvements in performance, display quality, and health monitoring, making it the ideal choice for tech enthusiasts and those looking for the latest innovations.
Want our take? We recommend waiting for Apple’s Series 10 (or X) to be released September this year. This way you’re up to date with all the tech.
