Apple Watch Series 7 vs Series 8 – Which Should You Buy?
As an Amazon Associate, I Earn from Qualifying Purchases. Read Disclaimer
You’re thinking about upgrading your Apple Watch or buying one for the first time. You look at the Series 7 and Series 8, and they seem nearly the same at first glance. Both have sleek displays, smart health features, and seamless iPhone integration. But is there more beneath the surface? With the release of Series 8, Apple promised subtle but meaningful upgrades.
Side By Side Comparison
| Feature | Apple Watch Series 8 | Apple Watch Series 7 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 41mm and 45mm Always-On Retina | 41mm and 45mm Always-On Retina |
| Display Brightness | 1000 nits | 1000 nits |
| Processor | S8 SiP (64-bit dual-core) | S7 SiP (64-bit dual-core) |
| Crash Detection | Yes | No |
| Temperature Sensor | Yes (for cycle and sleep tracking) | No |
| Health Sensors | ECG, Blood Oxygen, Heart Rate | ECG, Blood Oxygen, Heart Rate |
| Battery Life | Up to 18 hours (with Low Power Mode) | Up to 18 hours |
| Fast Charging | Yes | Yes |
| OS Version | watchOS 9 (upgradable) | watchOS 8 (upgradable) |
Detailed Feature Comparisons
Design and Construction
Both watches look almost identical. They feature the same curved edges, large display sizes, and aluminum, stainless steel, or titanium finishes. If you’re just judging by looks, you won’t notice much difference. Both are also crack-resistant, dustproof (IP6X), and swimproof (WR50).
Display Quality
The Series 8 and Series 7 use the same Always-On Retina display with up to 1000 nits brightness. The screen is bright and readable even in sunlight. There are no visible upgrades in resolution or brightness from Series 7 to Series 8.
Performance and Processor
The Series 8 uses the S8 chip, while the Series 7 uses the S7. Both chips are based on the same architecture and have similar performance. In daily use, you won’t notice any speed differences when switching apps or using features.
Health and Wellness Features
This is where the Series 8 stands out. It adds a new temperature sensor that supports improved cycle tracking and sleep insights. It also includes Crash Detection, which uses upgraded sensors and algorithms to detect severe car accidents and notify emergency services. Series 7 lacks both of these features but still includes ECG, Blood Oxygen, and heart rate tracking.
Safety and Emergency Features
The Series 8 introduces Crash Detection, using a high-g accelerometer and gyroscope. This feature can be life-saving in serious car accidents. Series 7 supports fall detection and Emergency SOS but does not offer crash sensing.
Battery and Charging
Both models claim up to 18 hours of battery life. However, Series 8 supports a new Low Power Mode introduced in watchOS 9, which can extend battery life significantly by disabling non-essential features. Both watches support fast charging, getting you from 0 to 80% in about 45 minutes.
Software Experience
The Series 8 ships with watchOS 9, while Series 7 launched with watchOS 8. Both are upgradeable to the latest version, so you get the same software experience on either. Features like the new Workout app, Medications tracking, and AFib History are available on both.
FAQ
Is the Apple Watch Series 8 faster than the Series 7?
No, both use similar processors (S8 and S7) that offer nearly identical performance. You will not notice any speed difference in daily tasks.
Does Series 8 have a better battery than Series 7?
Not directly. Both offer up to 18 hours of use. But Series 8 gains more efficiency with the new Low Power Mode introduced in watchOS 9.
Can both watches track sleep and heart rate?
Yes, both models support sleep tracking, continuous heart rate monitoring, and features like ECG and Blood Oxygen measurements.
What health features are exclusive to Series 8?
Series 8 includes a temperature sensor for cycle tracking and Crash Detection for severe car accidents. These are not available on Series 7.
Is the display any better on Series 8?
No, both watches share the same large, edge-to-edge Always-On Retina display with similar brightness and resolution.
Can both run the latest version of watchOS?
Yes, both Series 7 and Series 8 are compatible with the latest version of watchOS. You will get the same software experience on both.
Is Crash Detection available on Series 7?
No, Crash Detection is only available on Series 8 and newer models due to its upgraded sensors.
Are both models water-resistant?
Yes, both are rated WR50 for swimproofing and IP6X for dust resistance.
Should I upgrade from Series 7 to Series 8?
Only if you want the added safety of Crash Detection or the temperature-based features for cycle tracking. Otherwise, the upgrade may not be necessary.
Which one is better for first-time buyers?
If price is not an issue, go for the Series 8 for futureproofing and new safety features. But if you find a good deal, the Series 7 still delivers excellent performance and features.