Apple Watch Series 10 vs Series 8 – Which Should You Buy?

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By Maya Collins • May 4, 2026
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Apple Watch Series 10 & Apple Watch Series 8 have some important differences, it’s all about balancing features with budget. The Series 10 is the newer, more advanced model with premium health sensors, a larger Always-On display, and faster performance. The Apple Watch Series 8 is a simpler, more affordable option that still delivers core Apple Watch functionality. This comparison will help you quickly understand the differences and decide which model is the better fit for your lifestyle.

Feature-by-Feature Breakdown

Processor:

  • Apple Watch Series 10 has the all-new S10 SiP with a 64-bit dual-core CPU and improved neural engine for faster performance and better battery efficiency.
  • Apple Watch Series 8 has the older S8 chip, which is slower with modern apps and updates.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 10

Display Size:

  • Apple Watch Series 10 features a larger 2.0-inch display with thinner bezels to provide more space for complications, text, and animations.
  • Apple Watch Series 8 has a 1.6-inch display.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 10

Always-On Retina LTPO OLED Display:

  • Apple Watch Series 10 features an Always-On Retina LTPO OLED display with up to 2000 nits brightness to ensure better visibility in bright environments.
  • Apple Watch Series 8 Always-On display with only reaches 1000 nits brightness.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 10

RAM:

  • Apple Watch Series 10 includes 2GB of RAM, which helps deliver smoother multitasking, faster app switching, and more efficient background processes.
  • Apple Watch Series 8 comes with 1GB of RAM.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 10

Internal Storage:

  • Apple Watch Series 10 comes with 64GB of internal storage, which allows for extensive app installations, playlists, and offline data.
  • Apple Watch Series 8 also includes 32GB of storage.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 10

Sleep Apnea Notification:

  • Apple Watch Series 10 introduces sleep apnea detection using advanced sensors and on-device machine learning to monitor respiratory patterns during sleep.
  • Apple Watch Series 8 does not include any sleep apnea detection capability.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 10

Battery Life:

  • Apple Watch Series 10 provides up to 36 hours of battery life in Low Power Mode to ensure extended usage time.
  • Apple Watch Series 8 lasts up to 18 hours on a full charge, which may require daily charging for heavy users.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 10 (See Also: Apple Watch Se 3 Vs Ultra 3 )

Third-Generation Optical Heart Sensor:

  • Apple Watch Series 10 includes the third-generation optical heart sensor for ECG, high and low heart rate notifications, and irregular rhythm alerts.
  • Apple Watch Series 8 features a second-gen heart sensor with less precision.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 10

Wi-Fi 6E:

  • Apple Watch Series 10 supports Wi-Fi 6E for faster wireless speeds and more stable connectivity for quicker data transfers and improved responsiveness especially in crowded areas.
  • Apple Watch Series 8 is limited to standard Wi-Fi and lacks the enhanced range of Wi-Fi 6E.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 10

Depth Gauge and Water Temperature Sensor:

  • Apple Watch Series 10 has a depth gauge and water temperature sensor for better underwater activity tracking like diving and advanced water sports.
  • Apple Watch Series 8 does not include these features.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 10

Oceanic+ App Support:

  • Apple Watch Series 10 is fully compatible with the Oceanic+ app for snorkeling with enhanced depth tracking, dive logs, and safety features.
  • Apple Watch Series 8 does not support Oceanic+ app.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 10

Higher Resolution:

  • Apple Watch Series 10 delivers 416 x 496 resolution for sharper display with increased pixel density, text and graphics.
  • Apple Watch Series 8 has lower 352 x 430 resolution.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 10

Noise Suppression:

  • The Apple Watch Series 10 has enhanced noise suppression for calls, ensuring clearer voice communication
  • Apple Watch Series 8 lacks this improved audio processing feature.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 10

Second-Generation Ultra Wideband Chip:

  • Apple Watch Series 10 features the second-generation Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip for improving Precision Finding and device integration.
  • Apple Watch Series 8 includes the older first-gen UWB chip with more limited capabilities.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 10 (See Also: Apple Watch Se 3 Vs Ultra 2 )

Double Tap Gesture:

  • The Apple Watch Series 10 introduces the double tap gesture to control the watch with a quick finger movement for added convenience.
  • Apple Watch Series 8 does not support the Double Tap feature.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 10

Check Apple Watch 10 Best Price
Check Apple Watch 8 Best Price

Specs at a Glance

FeatureApple Watch Series 10Apple Watch Series 8
Release Year20242022
Display Size46mm edge-to-edge display41mm curved display
Display TechAlways-On Retina LTPO OLEDAlways-On Retina LTPO OLED
ChipsetS10 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processorS8 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor
RAM2GB1GB
Storage64GB32GB
Battery LifeUp to 36 hoursUp to 18 hours
Fast ChargingYesYes
Body MaterialJet Black AluminumMidnight Aluminum
Water ResistanceWR50, Swimproof, IP6X, Oceanic+ supportWR50, Swimproof, IP6X
Health SensorsECG, Blood Oxygen, Heart Rate, Temp, Sleep Apnea detectionECG, Blood Oxygen, Heart Rate, Temp
ConnectivityWi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, UWB Gen 2Wi-Fi 4, Bluetooth 5.0, UWB Gen 1
GesturesDouble Tap gestureNot supported
Fitness TrackingExpanded metrics, advanced trackingStandard Apple Fitness metrics

 

Who Should Buy What?

Buy the Apple Watch Series 10 if you:

  • Need faster performance, double the storage (64GB), and newer features like double tap and UWB Gen 2.
  • Swim, dive, or track workouts in water and need features like a depth gauge and water temperature sensor.
  • Plan to keep your watch for years and want the latest design, chip, and connectivity for future-proofing.
  • Need more storage, faster performance, and a larger Always-On display for a better on-wrist experience.
  • Want better noise suppression for calls and faster connectivity with Wi-Fi 6E.

Check Apple Watch Series 10 Best Price

Buy the Apple Watch Series 8 if you:

  • Want to save money while still enjoying core health features like ECG, Blood Oxygen, and temperature sensors.
  • Prefer a more compact design that fits smaller wrists better.
  • Don’t need cutting-edge upgrades like double tap, UWB Gen 2, or expanded storage.
  • Just want a solid, reliable smartwatch for fitness tracking, smart notifications, and health monitoring.

Check Apple Watch Series 8 Best Price

Winner by Category

CategoryWinner
ProcessorSeries 10
Display SizeSeries 10
Always-On Retina DisplayTie
ECG AppTie
Blood Oxygen AppTie
Temperature SensorTie
Internal StorageSeries 10
Sleep Apnea NotificationSeries 10
Battery LifeSeries 10
Fast ChargingTie
UWB ChipSeries 10
Double Tap GestureSeries 10
Heart SensorSeries 10
Wi-FiSeries 10
Depth & Water TemperatureSeries 10
Higher Resolution DisplaySeries 10
DesignSeries 10
Oceanic+ AppSeries 10
Noise SuppressionSeries 10
Fitness TrackingSeries 10

What They Have in Common

  • Always-On Retina Display: Both the Apple Watch Series 10 and Series 8 have an always-on Retina display, letting you quickly glance at time and notifications without raising your wrist.
  • Comprehensive Health Tracking: Both models include heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen sensing, and ECG capabilities, helping you keep track of your cardiovascular health.
  • Fitness Features: Each watch supports a wide range of workout types, GPS tracking, and activity rings, encouraging users to stay active and meet daily movement goals.
  • watchOS Compatibility: Both devices run the latest version of watchOS, giving users access to the same apps, watch faces, and software features.
  • Water Resistance: Both watches are water-resistant up to 50 meters, making them safe for swimming, showering, and tracking water-based workouts.

FAQ (Quick Answers)

Is the Apple Watch Series 10 significantly faster than the Series 8?
Yes, the Apple Watch Series 10 features the S10 chip, which is a noticeable upgrade over the S8 chip in the Series 8. It results in smoother performance, quicker app launches, and improved power efficiency, especially when using multiple apps or intensive health features.

Can both the Series 10 and Series 8 perform ECG and Blood Oxygen monitoring?
Absolutely. Both models support the ECG app and Blood Oxygen app. These features work nearly identically across both watches and are FDA-cleared for helping monitor heart rhythm and blood oxygen saturation levels.

Does the Series 10 have a longer battery life than the Series 8?
No, both the Apple Watch Series 10 and Series 8 offer up to 18 hours of battery life under normal use. However, both watches support fast charging, which helps top up the battery quickly throughout the day or before bed.

What are the main differences in display between the Series 10 and Series 8?
The Series 10 has a larger 46mm display with smaller bezels and higher resolution, offering more screen real estate and sharper visuals. The Series 8 has a 41mm display, which is slightly smaller and less detailed, but still uses the same Always-On Retina LTPO OLED technology. (See Also: Apple Watch Se 3 Vs Series 10 )

Is the double tap gesture available on both models?
No, the double tap gesture is a new feature exclusive to the Apple Watch Series 10. It allows users to control their watch with just a pinch gesture, making it convenient to answer calls, pause timers, or scroll widgets without touching the screen.

Does the Series 10 support more health features than the Series 8?
Yes, the Series 10 includes new health capabilities such as sleep apnea detection and a third-generation optical heart sensor for more accurate monitoring. These are not available on the Series 8, which still supports ECG, Blood Oxygen, and temperature tracking.

Are both watches swimproof and suitable for water sports?
Yes, both the Series 10 and Series 8 are swimproof with WR50 and IP6X ratings. However, the Series 10 also includes a depth gauge and water temperature sensor, along with support for the Oceanic+ app, making it better suited for open water swimming and recreational diving.

Can I use the same bands with both Series 10 and Series 8?
Yes, Apple maintains band compatibility across generations. Bands designed for 41mm or 45mm cases will generally fit their respective Series 8 and Series 10 models, so you won’t need to buy new bands if you’re upgrading.

Is the Apple Watch Series 10 worth the upgrade from Series 8?
If you want cutting-edge features like double tap, more storage, enhanced fitness tracking, and better health sensors, the Series 10 is worth the upgrade. However, if you’re satisfied with core functionality like notifications, ECG, and daily fitness tracking, the Series 8 still offers excellent value.

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Does the Series 10 work better with the latest iPhones than the Series 8?
Yes, the Series 10 is equipped with Wi-Fi 6E and the second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, offering faster connectivity and more precise location features when paired with newer iPhones. The Series 8 still pairs well but lacks these modern wireless capabilities.

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