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Apple Watch Series 8 and Galaxy Watch 5 are powerful smartwatches today. The Apple Watch Series 8 is newer and comes with more advanced integration for iPhone users. The Galaxy Watch 5 is an Android-friendly option with improved durability and battery efficiency. Let’s explore their differences and similarities to find your perfect fit!
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor:
- Apple Watch Series 8 has the S8 Chip for faster performance and smooth navigation within Apple’s controlled ecosystem.
- Galaxy Watch 5 uses the Exynos W920 chip.
Winner:
Apple Watch Series 8
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Display Size:
- Apple Watch Series 8 features a larger 1.8-inch display with thinner bezels to provide more space for complications, text, and animations.
- Galaxy Watch Series 5 has a 1.2-inch display.
Winner:
Apple Watch Series 8
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Higher Resolution:
- Apple Watch Series 8 delivers 396 x 484 resolution for sharper display with increased pixel density, text and graphics.
- Galaxy Watch 5 has lower 396 x 396 resolution.
Winner:
Apple Watch Series 8
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Speaker:
- Apple Watch Series 8 has a louder speaker for better call and Siri interactions to ensure clearer communication.
- Galaxy Watch 5 has standard speaker.
Winner:
Apple Watch Series 8
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Optical Heart Sensor:
- The Apple Watch 8 includes a third-generation optical heart sensor that delivers more accurate heart rate monitoring during workouts and rest.
- Galaxy Watch 5 has standard heart sensor.
Winner:
Apple Watch Series 8
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Fast Charging:
- The Apple Watch 8 support fast charging that reduces downtime and gets your watch ready quickly when you’re in a rush.
- Galaxy Watch 5 also charges quickly but typically fills up slower
Winner:
Apple Watch Series 8
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On-Device Siri:
- Apple Watch Series 8 supports on-device Siri that allows to process commands and access health data directly on the watch without internet connection.
- Galaxy Watch 5 requires an internet connection for Google Assistant.
Winner:
Apple Watch Series 8
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Ultra Wideband Chip:
- Apple Watch Series 8 features the second-generation Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip for improving Precision Finding and device integration.
- Galaxy Watch 5 lacks UWB chip.
Winner:
Apple Watch Series 8
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Storage:
- Apple Watch Series 8 includes 32GB of internal storage that allows users to store more music, apps, and offline content directly on the watch.
- Galaxy Watch 5 uses 16GB storage.
Winner:
Apple Watch Series 8
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QWERTY Keyboard Input:
- Apple Watch Series 8 includes a full QWERTY keyboard that allows precise text input directly on the watch.
- Galaxy Watch 5 relies on voice input and preset replies.
Winner:
Apple Watch Series 8
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Operating System:
- Apple Watch Series 8 runs watchOS 9 that integrates tightly with iOS and supports a wide range of optimized apps.
- Galaxy Watch 5 uses Wear OS 3 with Samsung’s One UI Watch interface for Android compatibility.
Winner:
Apple Watch Series 8
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Specs at a Glance
| Feature |
Apple Watch Series 8 |
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 |
| Display Type |
Always-On Retina LTPO OLED |
Super AMOLED |
| Screen Size |
1.9 inches |
1.2 inches |
| Display Resolution |
396 x 484 pixels |
396 x 396 pixels |
| Case Material |
Aluminum |
Armor Aluminum |
| Glass Type |
Ion-X Glass |
Sapphire Crystal Glass |
| Chipset |
S8 SiP with 64-bit dual-core |
Exynos W920 dual-core |
| RAM |
1GB |
1.5GB |
| Storage |
32GB |
16GB |
| Battery Life |
Up to 18 hours |
Up to 50 hours |
| Charging Time |
~45 minutes to 80% |
~75 minutes to full |
| Water Resistance |
WR50 (50m) + IP6X dust resistance |
5ATM + IP68 + MIL-STD-810H |
| ECG Monitoring |
Yes |
Yes |
| Blood Oxygen Sensor |
Yes |
Yes |
| Sleep Tracking |
Yes |
Yes |
| Fall Detection |
Yes |
No |
| Cellular Option |
Available (not in this model) |
No cellular version |
| App Store |
watchOS App Store |
Google Play (Wear OS) |
| OS Compatibility |
iOS only |
Android only |
| QWERTY Keyboard |
Yes |
No |
Who Should Buy What?
Buy the Apple Watch Series 8 if you:
- Want deep iPhone integration with exclusive features like iMessage, Continuity, and Find My.
- Need ECG, Blood Oxygen, and Fall Detection in one device.
- Prefer a larger always-on display with QWERTY keyboard support.
- Want faster charging and more app choices.
- Need higher storage capacity for music, podcasts, and offline apps.
Check Apple Watch 8 Best Price
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 if you:
- Use an Android phone, especially a Samsung Galaxy model.
- Want better battery life that can last more than a full day.
- Prefer a smaller, rounder design with sapphire crystal durability.
- Need a more affordable smartwatch with essential fitness features.
- Do not require features like fall detection or a large app store.
Check Galaxy Watch 5 Best Price |
Winner by Category
| Category |
Winner |
| Processor |
Apple Watch Series 8 |
| Display Resolution |
Apple Watch Series 8 |
| Always-On Display Size |
Apple Watch Series 8 |
| Storage |
Apple Watch Series 8 |
| ECG Monitoring |
Apple Watch Series 8 |
| Cellular Option |
Apple Watch Series 8 |
| Charging Speed |
Apple Watch Series 8 |
| App Ecosystem |
Apple Watch Series 8 |
| Build Quality Options |
Apple Watch Series 8 |
| Fall Detection |
Apple Watch Series 8 |
What They Have in Common
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Both watches feature advanced optical heart rate sensors, allowing users to track heart health and optimize workouts.
- Sleep Tracking: Each model offers sleep tracking, helping users monitor sleep stages and improve rest quality.
- Workout Modes: Both watches include a wide range of workout profiles, making them versatile for running, cycling, swimming, and strength training.
- Water Resistance: Each device is water-resistant, so users can safely wear them while swimming or in the rain.
- SpO2 Monitoring: Both models support blood oxygen measurement, which provides valuable insights into respiratory and overall health.
FAQ (Quick Answers)
Does the Apple Watch Series 8 work with Android phones?
No, the Apple Watch Series 8 is only compatible with iPhones running iOS 16 or later. It cannot be paired or used with Android devices.
Can the Galaxy Watch 5 be used with an iPhone?
No, the Galaxy Watch 5 is not compatible with iPhones. It works only with Android phones and offers full features when paired with Samsung Galaxy devices.
Does the Apple Watch Series 8 have ECG and Blood Oxygen sensors?
Yes, the Apple Watch Series 8 includes both ECG and Blood Oxygen monitoring, along with irregular rhythm notifications and heart rate tracking.
Is the Galaxy Watch 5 capable of ECG monitoring?
Yes, the Galaxy Watch 5 has ECG functionality, but it requires a compatible Samsung Galaxy phone to use this feature through the Samsung Health Monitor app.
How long does the Apple Watch Series 8 battery last?
The Apple Watch Series 8 provides up to 18 hours of battery life on a single charge under typical usage conditions.
How long is the Galaxy Watch 5 battery life?
The Galaxy Watch 5 can last up to 50 hours depending on usage and settings, making it better suited for users who prefer multi-day battery life.
Does the Apple Watch Series 8 support fast charging?
Yes, the Apple Watch Series 8 supports fast charging and can reach 80% battery in around 45 minutes with the appropriate USB-C charger.
Is the Galaxy Watch 5 screen more durable than the Apple Watch Series 8?
Yes, the Galaxy Watch 5 uses sapphire crystal glass which is more scratch-resistant than the Ion-X glass used on the aluminum Apple Watch Series 8.
Can I use the Apple Watch Series 8 without my iPhone nearby?
Yes, if you purchase the GPS + Cellular version of the Apple Watch Series 8, you can make calls, send texts, and stream music without your iPhone nearby.
Does the Galaxy Watch 5 come with a full QWERTY keyboard?
No, the Galaxy Watch 5 does not include a full QWERTY keyboard. It uses gesture-based input, voice typing, or preset replies for messaging.
