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Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Series: Everything You Need to Know

Samsung Galaxy series watches have consistently been among the go-to smartwatches for anyone looking to stay connected, track their health, and elevate their everyday style. Now, with the arrival of the new Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 series, they’re raising the bar yet again. Whether you’re interested in the sleek and streamlined Galaxy Watch 8, the refined, rotating-bezel Classic, or the all-new rugged Ultra built for adventure, there’s something in this lineup for everyone. These latest Samsung smartwatches are packed with powerful upgrades and Samsung’s smartest AI features yet. We’ll break down what makes each model unique, what features really stand out, and how to choose the one that best fits your lifestyle.
A person looking at their Samsung Galaxy Watch 8.

Galaxy Watch 8 Series – Specs comparison chart

SpecsGalaxy Watch 8 (40mm / 44mm)Galaxy Watch 8 Classic (46mm)Galaxy Watch Ultra (47mm)
Release DateJuly 2025July 2025July 2025
Build & MaterialsAluminum case, sleek cushion designStainless steel case, rotating bezelTitanium case, rugged design, extra durability
ColorsSilver, GraphiteBlack, WhiteTitanium Gray, Titanium Silver, Titanium White, Titanium Blue
Display1.34" (40mm) / 1.47" (44mm) Super AMOLED, Sapphire Crystal, 3,000 nits peak brightness1.73" Super AMOLED, Sapphire Crystal, 3,000 nits peak brightness~1.5" Super AMOLED, Sapphire Crystal, 3,000 nits peak brightness
Durability5ATM + IP68 + MIL-STD-810H5ATM + IP68 + MIL-STD-810H10ATM + IP68 + MIL-STD-810H
Processor & RAMExynos W1000 (3nm, 5-core), 2GB RAMExynos W1000 (3nm, 5-core), 2GB RAMExynos W1000, 2GB RAM
Storage32GB64GB64GB
Battery325mAh (40mm),
435mAh (44mm)
445mAh590mAh
Health FeaturesBioActive sensor (HR, ECG, BIA), Sleep Apnea Detection, Bedtime Guidance, Antioxidant Index, Vascular Load, Energy Score, Running CoachSameBioActive sensor (HR, ECG, BIA), Sleep Apnea Detection, Bedtime Guidance, Vascular Load, Energy Score, Running Coach
AI & SoftwareWear OS 6 + One UI 8 Watch, Gemini AI, Now Bar dashboardSameSame
ConnectivityBluetooth / LTE (add $50), Wi-Fi, NFC, eSIM, dual-frequency GPSSameSame (but LTE included in price)
Best ForEveryday wear, lightweight styleClassic design lovers, traditional watch feelOutdoor athletes, durability + performance

The lineup: Galaxy Watch 8 vs. Classic vs. Ultra

This year’s lineup includes three devices: The Galaxy Watch 8 (in 40mm and 44mm), the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic (46mm with that beloved rotating bezel), and the powerful new Galaxy Watch Ultra (47mm), which now packs even more storage, longer battery life, and an updated titanium build. Across the board, all three models share key upgrades like Samsung’s new Exynos W1000 chip, Wear OS 6 with One UI 8 Watch, and a suite of AI-powered health features that make your watch feel more like a wellness coach than a wrist accessory. Let’s take a deeper dive into the six main features.

1. Design and display.

The Galaxy Watch 8 Standard (available in Silver and Graphite) features a sleek and lightweight design, making it comfortable for daily wear. The Classic version (available in Black and White) takes elegance up a notch with a refined, premium build designed to impress. Meanwhile, the Ultra variant (available in Titanium Gray, Titanium Silver, Titanium White, and Titanium Blue) offers increased durability, designed specifically for outdoor and active lifestyles.

  • Galaxy Watch 8 Standard: 40mm and 44mm, aluminum casing
  • Galaxy Watch 8 Classic: 46mm, stainless steel
  • Galaxy Watch Ultra: 47mm, ruggedized titanium casing, IP68-rated for durability against water and dust

Each model features a vibrant Super AMOLED Sapphire Crystal display, boosting readability and color accuracy.

2. Performance and hardware.

All Galaxy Watch 8 series models feature Samsung's latest Exynos W1000 chipset, improving responsiveness, efficiency, and battery performance:

  • Standard model: Starting at 32GB storage
  • Classic & Ultra models: Equipped with 64GB storage, ideal for extensive app downloads, music storage, and more

3. Health and fitness features.

Samsung’s health tracking has always been a standout. With the Galaxy Watch 8 series, it’s getting even better thanks to the groundbreaking BioActive Sensor and a handful of smart new AI features:

  • Advanced Sleep Coaching: Train hard, sleep smart. This innovative feature with apnea detection helps you understand your sleep patterns, providing personalized recommendations for better sleep quality.
  • Personal AI Assistant: Intuitive support on your wrist. Stay productive and informed with an intuitive assistant right on your wrist. Whether you're checking your calendar or setting reminders, the personal AI assistant simplifies your daily routine.
  • Running Coach: Built for the long run. Optimize your running routine with real-time feedback on pace, posture, and overall performance, tailored to your personal goals.
  • Energy Score: A world of insights in one number. Monitor your daily wellness at a glance thanks to Energy Score with Galaxy AI, providing easy-to-understand insights into your overall health.
  • Bedtime Guidance: Wake up refreshed. Bedtime Guidance can measure your circadian rhythm and give you insights into the best time to go to bed, so you wake up feeling well rested. 
  • Vascular Load: Decompress. Vascular Load helps monitor the stress levels on your vascular system while you sleep, giving you a new way to manage your health.

4. Battery life.

Battery life has improved across all models, designed to keep up with your fast-paced lifestyle:

  • Galaxy Watch 8 (40mm/44mm): Power through your day comfortably with a 325mAh or 425mAh battery.
  • Galaxy Watch 8 Classic: The powerful 445mAh battery is perfect for active, busy lifestyles.
  • Galaxy Watch Ultra: The long-lasting 590mAh battery delivers endurance for outdoor and intense activities.

5. Software and connectivity.

The Galaxy Watch 8 series comes out of the box with Samsung's One UI 8 Watch interface, Gemini (Google’s AI assistant), and Wear OS 6 baked in, offering a seamless and intuitive user experience:

  • Improved UX: Quick, actionable insights. The easy-to-read tiles put health info, upcoming events, weather, and more front and center, while the Now Bar keeps you informed with quick, accessible notifications and data summaries on the go.
  • Gemini on board: Get things done with a simple voice command. A simple voice command gives you access to Galaxy Watch apps like Samsung Health, Calendar, Reminder, Clock and more. For example, ask Gemini to find a movie times and text friends to meet you. Or boost your workout by saying, “Start a power walk” and the watch starts your workout in Samsung Health.
  • eSIM connectivity. With built-in eSIM support, the watches offer standalone cellular connectivity, allowing for calls, texts, and data access without being tethered to your smartphone.

6. Model pricing.

Here are the official starting prices for the Galaxy Watch 8 series. You can upgrade to the LTE version on any of the Standard and Classic models for an extra $50. It’s included on the Ultra:

  • Galaxy Watch8 (40MM)                           $349.99
  • Galaxy Watch8 (44MM)                          $379.99
  • Galaxy Watch8 Classic (46MM)        $499.99
  • Galaxy Watch Ultra (47MM)                 $649.99

Frequently asked questions about the Galaxy Watch 8 series

  • Why might I choose the Galaxy Watch 8?
    • You might choose the Galaxy Watch 8 for 5 key reasons:
      • Reason 1: You want a sleek, lightweight, affordable smartwatch for everyday wear
      • Reason 2: You’re looking for powerful health and AI features at a more affordable price
      • Reason 3: You prefer a minimalist design made from durable aluminum
      • Reason 4: You don’t need a physical rotating bezel or titanium build
      • Reason 5: You’re new to smartwatches or upgrading from an older model
  • Why might I choose the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic?
    • You might choose the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic for 5 key reasons:
      • Reason 1: You love the traditional rotating bezel and timeless watch design
      • Reason 2: You want a premium stainless steel build for style and durability
      • Reason 3: You want a mid-priced watch with all the health, AI, and connectivity features
      • Reason 4: You want a bigger display and battery but don’t need it to be too rugged
      • Reason 5: You want a smartwatch that blends into both work and formal settings
  • Why should I choose the Galaxy Watch Ultra?
    • You may choose the Galaxy Watch Ultra for 5 key reasons:
      • Reason 1: You need maximum durability with titanium casing and 10ATM water resistance
      • Reason 2: You want the biggest battery and longest performance for outdoor use
      • Reason 3: You prefer built-in LTE without paying extra for it
      • Reason 4: You’re an athlete, adventurer, or power user who pushes gear to the limit
      • Reason 5: You want the most advanced smartwatch, and budget isn’t an issue

With major upgrades in design, performance, and health tracking, the Galaxy Watch 8 series feels like a true next step in wearable tech. Whether you're looking for a stylish all-day companion, a refined timepiece with classic charm, or a rugged smartwatch built for the elements.

Still undecided?

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*Product pricing and availability are subject to change. Visit our website for the latest offers on phones, devices, and accessories.

*This comparison guide was created by T-Mobile to help you explore Samsung smartwatches in our store. The opinions expressed here reflect our editorial perspective based on publicly available features, specifications, and articles.

Sources:

https://news.samsung.com/global/samsung-galaxy-watch8-series-ultra-comfort-from-sleep-to-workout

https://www.samsung.com/us/watches/compare

https://www.pcmag.com/news/first-look-samsungs-galaxy-watch-8-is-smarter-than-ever-but-itll-cost-you

https://www.androidcentral.com/wearables/samsung-galaxy-watch-ultra-2

https://www.geeky-gadgets.com/samsung-galaxy-watch-8-series

https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/samsung-confirms-features-for-upcoming-galaxy-watch-8