Apple Watch 11 vs Galaxy Watch 8: The Smartwatch Showdown of 2025
Smartwatches are no longer just a gadget, but have become an important part of lifestyle. Every year Apple and Samsung launch their new flagship models, and this time the spotlight is mostly on Apple Watch 11 vs Galaxy Watch 8. Both these smartwatches are top level options in their respective segments, but the real question is which one will be a better choice for you. Let’s understand this comparison in detail in an easy and friendly style.
Apple Watch 11 vs Galaxy Watch 8: Compatibility and Smartphone Connection
The first and biggest difference between both watches is their smartphone compatibility. If you are an Android user, especially a Samsung Galaxy phone, then the Galaxy Watch 8 is the best choice for you. It offers deeply integrated features with your phone. But if you are an iPhone user, then there is no other option better than Apple Watch 11. A clear line is drawn here – the decision of Apple Watch 11 vs Galaxy Watch 8 is decided by your phone.
Apple Watch 11 vs Galaxy Watch 8: Price and Variants
Pricing is always an important factor. Samsung has launched the Galaxy Watch 8 in an aggressive price range. The 40mm Wi-Fi model starts at $349.99 and the 44mm model goes up to $379.99. If you want LTE, you will have to pay $50 extra. On the other hand, Apple Watch 11 falls in a slightly premium segment, especially when you choose the titanium variant. In simple words, Galaxy Watch 8 is a bit pocket-friendly, while Apple Watch 11 offers a premium experience.
Apple Watch 11 vs Galaxy Watch 8: Design and Looks
The design of both watches takes a completely different approach. The square dial of Apple Watch 11 with rounded corners gives a modern digital look, which is easy to read text and use apps. Whereas Galaxy Watch 8 gives the feel of a traditional wristwatch with a circular glass face, which attracts users who like classic design. Materials are also different – Apple offers aluminium and titanium options, while the Galaxy Watch 8 only comes in an aluminium finish.
Controls are also different. Apple offers a tactile experience with its digital crown knob button. If you want a rotating bezel, you will have to get Samsung‘s Galaxy Watch 8 Classic model, which is a little expensive. Galaxy Watch 8 is slightly slimmer in terms of thickness, but both look lightweight and stylish.
Apple Watch 11 vs Galaxy Watch 8: Display Quality
The most attractive feature of a smartwatch is its display. In Apple Watch 11, you get an LTPO3 OLED panel which is 1.65 inches in the 42mm variant and 1.81 inches in the 46mm variant. The brightness goes up to 2,000 nits, and Apple says it’s quite sharp even off-angle viewing.
On the other hand, the Galaxy Watch 8 comes with a Super AMOLED screen that’s a little smaller in size (1.34 and 1.47 inches) but has a higher resolution. Its brightness peak goes up to 3,000 nits, which is amazing for outdoor usage. If you like more pixels and sharper visuals, the Galaxy Watch 8 will impress you, but if you want a bigger readable screen, the Apple Watch 11 is better.
Apple Watch 11 vs Galaxy Watch 8: Connectivity
This is where Apple takes a slight lead. The Apple Watch 11 now supports 5G, which provides future-ready connectivity. It also has a second-generation ultra-wideband chip that offers accurate location tracking.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 only offers 4G LTE, but is ahead in GPS. It supports L1 and L5 GPS bands that offer pretty precise location tracking. If advanced cellular features are a priority for you then the Apple Watch 11 becomes the best option, but if you want super accurate GPS then the Galaxy Watch 8 proves to be more beneficial.
Apple Watch 11 vs Galaxy Watch 8: Fitness and Health Features
Both watches are a powerhouse for fitness lovers. The Apple Watch 11 now comes with blood pressure monitoring and irregular heartbeat warning, making it a health-focused device.
The Galaxy Watch 8 also features Samsung’s AI-powered Galaxy AI feature that creates custom workouts and gives a holistic Energy Score. It also has a BIA sensor for body composition analysis. Apple has kept its Apple Intelligence a little limited, which is currently mainly restricted to Workout Buddy.
Apple Watch 11 vs Galaxy Watch 8: Battery Life
Battery life is a deciding factor for users. Samsung says that the Galaxy Watch 8 can last up to 30 hours, but in tests it lasts only for around 26 hours. The official claim of Apple Watch 11 is 24 hours, but the test results of Apple Watch 10 showed that it easily ran for 36 hours. That’s why there are chances that Series 11 will not disappoint users in the battery department this time too.
Final Verdict: Apple Watch 11 vs Galaxy Watch 8
End of the day, the decision is simple. If you’re an Android user, especially with a Samsung phone, then the Galaxy Watch 8 is perfect for you. But if you’re an iPhone user, then the Apple Watch 11 is clearly the best choice. Both offer the best experience in their respective ecosystems, and that’s why both smartwatches have become the top wearables of 2025.
Disclaimer:
This article is written for informational and comparative purposes only. The analysis and opinions expressed are based on publicly available data and tech updates. This is not an official statement or endorsement of any company.
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