Apple and Samsung continue to dominate the smartwatch space, and their latest releases — the Apple Watch Series 11 and the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 — have fans debating which is the better buy.
After testing both wearables, here’s how the two rivals stack up in design, specs, health features, AI integration, and overall usability.
Quick specs comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 | Apple Watch Series 11 |
|---|---|---|
| Brightness | 3,000 nits | 2,000 nits |
| Weight | 40mm: 30g; 44mm: 40g | 42mm: 30.3g; 46mm: 37.8g |
| Processor | Exynos Core 1000 | S10 chip with 64-bit dual-core |
| Memory & Storage | 2GB RAM, 32GB storage | 1GB RAM, 64GB storage |
| Battery Life | 30 hrs (AOD on), 40 hrs (AOD off) | 24 hrs (AOD on), 36 hrs (low-power) |
| Sizes | 40mm, 44mm | 42mm, 46mm |
| Colors | Graphite, Silver | Rose Gold, Silver, Jet Black, Space Gray |
| Price | Starting $350 | Starting $399 |
Why you should buy Apple Watch Series 11
1. Advanced Blood Pressure Monitoring
The Apple Watch Series 11 introduces a unique hypertension detection system. Using the optical heart sensor, the watch tracks your vascular response during sleep and provides a 30-day blood pressure trend.
While not a full blood pressure cuff replacement, it helps flag early signs of hypertension — something Samsung and Google don’t yet offer.
2. Subtle but Smart AI Features
Apple takes a low-profile AI approach, making the features feel seamless rather than showy. Smart Stack learns your habits — for example, suggesting a Pilates workout when you arrive at the gym. Notifications adjust sound levels depending on your environment, and Smart Replies are powered by an on-device language model for more natural responses.
3. Perfect Fit for iPhone Users
If you’re in the Apple ecosystem, the Series 11 is the natural choice. The Galaxy Watch 8 doesn’t pair with iPhones, making Apple’s offering the only real option for iOS users.
Why you should buy Samsung Galaxy Watch 8
1. Superior Battery Life
The Galaxy Watch 8 edges ahead in endurance, offering up to 30 hours with Always-On Display and 40 hours without. Apple has improved its numbers, but Samsung still leads for users who hate daily charging.
2. AI-Powered Running Coach
Samsung’s AI Running Coach is more tailored than Apple’s Workout Buddy. After a fitness test, it scores your performance, designs personalized training plans, and adjusts based on recovery data. For runners, this is a game-changer.
3. Google Gemini at Your Wrist
Because it’s powered by Google Gemini AI, the Galaxy Watch 8 can handle complex voice requests. From finding restaurants to making reservations, its multitasking capabilities outshine Apple’s more modest AI integrations.
Verdict: Which one wins?
Both smartwatches are flagship-level wearables with distinct strengths:
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The Apple Watch Series 11 is the best choice for iPhone users, health enthusiasts, and those who value understated but useful AI features.
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The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 is the go-to for Android users who want longer battery life, AI coaching, and Google Gemini integration.
If you’re tied to an ecosystem, your decision is already made. But in a head-to-head fight, Samsung takes the lead on performance and practicality, while Apple sets itself apart with medical-grade health features that could prove invaluable over time.
