Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 vs Galaxy Watch 7 – which smartwatch to choose in 2025?

If you care about a brighter screen (3000 nits), new health features, and Gemini AI support, the better choice in 2025 will be the Galaxy Watch 8. The Galaxy Watch 7 still remains a good budget option – it offers similar battery life and all the basic features, but without AI and the latest health solutions.

Differences between Galaxy Watch 8 and Galaxy Watch 7

RankingDifferenceGalaxy Watch 8Galaxy Watch 7Why it’s important
⭐ 1Design and dimensions8.6 mm, “squircle”, Dynamic Lug, Classic version9.7 mm, classic round shapeThinner, more comfortable, more accurate measurements
⭐ 2ScreenSuper AMOLED, 3000 nitsSuper AMOLED, 2000 nitsBetter readability in sunlight
⭐ 3Health featuresVascular Load, Antioxidant Index, Bedtime Guidance, Running CoachHR, ECG, SpO₂, BIA, sleepMore tools for prevention
⭐ 4System and AIOne UI Watch 8, Wear OS 6, Gemini AIOne UI Watch 6, Wear OS 5Newer interface, voice assistant

Galaxy Watch 8 – what’s new in design and construction?

The Galaxy Watch 8 introduces a new “squircle” style (a combination of a circle and a square), already known from the Galaxy Watch Ultra. With a thickness of just 8.6 mm, the watch is more comfortable on the wrist than the Watch 7 (9.7 mm). The Dynamic Lug system improves strap fit, which increases measurement accuracy, but at the same time eliminates compatibility with older straps.

The Classic version is a nod to tradition: a rotating bezel, stainless steel, and an additional quick access button. It is a heavier variant, but more “premium”.

The Galaxy Watch 7 retains a classic, fully round design, with strap compatibility from previous models – which is a significant plus for some users.

If you are looking for dedicated accessories, such as protective glasses or cases, check out accessories for Galaxy Watch 7.

Display – 3000 nits vs 2000 nits

Here the difference is crucial. The Galaxy Watch 8 offers brightness of up to 3000 nits, which provides a huge advantage during workouts in full sunlight. The Galaxy Watch 7 reaches a maximum of 2000 nits, which is still a good result, but the difference is noticeable.

Battery and runtime

  • Galaxy Watch 8: 325/435 mAh (Classic: 445 mAh)
  • Galaxy Watch 7: 300/425 mAh

In practice, both models offer similar battery life – from one to two days. The higher screen brightness in the Galaxy Watch 8 may mean that the actual runtime is not longer than in the Galaxy Watch 7.

Health and sports features

Here the Galaxy Watch 8 makes the biggest leap forward. In addition to the standard package (heart rate, ECG, SpO₂, BIA, temperature, sleep), it also offers:

  • Vascular Load – assessment of cardiovascular load,
  • Antioxidant Index – estimating the level of antioxidants in the diet,
  • Bedtime Guidance – tips for sleep hygiene,
  • Running Coach – personalized plans for runners.

The Galaxy Watch 7 stops at basic health features, making the Watch 8 a more attractive choice for those interested in prevention and advanced health monitoring.

IDC reports that as many as 92% of smartwatch users use them mainly for health and fitness monitoring(IDC / DemandSage, 2025) – this confirms that these new features can be crucial in choosing a newer model.

Smartwatch AI and operating system

  • Galaxy Watch 8: One UI Watch 8 + Wear OS 6 with support for Gemini AI (dictating messages, adding events, quick contextual suggestions).
  • Galaxy Watch 7: One UI Watch 6 + Wear OS 5, without full support for Gemini.

Anshika Jain from Counterpoint Research notes that “Innovations in AI and advanced health features could stimulate the smartwatch market in the second half of 2025”

Source: Android Central

Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 – current prices

  • Galaxy Watch 8 40 mm – from 1,299 PLN (graphite, silver)
  • Galaxy Watch 8 44 mm – from 1,399 PLN (silver) to 1,699 PLN (standard)
  • Galaxy Watch 8 LTE 40 mm – from 1,499 PLN
  • Galaxy Watch 8 LTE 44 mm – from 1,599 PLN
  • Galaxy Watch 8 Classic (steel, Standard)2,199 PLN

All glasses, films, and cases can be found in the section accessories for Galaxy Watch 8.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 – current prices

  • Galaxy Watch 7 40 mm799 PLN
  • Galaxy Watch 7 44 mm849 PLN

The Galaxy Watch 7 remains significantly cheaper, costing between 799 and 849 PLN.
The Galaxy Watch 8 starts at 1,299 PLN for the basic version and goes up to 2,199 PLN for the Classic version.
The price difference is therefore clearly noticeable, making the Galaxy Watch 7 a more budget-friendly choice, while the Galaxy Watch 8 is a premium offering with additional features.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

⭐ Which watch has a better screen?
The Galaxy Watch 8 – offers a brightness of 3000 nits (vs 2000 in Watch 7), making it more readable in full sunlight.

Do the straps from Galaxy Watch 7 fit the Watch 8?
No – the Galaxy Watch 8 uses a new Dynamic Lug system, so straps from older models are not compatible.

Which model lasts longer on battery?
Both operate similarly, averaging 1–2 days depending on screen brightness and workout intensity.

Will Galaxy Watch 7 get Wear OS 6?
Yes, although not all features will be available – for example, Gemini AI remains exclusive to Galaxy Watch 8.

Is Galaxy Watch 8 waterproof?
Yes, like the Watch 7, it has a water resistance rating of 5ATM, IP68, and MIL-STD-810H certification, meaning it is resistant to immersion and harsh conditions.

Is Galaxy Watch 8 better for sports than Galaxy Watch 7?
Yes – it offers new features like Vascular Load, Antioxidant Index, and Running Coach, which support more advanced training and health prevention.

What is the price of Galaxy Watch 8 and Galaxy Watch 7 in 2025?
The Galaxy Watch 8 can be found from 1299 PLN (sales), and the Galaxy Watch 7 from 799 PLN.

Is it worth paying extra for Galaxy Watch 8?
If you care about the latest health features, a 3000 nits screen, and Gemini AI, it is worth it. If you are looking for a cheaper, solid smartwatch – the Galaxy Watch 7 is still a great choice.

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