Galaxy Watch 8 vs Galaxy Watch 7
The Galaxy Watch 8 brings several meaningful upgrades over the Galaxy Watch 7, including new health sensors, a brighter display, doubled storage, and Wear OS 6. Here's what changed.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Galaxy Watch 7 | Galaxy Watch 8 |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Wear OS 5 | Wear OS 6 |
| Storage | 16GB | 32GB |
| Display Brightness | 2,000 nits | 3,000 nits |
| Antioxidant Index | ❌ | ✅ |
| Sleep Apnea Detection | ✅ | ✅ |
| Design | Circular | Cushion "squircle" |
| Starting Price | $299.99 | $349.99 |
What's New in Galaxy Watch 8
The most significant upgrades for 2025.
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Antioxidant Index: World-first consumer feature measuring carotenoid levels to assess antioxidant status.
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50% Brighter Display: 3,000 nits peak brightness for better outdoor visibility.
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Double Storage: 32GB vs 16GB for more apps, music, and offline content.
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Wear OS 6: First watch with the latest platform, featuring Gemini AI and improved battery optimization.
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Cushion Design: New "squircle" shape that's 11% thinner at 8.6mm.
What Stayed the Same
Both watches share core technology.
- Processor: Same
Exynos W10003nm chip - RAM: 2GB LPDDR5
- Water Resistance: 5ATM + IP68
- Bluetooth: 5.3
- GPS: Dual-band L1/L5
- Health Sensors: BioActive sensor suite (heart rate, ECG, body composition, blood oxygen)
Should You Upgrade?
Upgrade from Galaxy Watch 7 if:
- You want the new Antioxidant Index health monitoring
- You need more storage for apps and music
- You frequently use your watch outdoors and want the brighter display
- You prefer the new cushion design aesthetic
Keep Galaxy Watch 7 if:
- You prefer the classic circular design
- Your current watch meets your needs
- You want to save $50 on a device with proven performance
- You have existing bands that won't fit the new design
Band Compatibility Note
The Galaxy Watch 8 uses a redesigned band system. Bands from Galaxy Watch 7 and earlier models will not fit the new cushion form factor. Factor in new band costs if upgrading.
Is It Worth the Upgrade?
For Galaxy Watch 7 owners, the upgrade makes most sense if you specifically value the Antioxidant Index monitoring or need significantly more storage. Otherwise, the Watch 7 remains excellent.
See Also: What's New in Galaxy Watch 8|Galaxy Watch 8 Specifications|Galaxy Watch 8 New Features