Apple and Samsung continue to dominate the smartwatch market, 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 compare in terms of design, specs, health features, AI integration, and overall usability.
Quick Specs Comparison
Why You Should Buy the 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 its features feel seamless rather than flashy. Smart Stack learns your habits—for example, suggesting a Pilates workout when you arrive at the gym. Notifications adjust sound levels automatically 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 clear choice. The Galaxy Watch 8 does not pair with iPhones, making Apple’s offering the only real option for iOS users.
Why You Should Buy the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8
1. Superior Battery Life: The Galaxy Watch 8 has the edge in endurance, offering up to 30 hours with Always-On Display and 40 hours without. While Apple has improved its numbers, Samsung still leads for users who want to avoid daily charging.
2. AI-Powered Running Coach: Samsung’s AI Running Coach is more personalized than Apple’s Workout Buddy. After a fitness test, it scores your performance, creates personalized training plans, and adjusts them based on recovery data. For runners, this feature is a game-changer.
3. Google Gemini on Your Wrist: Since 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 surpass Apple’s more modest AI integrations.
Verdict: Which One Wins?
Both smartwatches are flagship-level wearables with distinct strengths:
- The Apple Watch Series 11 is the best choice for iPhone users, health enthusiasts, and those who value understated yet useful AI features.
- 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 are already committed to a specific ecosystem, your decision is essentially made for you. But in a head-to-head competition, Samsung leads in performance and practicality, while Apple sets itself apart with medical-grade health features that could prove invaluable over time.
