Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 vs Apple Watch 8 Comparison

If you’re searching for a new smartwatch, you might be deciding between the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 and the Apple Watch 8. Base your choice on differences in battery life, screen, features, and performance. In this article, we’ll dive into the key differences between these smartwatches and list the biggest distinctions.

Differences Between the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 and Apple Watch 8

Choosing between the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 vs the Apple Watch 8 is no easy decision. Both smartwatches are quite similar, though there are some differences. Below, we outline them in a clear table.

	Samsung Galaxy Watch 5	Apple Watch 8
Battery	Lithium-ion battery 284 mAh (40 mm) / 410 mAh (44 mm)	Lithium-ion battery 282 mAh (41 mm) / 308 mAh (45 mm)
Battery Life	Up to 40 hours	18 hours with normal use, 36 hours in low power mode
Storage	16 GB	32 GB
Size	44.4 x 43.3 x 9.8 mm (44 mm model), 40.4 x 39.3 x 9.8 mm (40 mm model)	45 x 38 x 10.7 mm (45 mm model), 41 x 35 x 10.7 mm (41 mm model)
Weight	33.5 g (44 mm model), 28.7 g (40 mm model)	39.1 g (45 mm model), 32.2 g (41 mm model)
Resolution	450 x 450 pixels (44 mm model), 396 x 396 pixels (40 mm model)	396 x 484 pixels (45 mm model), 352 x 430 pixels (41 mm model)

As you can see, there are notable differences between the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 and the Apple Watch 8. If you want a smartwatch that doesn’t need frequent charging, Samsung’s latest model is the better choice. If large storage is a priority, opt for Apple’s smartwatch. In terms of size and weight, they’re fairly comparable, though the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 has a slightly better resolution.

There are, of course, more differences when comparing the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 vs the Apple Watch 8. We’ll cover them below.

Design

Alright, the design isn’t a major difference between these Samsung and Apple smartwatches. The two leading smartphone makers have given their latest smartwatches a similar design. The main difference lies in the shape. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 features a round display with minimal bezels and two side buttons, while the Apple Watch 8 has a square screen with a similar button layout.

Features

Many use smartwatches to track sports activities, and both models excel here. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 offers continuous heart rate and SpO2 monitoring, automatic run detection, sleep and step tracking, and visceral fat measurement via bioelectrical impedance analysis. It also includes a skin temperature sensor, though the Apple Watch 8 does this more effectively.

The Apple Watch 8 features a precise skin temperature sensor and crash detection that automatically alerts emergency services if you don’t respond after a collision. It also includes blood oxygen, heart rate, and ECG monitoring, plus daily activity and sleep phase analysis.

Screen

We’ve already noted the size and resolution differences between the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 and the Apple Watch 8 in the table, but there’s more to say about their screens. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 uses tempered glass to protect its AMOLED display, while the Apple Watch 8 employs LTPO OLED technology with crack-resistant crystal protection.

Apple Watch on wrist

Interface

You’re likely curious about the interfaces of these smartwatches. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 runs Wear OS with a sleek OneUI interface, supporting Samsung Pay and Samsung Health, with optional downloads like Google Assistant and Google Pay.

The Apple Watch 8 runs watchOS 9, offering the App Store for app downloads, Apple Pay for contactless payments, and Apple Health for workout tracking. The Apple Watch 8 is better for heavy app users, though the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 suffices for typical use.

Compatibility

Compatibility is crucial when buying a smartwatch. Here’s how the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 and Apple Watch 8 differ.

Compatibility of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5

All Samsung phones with Android 8.0 and 1.5 GB RAM or higher
All Android phones with Android 8.0 and 1.5 GB RAM or higher
All iPhones with iOS 9 or higher

Note that the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 offers the most compatibility with Samsung phones, as some features may not work optimally with other devices.

Compatibility of the Apple Watch 8

All iPhones with iOS 16 or higher
All Android phones with Android 5.0 or higher

The Apple Watch 8 works with Android phones, but not all features are available, similar to the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5, though compatibility differs.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 vs Apple Watch 8: Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Samsung Watch 5 Better Than the Apple Watch 8?

Both the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 and the Apple Watch 8 are recommended. Generally, Apple’s model is slightly more advanced, but Samsung’s watch is better if you use an Android phone. It also offers a longer battery life than Apple’s.

Is a Samsung Watch Better Than an Apple Watch?

Samsung smartwatches are nearly identical to Apple Watches. They excel in one area: battery life, allowing longer use before needing a recharge.

Which Watch Is Better Than Apple?

Apple is among the top smartwatch makers, making the Watch 8 a solid buy. However, if you prioritise long battery life, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is a better option.

Are There Replacement Straps for the Apple Watch 8 and Galaxy Watch 5?

Yes, they’re available. The Apple Watch 8 shares the same size and connector as the Apple Watch 7, making it easy to add a new strap. The same applies to the Watch 5, which uses the same connector as its predecessor. Check out our range of straps to find a stylish addition!