Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Vs. Galaxy Watch Ultra: Which Android Watch Is Best For You?

If you're on the hunt for a new Samsung Galaxy smartwatch to use with your Samsung Galaxy smartphone, or any other Android phone, two models you might be considering are the Galaxy Watch 8 and the Galaxy Watch Ultra. Yes, these are now a generation old, having been replaced by the Galaxy Watch 9 and Galaxy Watch Ultra 2. But when it comes to the Galaxy Watch 9, it isn't a huge step up in features compared to the Galaxy Watch 8. The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is, however, a substantial upgrade, since it's much more durable. But you'll save by opting for the still current and supported older model.

That said, if you have narrowed down your decision to those two previous-gen models, likely since you're able to find them for a good deal, it's important to understand the differences because these two smartwatches are designed for very different people. The Galaxy Watch Ultra is a larger, more rugged watch with enhanced features, but also a price to match, while the Galaxy Watch 8 is the best option for most users.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is, as noted, an ultra-rugged variation, designed predominantly for outdoor adventures. Its more rugged design includes titanium and a higher water resistance at 10ATM versus the 5ATM rating of the Watch 8. However, Samsung states none of the watches are suitable for diving or high-speed water activities. That said, the Ultra can withstand higher altitudes, which can be great for mountain climbers. It's larger and heavier overall, though, which means it may not be suitable for everyone as an everyday watch.

But the most notable difference from a practical standpoint is battery life. The Galaxy Watch Ultra has a 590mAh battery rated to last up to 48 hours in Exercise Power Saving Mode and up to 100 hours in Power Saving mode. The Galaxy Watch 8 has a smaller 325mAh or 435mAh battery (depending on the size) and is rated to last up to 30 hours with the always-on display, and up to 40 hours without it. Alongside the standard Galaxy Watch 8, there's also the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic variant, which adds a rotating bezel and ups the battery to a 445mAh cell, though the rated battery life is the same.

Beyond those differences, operationally, these two smartwatches are very similar. They run on the same Exynos W1000 processor, though the Galaxy Watch 8 has half the storage, at 32GB versus 64GB, which is worth noting if you plan to download a lot of apps and/or store offline music and maps. Both have the same sensors, including the Samsung BioActive Sensor, and work with the Samsung Health app. They capture the same workout data and vitals, though you do get a customizable Quick Button with the Galaxy Watch Ultra as well as a built-in emergency siren and time-sensitive night vision. Additionally, both watches offer accurate GPS tracking with Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) including GLONASS, Galileo, and Beidou support. Both will be updatable to the latest WearOS and One UI, with both the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy Watch 8 now offering the beta version of One UI 9.

So, your decision really comes down to needs. If you're an outdoor adventurer or a field worker who needs something ultra-rugged and durable, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra might be a better fit and worth the extra money. It also lasts longer per charge, which could be enough to sway your decision. But it's also bigger, bulkier, heavier, and costs more. By comparison, the Galaxy Watch 8 and Watch 8 Classic are better everyday watches that will be suitable for most average users. You'll just need to be prepared to charge it every day and a half or so and find the right time to charge your Galaxy Watch to keep it going all day and night.