Apple Watch Series 8 is Apple’s latest smartwatch built to keep you connected, in good shape and even safe, depending on the circumstances. But if you currently own an Apple Watch Series 7 or earlier, should you upgrade to the latest Apple Watch?
The selection of the best Apple Watch for you changes every year. With each new generation, the Apple Watch welcomes additional upgrades, whether it’s an additional health sensor, connectivity feature, or an alternative design. The Apple Watch Series 8 includes a skin temperature sensor and fault detection feature, for example.
Unlike the iPhone, there is little incentive to replace your Apple Watch every time an updated model appears. But after a few trips around the sun with your older Apple Watch, you might consider replacing it with a newer flagship.
Here’s how the Apple Watch Series 8 compares to the Apple Watch 7, Apple Watch SE, Apple Watch 6, Apple Watch 5, Apple Watch 4, and Apple Watch 3, and if we think it makes sense for you to upgrade to the next generation smartwatch, it starts at $399 $629/AUD.
Apple Watch 8 vs Apple Watch 7
In our comprehensive guide to the Apple Watch 8 vs. the Apple Watch 7, we’ve decided that those with a 2021 Apple Watch don’t need to upgrade to the latest model. However, if you’re keen on owning the latest wearable technology, don’t let us stop you. Here’s what’s different between the two models.
The Apple Watch 8 continues the design of the Apple Watch 7, but it has the S8 chip and the new skin temperature sensor. The sensor is used to detect changes in wrist temperature during the night that may inform cycle or sleep tracking.
Also new on the Series 8 is collision detection, which takes advantage of improved motion sensors so you can quickly contact emergency services if a car crash is suspected. This feature is also included in the new Apple Watch Ultra and Apple Watch SE (2022).
But this is about hardware updates. Low Power Mode on the Apple Watch comes via watchOS 9, and it’s available to Series 7 users now. Here’s how to update your Apple Watch to the new watchOS if you haven’t already.
Apple Watch 8 vs Apple Watch 6
If you have an Apple Watch Series 6, your smartwatch is likely two years old. At this rate, we think it’s still in great shape, and has many of the latest features available thanks to the arrival of watchOS 9. The two main specs it doesn’t have are the larger screen and skin temperature sensor.
As long as you don’t see any need for either, stick to Series 6 for another year. Or not, it’s up to you. We will note that you are likely to make a good amount if you know how to trade your Apple Watch.
Apple Watch 8 vs Apple Watch SE 2020
If you own an original Apple Watch SE — not the latest Apple Watch SE (2022) — you’ve only had a smartwatch for two years or less, because Apple was still selling it until recently.
As shown in the Apple Watch 7 versus the Apple Watch SE showdown, there are quite a few differences between the two models in terms of features, and many extend to how the SE compares to the Series 8. The Apple Watch SE doesn’t have Blood Oxygen App on Apple WatchAnd the It also cannot record the electrocardiogram, which is used to detect signs of atrial fibrillation. It doesn’t get permanent view mode either.
Perhaps if you get the Apple Watch SE as an entry-level smartwatch, and you’re ready for a massive display improvement and more advanced health gadgets, you might find it worth getting the Apple Watch Series 8. It’s not necessary, though, especially since the Apple Watch 8 is Also a price increase from the SE.
Apple Watch 8 vs Apple Watch 5
The Apple Watch 5 was the first Apple Watch with an always-on display. It also introduced noise alerts while continuing the ECG and cellular capabilities of previous models. If your Apple Watch 5 is about three years old, you might consider upgrading to Series 8.
With Series 8, you’ll get a brighter, larger screen, skin temperature sensor, and SpO2 monitoring, plus Apple’s ultra-wide U1 chip for better connectivity within the company’s product ecosystem. However, the Apple Watch 5 is also eligible for the watchOS 9 software update, with a redesigned Compass app, Medication app, better sleep tracking, better Apple Watch apps and more.
You can upgrade to the Apple Watch 8 from the Apple Watch 5, but it’s not strictly necessary. Your current smartwatch will receive watchOS updates for at least a few more years, if we have to guess.
Apple Watch 8 vs Apple Watch 4
Apple Watch 4 users should have at least another year of software updates to look forward to as well. But Series 4 is now four years old, so it might be worth updating. That’s because this old model doesn’t have an always-on display, which is one of our favorite Apple Watch features in terms of convenience.
Another reason you might consider upgrading is if you are short on storage space. Series 4 has only 16 GB, while Series 8 has 32 GB. Of course, you’ll also get other Series 5, Series 6, and Series 7 upgrades like SpO2 monitoring, noise alerts, and a compass.
If you’ve been hoping to swap in value for your current Apple Watch toward a new one, this will likely be the last year the Series 4 is worth a good amount of money. Consider taking delivery of the Apple Watch 4 to lower the price of the Apple Watch 8, as long as it is in working condition.
Apple Watch 8 vs Apple Watch 3
The Apple Watch Series 3 isn’t one of the devices supported by watchOS 9, as the smartwatch and its processor are now five years old. If you still have one, it’s time to upgrade.
You’ll notice significant differences between the Apple Watch 3 and the Apple Watch 8. For starters, you’ll get ECG and SpO2 readings, as well as a fall detection and compass.
The Apple Watch 8’s display is 50% larger than the Series 3’s, too. This alone should allow for a whole new experience. You can get some cash back for your Series 3 with the best Apple Watch deals to trade through Apple or Best Buy, if it works and isn’t damaged.
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