Apple Watch Series 7 vs. Series 8 – Which Should You Buy?
Introduction
The Apple Watch remains the world’s most popular smartwatch because it blends a sleek design with deep health insights and an extensive app ecosystem. Apple refines the watch each year, adding sensors and software features while preserving compatibility with existing bands. The Series 7 (introduced in 2021) and Series 8 (2022) are among the most common models on wrists today. Although they share many similarities — both run the latest watchOS, track heart rate, ECG and blood oxygen, and support the same fitness and smart‑home features — the newer Series 8 introduces specialised hardware for women’s health and safety. Deciding between them depends on your budget and priorities.
This comprehensive guide will help you choose. We’ll break down key differences in display and design, health sensors, safety features, battery life and charging, software, pricing and materials, and real‑world use cases. Throughout the article you’ll find citations from official sources and reputable publications to ensure credibility. We’ll also link to related FrediTech articles where you can learn more about broader laptop and wearable topics. By the end, you’ll know exactly which watch to buy — or whether upgrading makes sense.
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Overview of Apple Watch core features
Both Series 7 and Series 8 share the core DNA that makes Apple Watch compelling:
- watchOS and connectivity: They run watchOS 9 (and later updates) and pair with an iPhone for notifications, calls, messages and access to the App Store. They support Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth, with optional LTE models for standalone connectivity.
- Health monitoring: Each watch tracks continuous heart rate, warns of unusually high or low heart rates, and offers ECG (electrocardiogram) and blood‑oxygen saturation (SpO₂) readings. Activity rings motivate you to stand, move and exercise every day, while GPS logs outdoor workouts. Fall detection, emergency SOS and international emergency calling provide peace of mind for users of all ages.
- Fitness and lifestyle: Built‑in apps let you log workouts from running to swimming, listen to music or podcasts, and pay with Apple Pay. Third‑party apps extend functionality for meditation, cycling, smart‑home control and more.
With those commonalities established, let’s examine the differences that set the Series 7 and Series 8 apart.
Design and display
Larger, brighter screen on Series 7 and Series 8
The most noticeable change Apple introduced with the Series 7 was a larger display that nearly fills the watch’s front. Apple reduced the bezels by 40 percent, giving a display almost 20 percent larger than the Series 6 and over 50 percent larger than the Series 3timeandtidewatches.com. The case itself grew slightly to 41 mm and 45 mm sizes (up from 40/44 mm), yet the curved glass blends seamlessly into the aluminium or stainless‑steel body for a comfortable fit. A more expansive display means easier‑to‑read text, more room for complications and a new full QWERTY keyboard for tapping or swiping letters.
The Series 8 retains this design, so both watches offer the same screen real estate. The display is an Always‑On Retina panel that stays on at low brightness until you raise your wrist. Apple says the always‑on mode is 70 percent brighter indoors than on Series 6timeandtidewatches.com, which is particularly useful for checking notifications discreetly. The OLED screen also curves at the edges, and the digital crown’s haptic feedback feels refined.
Durability and materials
Apple strengthened the front crystal on the Series 7, making it over twice as thick as on Series 6 and giving it a flat base for greater crack resistance. It also introduced IP6X dust resistance — meaning the watch is completely sealed against dust particles — and kept the WR50 water resistance, so you can swim or shower without worry. The Series 8 continues this ruggedness with the same crack‑resistant front crystal and IP6X ratingapple.com.
Both models come in two case materials: aluminium (lightweight and more affordable) and stainless steel (heavier with a polished finish). The Series 8 aluminium colours include starlight, midnight, silver and (PRODUCT) RED; the stainless‑steel version comes in silver, graphite and goldapple.com. Series 7’s colour palette varies by production year but includes green, blue, midnight, starlight and (PRODUCT) RED. Whichever you choose, the watch uses the same 20‑mm band connectors so your existing bands will fit.
Exclusive watch faces and keyboard
Apple designed new watch faces to take advantage of the larger screen. The Contour face places dynamic numerals around the dial’s edge and highlights the current hour. This face is exclusive to Series 7 and Series 8 and can display up to four complications. Likewise, the Modular Duo face lets you stack two large rectangular complications along with digital time and a small complication; it’s only available on Series 7 and Series 8help.apple.com. If you like data‑dense faces for calendar, weather and fitness metrics, these exclusives may sway your decision.
Series 7 introduced a full‑size QWERTY keyboard for replying to messages or entering search queries on the watch. The watchOS 9 keyboard supports multiple languages including French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese and Spanishhelp.apple.com. Series 8 retains this keyboard, making text input more practical compared to earlier models that relied on scribbles or voice dictation.
Performance and hardware
Processor (S7 vs S8 chip)
Both watches use Apple‑designed system‑on‑chips that integrate the CPU, GPU and various sensor controllers. The Series 7 runs on the S7 chip, while the Series 8 uses the S8 chip. According to Apple’s technical specifications (and confirmed by developers), the S8 CPU cores are similar to those in the S6/S7, so there’s no noticeable performance boost in everyday use. However, the S8 integrates new sensors to enable crash detection and temperature measurements, and it pairs with a more efficient power‑management system to support Low Power Mode. App launches and UI animations feel equally smooth on both devices, and both chips support the latest watchOS features.
Sensors
Each watch contains an optical heart‑rate sensor, electrical heart sensor (for ECG) and blood‑oxygen sensor. The Series 7 introduced an upgraded second‑generation optical heart sensor for improved accuracy. Series 8 keeps these sensors and adds two new ones:
- Temperature sensors: Apple placed one sensor on the back glass and another under the display. During sleep, the watch samples wrist temperature every five seconds and detects changes as small as 0.1 °Capple.com. Data syncs to the Health app and powers women’s health features such as retrospective ovulation estimation and more accurate period predictions. Temperature trends can also flag illness or shifts in your training recovery.
- Improved accelerometer and gyroscope: Series 8 features a new high‑dynamic‑range accelerometer and enhanced gyroscope capable of measuring up to 256 g‑forces. These combine with the barometer, GPS and microphone to detect severe car crashes. The watch triggers an alarm and, if you remain unresponsive for 10 seconds, automatically calls emergency services and shares your locationapple.com. Crash Detection is also available on the 2nd‑generation Apple Watch SE but absent on Series 7.
Battery life and charging
Apple advertises 18‑hour “all‑day” battery life for both models. Real‑world endurance depends on factors like workout tracking, cellular usage and screen brightness. Series 7 introduced a faster‑charging architecture: with the included USB‑C magnetic fast charger, you can go from 0 % to 80 % in 45 minutes and achieve a full charge in about 75 minutestimeandtidewatches.com. Apple says 8 minutes of charging provides 8 hours of sleep tracking — useful if you wear the watch overnight and need a quick top‑up. Series 8 retains fast charging but adds a software‑based Low Power Mode that extends runtime to up to 36 hours by turning off the always‑on display and limiting background sensors. Low Power Mode is also coming to Series 7 via watchOS 9, but temperature sensing and crash detection remain Series 8 exclusives.
Health and fitness features
Common health capabilities
Both watches excel as health companions. They record resting and workout heart rates, measure blood oxygen saturation, and offer the ECG app to detect atrial fibrillation. The Mindfulness app encourages breathing exercises and reflection. Fitness+ integration delivers guided workouts and meditations on iPhone, iPad or Apple TV. For runners and cyclists, on‑device GPS and altimeter track distance and elevation. Apple’s fall detection can automatically call emergency services if it senses a hard fall and the wearer is unresponsive.
Women’s health and temperature sensing
The Series 8 adds an important dimension with its temperature sensors. By tracking wrist temperature overnight, the watch provides retrospective ovulation estimates and improves period predictionsapple.com. It also notifies you of deviations from your baseline temperature — potentially flagging illness or overtraining. These features appear in the Cycle Tracking app, and Apple emphasises that data remains encrypted on device or in iCloud with end‑to‑end encryption. Although third‑party apps already offer cycle tracking using manual input, having continuous temperature data integrated into the Health app makes the Series 8 particularly valuable for women planning pregnancies or seeking deeper insights into menstrual cycles.
Fitness metrics and sensors
Because the Series 8 uses the same heart‑rate and GPS hardware as Series 7, sports performance metrics are essentially identical. Both watches support advanced running metrics (stride length, ground contact time, vertical oscillation) introduced in watchOS 9, and they can pair with Bluetooth accessories like chest straps or cadence sensors. Swim tracking automatically recognizes strokes and measures splits. Hikers and cyclists can benefit from the Compass app overhaul in watchOS 9, which shows waypoints and backtrack features.
Safety features
Crash Detection
One of the headline upgrades in Series 8 is Crash Detection. Apple built a new sensor‑fusion algorithm that analyses data from the high‑g accelerometer, improved gyroscope, barometer, GPS and microphone to detect front, side, rear and rollover car collisions. If a severe crash is detected, the watch displays a 10‑second countdown; if you don’t respond, it automatically contacts emergency services, shares your location and notifies your emergency contactsapple.com. The algorithm has been trained on millions of hours of real‑world driving and crash test data. This feature could be invaluable if you frequently drive alone or live in areas with dangerous roads. Note that Crash Detection also works on iPhone 14 and later, but having it on the wrist means you’re protected even if your phone isn’t within reach.
Fall detection and emergency SOS
Both Series 7 and Series 8 include fall detection, which uses the accelerometer and gyroscope to recognize when you’ve taken a hard fall. If you remain immobile for about a minute, the watch rings emergency services and alerts your contacts. Emergency SOS can also be triggered manually by pressing and holding the side button. International emergency calling works with a cellular plan in more than 120 countries, an important safety net for travellers. For people with health conditions or older adults, these features may justify upgrading from a non‑Apple watch.
Software and ecosystem
WatchOS features
Both watches run watchOS 9, which introduces several improvements: a redesigned Workout app with heart‑rate zones, race‑route ghosting for runners, the new Medications app, and the ability to create calendar events directly on the watch. Notifications are redesigned to be less intrusive, and a Low Power Mode can be toggled to extend battery life. watchOS 9 also supports new family set‑up features, allowing parents to manage kids’ Apple Watches without each child needing an iPhone.
Because Series 7 and Series 8 share the same processor family, they perform identically with watchOS 9. However, only Series 8 can leverage the temperature sensors and Crash Detection features described earlier. Both models should receive software updates for several years, given Apple’s typical support cycles.
Unique watch faces and complications
As mentioned earlier, Contour and Modular Duo watch faces are exclusive to Series 7 and Series 8help.apple.com. These faces make excellent use of the expanded display: Contour showcases the time with moving numerals, while Modular Duo fits two large information‑rich complications such as detailed weather and calendar events. watchOS 9 also adds the Lunar and Metropolitan faces, which both models support. If you enjoy customising your watch to show data at a glance, these exclusive faces offer extra flexibility.
Compatibility with bands and accessories
Apple has maintained the same band connector size since the original Apple Watch. All existing bands, from silicone sport loops to leather loops and Milanese straps, fit both Series 7 and Series 8. Additionally, the watches support Bluetooth LE accessories like heart‑rate straps and cycling power meters. With watchOS 9, you can connect to multiple Bluetooth accessories simultaneously — for instance, pairing a power meter and heart‑rate strap during a ride.
Pricing and configurations
Starting prices
The Series 7 launched at $399 for the 41 mm GPS model and $499 for the GPS + Cellular version. Stainless‑steel cases start at around $699. Since the Series 8 release, Series 7 models are often available at discounted prices from third‑party retailers or as refurbished units. The Series 8 also starts at $399 for the 41 mm GPS version and $499 for GPS + Cellular. Both models are widely available in 41 mm and 45 mm sizes. Pricing may vary depending on country, band choice and carrier subsidies.
Colours and materials
As noted earlier, Series 8 aluminium colours include starlight, midnight, silver and (PRODUCT) RED; stainless steel comes in silver, graphite and goldapple.com. Series 7 colours vary by production year but originally included midnight, starlight, green, blue and (PRODUCT) RED. Both series also offer Nike editions (with perforated sport bands and exclusive faces) and Hermès editions (with leather straps and bespoke faces). If aesthetics matter to you, the updated colours of Series 8 may influence your choice. However, case finishes are otherwise similar.
Step‑by‑step guide to choosing the right model
- Assess your budget. If you can find a discounted Series 7, it may offer the best value. Retailers often reduce Series 7 prices after the Series 8 launch. If price parity is minimal, consider spending the extra for Series 8 to gain new sensors and future‑proofing.
- Consider your health priorities. For women tracking fertility or anyone interested in temperature‑based wellness insights, the Series 8’s temperature sensors provide an advantage. If you’re primarily focused on heart‑rate monitoring, ECG and blood‑oxygen readings, the Series 7 suffices.
- Evaluate safety concerns. If you often drive long distances or want the peace of mind of Crash Detection, the Series 8 is worth consideringapple.com. Series 7 already includes fall detection and emergency SOS, but Crash Detection may make a real difference in an accident.
- Think about charging routines. Both watches last about 18 hours, but Series 7’s fast charging means you can top up quickly before bed. Series 8’s Low Power Mode extends battery life to 36 hours when activated. If you travel frequently or forget to charge your watch, Low Power Mode may be beneficial.
- App usage and keyboard typing. If you plan to reply to messages from your wrist or write short notes, the QWERTY keyboard (available on both models) is a significant improvement over scribble inputhelp.apple.com. The larger display is also essential for reading messages or controlling smart‑home devices.
- Style and finish. Decide whether you prefer aluminium (light and sporty) or stainless steel (premium and durable). Also consider colour options. For example, Series 8’s silver option pairs well with many bands, while (PRODUCT) RED makes a bold statement.
- Longevity and resale value. The Series 8 is one generation newer, so it will likely receive software updates for a year longer than Series 7. A new watch will also hold its resale value longer, which may offset the cost difference when you upgrade in the future.
Real‑world usage scenarios
1. Sarah, the aspiring cyclist
Sarah is training for a charity bike ride. She values heart‑rate zones and route tracking more than fertility tracking. She finds a good deal on a Series 7 and pairs it with a chest‑strap heart monitor. During long rides, she uses the watch’s fast charging: a 15‑minute charge during lunch provides enough battery for the journey home. She uses the Modular Duo face to show cadence and heart rate at a glance, and she doesn’t feel she’s missing any features by not having Series 8.
2. Emily, planning a family
Emily and her partner are trying to conceive. She chooses the Series 8 specifically for its temperature‑sensing sensors, which measure wrist temperature every five seconds and enable retrospective ovulation estimatesapple.com. Her doctor appreciates the extra data, and Emily uses period notifications to better understand her cycle. She also commutes by car, so Crash Detection provides peace of mind when driving alone.
3. Ahmed, an international traveller
Ahmed travels frequently for work. He selects a Series 8 because its Low Power Mode can extend battery life to 36 hoursapple.com when he’s away from chargers. He opts for the stainless‑steel model for added durability and pairs it with a leather band for a formal look during meetings. He likes that he can reply to emails using the keyboard and uses the Cellular model to leave his iPhone in the hotel gym.
4. Miguel, upgrading from Series 3
Miguel has worn a Series 3 for several years and is ready for an upgrade. The leap to Series 7 or Series 8 is huge: he gains a much larger display, always‑on screen, faster charging, and new health sensors. Since he’s on a budget, he buys a discounted Series 7, confident that watchOS updates will keep his watch modern for years. He enjoys the full keyboard for texting and the brighter display when checking notifications in sunlighttimeandtidewatches.com.
FAQ – People also ask
Is there a big performance difference between Series 7 and Series 8?
Not really. Independent reporting shows the S8 SiP in Series 8 uses the same CPU generation as S7 (and S6), so day-to-day speed feels the same. The big additions in Series 8 are new sensors (temperature) and Crash Detection hardware, not raw CPU gains.
Does Series 8 have better battery life than Series 7?
Both watches offer 18‑hour battery life, but Series 8 adds Low Power Mode to extend runtime up to 36 hours by disabling the always‑on display and limiting background sensorsapple.com. Series 7 counters with faster charging, reaching 80 % charge in 45 minutestimeandtidewatches.com. Which is better depends on whether you prefer quick top‑ups or longer endurance.
Is Crash Detection available on Series 7?
No. Crash Detection requires a new high‑g accelerometer and improved gyroscope found in Series 8. These sensors, combined with barometer, GPS and microphone data, allow the watch to recognise severe car collisions and call emergency services if you’re unresponsiveapple.com. Series 7 still offers fall detection and emergency SOS.
Can both watches use the same bands and chargers?
Bands: Yes—Apple uses size families. 41/40/38 mm bands work together; 45/44/42 mm bands work together (and also with 49/46 mm cases). Charging: Both support the USB-C Magnetic Fast Charger; fast charge works on Series 7 and later with an 18 W+ USB-C power adapter.
Should I upgrade from Series 7 to Series 8?
If you want temperature sensing (e.g., for cycle tracking insights) or Crash Detection, the upgrade makes sense. Otherwise, performance and everyday experience are very similar—waiting for a larger jump may be smarter.
Are there cheaper alternatives?
Apple Watch SE (2nd gen) uses the S8 SiP and supports Crash Detection, but omits always-on display and temperature/blood-oxygen sensors—often at a lower price. Non-Apple wearables (Garmin, Fitbit, Samsung) can be cheaper or last longer on a charge, but won’t integrate with iPhone like Apple Watch.
If fast charging matters to you, remember Series 7 and Series 8 both support it with the USB-C fast-charge cable and a ≥18 W adapter.
Conclusion
The Apple Watch Series 7 and Series 8 are both excellent smartwatches that provide seamless integration with iPhone, robust health tracking and unmatched app support. The Series 8 builds on the Series 7’s strong foundation by introducing temperature sensing for improved cycle tracking and Crash Detection for driving safety — plus a software‑enabled Low Power Mode for extended battery life. Meanwhile, the Series 7 matches most capabilities at a lower price, especially now that retailers offer discounts. Its fast‑charging battery, crack‑resistant design and large display make it a fantastic upgrade for anyone coming from an older Apple Watch or switching from another brand.
Ultimately, your choice depends on personal priorities. For women tracking fertility or users who want the latest safety features, the Series 8 is the clear pick. For budget‑conscious buyers who still want an excellent wearable with full keyboard support and exclusive watch faces, the Series 7 represents tremendous value. Whichever you select, you’ll enjoy a capable device that helps you stay active, informed and safe.
Explore more wearable and tech buying guides on FrediTech, including our deep dive on guide to the best Apple Watch accessories and Apple Watch Series 8 to make informed decisions across all your devices.