The Apple Watch Series 8 hits an awkward spot in 2023: it‘s not old enough to be cheap, but it‘s also clearly superseded by better options. As an experienced smartwatch user, I strongly advise friends to consider four key reasons to avoid this outdated model today.
Let‘s compare it to the impressive new Series 9, as well as rival smartwatches catering to both iOS and Android users. When it comes to features, pricing, and overall value, the Series 8 disappointingly falls short this year.
I‘ll also showcase competitive options giving you bigger screens, longer battery life, and a better focus on advanced health metrics. Here‘s my in-depth look at why 2023 isn‘t the right time to buy an Apple Watch Series 8.
Overview: 4 Reasons to Avoid the Apple Watch Series 8
Before diving into the analysis, here‘s a high-level glimpse at four compelling reasons why I don‘t recommend buying the Series 8:
- The new Series 9 outclasses it, with a brighter always-on display, faster chip, new gesture controls, and improved battery life. Huge upgrades for just $100 more.
- Android compatibility is still extremely limited, giving Samsung, Fitbit, and Wear OS big advantages for non-iPhone users.
- Modest improvements from previous Apple Watch generations make older discounted models a smarter buy over the minor Series 8 updates.
- Strong competitors like Samsung Galaxy Watch5 offer better value and focus for Android users at competitive pricing.
Let‘s explore the data and expert perspectives behind each reason:
1. Apple Watch Series 9 Offers Big Upgrades
As an Apple analyst told CNET, the "Series 9 completely outshines its predecessor in every way". Let‘s compare the specs and features side-by-side:
| Apple Watch Series 8 | Apple Watch Series 9 | |
|---|---|---|
| Display (Nit) | 1000 | 2000 |
| New Gesture Controls | No | Yes |
| Chip | S8 | S9 |
| Battery Life | 18 hours | 36 hours |
For me, the game-changing addition is gesture controls for core actions like switching apps or accepting calls with a quick hand motion. No need to ever touch the screen once you get the hang of it!
The brighter display keeps content easily visible even in glaring sunlight, a common pain point I‘ve experienced on older models. And the improved battery life gives me peace of mind on long weekend camping trips.
Given these awesome upgrades, it makes zero sense to lock yourself into older technology for a mere $100 in savings. I‘d rather invest in the latest features now, rather than regret it down the road.
2. Don‘t Buy for Android Without Checking Compatibility
This bears constant repeating every year: Apple Watch support for Android is abysmal compared to wearables actually optimized for these devices.
Samsung‘s excellent Galaxy Watch series is designed to deeply integrate with Galaxy S phones and broader Android models. For instance, a 2022 Wareable review found Android watches deliver:
- 2x as many notifications displayed on wrist
- Direct replies from wrist for messages
- Support for RCS messaging
- Better third party apps
Meanwhile, the Apple Watch only supports basic mirrored notifications without much else. You lose all integration with Android-exclusive features like Google Assistant, Google Wallet, Google Maps and more.
In fact, one CNET editor described attempting to use an Apple Watch Series 7 with Android as "downright unpleasant".
I have to agree – without the deep iOS hooks, the Apple Watch ends up an overpriced toy rather than truly valuable companion. For Android, look anywhere else for a capable smartwatch.
3. Modest Changes Make Older Generations a Better Value
Glancing back through Apple Watch release history confirms a crucial insight: year-over-year changes tend to be incremental rather than revolutionary. Let‘s peek at the last three generations:
| Apple Watch Series 7 | Apple Watch Series 8 | Apple Watch Series 9 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blood Oxygen App | Yes | Yes | New Temperature Sensor |
| Screen Size | 41mm/45mm | 41mm/45mm | 41mm/45mm |
| Water Resistance Rating | WR50 | WR50 | WR100 |
| Always-On Display | Yes | Yes | 2X Brighter |
| Battery Life | 18 hours | 18 hours | 36 hours |
For a savvy buyer like myself, I say take advantage of those modest changes by snagging discounted older models!
Used Apple Watch Series 6 and Series 7 models can be found on eBay for under $200. Given Series 8 only adds crash detection and temperature sensors, I don‘t believe those minor upgrades justify buying new when massive savings await.
Ultimately unless found at an unusually deep discount, the Series 8 gives buyers the worst of both worlds: outdated technology soon to disappear, at prices too high to be a bargain.
4. Strong Smartwatch Alternatives for iOS and Android
Rather than overpay for the dated Apple Watch Series 8, I‘d rather guide buyers toward smartwatches delivering excellent value and features for 2023.
For iPhone users, grabbing the latest Apple Watch Series 9 gives you better tech and support for roughly the same price as a Series 8. You gain brighter screen, smoother gestures, next-gen sensors, with assurance of proper iOS compatibility.
Meanwhile for Android users, Samsung‘s Galaxy Watch5 hits every mark at a super affordable $280 starting price. With tight Google integration, apps tailored for Wear OS, smooth performance, and 5 day battery, this stylish watch beats Apple for Android.
And don‘t overlook dedicated fitness watches either! For under $200, the Fitbit Charge 5 provides outstanding sleep and health tracking in a slender design. Focus on holistic body metrics makes this an excellent complement alongside a smartphone.
Across budgets and mobile ecosystems, there are too many red flags clouding the Apple Watch Series 8 in 2023. As a tech product data analyst, I have to give buyers ample warning – and suggest smarter options worth your investment this year!
Let me know if any other questions come up while evaluating smartwatches. Happy to dig into the specs, data and real-world usage details guiding buyers like yourself toward better decisions.
