Smartwatches have become indispensable accessories for many people, allowing them to track health metrics, receive notifications, and more right from their wrist. Two of the most advanced smartwatches come from tech giants Apple and Samsung. In this ultimate showdown, we compare the Apple Watch Series 8 vs the Galaxy Watch5 Pro across several key categories to determine the best option.
Design and Display
The Apple Watch Series 8 retains the iconic square design that Apple smartwatches are known for. It comes in two case size options – 41mm and 45mm – both made from 100% recycled aluminum. The displays measure 1.61" and 1.901" respectively.
In contrast, the Galaxy Watch5 Pro sports a round 1.4" AMOLED display enclosed in a durable titanium case. The lone 45mm size helps reinforce that this watch leans more rugged than refined. For those desiring maximal screen real estate, the Apple Watch‘s bigger display ekes out a win. However, the Galaxy Watch5 Pro‘s circular face and smaller bezels give it a more classic wristwatch look.
Winner: Tie – Personal preference will determine whether rectangular or circular displays are more appealing.
Health and Fitness Tracking
Health and fitness tracking represent two major selling points for smartwatches. Both the Series 8 and Galaxy Watch5 Pro come prepared with an array of sensors to measure key biometrics 24/7.
The Apple Watch introduces temperature sensing for insights into ovulation cycles. It also captures heart rate, blood oxygen, ECG readings, sleep stages, and activity/workouts. Popular features like fall detection and Medication reminders carry over from older models as well.
Meanwhile, the Galaxy Watch5 Pro measures heart rate, blood oxygen, ECG, and sleep quality. But it adds a marquee Body Composition feature to check metrics like skeletal muscle mass and body water percentage. Automatic workout detection also allows hands-free tracking for over 30 exercises.
Overall, these watches are well-matched in health tracking capabilities. The Galaxy Watch5 Pro pulls ahead slightly with the detailed body composition readings that can help optimize workouts and reach fitness goals.
Winner: Galaxy Watch5 Pro
Smart Features
In addition to health tracking, smartwatches excel at delivering notifications, controlling smart home devices, contactless payments, and more.
The Apple Watch Series 8 runs on watchOS 9, which introduces enhanced apps for medications, sleep, and heart rate zones. Redesigned compass and weather widgets also join the mix alongside redesigned watch faces. Apple Pay facilitates payments, and built-in support for Apple Music allows offline playback via Bluetooth headphones.
The Galaxy Watch5 Pro isn’t left behind either with Wear OS 3.5 powering its experience. It also supports contactless payments through Samsung Pay or Google Pay. GPS and LTE connectivity keep users connected on the go, and the watch can control IoT devices through SmartThings integration. Voice assistance comes from Bixby or Google Assistant.
With very similar capabilities, there’s no clear winner in terms of smart features. Both excel at handling notifications and daily conveniences.
Winner: Tie
Battery Life
Battery life remains an Achilles heel for smartwatches, making it a vital consideration. According to Apple, the Series 8 lasts up to 18 hours typical use. That‘s generally enough to get through a day before needing to recharge. The Galaxy Watch5 Pro promises much longer usage with an advertised battery life up to 80 hours (or 30 hours with LTE), powered by its massive 590 mAh battery.
In real world testing, most reviewers found the Galaxy Watch5 Pro met its lofty battery estimates – meaning up to 3 days use for many people before reaching for the charger. Clearly, Samsung offers a major advantage in staying power compared to the Series 8‘s single day limit.
Winner: Galaxy Watch5 Pro
Durability
With a starting price around $400, customers reasonably expect their smartwatch to withstand daily wear and tear.
The Apple Watch Series 8 carries an IP6X dust resistance rating and maintains a WR50 water resistance up to 50 meters. So it should hold up fine against dust, rain, and the occasional splash. However, the aluminum construction makes it ill-suited for extreme adventures.
Conversely, the Galaxy Watch5 Pro was purpose-built as Samsung’s most durable smartwatch ever. Its titanium body and sapphire crystal display add ruggedness without compromising style. An IP68 rating plus MIL-STD 810H certification confirm its resistance against dust, water, shock, extreme temperatures, and more hazardous environments.
For those desiring a rugged accessory that can keep up with intense activities, the Galaxy Watch5 Pro is the easy choice.
Winner: Galaxy Watch5 Pro
Price
With premium build quality packed with advanced sensors and features, neither device comes cheap. However, Samsung manages to undercut Apple with more affordable pricing.
The Apple Watch Series 8 starts from $399 for aluminum models with sport bands. Upgrading to premium materials like stainless steel or special edition collaborations can push the cost above $800.
Meanwhile, the Galaxy Watch5 Pro is priced at a consistent $449 regardless of color or band.
Winner: Galaxy Watch5 Pro
Verdict
Apple or Samsung? Both companies make compelling smartwatches that lead the industry in health tracking capabilities and seamless connectivity. But when it comes to surviving daily use while enabling multi-day battery life in a rugged chassis, the Galaxy Watch5 Pro pulls ahead as the winning choice. Its larger battery, durable titanium construction, advanced bioelectrical sensors like BIA, and lower cost make it a wiser investment compared to the Apple Watch Series 8.
