Apple Watch Series 8 vs 9 - is worth to upgrade?

 

Apple Watch Series 8 vs 9 - case sizes, materials, and weight

Both Series 8 and Series 9 are available in two sizes: 41mm and 45mm. They offer aluminum and stainless steel case options, with Series 9 introducing a new pink shade for the aluminum version.

Series 8 took a step toward sustainability by using recycled materials, while Series 9 goes further by achieving carbon neutrality, reducing emissions from materials, electricity, and transport.

The weight of both models varies slightly based on case material and size. For aluminum models, the 41mm weighs 31.9g, and the 45mm weighs 38.7g. Stainless steel models weigh 42.3g (41mm) and 51.5g (45mm). GPS + Cellular versions are slightly heavier, though the difference is negligible when worn.

Overall, the design, sizes, and weights of Series 8 and Series 9 are nearly identical.

Apple Watch Series 8 vs 9 - design

Apple Watch Series 9 retains the overall design of Series 8, with 41mm and 45mm size options, and introduces a new pink color. The screen brightness is doubled, reaching 2000 nits for improved visibility.

Series 9 replaces the leather straps of Series 8 with new "Fine Woven" fabric bands featuring magnetic clasps. These Apple Watch bands also include updated Nike and Hermès collaborations and remain compatible with previous Apple Watch models.

Apple Watch Series 8 vs 9 - display

Both Series 8 and Series 9 feature Always-On Retina displays, offering resolutions of 352 x 430 for 41mm models and 396 x 484 for 45mm models. This technology ensures users can view the watch face and time without lifting their wrist, enhancing convenience.

Series 9 takes a leap forward with a peak brightness of 2000 nits - double that of Series 8 - allowing for better visibility in bright sunlight. Additionally, the display adjusts seamlessly to different lighting conditions, reducing brightness to just 1 nit in dark environments to minimize distractions.

Apple Watch Series 9 vs 8 - processor and performance

Apple Watch Series 8 features the S8 chip, based on the A13 Bionic, while the Series 9 introduces the new S9 chip, built on the A15 Bionic. The S9 chip enhances speed and efficiency, enabling faster app launches and smoother operation.

The upgraded 4-core Neural Engine in Series 9 doubles the machine learning speed, improving Siri responsiveness and increasing dictation accuracy by 25%. Additionally, Series 9 introduces a new double-tap gesture, allowing users to easily perform tasks like answering calls and controlling music without touching the screen.

Apple Watch Series 8 vs 9 - health and fitness

Series 8 introduced features like temperature sensing and atrial fibrillation history tracking, enhancing health monitoring. Series 9 takes it further with mental health tools like mood logging in the Mindfulness app, along with media control for HomePod and the "Precision Finding" feature for iPhone 15.

Series 9 enables Siri to process tasks offline, allowing users to start workouts or set timers without an internet connection. Siri also provides private access to health data, letting users check sleep duration, activity progress, or blood glucose levels (with compatible devices).

The new system is faster and more reliable, with voice dictation accuracy improved by 25% compared to Series 8, delivering a smoother experience.

Apple Watch Series 8 vs 9 - battery and storage

Both Series 8 and Series 9 offer an 18-hour battery life. Series 8 introduced Low Power Mode, extending usage to 36 hours when paired with an iPhone. Series 9 maintains the same battery life but leverages the efficient S9 chip to support its enhanced features without compromising performance.

Battery capacity remains identical, with the 41mm model housing a 282mAh battery and the 45mm model a 308mAh battery, requiring daily charging.

Series 9 doubles the storage to 64GB, compared to Series 8’s 32GB, allowing users to store more high-resolution photos, playlists, and apps, keeping essential data readily accessible.

Apple Watch Series 8 vs 9 - additional features

Series 8 and Series 9 both offer enhanced features.

Series 9 introduces the double-tap gesture, allowing users to control the watch with one hand for tasks like stopping timers or answering calls without touching the screen.

It also integrates more with HomePod for "Now Playing" controls and media suggestions, and supports iPhone 15’s "Precision Finding" to help locate misplaced iPhones with direction and audio-visual cues.

The S9 chip enables Siri to securely access health data directly on the device.

Apple Watch Series 8 vs 9 - price

Both the Apple Watch Series 8 and Series 9 are not inexpensive.

The Series 8 starts at £399/$399 for the GPS model and £499/$499 for the GPS + Cellular version, with price variations based on case material, band options, and features.

The Series 9, being the latest model, is priced slightly higher. The GPS version starts at £499/$499, while the GPS + Cellular model begins at £599/$599, reflecting a 20% price increase compared to Series 8. For users considering options, the Apple Watch Ultra offers an even higher-end alternative.

Interestingly, the Series 9 is positioned as a mid-range option in Apple’s lineup. For context, the higher-end Apple Watch Ultra 2 starts at £799/$799, and the Garmin Epix 2 is priced at £749/$899.

For those seeking a more affordable entry into the Apple Watch ecosystem, the Series 9 starts at $399 for the aluminum model, while the stainless steel option is priced at $699.

Consider the Apple Watch Series 9 if…

• You want the latest technology: Powered by the new S9 chip, the Series 9 offers faster performance and improved Siri integration.
• You need accessibility features: The new double-tap gesture allows one-handed operation, especially useful for users with fine motor skill challenges.
• You prefer a brighter display: The Series 9's Retina display reaches up to 2,000 nits, making it more visible in bright environments.
• You care about the environment: Made from 100% post-consumer aluminum and eco-friendly bands, it’s a more sustainable choice.
• You’re ready for premium features: If you’re willing to pay more for better performance and features, the Series 9 is worth the upgrade.

Consider the Apple Watch Series 8 if…

• You want a more affordable option: The Series 8 offers key features like fitness tracking and Always-On display at a lower price.
• You don’t need the latest chip: The Series 8's S8 chip still delivers excellent performance without the need for the newest upgrades.
• You don’t need advanced features: If the double-tap gesture and smart home integration aren’t essential, the Series 8 will meet your needs.
• You’re upgrading from an older model: The Series 8 offers a solid upgrade from older models at a more reasonable price.

In short, while the Series 9 offers exciting new features, the Series 8 remains a great choice for those who don’t need the latest upgrades, offering great value at a lower cost.

Conclusion

The Apple Watch Series 9 brings exciting new features, including the double-tap gesture control, faster Siri responses, the new S9 chip, and a brighter display, making it an appealing option for new users seeking premium performance.

However, for existing Series 8 owners, these upgrades may not justify the switch.

The Series 8 still offers great value with essential features like fitness tracking and the Always-On display at a more affordable price, making it a smart choice for those who don’t need the latest enhancements.

If you’re considering options like the Garmin Approach S62 or the Garmin Approach S60, they may offer additional features for golfers or fitness-focused users who need more specialized functions.