Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 vs. Watch 8 Classic - Which Is Right for You?

In 2025, Samsung, as one of the top 10 best sports watch companies in the world, officially unveiled two new smartwatches - Galaxy Watch 8 vs. Watch 8 Classic - both featuring comprehensive upgrades in design and user experience. The return of the iconic rotating bezel on the Classic model has drawn particular attention, paired with a more traditional-looking metal case that exudes a professional, business-oriented style. In contrast, the standard Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 adopts a lighter, more modern design, making it ideal for daily wear and fitness-focused users. While both watches share the same display, processor, and sensors, the differences in wearing comfort, design details, and user interaction go deeper than they first appear.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is priced $150 higher than the standard model- but is the added cost worth it? That depends on your lifestyle and design preferences. In this comparison, we’ll dive into all the key differences- from appearance and performance to health tracking and battery life- helping you decide which watch better suits your needs. Keep reading, because you might discover a few crucial details you didn’t expect.

Also Read Recent Articles about Samsung Watch New Model: 

Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 vs Apple Watch Series 10

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025)

Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 vs. Watch 8 Classic - Specifications

Design Comparison - Classic Stainless Steel vs. Lightweight Aluminum

Similarities

When it comes to design, both the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 vs. Watch 8 Classic share several core features. They maintain Samsung’s signature circular AMOLED display, support quick-release interchangeable bands, and are compatible with metal, leather, or silicone straps for different scenarios. Both models also offer similar screen sizes, smooth edge transitions, and water resistance, delivering a consistent foundation in terms of build quality and usability.

Differences

The standard Galaxy Watch 8 features a lightweight aluminum body, making it a great choice for those who prioritize portability and a modern, sporty look. It uses a digital bezel- you can slide your finger along the screen edge to navigate the interface. While convenient, this method can sometimes obstruct your view or feel less tactile.

In contrast, the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic boasts a premium stainless steel case with a physical rotating bezel, offering a much more intuitive and refined interaction. The clicky feel and precise feedback mimic a traditional mechanical watch, keeping the screen smudge-free and easier to control. The Classic model also includes a third “action button” on the side, which can be customized to launch workouts or apps- adding both utility and control.

In terms of visual appeal, the Galaxy Watch 8 is more minimalist and fitness-oriented, perfect for casual or workout settings. The Watch 8 Classic leans into a professional, timeless design ideal for formal occasions or users who appreciate the feel of a traditional wristwatch. This year’s Classic has also been refined to be slimmer and more comfortable, solving the bulkiness issue of previous generations.

Winner: Galaxy Watch 8 Classic

Its premium materials, tactile bezel, and sophisticated design make it the better all-around choice for users who want both function and elegance in one device.

Display Comparison - Ultra-High Brightness and Detailed Visuals

Similarities

Both the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 and Watch 8 Classic feature Super AMOLED displays with a peak brightness of 3000 nits, ensuring clear visibility even in bright sunlight. Both watches use sapphire crystal glass for excellent scratch resistance and have a resolution of 327 ppi, delivering vivid colors, deep blacks, and crisp images. They also support Always-On Display for easy access to time and notifications.

Differences

The Classic model includes a physical rotating bezel that provides extra protection for the screen and offers a traditional, comfortable user experience. The standard Watch 8 uses a sleek digital touch bezel, giving it a more modern look but less screen protection.

Winner: Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic

Thanks to the rotating bezel, the Classic excels in screen protection and tactile operation.

Size & Weight Comparison - Compact Comfort vs. Bold Presence

Similarities

Both the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 vs. Watch 8 Classic are designed with a circular face and offer a comfortable wearing experience suitable for daily use and fitness. They’re also water-resistant and built to be worn all day without causing wrist fatigue.

Differences

The Galaxy Watch 8 comes in two sizes: 40mm (1.57 inches) and 44mm (1.73 inches), giving users more flexibility depending on wrist size. It features Samsung’s thinnest and lightest build to date- measuring just 0.34 to 0.46 inches thick (8.6mm to 11.7mm) and weighing about 1.06 to 1.2 ounces (30–34 grams). The larger 44mm model even boasts a 1.47-inch display, making quick glances during workouts easier.

In contrast, the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is only available in one size- 46mm (1.81 inches). Despite being physically larger, its display is slightly smaller at 1.34 inches due to the physical rotating bezel. It’s also thicker at 0.58 inches (14.7mm) and significantly heavier at 2.24 ounces (63.5 grams), owing to its stainless steel build. While this adds weight, it also gives the Classic a more premium and watch-like presence, ideal for those who prefer a traditional timepiece feel.

If you have smaller wrists, prioritize lightweight wear, or want a more fitness-focused watch, the standard Galaxy Watch 8 is likely the better fit. But if you prefer a solid, statement-making design with a tactile feel, the Classic will win you over.

Winner: Galaxy Watch 8

Its multiple size options, lighter weight, and sleeker profile make it more versatile and comfortable for most users.

Health and Fitness Features Comparison - Comprehensive Monitoring with Precise Guidance

Similarities

Both the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 vs. Watch 8 Classic offer robust and extensive health and fitness tracking capabilities. Equipped with the latest BioActive sensors, they support ECG, heart rate, blood pressure, SpO2, stress, and sleep monitoring, along with new antioxidant level and vascular load measurements to help users gain a full picture of their health.

On the fitness side, both watches feature a personalized AI running coach that creates tailored training plans based on individual ability. They also support multiple workout modes and dual-frequency GPS for enhanced outdoor tracking accuracy. During exercise, real-time feedback helps users adjust their intensity for optimal results. Sleep tracking is upgraded with bedtime guidance to improve sleep quality.

Differences

The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic includes more precise sensors, especially for antioxidant level monitoring, and adds non-invasive blood glucose measurement (still in early stages), offering users more professional-grade health insights.

Winner: Galaxy Watch 8 Classic

With its higher sensor accuracy and added non-invasive glucose monitoring, the Classic leads in delivering comprehensive and precise health and fitness management.

Battery Life Comparison - Capacity and Real-World Performance

Similarities

Both the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 and Watch 8 Classic offer around 30 hours of battery life under typical usage and support convenient Qi wireless charging, eliminating the hassle of frequent plugging in. Both models are available in LTE and non-LTE versions to meet different user needs.

Differences

The Galaxy Watch 8 comes with two battery sizes: 325mAh for the 40mm version and 435mAh for the 44mm version. The Watch 8 Classic, however, features a larger 445mAh battery. Despite having a slightly smaller screen, the Classic’s bigger battery delivers better endurance, lasting one to two days longer in real-world use compared to the standard model. This makes the Classic a clear choice for users who prioritize longer battery life.

Winner: Galaxy Watch 8 Classic

With its larger battery capacity and more consistent endurance, the Classic is better suited for users needing extended usage time.

Internal Hardware and Software Experience Comparison - Balanced Performance vs. Storage Advantage

Similarities

Both the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 and Watch 8 Classic are powered by Samsung’s advanced 3nm Exynos W1000 hexa-core processor and come with 2GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance and seamless multitasking. They run the latest Wear OS 6 operating system paired with the One UI 8 Watch interface, featuring Google Gemini voice assistant for smart voice control and efficient operation.

In terms of sensors, both watches are equipped with BioActive health sensors, temperature sensors, accelerometers, barometers, gyroscopes, and more. Connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.3, dual-band Wi-Fi, NFC, and multi-system dual-frequency GPS for stable connections.

Differences

The biggest difference lies in storage capacity: the Galaxy Watch 8 offers 32GB, sufficient for everyday apps and music, while the Watch 8 Classic doubles that to 64GB, ideal for users who need ample offline content and apps.

Additionally, the Classic features a physical rotating bezel and an extra shortcut button, providing a more traditional and tactile user experience. The standard version uses a touch-sensitive digital bezel with a sleek, modern interface but lacks the physical rotation feel.

Winner: Galaxy Watch 8 Classic

With double the storage and richer physical interaction design, the Classic is better suited for users who prioritize large storage capacity and traditional watch controls.

Price Comparison - Galaxy Watch 8 vs. Watch 8 Classic

The Galaxy Watch 8 starts at $349.99 for the 40mm Bluetooth model, with the 44mm version priced at $379.99. LTE versions cost $50 more, bringing the 40mm and 44mm models to $399.99 and $429.99 respectively.

In contrast, the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is priced higher, starting at $499.99 for the 46mm Bluetooth version and $549.99 for the LTE version. It only comes in one size, is noticeably thicker (10.6mm), and much heavier (63.5g), making it a better fit for users who prefer a traditional, premium design.

Winner: Galaxy Watch 8

It offers more size options and a better price-to-feature balance for most users.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 vs. Watch 8 Classic - Summary & Recommendation

When comparing the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 vs. Watch 8 Classic, both stand out as Samsung’s most advanced smartwatches to date. While they share many core features, their differences lie in design, interaction style, and specific performance aspects. The Galaxy Watch 8 is lighter, offers multiple size options, and comes at a more affordable price- making it ideal for first-time Galaxy Watch users or those who prefer a sleek, modern look. In contrast, the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic features a rotating bezel, larger storage, longer battery life, and more accurate health sensors, appealing to users who value a traditional watch aesthetic and richer functionality.

Overall, if you prioritize portability and value, the Galaxy Watch 8 is the smarter pick. But if you’re drawn to tactile control, enhanced health tracking, and a more refined appearance, the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is the more complete option. In the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 vs. Watch 8 Classic decision, your choice should reflect your personal style, daily needs, and how you plan to use your smartwatch- either way, you're getting a premium wearable experience.