Apple Watch SE vs Apple Watch Series 8: A Comprehensive Comparison

Design and Display

The design of both the Apple Watch SE and the Apple Watch Series 8 is largely similar, reflecting Apple’s minimalist and sleek aesthetic. Both models come in two sizes: 41mm and 45mm, and both are available in various colors, including Midnight, Starlight, and Silver for the SE, and a broader selection for the Series 8, which also includes colors like Product(RED) and a titanium option.

Apple Watch SE Design:

• The Apple Watch SE features an aluminum case and a Retina display. The display is bright and clear but lacks the Always-On display found in the Series 8.
• The Watch SE uses Ion-X glass, which is durable but not as scratch-resistant as the sapphire crystal on the Series 8.
• The Watch SE is available in a more budget-friendly price range, offering great value for the features it includes.

Apple Watch Series 8 Design:

• The Series 8 features a premium design with an always-on Retina display, which remains visible at all times without the need to raise your wrist. This feature is useful for quick glance-checks of the time, notifications, and app info.
• The Series 8 uses sapphire crystal for a more durable and scratch-resistant screen, making it a better choice for those who want added durability.
• The Series 8 also has more color options and a luxurious titanium model, appealing to users looking for a more high-end aesthetic.

Performance and Speed

When it comes to performance, both the Apple Watch SE and Series 8 offer excellent speed and smooth functionality, but there are some differences in the chips that power these devices.

Apple Watch SE Performance:

• The Apple Watch SE is powered by the S5 SiP (System in Package) chip, which is a few generations behind the Series 8’s chip. Although it’s not the latest processor, the S5 chip is still fast and responsive for most tasks, including notifications, fitness tracking, and basic apps.
• The performance is smooth, but there is a slight difference when compared to the more recent models, particularly when it comes to resource-intensive tasks like running multiple apps simultaneously.

Apple Watch Series 8 Performance:

• The Series 8 is equipped with the newer S8 SiP chip, which is faster and more efficient than the S5 chip in the SE. The S8 chip supports better performance for running apps, tracking real-time health metrics, and using more demanding features like the Always-On display.
• Additionally, the Series 8 has more RAM and storage, which results in a quicker response time when switching between apps or loading data-heavy features like GPS navigation.

Battery Life

Battery life is a critical consideration for users of wearable devices, and Apple has designed both the SE and Series 8 to provide adequate power for all-day use.

Apple Watch SE Battery Life:

• The Apple Watch SE offers up to 18 hours of battery life on a full charge. This is typical of most Apple Watches and should be enough for a full day of normal use, including fitness tracking, notifications, and general app usage.
• The SE’s battery life may be shorter if you use power-intensive features like GPS tracking or streaming music.

Apple Watch Series 8 Battery Life:

• The Series 8 also offers up to 18 hours of battery life, so the battery duration is quite similar to the SE. However, due to the Always-On display and the added power efficiency of the S8 chip, the Series 8 can sometimes offer slightly better performance in terms of battery optimization.
• Both watches have a fast-charging feature, allowing you to charge the device to 80% in about 45 minutes, so you can quickly top-up your device during the day if needed.

Health and Fitness Features

One of the key differentiating factors between the Apple Watch SE and Series 8 is the health and fitness features they offer. While both models are excellent for tracking basic health metrics, the Series 8 has some advanced capabilities.

Apple Watch SE Health Features:

• The Apple Watch SE tracks heart rate, calories burned, steps taken, and workouts like running, cycling, swimming, and more. It offers an accurate and reliable fitness experience for most users.
• It also supports features like Fall Detection and Emergency SOS, which can be incredibly useful in an emergency situation, especially for older users or those at risk of falling.

Apple Watch Series 8 Health Features:

• The Series 8 builds on the SE’s capabilities by adding some advanced health features, including:
  • Temperature Sensor: The Series 8 is equipped with a body temperature sensor that can help users track changes in body temperature over time, which is particularly useful for women tracking their menstrual cycle or anyone interested in monitoring general body temperature trends.
  • ECG (Electrocardiogram) App: The Series 8 includes the ECG app, which allows users to take an electrocardiogram to monitor their heart health and detect potential signs of atrial fibrillation (AFib). This feature is not available on the SE.
  • Blood Oxygen Monitoring: The Series 8 has a blood oxygen sensor that can measure the oxygen levels in your blood, which is important for understanding how well your respiratory system is functioning. This feature is absent from the SE.
  • Crash Detection: The Series 8 also includes an improved version of crash detection, using advanced sensors to detect if you’re involved in a severe car accident. If an accident is detected, the Series 8 can automatically alert emergency services and share your location.

Connectivity and Software Features

Both the Apple Watch SE and Series 8 come with a range of connectivity options that enhance their usability, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and optional cellular models for making calls and sending messages without a nearby iPhone.

Apple Watch SE Connectivity:

• The Apple Watch SE offers solid connectivity, including the ability to pair with your iPhone for seamless access to notifications, apps, and calls.
• The SE is available in both GPS-only and GPS + Cellular models, which allow you to stay connected even when your phone is not nearby. The GPS model requires your iPhone to be in range, whereas the Cellular model can function independently of your phone.

Apple Watch Series 8 Connectivity:

• Like the SE, the Series 8 comes in GPS-only and GPS + Cellular models, and it offers excellent connectivity with iPhones, including features like the ability to stream music, podcasts, and apps directly from the watch.
• The Series 8 supports the latest Bluetooth 5.3 technology, which offers improved connectivity with other devices, such as wireless headphones and smart home devices.

Price Comparison

One of the most significant differences between the Apple Watch SE and Series 8 is their price point. The Apple Watch SE is designed to be a more affordable option, while the Series 8 is positioned as a premium model with additional features.

Apple Watch SE Price:

• The Apple Watch SE is generally priced lower, making it a great choice for budget-conscious consumers who want the core functionality of an Apple Watch without paying for the additional features found in the Series 8. Prices for the SE start at $249 for the GPS model and $299 for the GPS + Cellular model.

Apple Watch Series 8 Price:

• The Series 8 is priced higher, reflecting its premium features like the Always-On display, advanced health sensors, and improved processing power. Prices for the Series 8 start at $399 for the GPS model and $499 for the GPS + Cellular model.

Which One Should You Choose?

When deciding between the Apple Watch SE and Series 8, it ultimately comes down to your priorities:

• Choose the Apple Watch SE if: You’re looking for a more affordable option that still offers solid fitness and health tracking, a sleek design, and essential smartwatch features. The SE is perfect for people who want a high-quality Apple Watch experience without breaking the bank.
• Choose the Apple Watch Series 8 if: You want the latest technology, including advanced health sensors (ECG, Blood Oxygen, Temperature), a more durable design, and the convenience of an Always-On display. If you’re a fitness enthusiast or someone who values the latest health-tracking capabilities, the Series 8 is the more feature-rich option.

Conclusion

Both the Apple Watch SE and Series 8 are excellent devices, each catering to different needs and budgets. The SE is a great choice for anyone seeking an affordable, reliable smartwatch with most of the essential features Apple has to offer. On the other hand, the Series 8 is the ideal choice for users who want a premium experience with additional health features and a more robust design. Regardless of which model you choose, both the Apple Watch SE and Series 8 provide an excellent way to enhance your lifestyle with fitness tracking, communication, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem.