Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 review: The ultimate fitness watch
This Aussie swears by this wearable for cracking the code to stopping the awful habit we’re all guilty of.
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It’s always during those moments when you’re rocking maximum-level confidence that your smartwatch suddenly detects an ‘unexpected workout’ when you, in fact, did not spontaneously start running a marathon.
And in the case of the new clever Galaxy Watch8*, there’s always a cheer squad congratulating you for keeping up your physical activity whenever you peel yourself away from your desk to go to the bathroom. Or maybe that’s just me.
BUY THE BRAND NEW SAMSUNG GALAXY WATCH8
Samsung’s new smartwatch boasts a thinner and brighter glow, and introduces a series of virtual trainers like Bedtime Guidance and Running Coach to help maintain healthy habits. But are the new AI features enough to create the ultimate wingwoman for my journey to find the perfect work-life balance?
Check out my experience below to see how the Samsung Galaxy Watch8 might actually be a useful addition to your rotation, and maybe even help curb your revenge bedtime procrastination and doom scrolling habits.
P.S It’s currently on sale for $244.65 off, now $454.35 (down from $699).
Keep in mind the Watch8 isn’t a medical device, so take any suggestions and ‘results’ provided by the gadget with a grain of salt.
RELATED: Hands-on look at Samsung’s Galaxy Ring
NEED TO KNOW
• The Galaxy Watch8 is available in two versions, Bluetooth and Bluetooth + 4G versions.
• You can now access Google Gemini from your watch, along with a few other functions like Now Bar and Now Brief which were originally only on the Galaxy smartphones.
• For a bigger watch, the Galaxy Watch8 Classic comes in 40mm, 44mm and a bonus 46mm option.
1-MINUTE REVIEW: SAMSUNG GALAXY WATCH8
IS THE SAMSUNG GALAXY8 WORTH IT?
The Samsung Watch8 is definitely worth checking out if you’re in the market for a new smartwatch. The AI features are a great upgrade, especially if you’re looking to build and maintain healthy habits. You can also use your accessory as a nice alternative to your smartphone. The battery still isn’t the best, but it charges fairly quick and can be done while you’re at your desk or getting ready.
ALL THE DETAILS
HOW DID WE TEST IT?
I spent approximately a month with the Samsung Galaxy Watch8, mainly using it most nights to track my sleep and Energy Score. I also tried using the device similar to a phone, such as replying to messages, multi-tasking and making the most of Google Gemini.
IS THE GALAXY WATCH8 COMFORTABLE?
For context, I got the Watch8 in a small with a 44mm watch size and white Hybrid Band. The watch sits nice and flat, and there are plenty of size options to shift through so you can find the perfect fit. I don’t usually wear bracelets while working or going to bed, but the Watch8 was comfortable and easy to get used to.
I also found it more comfortable than some other smartwatches when it comes to doing anything requiring a bendy (or even extra sweaty) wrist, such as certain yoga poses and pilates. The watch face doesn’t dig into the skin, and it doesn’t feel so bulky or ‘sticky’ that it’s difficult to not be hyper aware there’s something clinging to your wrist.
The best part is how the strap actually tucks inside nicely, getting rid of that annoying loose flappy band problem many watches have.
Design wise, I prefer a steel band to match the sleek watch face but the Hybrid option still looks great. (And honestly, the workout-friendly material is a good reminder the gadget isn’t just there for looks,).
IS IT EASY TO USE
Typing messages feels a bit cramped, but it’s not impossible to text back – especially since there are suggested replies. All the features are generally easy to work out and convenient, but you need to take a bit of time to customise and learn your setup.
Charging can be a bit fiddly as you have to make sure both the charger and Watch8 are sitting on a flat surface, otherwise it might not charge properly.
WHAT’S NEW WITH THE GALAXY WATCH8?
The new Watch8 is thinner and brighter than its older siblings, plus finally loaded with Google Gemini, multi-info tiles, features like Running Coach, Now Bar, Now Brief and a few other upgrades. It’s definitely more ‘phone-like’ than ever before, which is good news if you’ve been looking for a smartwatch that’s bluetooth and 4G compatible.
But for me, the next-level Bedtime Guidance feature was the most interesting and practical addition since it supposedly analyses your sleep patterns from the past three days before recommending an ideal bedtime to help you get enough sleep. It’s a pretty cool and convenient way to manage your sleep and recharge your batteries.
I’m a serious offender of late-night screen time and often end up putting my phone down past 11pm, which isn’t ideal considering I usually take a long chunk of time to fall asleep and need to wake up around 5am.
Getting suggestions has been useful for dragging myself out of the TikTok or YouTube blackhole. It was especially helpful when I developed a new sleep schedule after starting early morning pilates classes and switched my language class to later in the evening.
CAN IT HELP WITH HEALTHY HABITS?
I mainly use the Watch8 to improve my day-to-day self care, focusing on improving my terrible sleep habits with the Bedtime Guidance. I also like getting updates about my Energy Score, which I use more as a reminder to check-in with myself throughout the day. Although it doesn’t always feel the most accurate, which is understandable since it’s not a medical device.
I also love how simple it is to access easy breathing exercises straight from the menu. It’s a great way to help me ground myself throughout the day, especially when I find myself starting to spiral into a massive stress ball.
I’m also a major fan of the Samsung Health app, or at least when it comes to the free videos. If you like at-home workouts, you can access a wide range of content (usually via YouTube) to make things easier. This includes everything from quick tutorial clips and short sets to full-length Zumba classes and bootcamp programs.
It’s a nice portal that can assist with adding some physical activity every day, without having to worry about doing two hours worth of hardcore training in a gym that can feel overwhelming or intimidating. Programs also come with a tracker which you can use to plan when you’re doing specific exercises, factor in rest days, and easily see how consistent you’ve been.
While it’s not traditionally the ‘coolest’ exercise option, I loved using Zumba to try and trick myself into adding some movement in my day. There are also a few other dance sets that are super fun and equally effective as hiding veggies in food.
And for surviving the daily grind, I like doing the Office Stretches program. It takes just 11 minutes and nice appetiser for my anti-afternoon slump hack.
Of course, the app isn’t exclusively available for the Watch8 but still worth checking out if you have a Samsung device.
HOW MUCH DOES THE GALAXY WATCH8 COST?
The Galaxy Watch8 retails from $649 for the Bluetooth model, and from $749 from the Bluetooth+4G alternative. Both watches are available in either silver or graphite.
VERDICT: SHOULD YOU BUY THE SAMSUNG GALAXY WATCH8?
After spending some time with the Galaxy Watch8, I’ve slowly developed a nice routine that’s helping me ease into more healthy habits in a sustainable way. I particularly love the convenience of the mindfulness features, and being able to track my sleeping patterns in order to manage my energy a little bit better.
I wish the battery life was better and more similar to the Samsung Ring, although it charges fairly quickly (or at least, fast enough for me not to feel frustrated it’s not on my wrist). But I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for the sales after returning this loan unit.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What other new features does the Watch8 have?
Some additions include:
• Running Coach: Offers real-time guidance and suggests a personalised training program.
• Mindfulness: You can track your mood, run various breathing exercises and set reminders.
• High Stress Alert: You can now turn on High Stress Alerts with continuous tracking.
What sizes can you get for Watch8?
The S/M band fits wrists measuring between 130mm and 190mm, while the M/L strap fits 145mm to 205mm wrists.
What different bands are available?
More Coverage
You can opt for the Sport Band, Fabric Band, Athleisure Band and Hybrid Band. These typically come in Graphite, White and Blue as well as a few other colour options depending on the band type.
*Product has been loaned by Samsung for a 100 per cent independent, honest review.
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