A comparison of Apple Watch Series 8 and SE 2022. Find out which Apple Watch model offers the best value for your needs.

Apple Watch Series 8 vs SE 2022 Which to Buy

So, you're in the market for an Apple Watch, but you're feeling a bit overwhelmed by the choices? You're not alone! Apple offers a few different models, and two of the most popular options right now are the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Apple Watch SE (2nd generation), often referred to as the SE 2022. Both are fantastic smartwatches, but they cater to slightly different needs and budgets. This guide will break down everything you need to know to help you decide which one is the perfect fit for your wrist and your lifestyle.

Think of it this way: the Series 8 is the premium, feature-packed option, while the SE is the excellent value, essential smartwatch. But what does that actually mean in terms of daily use, health tracking, and overall experience? Let's dive deep into the specifics, comparing their features, performance, design, and of course, their price tags.

Apple Watch Design and Display Comparison

When you first look at the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Apple Watch SE 2022, you'll notice they share a very similar aesthetic. Both feature Apple's iconic rounded square design, which is instantly recognizable. However, there are some subtle yet significant differences, especially when it comes to the display.

Screen Technology and Brightness Apple Watch Display Differences

The Apple Watch Series 8 boasts an Always-On Retina display. This is a game-changer for many users. It means the screen never truly goes dark; it just dims when your wrist is down. You can always glance at the time, your complications, or notifications without needing to raise your wrist or tap the screen. This is incredibly convenient, especially during workouts, meetings, or when you just want a quick peek. The Series 8 also offers a brighter display, reaching up to 1000 nits, which makes it easier to read in direct sunlight.

On the other hand, the Apple Watch SE 2022 features a Retina display, but it lacks the Always-On functionality. This means the screen will go black when your wrist is down, and you'll need to raise your wrist or tap the screen to activate it. While this might seem like a minor difference, it can impact the user experience for some. The SE's display is still bright and vibrant, but it doesn't quite match the peak brightness of the Series 8.

Case Materials and Sizes Apple Watch Aesthetics

Both models come in two case sizes: 41mm and 45mm for the Series 8, and 40mm and 44mm for the SE 2022. The slight difference in size is barely noticeable on the wrist. The Series 8 offers more material options: aluminum and stainless steel. The aluminum models are lighter and come in a wider range of colors, while the stainless steel models offer a more premium, polished look and are more scratch-resistant. The SE 2022 is only available in aluminum, which helps keep its cost down.

In terms of durability, both watches feature a strong Ion-X front glass on the aluminum models. The Series 8 stainless steel models, however, come with a sapphire front crystal, which is even more scratch-resistant. Both are water-resistant up to 50 meters, making them suitable for swimming and showering.

Health and Fitness Tracking Apple Watch Sensors and Features

This is where the Apple Watch Series 8 truly shines and differentiates itself from the SE. While both watches offer excellent core fitness tracking, the Series 8 packs in some advanced health sensors that the SE simply doesn't have.

Advanced Health Monitoring ECG and Blood Oxygen

The Apple Watch Series 8 includes an Electrical Heart Sensor for ECG (electrocardiogram) readings. This allows you to take an ECG similar to a single-lead electrocardiogram, which can detect signs of atrial fibrillation (AFib), a serious form of irregular heart rhythm. This feature can be a lifesaver for some users, providing early detection of potential heart conditions.

Additionally, the Series 8 features a Blood Oxygen sensor. This allows you to measure your blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) on demand, providing insights into your overall respiratory and circulatory health. While not a medical device, it can be a useful tool for monitoring your well-being, especially for those with certain health conditions or who are training at altitude.

The Apple Watch SE 2022, on the other hand, does not have these advanced sensors. It still offers excellent heart rate monitoring, including high and low heart rate notifications, and irregular rhythm notifications, which are crucial for basic heart health tracking. But if ECG or blood oxygen monitoring are high on your priority list, the Series 8 is the clear winner.

Temperature Sensing and Cycle Tracking Apple Watch Innovations

A new addition to the Apple Watch Series 8 is temperature sensing. This feature is primarily designed for advanced cycle tracking for women. It can estimate ovulation retrospectively and provide more accurate period predictions. This is a significant step forward for women's health tracking on a wearable device. The temperature sensor also has the potential for future health applications, though Apple has not yet fully unlocked its capabilities beyond cycle tracking.

The Apple Watch SE 2022 does not have a temperature sensor, so it cannot offer the same advanced cycle tracking features. It still provides basic cycle tracking based on user-logged data, but without the physiological input from temperature, it's less precise.

Crash Detection and Fall Detection Apple Watch Safety Features

Both the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Apple Watch SE 2022 come with Crash Detection, a groundbreaking safety feature. Using an improved 3-axis gyroscope and a new high g-force accelerometer, along with a barometer, GPS, and advanced sensor-fusion algorithm, the watch can detect if you've been in a severe car crash. If it detects a crash and you're unresponsive, it will automatically call emergency services and notify your emergency contacts. This feature is a significant safety enhancement for both models.

Both watches also include Fall Detection, which has been available on Apple Watches for a few generations. If the watch detects a hard fall and you remain motionless for about a minute, it will automatically call emergency services. This feature is particularly valuable for older adults or individuals with certain health conditions.

Fitness Tracking and Workout Modes Apple Watch Activity Monitoring

When it comes to core fitness tracking, both the Series 8 and the SE 2022 are incredibly capable. They both track your daily activity (Move, Exercise, Stand rings), steps, distance, calories burned, and offer a wide range of workout modes for activities like running, cycling, swimming, yoga, and more. They both have built-in GPS for accurate outdoor workout tracking without needing your iPhone. The Workout app is robust and provides detailed metrics for your activities.

The main difference here is the additional health data the Series 8 can collect, which can provide a more holistic view of your health and recovery, especially with the blood oxygen and temperature sensing. However, for general fitness enthusiasts, the SE 2022 offers more than enough tracking capabilities.

Performance and Battery Life Apple Watch Speed and Endurance

Under the hood, both the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Apple Watch SE 2022 are powered by the S8 SiP (System in Package). This means they offer very similar performance in terms of speed and responsiveness. Apps launch quickly, navigating watchOS is smooth, and general day-to-day tasks feel snappy on both devices. You won't notice a significant performance difference between the two in regular use.

Battery Life Expectations Apple Watch Daily Usage

Both models are rated for up to 18 hours of battery life on a single charge with typical use. This means you'll likely need to charge them daily, especially if you're using features like GPS for workouts or cellular connectivity. However, the Series 8 benefits from a new Low Power Mode introduced in watchOS 9, which can extend battery life up to 36 hours by temporarily disabling certain features like the Always-On display, automatic workout detection, and some background heart rate measurements. The SE 2022 also gets Low Power Mode, but since it doesn't have the Always-On display, the battery savings might be less dramatic.

For most users, 18 hours is sufficient for a full day, including sleep tracking, if you charge it while you're getting ready in the morning or before bed. If you're a heavy user or frequently forget to charge, the Series 8's Low Power Mode could be a significant advantage.

Charging Speed Apple Watch Power Up

The Apple Watch Series 8 supports fast charging, which can charge the watch from 0% to 80% in about 45 minutes. This is a huge convenience, especially if you want to quickly top up your watch before bed for sleep tracking. The Apple Watch SE 2022 does not support fast charging, so it will take longer to fully charge.

Connectivity and Features Apple Watch Cellular and GPS

Both the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Apple Watch SE 2022 are available in GPS-only and GPS + Cellular models. The GPS-only models rely on your iPhone for calls, texts, and data when out of Wi-Fi range. The GPS + Cellular models allow you to make calls, send texts, stream music, and use apps without your iPhone nearby, as long as you have an active cellular plan for your watch (which usually costs an extra monthly fee from your carrier).

The cellular capability is a fantastic feature for runners, hikers, or anyone who wants to stay connected without carrying their phone. It offers a sense of freedom and security. Beyond cellular, both watches support Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for connectivity with other devices and networks.

Software and Ecosystem Apple Watch watchOS Experience

Both watches run on the latest version of watchOS, which means they offer the same core software experience. You'll get access to the same apps from the App Store, the same notification management, Apple Pay, Siri, and all the other great features that make the Apple Watch so versatile. The user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate on both models.

The main difference in software experience comes down to the hardware features. For example, the Series 8 will have specific apps or complications that utilize the ECG, Blood Oxygen, or temperature sensors, which won't be available on the SE.

Pricing and Value Apple Watch Budget Considerations

This is often the deciding factor for many buyers. The Apple Watch SE 2022 is positioned as the more affordable, entry-level option, while the Series 8 is the premium choice with more advanced features.

Apple Watch SE 2022 Price and Value Proposition

The Apple Watch SE 2022 starts at around $249 USD for the 40mm GPS-only model and $279 USD for the 44mm GPS-only model. The GPS + Cellular models are typically about $50 more. This makes it an incredibly attractive option for those who want the core Apple Watch experience without breaking the bank. It offers excellent fitness tracking, essential health features, and all the smart capabilities you'd expect from an Apple Watch. For many, the SE provides the best value for money.

Apple Watch Series 8 Price and Premium Features

The Apple Watch Series 8 starts at around $399 USD for the 41mm GPS-only aluminum model and $429 USD for the 45mm GPS-only aluminum model. The GPS + Cellular models are typically about $50 more. If you opt for the stainless steel models, the price jumps significantly, starting around $699 USD. The Series 8 commands a higher price tag due to its advanced health sensors (ECG, Blood Oxygen, Temperature), Always-On display, and faster charging.

Who Should Buy the Apple Watch SE 2022?

The Apple Watch SE 2022 is an excellent choice for:

• First-time smartwatch buyers: It offers a fantastic introduction to the Apple Watch ecosystem without the premium price.
• Budget-conscious consumers: If you want an Apple Watch but don't need all the bells and whistles, the SE provides incredible value.
• Users primarily interested in fitness tracking and notifications: The SE excels at activity tracking, heart rate monitoring, and keeping you connected with notifications.
• Parents looking for a smartwatch for their kids (with Family Setup): The SE is a great option for kids who need a communication device and basic safety features.
• Example Product: Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) 40mm GPS, Midnight Aluminum Case with Midnight Sport Band. Price: ~$249 USD. Use Case: Daily fitness tracking, receiving notifications, Apple Pay, and basic communication. Perfect for someone who wants a reliable and affordable Apple Watch.

Who Should Buy the Apple Watch Series 8?

The Apple Watch Series 8 is the better choice for:

• Health-conscious individuals: If you prioritize advanced health monitoring like ECG, blood oxygen, and temperature sensing for cycle tracking, the Series 8 is worth the investment.
• Users who want the latest and greatest features: If you always want the most advanced technology Apple offers in a smartwatch, the Series 8 delivers.
• Those who value the Always-On display: The convenience of always being able to glance at the time and information without raising your wrist is a significant benefit for some.
• Individuals who need faster charging: If you frequently forget to charge or want to quickly top up for sleep tracking, fast charging is a huge plus.
• Example Product: Apple Watch Series 8 45mm GPS + Cellular, Starlight Aluminum Case with Starlight Sport Band. Price: ~$479 USD. Use Case: Comprehensive health monitoring, staying connected without a phone during runs, and enjoying the convenience of the Always-On display. Ideal for someone who wants all the advanced features and connectivity.
• Example Product: Apple Watch Series 8 41mm GPS, Silver Stainless Steel Case with Milanese Loop. Price: ~$699 USD. Use Case: A premium look and feel, enhanced scratch resistance, and all the advanced health features. Perfect for those who prioritize aesthetics and durability alongside functionality.

Alternative Considerations Apple Watch Ultra and Older Models

While this comparison focuses on the Series 8 and SE 2022, it's worth briefly mentioning other options.

Apple Watch Ultra Rugged and Extreme

If you're an extreme athlete, adventurer, or simply want the most rugged and feature-rich Apple Watch available, the Apple Watch Ultra is another option. It features a larger, brighter display, a customizable Action Button, dual-frequency GPS, a depth gauge for diving, and significantly longer battery life (up to 36 hours, or 60 hours in Low Power Mode). However, it comes with a much higher price tag, starting at $799 USD. It's overkill for most users but an incredible device for its target audience.

Older Apple Watch Models Refurbished and Discounts

You might also find older models like the Apple Watch Series 7 or Series 6 available at discounted prices, especially refurbished. These can offer some of the Series 8's features (like Always-On display, ECG, Blood Oxygen) at a lower cost. However, they won't have Crash Detection or the temperature sensor, and their processors might be slightly older. Always check the specific features and condition if considering an older model.

Final Thoughts Making Your Apple Watch Decision

Ultimately, the choice between the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Apple Watch SE 2022 comes down to your personal priorities and budget. Both are excellent smartwatches that seamlessly integrate with the Apple ecosystem and provide valuable health and fitness insights.

If you're looking for the most advanced health monitoring features, the convenience of an Always-On display, and faster charging, and you're willing to pay the premium, the Apple Watch Series 8 is the way to go. It offers a more complete and future-proof experience, especially for those who are very health-conscious or want every possible feature.

However, if you're on a tighter budget, or you simply don't need the advanced health sensors like ECG and blood oxygen, the Apple Watch SE 2022 is an outstanding choice. It provides the core Apple Watch experience, including robust fitness tracking, essential safety features like Fall Detection and Crash Detection, and all the smart notifications you need, at a significantly more accessible price point. For many, the SE offers the best balance of features and value.

Consider what features are truly essential for your daily life and how much you're willing to spend. Either way, you'll be getting a top-tier smartwatch that will enhance your daily routine and help you stay connected and healthy.