Apple announced the both Apple Watch SE 2 and the Apple Watch Series 8 in 2022. Both smartwatches feature the same design language and several capabilities, including S8 SiP, water resistance up to 50 meters, the ability to make and receive calls, send and receive text messages, and use a variety of third-party apps, health, and fitness tracking features, including a heart rate monitor, GPS, and an accelerometer, support watchOS 10.
However, Apple Watch SE is a more cost-effective option than Apple Watch Series 8 which offers many of the features that have made the Apple Watch so popular. On the other hand, the Apple Watch Series 8 provides a more complete experience with extra health monitoring capabilities.
If you’re looking for a smartwatch that’s suitable for outdoor activities and can’t decide between the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Apple Watch SE 2, here is a comprehensive comparison of both smartwatches. This will assist you in determining which one is a better investment for you.
Apple Watch Series 8 vs. Apple Watch SE 2nd generation: Specs comparison
| Specs | Apple Watch Series 8 | Apple Watch SE 2nd generation |
| Finish | Aluminium or Stainless Steel | Aluminium |
| Processor | S8 SiP | S8 SiP |
| Storage | 32GB | 32GB |
| Dimensions | 41 x 35 x 10.7mm (41mm model), 45 x 38 x 10.7mm (45mm model) | 40 x 34 x 10.7mm (40mm), 44 x 38 x 10.7mm (44mm) |
| Weight | 41mm – 32g (Aluminium), 42.3g (Stainless Steel)
45mm – 38.8g (Aluminium), 51.5g (Stainless Steel) |
26.4g (40mm), 32.9g (44mm) |
| Display | Always-on Retina OLED display | Retina OLED display |
| Display resolution | 352×430 pixels (41mm case) 396×484 pixels (45mm case) |
324×394 pixels (40mm case) 368×448 pixels (44mm case) |
| Connectivity | GPS and GPS & Cellular | GPS and GPS & Cellular |
| Controls | Digital Crown, Side button, Touchscreen, Raise to wake, Double-tap to switch apps | Digital Crown, Side button, Touchscreen, Raise to wake, Double-tap to switch apps |
| Water resistance | 50 meters deep for up to 30 minutes | 50 meters deep for up to 30 minutes |
| Features | ECG app, blood oxygen sensor, temperature sensor, sleep tracking, fall detection, crash detection | Optical heart sensor, fall detection, crash detection |
| Speaker/Mic | Dual speakers Three-mic array with beamforming |
Second-generation speaker Microphone |
| Battery life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 18 hours |
| Price | Starting from $399 | Starting from $249 |
Apple Watch Series 8 vs. Apple Watch SE 2nd generation: Which is better?
Apple Watch SE 2 is also a great watch, and it is a more affordable option than the Apple Watch Series 8. However, the Apple Watch Series 8 has a few key advantages over the Apple Watch SE 2 listed below:
- Always-on display: This means that you can always see the time and other important information on the watch face, even when your wrist is down.
- ECG app and blood oxygen sensor: These sensors can be used to track your heart health and blood oxygen levels.
- Temperature sensor: This sensor can be used to track your body temperature, which can help detect fevers and other health conditions.
- Sleep tracking: This feature tracks your sleep stages and provides you with insights into your sleep quality.
Points to consider when deciding between Apple Watch Series 8 and SE 2
Health tracking
The Apple Watch Series 8 includes several advanced health-tracking features that the Apple Watch SE 2 doesn’t have including:
- Blood oxygen sensor: This sensor can measure your blood oxygen saturation levels, which can be useful for tracking your overall health and fitness.
- ECG sensor: This sensor can take an electrocardiogram (ECG) of your heart, which can help detect heart arrhythmias and other heart conditions.
- Temperature sensor: This sensor can track your wrist temperature, which can be useful for tracking your menstrual cycle, fertility, and overall health.
If you prioritize health-tracking features, the Apple Watch Series 8 is the best choice. If not, the SE 2 may suit you better.
Display
The Apple Watch Series 8 has a slightly larger display than the SE 2, with a size of 1.9 inches compared to 1.78 inches. The Series 8 also has thinner bezels, which gives it a more modern look.
If you would like a larger and more modern display, the Apple Watch Series 8 may be the ideal option for you. On the other hand, if you don’t mind a smaller and more traditional display, the SE 2 is still an excellent choice.
Performance
The Apple Watch Series 8 has a more powerful processor than the SE 2, which means that it can perform tasks more quickly and efficiently.
If you plan on using your Apple Watch for demanding tasks, such as gaming or using multiple apps at the same time, then the Series 8 may be a better choice for you. However, if you are only using your Apple Watch for basic tasks, such as checking notifications, tracking your fitness, and using a few basic apps, then the SE 2 should be sufficient.
Price
The Apple Watch Series 8 is more expensive than the SE 2. The Series 8 starts at $399, while the SE 2 starts at $249.
Buy an Apple Watch Series 8 if..
- You want the most feature-rich Apple Watch available.
- If you prefer larger displays.
- You are interested in advanced health tracking features, such as ECG, blood oxygen monitoring, and temperature sensing.
- You want an Always-on display.
- You are willing to pay a bit more for a premium smartwatch.
- Although Apple has officially discontinued the Series 8, the smartwatch is available at various retailers for a discounted price. So, you can enjoy advanced features for less.
Buy an Apple Watch SE 2nd Generation if..
- You are on a budget.
- You do not need all of the advanced health tracking features of the Series 8.
- You do not need an Always-on display.
- You are looking for a great value for your money.
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