Undoubtedly, the Apple Watch Series 8 has some compelling features that make it our top pick for the best smartwatch. It boasts a stylish and elegant curved design that has remained unchanged from the Series 7. Additionally, it has two new sensors that provide insight into menstrual cycle and sleep tracking, while also updating the gyroscope and accelerometer to incorporate crash detection.
Still, the Watch Series 8 starts at $399, Plus the battery life isn’t all that great. Apple claims that you can squeeze out between 15 to 18 hours from it, but most users take out less than that. Who wants to charge their watch every single night? Not I!
That is why, it’s important to take a look at other Watch Series 8 alternatives for your iPhone to see which smartwatches can give you more value for your hard-earned buck.
1. GARMIN VENU 2S
First up, we have the Garmin Venu 2S. This watch is an upgraded version of its predecessor, the Garmin Venu, and comes with several new features that make it an excellent alternative to the Apple Watch Series 8. The Venu 2S features a 1.3-inch AMOLED display, which is bright, clear, and easy to read even in direct sunlight.
And the best part? It comes at a price that won’t break the bank. At just $399, the Venu 2S is a steal compared to the lowest-priced Apple Watch Series 8.
One of the standout features of the Garmin Venu 2S is its impressive battery life. While the Apple Watch Series 8 can only last up to 18 hours on a single charge, the Venu 2S can last up to an impressive 10 days. So, no more worrying about running out of juice in the middle of the day or carrying around a charger with you wherever you go.
The Garmin Connect App provides more advanced sleep-tracking features on the Garmin Venu 2S, although third-party apps on the Watch Series 8 can offer more than what is available on the Apple Health app.While both the Garmin Venu 2S and Apple Watch Series 8 monitor your heart rate, the Apple Watch Series 8 takes samples periodically during activities such as sitting, walking, and exercising, while the Garmin Venu 2S provides heart-rate information on a more continuous basis.
The Garmin Venu 2S, like the Apple Watch Series 8, includes GPS, blood oxygen level tracking, a heart-rate monitor, a compass, and a gyroscope. In contrast to the Series 8, the Garmin Venu 2S lacks a temperature sensor to monitor ovulation and menstrual cycles. Additionally, it is unable to perform an ECG.
Unfortunately, Apple limits certain features exclusively to their own smartwatches. One such example is the ability to reply to text messages using the on-screen keyboard or voice dictation, which is only available on the Apple Watch Series 8. While you can view your text messages on the Garmin Venu 2S, it does not offer the option to reply to them.
If you value a smartwatch with a long-lasting battery and prefer not to charge it every night, then the Garmin Venu 2S is an excellent option.
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2. Fitbit Sense 2
Next up, we have the Fitbit Sense 2. This watch is an updated version of the Fitbit Sense and offers several new features that make it a great alternative to the Apple Watch Series 8. The Fitbit Sense 2 comes with a 1.58-inch AMOLED display, which is larger than the Garmin Venu 2S and provides a more immersive experience.
The Fitbit Sense 2 is the ideal option for those who appreciate the Apple Watch Series 8’s modern, squircle design language, rather than the rounded watch faces featured on the Google Pixel Watch and Galaxy Watch 5.
In addition, the Fitbit Sense 2, priced at $299, offers savings of $100 compared to the Apple Watch Series 8. Similar to the Apple Watch, the Fitbit Sense 2 comes equipped with on-board GPS (ideal for monitoring outdoor activities), an accelerometer to monitor step counts, an oxygen saturation (SpO2) reader, an FDA-approved ECG sensor for detecting atrial fibrillation, a heart-rate sensor, and sleep tracking.
Although both watches feature skin temperature sensors, they are utilized in different ways. The Apple Watch leverages this technology to monitor the ovulation and menstrual cycles of the wearer, while the Fitbit Sense 2 employs it to track electrodermal activity.
It is worth noting that if you own an iPhone, the Apple Watch has some capabilities that the Fitbit Sense 2 lacks. These include crash detection, the ability to access the iOS Photos app, and the ability to reply to texts (although the Fitbit Sense 2’s functionality in this area is limited).
If the previously mentioned features are not important to you, then the Fitbit Sense, which starts at $299, is a great option to consider over the Apple Watch, especially if you value having a long battery life.
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3. APPLE WATCH SE 2022
Finally, we have the Apple Watch SE 2022. So If you’re looking for an affordable way to sport a sleek Apple Watch like the Joneses, then you should consider the Apple Watch SE, which is priced at $249. This smartwatch offers a great value for those who want to own one of the coolest smartwatches available without breaking the bank.
Although you won’t have access to the ECG, SpO2 reader, or skin temperature sensor, the Apple Watch SE is still a suitable option for tracking fitness activities and heart rate, allowing you to achieve your daily goals by closing the Apple Watch rings before the day’s end. It’s also equipped with features such as fall and crash detection, as well as Emergency SOS via satellite.
It has the same 18-hour battery life as the Apple Watch Series 8, so don’t think you’re sacrificing much when it comes to power efficiency. It utilizes the same chipset as the Watch Series 8.
The Apple Watch SE (40mm) weighs 0.9 ounces, while the smallest Apple Watch Series 8 (41mm) weighs 1.5 ounces, making the former a lighter option for those in search of a featherweight wearable.
Furthermore, the Watch SE offers all the smartwatch capabilities that the Apple Watch Series 8 does, such as texting, calling, and music playback. Additionally, making swift purchases using Apple Pay is made possible with a simple double-click of the Watch SE’s side button. The App Store provides an extensive collection of apps for the Watch SE as well.
Overall, the Apple Watch SE 2022 is an excellent option for anyone who wants a smartwatch that’s packed with features and seamlessly integrates with their iPhone. While it is still more expensive than the other two watches we’ve looked at, it’s a more affordable option than the Apple Watch Series 8.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the Apple Watch Series 8 is undoubtedly a fantastic smartwatch, there are other options in the market that offer more value for your money. The Garmin Venu 2S, Fitbit Sense 2, and Apple Watch SE 2022 are all excellent choices that offer advanced fitness and health tracking features at a more affordable price point. When choosing a smartwatch, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and budget to find the best option for you.
Thanks for watching, and we hope this video has been helpful in your search for a new wearable.
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