Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic Review: Stuck in the Middle
Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 8 Classic arrives with a mix of enhancements and drawbacks, positioning itself in a peculiar spot within the smartwatch realm. Let’s delve into the key aspects that define this latest addition to Samsung’s lineup.
Design & Build
The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic reintroduces the popular physical rotating bezel, alongside a new ‘cushion’ design and revamped strap lug connectors. However, the amalgamation of design elements may not resonate with all users, creating a slightly awkward aesthetic. The weight, stainless steel build, and button layout contribute to a noticeable presence on the wrist.
Screen & Audio
Featuring a 1.3-inch Super AMOLED display with a maximum brightness of 3000 nits, the Watch 8 Classic offers vivid visuals and adaptive brightness options. The display integrates well with the rotating bezel for seamless interactions. On the audio front, the onboard microphone and speaker provide decent functionality, albeit lacking in clarity and volume.
Software & Features
Powered by Wear OS 6.0 and Samsung’s One UI 8 Watch overlay, the Watch 8 Classic delivers a refined user interface with practical enhancements like streamlined Tiles and convenient access to essential features. The standout addition is Google Gemini, an AI-powered assistant offering advanced functionalities, though the reliance on multiple apps for full utilization remains a drawback.
Fitness & Health Tracking
Equipped with various health tracking features, the Watch 8 Classic offers insights into fitness metrics, sleep patterns, and even antioxidant levels. While the tracking capabilities are comprehensive, some experimental features like the Antioxidant Index may require further refinement for accuracy and user convenience.
Battery Life & Charging
The Watch 8 Classic boasts up to 40 hours of battery life, with variations based on usage scenarios like always-on display mode. Despite a marginal increase in battery capacity, the device falls short compared to competitors in terms of longevity, especially during GPS usage. Additional power-saving modes aim to extend usage time.
Price & Availability
Priced starting at $499 for the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi model, the Watch 8 Classic sits between premium and mid-range smartwatches in the market. While offering notable features and enhancements, the pricing may deter budget-conscious consumers seeking better value for money, especially with more affordable options available from competitors like Google and OnePlus.
Verdict
In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic presents a mixed bag of improvements and compromises, making it a decent but not exceptional choice in the smartwatch landscape. While showcasing advancements like Google Gemini and software upgrades, the device falls short in areas like battery life and design coherence. Considering the pricing and competition, users seeking a balance of features and affordability may explore alternative options in the market.
Specs
– Wear OS 6 with One UI 8 Watch
– 1.3-inch AMOLED screen
– 46mm stainless steel case
– ECG, blood pressure, and sleep apnea monitoring
– 64GB storage, 2GB memory
– Bluetooth and LTE models
– Dual-frequency GPS
– 5ATM waterproof rating
– Up to 40 hours battery life
– Launch colors: Black and white
Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic offers a blend of advancements and trade-offs, catering to users seeking a balance between functionality and price in the smartwatch arena.