The Samsung Galaxy Watch8 is a fairly new addition to the smartwatch scene in Malaysia, now with a bigger battery and support for more smart features than the previous model. But before you rush to the nearest Samsung store or add it to your shopping cart, there are some crucial things to consider.
Editor
Jodee Tan chevron_right
Table of Contents
Samsung Galaxy Watch8 Full Specifications
- Display:
- 44mm: 1.47-inch (480x480) Super AMOLED, Full Color Always On Display
- 40mm: 1.34-inch (438x438) Super AMOLED, Full Color Always On Display
- Processor: Samsung Exynos W1000 (5 core, 3nm)
- Operating System & UI: One UI 8 Watch, Wear OS 6 powered by Samsung, Google Gemini built-in
- Memory: 2GB RAM + 32GB ROM
- Battery: Fast Charging (WPC-based wireless charging)
- 44mm: 435mAh
- 40mm: 325mAh
- Built: Sapphire crystal (display), 5ATM + IP68
- Connectivity: LTE 6 , Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 2.4+5GHz, NFC, L1+L5 Dual-Frequency GPS
- Compatibility: Android 12.0 or higher and with more than 1.5GB of memory
- Dimensions:
- 44mm: 43.7mm x 46mm x 8.6t (34g)
- 40mm: 40.4mm x 42.7mm x 8.6t (30g)
- Sensors:
- Samsung BioActive Sensor (Optical Bio- signal Sensor + Electrical Heart Signal + Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis)
- Temperature Sensor
- Accelerometer
- Barometer
- Gyro Sensor
- Geomagnetic Sensor
- Light Sensor
Phone Compatibility
While the Galaxy Watch8 technically works with both Android and iPhone, the experience varies dramatically depending on your phone choice.
If you're a Samsung Galaxy Smartphone user, then great! You will get the full experience - seamless setup, Samsung Health integration, Galaxy Wearable app with all features unlocked, and those handy Samsung Pay transactions at your local mamak or 7-Eleven. It's similar for Android Users, where you'll enjoy most features, but you'll miss out on some Samsung-specific integrations. Health data syncing might require extra steps, and some advanced features may be limited.
Now, if you're an iPhone Users, it becomes a challenge. While basic functionality works, you're essentially buying a premium fitness tracker with limited smart features. You won't get to enjoy key experiences like the seamless voice replies to messages, have restricted app ecosystem, and you can't use Samsung Pay (though you still have your iPhone's wallet).
Size Matters
A quip we've always had is that the Galaxy Watch8 series comes in certain sizes, and they can be quite big in size on delicate wrists (like mine). For the Galaxy Watch8, it comes in 40mm and 44mm options. Though the native nylon strap can make the Galaxy Watch8 look too casual, you can switch out the Galaxy Watch8 straps for other materials like fabric.
For example, the 40mm can look more professional due to its smaller and delicate size, and that it fits better under shirt sleeves during KL's formal work environment. Whereas, the 44mm size would offer better visibility during outdoor activities under Malaysia's bright sun and longer battery life
All in all, if you're looking to buy the Galaxy Watch8, it's good to go in-store to try them and see how they look.
Connectivity Options: LTE vs Bluetooth-Only
Make sure you check which model you'll need, because the Bluetooth model is cheaper than the LTE Model by RM100.
For those who are new to smartwatches, the Bluetooth-Only Model may be able to work independently away from your phone, but it still needs your phone nearby for certain features like receiving calls. Meanwhile the LTE Model may be more expensive, but it works independently with cellular connection and can function just like a secondary celullar device (imagine, going for a run peacefully without your phone!).
Another thought would be the battery impact, as the LTE usage will significantly reduce battery life.
So, do you need LTE or is Bluetooth-only sufficient. Serious runners/cyclists or even just regular users who wants to travel light and leave their phones behind for short errand runs would appreciate the LTE model. Meanwhile those who cannot be away from their phone might find the Bluetooth-only model sufficient.
Should You Get It?
In our experience, the Galaxy Watch8 has seen some upgrades. It now has a more comfortable fit, better AI support with Google's Wear OS6 integration into One UI 8, and even a new Biometric sensor. If anything, Samsung has designed the Galaxy Watch8 series to be more involved than ever in your health, offering full-fledge fitness assistance and acute tracking.
Available from RM1,299; the Galaxy Watch8 might be a little pricier than expected for many people, but it offers the right tools to get you kickstarted into a fitness-lover lifestyle. Further justifying the price is the several years of Samsung OS and security support the Galaxy Watch8 will get, thereby making it a semi-permanent health tool to last you for quite some time.
For more info, you may check out our coverage of the official prices and new features on the Galaxy Watch8 here. We also did a Galaxy Watch8 Classic review here, which is a bigger variant of the Galaxy Watch8.
To purchase, visit this Samsung Malaysia page. Also, stay updated with ProductNation on here, Instagram & TikTok as well.
More related recommendations: