I updated from a galaxy watch 4 to this galaxy 8. The updated software is excellent, updated watch faces and tiles are easier to use. Although the watch face is same size, the bezel shape makes it appear larger. Very modern looking watch, I've had many compliments in the gym and on the golf course!
If you are okay with charging the watch everyday. It is a good buy.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
Features
4
Performance
3
Design
5
Value
3
Response from Samsung USBy R&R Team, January 22, 2026
Howdy Daniel, Thank you for finding the time to share your feedback with us about your experience using the Samsung Galaxy Watch8. We value your candor as we improve the performance and functionality of our product line. Samsung provides a 12-month warranty on our products for manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship. The Galaxy Watch8 offers a powerful 3nm processor that has longer battery life and improved performance. The battery life on the Galaxy Watch8 varies depending on the usage. The 40mm model comes with a 325mAh battery, and the 44mm model has a 435mAh battery. Both offer up to 30 hours of use in Always On Display (AOD) mode. If you're experiencing less than optimal battery life on your device, please take a moment to check out "Reduced battery life on your Samsung smart watch" to help resolve what you may be experiencing. If you would like further assistance afterward, please do not hesitate to contact Samsung Support. Thank you for being a cherished Samsung customer. - Debra
Samsung Support smsng.us/Samsung-Support Warranty Information smsng.us/Warranty-Info Facebook Messenger smsng.us/Facebook-Messenger X Messages https://smsng.us/X-Messages Samsung Community smsng.us/Samsung-Community Watch8 https://www.samsung.com/us/watches/galaxy-watch8/ Reduced battery life on your Samsung smart watch https://www.samsung.com/us/support/troubleshooting/TSG01003232/
I bought this watch for tracking my pickleball play and sleep. I found out after purchase the fitness app does not support pickleball, which was very surprising given how popular the sport is. Highly requested by people but still not added.
Not surprising is how well it integrates with my S24 phone. Great experience setting up and generally using the two in tandem. Adding new watch faces is easy and there are many to choose from.
Sleep tracking seems to work well. I had a problem one time so far where the app didn't finish analyzing my sleep for a long time maybe 30 minutes. This is widely reported on the forums so where's the fix?
The main issue I've had with routine functionality is wrist detection. Sometimes the watch doesn't realize it is in my wrist. I have to fuss with it to get it working and not constantly locking.