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Apple Watch Series 3 vs Series 8 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Apple Watch Series 8 & Apple Watch Series 3 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Apple Watch Series 8 rather than the Apple Watch Series 3. 

Why Do I Recommend The Apple Watch Series 8

  • The Apple Watch Series 8 has the S8 SiP processor for smoother multitasking, faster app responses, and more reliable long-term performance, whereas the Apple Watch Series 3 uses the older S3 chip.
  • Apple Watch Series 8 features an Always-On Retina display for checking time, workouts, and notifications without raising the wrist, while the Apple Watch Series 3 uses a non–Always-On display.
  • It includes a Blood Oxygen sensor for tracking oxygen levels during workouts and sleep to better understand overall wellness, whereas the Apple Watch Series 3 comes with no SpO2 capability.
  • The Apple Watch Series 8 supports ECG measurements for detecting irregular heart rhythms quickly and accurately during daily use, while the Apple Watch Series 3 supports no ECG feature.
  • Apple Watch Series 8 features Crash Detection for automatically contacting emergency services after severe vehicle collisions, while the Apple Watch Series 3 has no crash-detection system.
  • It has a built-in temperature sensor for improved cycle tracking and more precise overnight wellness monitoring, whereas the Apple Watch Series 3 includes no temperature sensor.
  • The Apple Watch Series 8 includes IP6X dust resistance for better durability during outdoor activities and dusty environments, whereas the Apple Watch Series 3 has no dust-resistance rating.
  • Apple Watch Series 8 comes with 32GB storage for keeping more apps, playlists, and offline media accessible on the wrist, while the Apple Watch Series 3 comes with only 8GB storage.

Maybe the Apple Watch Series 3 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Apple Watch Series 8. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side By Side Comparison

FeatureApple Watch Series 8Apple Watch Series 3
Display TypeAlways-On Retina OLEDRetina OLED
Display Sizes41mm / 45mm38mm / 42mm
Resolution352×430 / 396×484272×340 / 312×390
ChipsetS8 SiPS3 SiP
Wireless ChipW3 + U1W2
Bluetooth VersionBluetooth 5.0Bluetooth 4.2
Temperature SensorYesNo
Blood Oxygen SensorYesNo
ECGYesNo
Optical Heart Sensor3rd-gen1st-gen
Fall DetectionYesNo
Crash DetectionYesNo
CompassYesNo
Dust ResistanceIP6XNo rating
Front GlassCrack-resistant crystalStandard glass
Back MaterialSapphire/ceramicComposite back
Storage32GB8GB
ChargingFast chargingStandard charging
Charging CableUSB-C fast chargerUSB-A magnetic cable
Cellular AvailabilityGPS + CellularGPS + Cellular
MicrophoneImproved micStandard mic
SpeakerEnhanced speakerOriginal speaker
KeyboardOn-screen QWERTYNot supported
International RoamingSupportedNot supported
Operating System SupportLatest watchOSDiscontinued watchOS support
PriceCheck Apple Watch 8 PriceCheck Apple Watch 3 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Water Resistance: Both watches feature WR50 water resistance, allowing them to handle swimming in shallow water and daily exposure to moisture. This ensures users can keep the watch on during workouts, showers, and aquatic activities without concern.
  • Heart Rate Monitoring: Both models include optical heart rate sensors that track users’ heart rate throughout the day. This similarity makes them dependable for monitoring exercise intensity, resting heart rate, and overall cardiovascular wellness.
  • Accelerometer: Each watch uses an onboard accelerometer to track movements such as steps, pace, and activity patterns. This sensor is central to fitness tracking, helping users monitor motion-based metrics accurately.
  • Gyroscope: Both devices include a gyroscope that detects wrist rotation and movement orientation. This helps with accurate fitness data, gesture-based interactions, and improved motion detection.
  • GPS: Both the Series 8 and Series 3 provide built-in GPS for route tracking without requiring an iPhone nearby. This is essential for outdoor runners, walkers, or cyclists who want detailed location-based fitness data.
  • GPS + Cellular Option: Each watch is available in a GPS + Cellular configuration, enabling phone-free calling, texting, navigation, and streaming. This shared capability supports independence from the paired iPhone during active use.
  • Apple Pay: Both watches allow contactless payments through Apple Pay. This offers convenience in everyday situations such as shopping, commuting, or accessing transit systems.
  • Swim Tracking: Each model supports swim workouts with recognition of strokes, lap counting, and distance tracking. This similarity benefits swimmers looking for reliable aquatic workout metrics.
  • Bluetooth Connectivity: Both the Series 8 and Series 3 use Bluetooth to connect to iPhones and wireless accessories. This ensures seamless pairing with audio devices, gym equipment, and various health peripherals.
  • Wi-Fi Support: Both models support Wi-Fi for faster syncing, app data transfers, and improved connection stability when the iPhone is out of Bluetooth range. This enhances usability in indoor environments.
  • Microphone: Each watch includes a built-in microphone that enables Siri commands, phone calls, and voice-based features. This shared component provides hands-free convenience and accessibility.
  • Speaker: Both models have integrated speakers for call audio, alerts, and Siri responses. This allows users to receive audible feedback and communicate directly through the watch.
  • Digital Crown: Both watches feature Apple’s Digital Crown for precise navigation and control. This iconic interface enables scrolling, selecting, and interacting with apps without relying solely on touch.
  • Touchscreen Display: Each model has a responsive touchscreen that supports taps, swipes, and gestures. This common feature allows intuitive interaction with apps, notifications, and controls.
  • App Store Access: Both watches can access the watchOS App Store to download compatible apps. This extends functionality beyond built-in features, allowing personalization and added capabilities.
  • Notifications: Both the Series 8 and Series 3 display notifications for messages, calls, calendars, and apps. This similarity ensures users receive timely updates without checking their phone.
  • Music Playback: Each watch supports music playback and control directly from the wrist. This is useful for workouts or commutes when users want quick access to audio.
  • Activity Rings: Both models use Apple’s signature Activity Rings to track movement, exercise, and standing goals. This motivational system helps users maintain daily fitness habits.
  • Emergency SOS: Each watch includes Emergency SOS, enabling users to quickly call for help in urgent situations. This safety feature enhances security and peace of mind.
  • Sleep Tracking: Both devices support sleep tracking, allowing users to monitor nighttime duration and basic sleep patterns. This shared capability helps improve long-term wellness routines.

Common Features

FeatureApple Watch Series 8Apple Watch Series 3
Water ResistanceWR50WR50
Heart Rate MonitoringYesYes
AccelerometerYesYes
GyroscopeYesYes
GPSYesYes
GPS + Cellular OptionYesYes
Apple PayYesYes
Swim TrackingYesYes
Bluetooth ConnectivityYesYes
Wi-Fi SupportYesYes
MicrophoneYesYes
SpeakerYesYes
Digital CrownYesYes
Touchscreen DisplayYesYes
App Store AccessYesYes
NotificationsYesYes
Music PlaybackYesYes
Activity RingsYesYes
Emergency SOSYesYes
Sleep TrackingYesYes
Price Check Apple Watch 8 Price Check Apple Watch 3 Price

FAQ

Is the Apple Watch Series 8 faster than the Apple Watch Series 3?
Yes, the Apple Watch Series 8 is significantly faster due to its newer S8 chip, which delivers smoother performance, faster app loading, and better long-term support compared to the much older S3 chip in the Series 3.

Do both watches support cellular connectivity?
Yes, both watches offer a cellular model, but the Series 8 provides cellular support in both sizes, while the Series 3 only offered cellular connectivity in the 42mm model.

Can both watches track swimming workouts?
Yes, both the Series 8 and Series 3 are water-resistant to WR50 and can track swimming metrics such as laps, distance, and stroke type.

Do both watches support Apple Pay?
Yes, Apple Pay works on both models, allowing users to make contactless payments directly from the watch without needing an iPhone.

Can both watches receive calls and messages?
Yes, both can receive calls and messages when connected to an iPhone, and both cellular versions can handle this independently without the phone nearby.

Do both watches support GPS tracking?
Yes, both models include built-in GPS, enabling accurate route tracking for workouts like running and cycling without carrying an iPhone.

Can both watches run apps from the App Store?
Yes, both watches can access the watchOS App Store, allowing users to download compatible apps directly onto the device.

Do both watches offer sleep tracking?
Yes, both devices support sleep tracking, though the Series 8 provides more advanced insights, while the Series 3 covers basic metrics.

Can both watches track heart rate?
Yes, both models include an optical heart rate sensor for monitoring daily heart rate, workout intensity, and general health trends.

Do both support Emergency SOS?
Yes, both the Series 8 and Series 3 include Emergency SOS, allowing users to quickly call for help in urgent or unsafe situations.

Can both watches play and control music?
Yes, both models allow users to play music, control playback, and sync playlists for offline listening during workouts or commutes.

Do both watches show notifications?
Yes, both display notifications for messages, calls, emails, app alerts, and reminders, keeping users connected without needing to check their phone.

Can both watches work with Siri?
Yes, both support Siri for voice commands, quick tasks, information requests, and controlling smart home devices.

Do both watches have a touchscreen interface?
Yes, both models offer a fully interactive touchscreen that supports taps, swipes, and gestures for navigation and app usage.

Are both watches compatible with iPhones?
Yes, both watches are designed for iPhone users, though the Series 8 supports newer versions of iOS and watchOS, while the Series 3 is limited due to discontinued software support.