Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 8 is one of the best Android smartwatches available, offering a good mix of health features and Gemini support. It's now easier to recommend, with prices as low as £175 ($260) for the 40mm model.
The wearable isn’t a dramatic overhaul from its predecessor but is a solid upgrade if you are coming from a Galaxy Watch 5 or older. The new 'squircle' design is slimmer and more comfortable, with the Classic model featuring a rotating bezel similar to that of the Ultra model's Quick Button.
Both versions introduce new health-focused tools. Our favourite is the Running Coach feature, which offers a personalised training plan based on your performance during a 12-minute run test. The wearable also attempts to estimate whether you are getting enough fruits and vegetables in your diet but can be hit or miss.
Beyond fitness, both wearables support Google’s Gemini AI assistant, allowing you to handle quick tasks from your wrist like asking for nearby cafe recommendations or creating playlists without pulling out your phone. The watch also offers reliable heart rate and blood oxygen tracking, as well as sleep apnea detection when paired with a Samsung Galaxy phone.







