Galaxy Watch8 and Watch8 Classic Hands-On: True Innovations Exceed Expectations!

We had the opportunity to explore Samsung’s 2025 collection of smartwatches, specifically the Galaxy Watch8 and Watch8 Classic. While previous years have been somewhat lacking in substantial new features, this time Samsung has truly outdone itself.

For Samsung aficionados, it’s a well-known annual ritual. Each summer, as the South Korean brand launches new premium smartphones, it also unveils new connected accessories. This year, the spotlight is on the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Galaxy Z Fold 7.

However, there are no new wireless earbuds (Galaxy Buds) or a new connected ring (Galaxy Ring) this year. In 2025, Samsung has chosen to focus on its smartwatches. For this occasion, the brand has revived the “Classic” model, which was overlooked last year. We had a hands-on experience with the Galaxy Watch8 and Galaxy Watch 8 Classic before their release in France during a meeting at Samsung France’s offices, and here are our first impressions.

The Classic Model Returns

As mentioned earlier, the Galaxy Watch Classic is making a major comeback. But what exactly sets it apart from the traditional Galaxy Watch? The Classic model is primarily defined by its rotating bezel, which allows users to navigate through various menus and submenus of OneUI 8, as well as through different apps installed on the smartwatch. Although the screen remains touch-sensitive, the rotating bezel adds significant ergonomics and seamless fluidity to Samsung’s smartwatch.

This year, the Watch8 Classic also features a quick-access button. This button can quickly launch an action (like exercises from Samsung Health, stopwatch, flashlight, water lock…) or activate the siren when pressed for more than 5 seconds. This feature was originally introduced in the Watch Ultra released in 2024 and is also present in the refreshed 2025 version. We can’t complain about this integration as it proves to be very handy in everyday use.

Overall, the Classic model brings real additions compared to the more traditional version of the Watch8.

A Well-Received Design Change

At 8.6 mm thick, the Galaxy Watch8 is the thinnest of the two new models (as it lacks a rotating bezel). While previous versions of the Galaxy Watch didn’t bring much new in terms of design, Samsung has rethought its approach this year. Gone is the purely circular look of the smartwatch; the Watch8 adopts a slightly more “square” appearance. This gives it a more classy design and a more professional appearance. Admittedly, the watch becomes less versatile, but it gains in aesthetics and comfort.

The edges of the Watch8 Classic also become less circular. However, since the watch features a rotating bezel, it retains some roundness.

It’s also worth noting that Samsung has opted for a new, firmer strap attachment system, which unfortunately makes the straps from previous models incompatible with the Watch8 and Watch8 Classic.

Regarding display, both versions benefit from a sapphire glass screen and are brighter than previous models, jumping from 2000 to 3000 nits (the same value as on the Watch Ultra). This is perfect for any type of outdoor activity. In terms of durability, the Watch8 and Watch8 Classic are equipped with IP68 and military-grade certification.

A Refined Interface and Enhanced Samsung Health App

Upon release, the Watch8 and Watch8 Classic operate under One UI 8.0. The interface has been slightly refreshed, including notifications that now appear in a pill shape.

Another feature is the Now Bar, similar to what is found on the Galaxy S25, displayed at the bottom of the screen. It allows direct control from the lock screen of certain apps like the timer or music. This is extremely convenient, especially for a smartwatch.

During our hands-on session, we also tested the new version of the Samsung Health app, which remains central to all activities supported by the two new smartwatches. The app focuses on sleep tracking and, together with the sensors of the Watch8 and Watch8 Classic, now detects sleep apnea. The integrated AI also offers “sleep cycles,” analyzing your bedtimes, wake times, light and deep sleep, etc., and subsequently suggesting new sleep patterns with plenty of advice. Speaking of AI, we also observed the introduction of Google’s Gemini.

Last but not least, the two watches now measure vascular load and antioxidant index, the latter requiring the removal of the accessory from the forearm.

Significantly Higher Prices

Let’s discuss the pricing of the Galaxy Watch8 and Watch8 Classic, which are sure to make some users wince. The Galaxy Watch8 is available in the following prices, sizes, and colors:

• Watch8 Graphite or Silver 40 mm (Bluetooth) at €379.99
• Watch8 Graphite or Silver 40 mm (Bluetooth + 4G) at €429.99
• Watch8 Graphite or Silver 44 mm (Bluetooth) at €409.99
• Watch8 Graphite or Silver 44 mm (Bluetooth + 4G) at €459.99

For comparison, the Watch7 in 40 mm (Bluetooth) was marketed at €319 at its launch, while the Watch7 in 44 mm (Bluetooth + 4G), the most expensive model in the range, was sold for €399. Therefore, each of the new Samsung smartwatches has seen a €60 increase, which may be difficult for users to accept.

Here are the models, colors, and prices available for the Watch8 Classic:

• Watch8 Classic Black or White 44 mm (Bluetooth) at €529.99
• Watch8 Classic Black or White 44 mm (Bluetooth + 4G) at €579.99

Again, the price increase is significant. The Watch6 Classic (Bluetooth) was marketed between €419 and €449 depending on the size (43 or 47 mm), and between €469 and €499 for the Bluetooth + 4G version. This increase is even harder to swallow.

Are We Impressed?

Although we had the chance to “play” with the two new watches for a short hour at the offices of Samsung France, it’s still difficult at this point to gauge the real advancements of these 2025 editions. However, aside from the price increase, the two watches offer real innovations, both in terms of design and functionality. For once, Samsung has not skimped on its efforts. However, there remains a slight concern: what about the battery life? While the South Korean manufacturer has made some progress in this area over the past two years, it’s still not possible to get two full days with the Watch7. Only the Watch Ultra exceeds this limit, with 2.5 to 3 days of battery life. To learn more about this, we will have to wait for our full reviews of the two watches, which should be coming soon.

Finally, note that the Galaxy Watch Ultra also benefits from a very slight refresh. Simply titled Galaxy Watch 2025, the smartwatch remains aesthetically the same as the one released last year, except now it boasts 64 GB of storage space.