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The Apple Watch Series 8 Aluminum model brought some welcomed refinements when it launched. It combined Apple’s clean aesthetic with practical health and fitness features. But in 2025, with the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra models now available, many are asking: is the Series 8 still worth buying?
In this review, we take a detailed look at the Apple Watch Series 8 Aluminum. We’ll cover its build, performance, health tracking, waterproofing, and how it compares with newer models. If you’re considering buying one—or holding on to yours—this is the guide for you.
Build and Materials: Aluminum vs Stainless Steel
One of the most common questions buyers ask is: Is the Apple Watch Series 8 stainless steel or aluminum? The answer is—both, depending on the version.
The Aluminum model is the most widely available and affordable variant. It comes in lightweight, anodized aluminum and is available in multiple colors like Midnight, Starlight, Silver, and Product(RED). The finish is matte, and it’s paired with Ion-X strengthened glass.
In contrast, the Stainless Steel model offers a shinier, more premium look and uses sapphire crystal glass for better scratch resistance. However, it’s heavier and more expensive.
If weight and price matter more than luxury polish, the Aluminum version is the better pick.
Display and Sizes
The Series 8 features a vibrant Always-On Retina display that remains bright and visible even in outdoor lighting. It’s available in two sizes: 41mm and 45mm.
- 41mm is best suited for smaller wrists or those who prefer a compact profile.
- 45mm offers a larger screen and slightly better battery life.
Both support Apple’s full range of watch bands, including Solo Loop, Braided Loop, and Leather Link options.
Health and Safety Features
The Series 8 Aluminum includes all the major health features that define modern Apple Watches:
- ECG app and irregular heart rhythm detection
- Blood oxygen monitoring
- Skin temperature sensor for ovulation tracking and sleep insights
- Fall detection, emergency SOS, and crash detection
These are the same across both aluminum and stainless steel models. Whether you’re tracking daily activity, running, or monitoring sleep, the Series 8 still performs reliably in 2025.
Is the Apple Watch Series 8 Waterproof?
The Apple Watch Series 8 Aluminum is rated WR50, meaning it is water-resistant up to 50 meters. It’s suitable for swimming, showering, and water workouts but not recommended for deep-sea diving or high-velocity water sports.
So, is it waterproof? Technically, no—but it’s water-resistant enough for nearly all daily use cases, including pool swims and runs in the rain.
WatchOS 10 Support and Performance
The Series 8 runs smoothly on watchOS 10, Apple’s latest smartwatch operating system. It supports the latest watch faces, redesigned widgets, and new health and mental wellness tracking features.
The S8 chip still holds up well in 2025, offering quick app launches, smooth scrolling, and stable connectivity with iPhones. While the Series 9 offers a faster processor and improved Siri integration, the Series 8 doesn’t feel outdated for most users.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life on the Apple Watch Series 8 remains consistent, offering 18 hours on a full charge, and slightly more in Low Power Mode. It supports fast charging, taking about 45 minutes to reach 80%.
For users with moderate usage—workouts, notifications, and daily wear—the watch typically lasts a full day with ease.
Is the Apple Watch Series 8 Discontinued?
Yes, Apple discontinued the Series 8 officially after launching the Series 9. However, it remains widely available through third-party retailers, Apple-authorized resellers, and online stores like Amazon and Idealo.
Because of the price drop post-discontinuation, the Series 8 Aluminum is now more accessible than ever, making it a great deal for budget-conscious Apple users.
Series 8 vs Series 9: Should You Upgrade?
Here’s a quick breakdown for comparison:
| Feature | Apple Watch Series 8 Aluminum | Apple Watch Series 9 |
| Processor | S8 chip | S9 chip (faster) |
| Display Brightness | 1000 nits | 2000 nits |
| Siri On-device Support | No | Yes |
| UWB Precision Finding | No | Yes |
| WatchOS Compatibility | Yes | Yes |
| Price (in 2025) | Lower (~₹28,000 / €300) | Higher (~₹35,000+) |
Unless you absolutely need the brighter screen or on-device Siri processing, the Series 8 Aluminum still offers 90% of the Series 9 experience at a lower price.
Final Verdict: Is It Still Worth It in 2025?
If you’re eyeing an Apple Watch for fitness tracking, health monitoring, and daily wear without spending a premium, the Apple Watch Series 8 Aluminum is still a fantastic buy in 2025.
It’s lightweight, reliable, and packed with features that still matter. And now that it’s more affordable than ever, it’s arguably one of the best-value Apple Watches currently available.
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