Which Is Better for You?

Key Takeaways

The Apple Watch Series 9 has a new double tap feature that allows you to navigate watchOS by tapping your thumb and index finger twice. It’s a convenient addition that eliminates the need to use your other hand or even your nose.
The Series 9’s S9 chip is 25% more power efficient than the S8 chip in the Series 8 model. It also features a 4-core Neural Engine for faster machine learning tasks and increased storage capacity of 64GB.
While the Series 9 offers some improvements, the Apple Watch Series 8 is still a powerful watch with identical health features. If these upgrades aren’t crucial to you, the Series 8 can be purchased at a discounted price from third-party retailers while stocks last.

The release of the Apple Watch Series 9 in 2023 might make you want to upgrade. But is it much better than the Series 8 that came out a year before?

You might think new means better, and the Series 9 does have a cool new feature. But if you’re wondering if you should get a Series 8 or a Series 9, you’re not alone. Read on as we’ll compare the two models and help you decide.

What’s Different Between the Apple Watch Series 8 and Series 9?

Image Credit: Apple

When comparing these two devices at first glance, you might not notice any differences. That’s because these devices look identical and have similar displays.

The Apple Watch Series 9 has a new double tap feature that lets you navigate watchOS by tapping your thumb and index finger twice. You can use it to answer calls, snooze alarms, and take photos. This works with the help of the new S9 chip that senses the vibration from tapping your fingers.

The double tap gesture means you no longer need to use your other hand to tap your Apple Watch. Previously, some people resorted to using their noses when their hands were full. Now, that’s a thing of the past.

Besides the double tap gesture, the Series 9’s S9 chip is 25 percent more power efficient than the S8 chip in the Series 8 model. The S9 chip features a 4-core Neural Engine that allows it to perform machine learning tasks twice as fast. Apple has bumped the storage capacity to 64GB, compared to 32GB in the S8.

Should You Upgrade From an Apple Watch Series 8 to a Series 9?

The release of the Series 9 Apple Watch has many S8 owners wondering if they should upgrade. Or, if you’re looking to buy your first Apple Watch, you might be wondering which one to get.

While the double-tap feature is handy, it’s not worth the upgrade as that’s the only major addition. The performance and storage space improvements are also great, but most users won’t notice a difference here. Also, there is a way to try the double-tap gesture on an older Apple Watch.

All in all, the Apple Watch Series 8 is still a powerful watch with an identical set of sensors that offer many great health features.

Pick the Right Apple Watch for You

While the Apple Watch Series 9 is available for purchase directly from Apple, the Series 8 is no longer listed on its site. However, you’ll be able to buy a used or new Series 8 from third-party retailers at a discounted price as long as stocks last.

If you decide to go with the Apple Watch Series 9, you’ll have to pay full price, which is something to keep in mind. Ultimately, the choice is yours when deciding what Apple Watch to buy. Some might think the double-tap feature and performance improvements are worth the extra cost.