After a two-year break, Samsung has brought the Classic line back into the spotlight and this time, the beloved rotating bezel returns The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic vs Galaxy Watch 6 Classic showdown is one that smartwatch fans have been anticipating, especially those who missed the tactile charm of that mechanical bezel.
But beyond this nostalgic feature, the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic introduces design tweaks inspired by the Galaxy Watch Ultra, upgraded hardware, expanded storage, and fresh AI-powered tools The big question for owners of the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is whether these changes justify the higher $450 starting price a $50 increase over the previous model.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic vs Galaxy Watch 6 Classic Key Differences
At first glance, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic vs Galaxy Watch 6 Classic comparison highlights several noteworthy upgrades, along with some familiar elements that remain unchanged.
- New squircle case design on Galaxy Watch 8 Classic vs traditional circular case on Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
- Stainless-steel case with rotating bezel on both models
- Single 46mm size for Galaxy Watch 8 Classic vs two size options (43mm and 47mm) on Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
- Customizable Quick Button exclusive to Galaxy Watch 8 Classic
- 64GB internal storage vs 16GB on Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
- New Exynos W1000 (3nm) chip vs Exynos W930 (5nm)
- Larger 445mAh battery vs 300mAh/425mAh batteries on previous model
- New Dynamic Lug System for strap attachment (incompatible with older bands)
- Exclusive health features: Vascular Load and Antioxidant Index
- First in the Classic series to include Google Gemini support
- $450 starting price vs $400
Design and Build Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic vs Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic vs Galaxy Watch 6 Classic design comparison shows a subtle shift toward a more modern aesthetic Samsung has replaced the perfectly round case with a squircle-shaped Armor Stainless Steel design, giving the watch a contemporary edge while retaining the timeless circular display.
Both models keep the iconic rotating bezel a fan-favorite feature for easy navigation. The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, however, is only available in a single 46mm size, while the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic offered both 43mm and 47mm variants.
Design highlights
- Galaxy Watch 8 Classic adopts Galaxy Watch Ultra-inspired squircle styling
- Both models retain the premium stainless-steel build and rotating bezel
- Larger standard size for Galaxy Watch 8 Classic may not suit smaller wrists
Display and Brightness Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic vs Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
When it comes to screen performance, both watches deliver vibrant AMOLED displays with crisp resolution, but the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic steps up brightness, improving outdoor visibility Although Samsung hasn’t drastically changed the panel technology, the new model’s updated chip allows for smoother animations and snappier navigation.
Display upgrades
- Brighter display for better sunlight readability on Galaxy Watch 8 Classic
- Both retain high-resolution AMOLED panels with always-on capability
- Improved refresh responsiveness thanks to the new Exynos W1000 processor
Bands and Fit Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic vs Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
Samsung’s Dynamic Lug System makes its debut in the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic vs Galaxy Watch 6 Classic match-up This updated mechanism improves the attachment angle, offering a more comfortable fit and up to 11% more accurate heart-rate tracking.
However, the new system means your old Galaxy Watch 6 Classic straps won’t fit On the plus side, Samsung has launched a variety of new bands in materials like Athleisure, Fabric, and Sport finishes.
Band system comparison
- Galaxy Watch 8 Classic: Dynamic Lug System for better fit, exclusive new bands
- Galaxy Watch 6 Classic: Standard quick-release compatible with older straps
Performance and Storage Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic vs Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
Under the hood, the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic makes a significant leap with the Exynos W1000 processor, built on a 3nm process. This upgrade delivers faster app launches, smoother scrolling, and improved energy efficiency compared to the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic’s Exynos W930 (5nm).
Storage capacity has also quadrupled from 16GB to 64GB giving users far more room for music, apps, and offline maps.
Performance highlights
- Galaxy Watch 8 Classic: Exynos W1000 chip, 64GB storage
- Galaxy Watch 6 Classic: Exynos W930 chip, 16GB storage
Software and AI Features Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic vs Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
Both watches run Wear OS with Samsung’s One UI Watch interface, but the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic introduces Google Gemini integration a first for the Classic line. This AI assistant enables multi-step voice commands, such as “Start my workout and play my running playlist,” directly from your wrist.
The Watch 8 Classic also gains the Now Bar interface for quick access to timers, media controls, and active apps, plus improved notification grouping for better organization.
Exclusive Galaxy Watch 8 Classic features
- Google Gemini AI assistant
- Now Bar for enhanced multitasking
- Richer notifications with more actionable options
Health and Wellness Tracking Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic vs Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
While both models feature Samsung’s BioActive sensor supporting ECG, heart rate, VO₂ max, blood pressure, and skin temperature the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic introduces two new tools:
- Vascular Load: Analyzes strain on your circulatory system during sleep and offers tips for improvement.
- Antioxidant Index: Estimates antioxidant levels in your skin and provides recommendations for better wellness.
These features leverage existing sensors but remain exclusive to the Watch 8 Classic.
Battery and Charging Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic vs Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic comes with a 445mAh battery, a noticeable bump from the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic’s 300mAh (43mm) and 425mAh (47mm) options While Samsung promises up to 40 hours of battery life without always-on display, real-world usage still typically requires daily charging.
Both support 10W wireless charging, with a full recharge taking under two hours.
Models and Pricing Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic vs Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
In the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic vs Galaxy Watch 6 Classic pricing debate, the newer model sees a $50 increase.
Price breakdown
- Galaxy Watch 8 Classic (46mm, Bluetooth): $450
- Galaxy Watch 6 Classic (43mm, Bluetooth): $400
- LTE variants add roughly $50 to each base price
Specs Overview Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic vs Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
Galaxy Watch 8 Classic
- 46mm size
- Stainless steel with rotating bezel
- Exynos W1000 chip, 64GB storage
- 445mAh battery
- Dynamic Lug System
- Google Gemini support
- Vascular Load & Antioxidant Index
Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
- 43mm or 47mm size
- Stainless steel with rotating bezel
- Exynos W930 chip, 16GB storage
- 300mAh / 425mAh battery
- Quick-release band system
Final Verdict Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic vs Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic vs Galaxy Watch 6 Classic comparison reveals meaningful upgrades from faster performance and quadrupled storage to AI-driven features and improved health tracking The sleeker squircle design and Dynamic Lug System add comfort, while the return of the rotating bezel keeps the watch rooted in its heritage.
However, the jump in price and limited size option may give some buyers pause For Galaxy Watch 6 Classic owners, the upgrade is tempting if you value AI features, expanded storage, and enhanced comfort. For those happy with their current model’s performance, holding off might make sense — at least until battery life sees a bigger leap.
In short, the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is Samsung’s most refined Classic yet, but its appeal will be strongest for those upgrading from older generations rather than last year’s model.
