Walmart recently reduced the price of the Apple Watch Series 8 45mm GPS smartwatch from the current $200 discount to just $229. That’s $200 less than buying an Apple Watch Series 9 with the exact same specs, and the Series 8 still performs about the same. This is definitely one of the nicest smartwatches available in this price range and would make a great gift (to yourself).
Apple Watch Series 8 45mm GPS for $229
Apple Series 8 will be released in 2022, just one generation removed from its latest model, Seres 9. Series 8 has all the premium features you’d expect from an Apple Watch, including an always-on Retina OLED display. It has a capable dual-core S8 processor, a rugged IP6X dust- and swim-proof (up to 50mm) case, and plenty of health features such as ECG, blood oxygen, and heart rate meters. This particular model has a larger 45mm casing (default size is 41mm).
If you’re wondering what the difference is between the Series 8 and Series 9, there’s not much, especially considering the (currently) $200 price difference. Series 9 upgrades include a new Apple S9 SiP processor with nearly 30% faster performance, up to 2000nits brighter display, 18 hours more battery life, and a new “Double” processor that lets you perform functions with simple hand gestures. Includes “tap” functionality. . The Apple Watch Series 8 is already a great watch, so none of these upgrades change things and aren’t worth paying the $200 premium for. Check out our picks for the best Apple Watches to buy in 2024 and compare the Apple Watch SE and Ultra in more detail.
