Samsung continues its biennial release cycle for the Galaxy Watch Classic line, and the newly unveiled Galaxy Watch8 Classic brings a few notable twists. This latest model blends the timeless design language of the classic Galaxy Watch with elements borrowed from the Watch Ultra, resulting in a more rugged, robust look. It also packs some serious upgrades, including an additional quick button, a bigger battery, and double the storage compared to the standard Watch8. Here’s my first impression of the Samsung Galaxy Watch8 Classic.
Design: Classic Meets Contemporary
The standout feature of the Galaxy Watch8 Classic is the return of the rotating bezel—a long-time fan favorite known for its intuitive and tactile control. It’s a feature that even the more expensive Galaxy Watch Ultra lacks. Complementing this is a newly introduced Quick Button, designed to streamline frequently used actions with a satisfying, responsive click.
Encased in 46mm stainless steel, the Watch8 Classic has been updated with a cushion-style design that gives it a slimmer, more refined appearance. It also features a Dynamic Lug System, making it easier to swap bands while ensuring a more secure and adaptable fit. Whether you’re dressed for the boardroom or heading out for a workout, the Watch8 Classic is built to fit right in.
Performance: Faster, Brighter, Smarter
Inside, the Galaxy Watch8 Classic runs on a 3nm Samsung Exynos W1000 processor, paired with 2GB of RAM, 64GB of internal storage, and dual-band GPS, the same high-end hardware featured in the Galaxy Watch Ultra. This upgrade delivers noticeably faster performance and plenty of space for apps, music, and health tracking data.
The 1.34″ Super AMOLED with Sapphire glass also sees a major boost. With its new display reaching up to 3,000 nits of peak brightness, the screen remains clear and easy to read even in direct sunlight. Whether you’re checking notifications or tracking a workout, visuals appear sharp, vivid, and highly readable.
Galaxy AI Integration: Your Smartest Watch Yet
Samsung is infusing its wearables with the power of Galaxy AI, and the Watch8 Classic is a major beneficiary. Thanks to the built-in Google Gemini AI, the watch now responds intelligently to natural voice commands. You can ask it to “summarize your last email” or “control your Smart Home (Google Home & Samsung SmartThings” and it delivers quickly and clearly. This is something that I use frequently as half of my applicances are Google Home connected.
The new One UI 8 Watch software redesign introduces intuitive navigation, including a “Now Bar” that shows what apps are currently running, an underrated but useful addition that helps keep multitasking organized.
Wellness Reimagined: Sleep, Health & Fitness Tracking
The Galaxy Watch8 Classic is also a health powerhouse. It debuts several new AI-powered wellness tools, including:
- Bedtime Guidance that suggests optimal sleep schedules.
- Sleep Apnea Detection to monitor oxygen dips while you sleep.
- An Energy Score that combines sleep quality, heart rate variability, and activity into one simple readiness number.
In addition, the watch supports heart rate zones, advanced running metrics, body composition analysis (BIA), AGEs index for cellular health, and even vascular load tracking, a new frontier for wearable wellness.
For runners, the built-in Running Coach offers real-time pacing feedback and customized training plans that scale from casual jogs to marathon prep.
Battery & Durability
With a 445mAh battery, the Galaxy Watch8 Classic delivers up to 30 hours of use with the always-on display enabled, and more with conservative settings. While not groundbreaking, it’s serviceable and supported by fast wireless charging.
The watch is also built to last. It’s rated 5ATM, IP68, and MIL-STD-810H, meaning it can survive water, dust, shocks, and temperature extremes with ease.
Style & Customization
The Galaxy Watch8 Classic comes in only one stainless steel casing with 2 leather strap options. It also offers a wide variety of interchangeable bands in styles like Hybrid, Fabric, Sport, and Athleisure. Colors range from understated Graphite to bold Mint and Camel, making it easy to personalize for any occasion.
Do stay tuned for a full review in coming days.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch8 Classic comes with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi as standard and is priced at RM1,799. The LTE version costs an additional RM300, bringing the total to RM2,099.
Learn more: Samsung Malaysia