On September 7, we witnessed the much-awaited "Far Out" event of Apple. During the event, Apple announced its new iPhone 14 series, new AirPod Pro earbuds, and the new Apple watches. 

When it comes to smartwatches, we were expecting the regular Series 8 as the latest addition, but Apple surprised us by introducing two more watch models: Apple Watch Ultra and a new Apple Watch SE.

Among the three new Apple watches, Apple Watch Ultra made headlines as the company's priciest smartwatch to date. But not everyone has the luxury of spending £849 on a wearable device. For buyers with a budget, Apple has the Series 8 and the new budget-friendly Apple Watch SE.

If you are planning to buy one of these latest Apple Watches and caught between Apple Watch Series 8 vs the new Watch SE. This article will make the decision easier for you.

Apple Watch Series 8 vs SE 2: Design

In terms of looks, the Apple Watch Series 8 and Watch SE 2022 are difficult to tell apart. They both have the digital crown and power button on their right-hand side. However, they do have some minor differences.

Let's start with the new Apple Watch SE. It has the same case as the original Apple Watch SE but adds a couple of improvements. Apple claims the watch's rear case now features a new nylon composite material, which reduces weight. On the other hand, the Series 8 looks more premium as it comes in stainless steel or an aluminium body.

In terms of size, the Watch SE 2 is slightly smaller. It's available in 44mm and 40mm case sizes, while the Series 8 opts for 45mm and 41mm versions, just like its predecessors. But do note that despite the slight difference in size, watch straps are compatible between the models and you can use 44mm strap on 45mm (or even on the 49mm in the case of the Apple Watch Ultra) watch. 

However, because of the size and price SE 2 comes with a few compromises. Firstly, it's less durable and lacks the sapphire glass protection you'll find on Series 8 models. This shouldn't be a huge concern if you use a protective case. The OLED screen of Watch SE 2 is also a less impressive one that lacks the always-on feature and has a lower resolution.

In a nutshell, both the Apple Watches retain the classic Apple Watch look. And because of their minute differences, it'll be pretty tricky for anyone to spot if you own the cheaper Watch SE 2 or, the pricier Watch Series 8.

Apple Watch Series 8 vs SE 2: Features

Apple uses its latest S8 chipset in both devices, so there's no difference in processing speed.

Let's talk about health features now. The Apple Watch SE 2 and Series 8 have basic fitness tracking features, such as a heart rate sensor, sleep tracking, the new crash detection feature and fall detection. 

However, the Apple Watch Series 8 takes the lead with features like ECG, a SpO2 sensor, and a new body temperature sensor that helps in women's menstruation cycle tracking. 

The Watch SE 2 also misses out on ultra-wideband support, a feature many people may not need but is useful if you own an Apple AirTag.

Apple Watch Series 8 vs SE 2: Specs

Apple Watch Series 8 vs SE 2: Colour Options

Apple Watch Series 8 offers an array of colours, including Starlight, Midnight, Silver, and Product Red for the aluminium chassis, and Silver, Graphite, and Gold for the stainless steel option.

Apple Watch SE 2022 has just three colour options: Midnight, Starlight, and Silver.

Apple Watch Series 8 vs SE 2: Battery Life & Charging

Apple Watch Series 8 vs SE 2 have equal battery life in both standard and low-power modes.

Both Apple watches have 33% faster charging compared to Series 6 and earlier. That means going from 0-80% takes only 45 minutes.

Apple Watch Series 8 vs SE 2: Price & Availability

The main deciding factor when choosing between Apple Watch Series 8 vs SE 2 will come down to price. The price of the new Apple Watch Series 8 vs SE 2 is as follows: 

If we compare the prices of these smartwatches in the GPS category, we see that Apple Watch Series 8 is priced £160 higher than SE 2. And in the LTE category, Apple Watch Series 8 is priced £210 higher than SE 2.

Regarding availability, both the Apple Watches will be available from September 16, 2022. And they are open for preorders now.

Apple Watch Series 8 vs SE 2022: Which One Should You Buy?

Both the Apple Watch Series 8 and SE 2 are great options and would satisfy most users. However, people who are on a tight budget may consider the SE 2 as it offers most of the features found in Series 8. But for people who want the best Apple has to offer, the £849 Apple Watch Ultra does offer significantly more features, making it hard to recommend the series 8. 

Do you agree with our pick? Do let us know what you think in the comments below.