I have tested plenty of smartwatches over the years, but after bouncing between premium and mid-range wearables across both Android and iOS, the Galaxy Watch 8 has managed to do something I’ve never experienced with other devices: it’s the first smartwatch I nearly forgot I was even wearing. And that’s not because it lacks presence. Its bright, fluid display and beautiful design constantly caught my eye. I forgot it was there simply because it’s the most comfortable smartwatch I’ve worn in years.
For weeks, I wore the $429 44mm Galaxy Watch 8 that Samsung loaned me through sweaty workouts, long writing sessions, and even to bed. Not once did it feel uncomfortable or like an awkward lump strapped to my wrist. It disappeared from my wrist in the best way possible. That said, it isn’t completely flawless. There are still a few areas that could use improvement, but none of them took away from how easily the Galaxy Watch 8 became my perfect daily companion.
- Looking for our review of the Galaxy Watch 8 Classic? Head here to read our verdict.
A watch that finally feels right
The biggest surprise for me was how quickly I stopped thinking about the Galaxy Watch 8 on my wrist. As I mentioned, I wore it to bed, through workouts, and even while typing for hours, without the usual irritation I get from other watches.
The soft rubber sport band deserves a special mention here. I’ve always had sensitive skin, and Apple’s sport band, as well as other rubber straps, often leave me with redness and a sweat rash after exercise or long usage. With Samsung’s strap, I didn’t notice any of that even after long, sweaty bouts at the gym. It’s one of those details that seems small until you realize it’s the difference between wearing a watch all day, every day, or leaving it on the nightstand.
The Galaxy Watch 8 disappeared from my wrist in the best way possible.
Speaking of the band, I actually prefer Samsung’s new Dynamic Lug System. It feels pretty snappy, and attaching and removing the straps is now much easier. You just click them into place rather than sliding them in and out. The only drawback is that the cavity where the strap fits can collect dust and grime over time, so you’ll need to occasionally clean it out.
