Apple Watch Series 8 vs Withings ScanWatch 2
The Verdict
Apple Watch Series 8 and Withings ScanWatch 2 cater to distinctly different user priorities. Apple's offering excels with its vibrant LTPO OLED Always-On Retina display, dual-frequency GPS (L1 + L5), optional LTE connectivity, and watchOS 9 ecosystem integration,ideal for fitness enthusiasts and Apple ecosystem users. Withings ScanWatch 2 prioritizes battery longevity with an impressive 30-day runtime versus Apple's 18-hour standard, plus a sophisticated hybrid analog dial with subtle OLED integration for a traditional watch aesthetic. Both feature comprehensive health sensors including ECG, SpO2, skin temperature, and sleep tracking. However, Apple dominates performance and smart features, while Withings excels in battery efficiency and classic design appeal. At $399 vs $349, the Apple Watch Series 8 justifies its premium through superior performance and connectivity options. Choose Apple for a full-featured smartwatch experience; select Withings if you prioritize battery life and prefer traditional watch styling.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple Watch Series 8 if…
- →Crash Detection and temperature sensing are genuinely useful safety features
- →Always-On LTPO display is bright and readable even outdoors
- →Dual-frequency L1+L5 GPS provides precise tracking in dense urban areas
Buy the Withings ScanWatch 2 if…
- →30-day battery life is unmatched — charge monthly, not daily
- →Looks like a luxury analog watch — no one will know it's smart
- →Medical-grade ECG, SpO2, and respiratory rate monitoring
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple Watch Series 8
Pros
- Crash Detection and temperature sensing are genuinely useful safety features
- Always-On LTPO display is bright and readable even outdoors
- Dual-frequency L1+L5 GPS provides precise tracking in dense urban areas
- ECG, SpO2, and skin temperature cover comprehensive health monitoring
- Low Power Mode extends battery to 36 hours for travel
Cons
- 18-hour standard battery still requires daily charging
- S8 chip is essentially identical to S7 — minimal performance upgrade
- Stainless steel model pushes price to $699+
- Skin temperature sensing is limited to cycle tracking on launch
Withings ScanWatch 2
Pros
- 30-day battery life is unmatched — charge monthly, not daily
- Looks like a luxury analog watch — no one will know it's smart
- Medical-grade ECG, SpO2, and respiratory rate monitoring
- Skin temperature tracking for early illness detection
- Stainless steel build is genuinely elegant
Cons
- No GPS — phone required for route tracking
- Tiny OLED sub-display limits notification readability
- No NFC for contactless payments
- No third-party apps — health tracking only
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple Watch Series 8 | Withings ScanWatch 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | watchOS 9 (upgradable to watchOS 11+) | Withings OS |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 32 g (41mm Al) / 38.8 g (45mm Al) | 39 g |
| Case material | Aluminum / Stainless Steel | Stainless steel |
| Water resistance | WR50 (50m), EN13319 dive certification | 5ATM |
| Health & Sensors | ||
| ECG | ||
| SpO₂ | ||
| Skin temperature | ||
| Heart rate | ||
| Sleep tracking | ||
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 18 hours (36 hrs in Low Power Mode) | Up to 30 days |
| Display | ||
| Size | 41mm / 45mm | 42 mm |
| Type | LTPO OLED Always-On Retina | Hybrid analog + OLED |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 352 x 430 / 396 x 484 | Hybrid analog with OLED sub-display |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | Apple S8 SiP | Withings proprietary |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.0 |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in smartwatches, see all Apple products or all Withings products. View full details for the Apple Watch Series 8 or the Withings ScanWatch 2.