The Samsung Galaxy Watch8 has been named the best connected watch in a 2026 comparison, with a focus on its capabilities in sports coaching and sleep tracking rather than on high-end technical features. The 40 mm version of the watch is currently listed on Amazon for 251.99 €, a price that makes it more competitive compared to other Android-compatible smartwatches. Samsung overhauled its connected watch line during the summer of 2025, introducing a new design inspired by the Watch Ultra. The Galaxy Watch8 features a 1.34-inch AMOLED screen capable of reaching 3,000 nits of brightness, which is more than double the brightness of previous models. It also comes with Wear OS 6 and Google's Gemini assistant, which is a first for a connected watch. The watch is available in a Graphite color at Amazon for 251.99 €, though Samsung recommends a higher price of 379.99 €. The watch is specifically designed for users of Android smartphones, as it is not compatible with Apple's iPhone. One of the standout features of the Galaxy Watch8 is its advanced coaching system. The Running Coach measures your VMA (maximum aerobic speed) and analyzes your running form, while the Sleep Coach uses data from three consecutive nights to provide personalized sleep recommendations. These features offer actionable advice rather than just displaying data. The Gemini assistant, which is integrated directly onto the watch, allows users to interact with Google's AI without needing to take out their phone. However, in Bluetooth mode, the watch still relies on the smartphone to process these requests. The screen’s high brightness of 3,000 nits makes it especially useful for outdoor activities, where visibility is often a challenge. In terms of daily use, the Galaxy Watch8 offers a range of health tracking features, including heart rate, ECG, blood pressure, body composition, SpO2, energy score, and a new antioxidant index. These sensors provide comprehensive health monitoring without the need for multiple devices. For sports enthusiasts, the Running Coach converts these measurements into a structured training plan, which will be especially appealing to regular runners. During testing, the Galaxy Watch8 received a score of 9 out of 10, highlighting its improvements over previous models. It is aimed at users who already own Android smartphones, as it is not compatible with iPhones. The watch is suitable for those who want to improve their sleep habits or runners looking to progress without using a specialized GPS watch. However, the Galaxy Watch8 has some limitations. Its battery life is around 40 hours with typical use, including calls, notifications, and an hour of sports per day, meaning it needs recharging almost every day. This is a drawback compared to models like the Huawei Watch GT 7 Pro, which offers longer battery life. Additionally, the new attachment system makes older Galaxy Watch straps incompatible. While the watch excels in health analysis and software performance, it falls short in endurance compared to some competitors. The 40 mm Graphite version listed at 251.99 € on Amazon is the model being compared to other watches. At this price, the Galaxy Watch8 becomes more competitive, though it still has room to improve in areas like battery life and GPS performance.