The Apple Watch Series 8 takes first place in our smartwatch best list, seamlessly replacing its predecessor. For Apple users, it remains by far the best smartwatch, even if the innovations compared to the predecessor model are extremely limited. We do not see a compelling reason to switch from the Apple Watch Series 6 and Series 7 to the new Series 8.

The Apple Watch 8 (from 488 euros) with its large display offers the best value for money. Economy fans also get a top smartwatch with the Apple Watch SE from 293 euros - but without a permanent time display, giant screen and health sensors. The expensive Ultra (from 989 euros) convinces with a fresh, robust design, more endurance and special functions.

The Apple Watch 8 (from 488 euros) with its large display offers the best value for money. Economy fans also get a top smartwatch with the Apple Watch SE from 293 euros - but without a permanent time display, giant screen and health sensors. The expensive Ultra (from 989 euros) convinces with a fresh, robust design, more endurance and special functions.

Grades from good to poor: we show which smartwatches and fitness trackers measure best in the test, have the smartest features and last a long time. New in the test: 21 new devices were added in November: 18 smartwatches and 3 fitness trackers. These include, for example, the Apple Watch Series 8, the Garmin Fenix 7, the Samsung Galaxy Watch5, but also much cheaper smart watches such as the Huawei...

The Apple Watch 8 with watchOS 9 is and remains the benchmark for iPhone users. But: Almost all new functions, except for temperature measurement and accident detection, are also available for the predecessors via update. Only owners of older models will notice any real progress.