Choosing the right Apple Watch can be challenging with so many generations available. Since the first Apple Watch debuted nearly a decade ago, Apple has consistently innovated, releasing new models and refining the smartwatch experience. From the latest Apple Watch Series 10 to the robust Apple Watch Ultra 2 and the budget-friendly Apple Watch SE, the options are plentiful.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the key differences between current and recent Apple Watch generations to help you make an informed decision. We draw upon expert reviews and testing insights to highlight what sets each model apart, ensuring you find the Apple Watch that best fits your needs and budget.
Exploring the Current Apple Watch Lineup
Apple Watch Series 10 (2024)
(Image credit: Apple)
The Apple Watch Series 10 represents the pinnacle of Apple’s smartwatch technology, offering the most advanced features and a refined design. As the newest iteration, it builds upon the strengths of its predecessors with notable enhancements.
Specifications:
- Launch Price: From $399
- Sizes: 42mm, 46mm
- Display: Always-On Retina LTPO3 OLED, wide-angle, up to 2,000 nits brightness
- Chip: Apple S10, Apple W3 Wireless chip, Second-generation Ultra Wideband chip
- Battery Life: Up to 18 hours (standard), up to 36 hours (Low Power Mode), fast charging
Reasons to Buy:
- Enhanced Display: The most significant upgrade is the larger, brighter, wide-angle display using OLED technology. This makes viewing information at various angles much easier, a crucial benefit for a wrist-worn device.
- Slimmer and Lighter Design: While maintaining durability, the Series 10 features a more streamlined and lightweight design for enhanced comfort during all-day wear and activity tracking.
- Faster Charging: A new battery coil significantly improves charging speeds, minimizing downtime and getting you back to full power quicker.
Reasons to Consider Alternatives:
- Incremental Battery Improvement: Despite power efficiency improvements, the battery life rating remains similar to the Series 9, at up to 18 hours. Users hoping for a substantial leap in battery performance might be underwhelmed.
- Evolutionary Upgrade: The Series 10 is more of a refinement than a revolution. While it’s the best standard Apple Watch available, owners of the Series 9 might find the upgrades insufficient to justify an immediate switch.
Apple Watch Series 10 vs. Series 9: The Series 10’s main advantage lies in its improved display and slightly refined design. The performance boost from the S10 chip is not dramatically different in everyday use compared to the S9. If you prioritize the best screen and the latest model, the Series 10 is the clear choice. However, for users already on Series 9, the improvements may not be compelling enough for an upgrade unless the display enhancements are a top priority.
Apple Watch Series 9 (2023)
(Image credit: Apple)
The Apple Watch Series 9, while succeeded by the Series 10, remains a top-tier smartwatch packed with advanced features and offering excellent value, especially as prices may have become more competitive following the Series 10 release.
Specifications:
- Launch Price: From $399
- Sizes: 41mm, 45mm
- Display: Always-On Retina LTPO OLED, up to 2,000 nits brightness
- Chip: Apple S9, Apple W3 Wireless chip, Second-generation Ultra Wideband chip
- Battery Life: Up to 18 hours (standard), up to 36 hours (Low Power Mode), fast charging
Reasons to Buy:
- Double Tap Gesture: A standout feature is the innovative Double Tap gesture, allowing you to control the watch by simply tapping your index finger and thumb together. This provides convenient hands-free interaction.
- Faster Processor: The S9 chip delivers a 30% performance increase over the Series 8, resulting in snappier app launches and smoother multitasking. The 4-core Neural Engine further enhances on-device processing, including Siri requests.
- Brighter Display: The display is twice as bright as the Series 8, reaching 2,000 nits, improving visibility in direct sunlight and various lighting conditions.
Reasons to Consider Alternatives:
- Incremental Upgrades from Series 8: While the Series 9 offers improvements, they are evolutionary rather than revolutionary. Owners of the Series 8 may find the new features interesting but not essential for upgrading.
- Similar Feature Set to Series 10 (excluding display): The Series 9 shares many core features with the Series 10, including the S9 chip (though Series 10 has S10, the real-world performance difference might be minimal), Double Tap, and health monitoring. The primary difference is the display technology and design refinement in the Series 10.
Apple Watch Series 9 vs. Series 8: The Series 9 brings tangible improvements in performance and display brightness, along with the unique Double Tap gesture. For users of older Apple Watch models or those new to smartwatches, the Series 9 offers a significant upgrade. However, Series 8 owners need to weigh if the faster performance and Double Tap are worth the upgrade cost.
Apple Watch Ultra 2 (2023)
(Image credit: Apple)
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is designed for adventurers and those seeking the most rugged and feature-rich Apple Watch. It builds on the original Ultra with performance and usability enhancements.
Specifications:
- Launch Price: From $799
- Sizes: 49mm
- Display: Always-On Retina LTPO OLED, up to 3,000 nits brightness
- Chip: Apple S9, Apple W3 Wireless chip, Second-generation Ultra Wideband chip
- Battery Life: Up to 36 hours (standard), up to 72 hours (Low Power Mode)
Reasons to Buy:
- Double Tap Gesture and Faster Performance: Inherits the Double Tap gesture and the performance boost of the S9 chip, making interactions smoother and more efficient. Siri processing is also faster and can be done on-device.
- Ultra-Bright Display: Boasts an even brighter display at 3,000 nits, enhancing visibility in extreme outdoor conditions.
- Enhanced Durability and Adventure Features: Retains the robust titanium build, water resistance, depth gauge, water temperature sensor, and compass, making it ideal for outdoor activities and demanding environments. New fitness features and functionalities are also tailored for adventurers.
Reasons to Consider Alternatives:
- Evolutionary Upgrade over Ultra 1: The Ultra 2 is not a radical departure from the original Ultra. Owners of the first generation might not find enough compelling new features to warrant upgrading immediately, especially if they primarily use it for general fitness and not extreme sports.
- Price Point: The Ultra 2 is the most expensive Apple Watch, positioning it as a premium device for a niche audience. For everyday users, the Series 10 or SE might offer a better balance of features and price.
Apple Watch Ultra 2 vs. Ultra 1: The Ultra 2 enhances the original with a brighter display, faster performance, and the Double Tap gesture. For new buyers seeking the ultimate adventure smartwatch, the Ultra 2 is the top choice. Existing Ultra 1 owners should consider if the improved brightness and performance justify the upgrade cost, especially considering potential deals on the original Ultra.
Apple Watch Series 8 (2022)
(Image credit: Apple)
The Apple Watch Series 8 remains a highly capable and feature-rich smartwatch. It’s still an excellent option, especially with potential price reductions as newer models are released, offering a sweet spot of features and value.
Specifications:
- Launch Price: £419 (UK Launch Price)
- Sizes: 41mm, 45mm
- Display: Always-On Retina display, up to 1,000 nits brightness
- Chip: Apple S8, Apple W3 wireless chip, Apple U1 Ultra Wideband chip
- Battery Life: Up to 18 hours (standard), up to 36 hours (Low Power Mode), fast charging
Reasons to Buy:
- Bright Always-On Display: Features a vibrant always-on display that is easily readable in most conditions.
- Comprehensive Health Sensors: Includes a wide array of health sensors, such as heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen saturation, ECG, and a temperature sensor for ovulation cycle tracking.
- Crash Detection: Introduced car crash detection, automatically contacting emergency services if a severe crash is detected.
- Smooth Performance: Powered by the S8 chip, it delivers fast and responsive performance for everyday tasks and app usage.
Reasons to Consider Alternatives:
- Temperature Sensor Limitations: The temperature sensor’s primary function was initially limited to ovulation tracking, which might not be relevant to all users. (Note: functionality may have expanded with software updates).
- Battery Life Compared to Fitness Watches: While decent for a smartwatch, the 18-hour battery life is shorter than dedicated fitness watches, especially those without always-on displays.
- Evolutionary Upgrade from Series 7: The Series 8 was a relatively minor upgrade over the Series 7, mainly adding crash detection and the temperature sensor.
Apple Watch Series 8 vs. Series 7: The Series 8 added valuable safety features like crash detection and a temperature sensor for health tracking. For users prioritizing these features or upgrading from older models, the Series 8 is a strong contender. However, Series 7 owners might not find enough new features to justify an upgrade unless those specific additions are important.
Apple Watch Ultra (2022)
(Image credit: Apple)
The original Apple Watch Ultra remains a compelling option, particularly for those seeking a rugged and long-lasting Apple Watch at a potentially lower price point now that the Ultra 2 is available.
Specifications:
- Launch Price: £849 (UK Launch Price)
- Sizes: 49mm
- Display: Always-On Retina display, up to 2,000 nits brightness
- Chip: Apple S8, Apple W3 wireless chip, Apple U1 Ultra Wideband chip
- Battery Life: Up to 36 hours (standard), up to 60 hours (Low Power Mode)
Reasons to Buy:
- Extended Battery Life: Offers significantly longer battery life than standard Apple Watches, lasting up to 36 hours in regular use and even longer in Low Power Mode.
- Larger and Brighter Screen: Features a larger and brighter display for improved readability, especially outdoors.
- Rugged Design and Features: Built with a titanium case and sapphire crystal glass for enhanced durability. Includes features like a customizable Action button, more accurate GPS, and increased water resistance for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Reasons to Consider Alternatives:
- Size and Bulk: The 49mm size is substantial and might feel bulky on smaller wrists or for everyday wear for some users. It can also be more prone to bumps and scratches due to its size.
- Alpine Loop Band: The included Alpine Loop band, while secure, can be fiddly to adjust for some users.
- Superceded by Ultra 2: While still excellent, it lacks the latest processor and display brightness of the Ultra 2.
Apple Watch Ultra vs. Series 8/9/10: The Ultra stands out with its superior battery life, ruggedness, and larger display. It’s ideal for outdoor adventurers and users who prioritize durability and battery performance. Compared to the standard Series models, it’s less focused on being sleek and more on being robust and functional in demanding conditions.
Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) (2022)
(Image credit: Apple)
The Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation) is the entry-level Apple Watch, providing essential features at a more affordable price. It’s an excellent choice for first-time Apple Watch owners or those on a budget.
Specifications:
- Launch Price: £259 (UK Launch Price)
- Sizes: 40mm, 44mm
- Display: Retina display, up to 1,000 nits brightness
- Chip: Apple S8, Apple W3 wireless chip
- Battery Life: Up to 18 hours
Reasons to Buy:
- Affordable Entry Point: The most budget-friendly way to experience the Apple Watch ecosystem.
- Essential Features: Includes core Apple Watch functionalities like activity tracking, notifications, app access, and iPhone integration.
- Same Processor as Series 8: Powered by the S8 chip, offering similar performance to the Series 8 for everyday tasks.
- Lightweight and Premium Design: Maintains a premium feel despite its lower price, with a lightweight design suitable for all-day wear.
Reasons to Consider Alternatives:
- No Always-On Display: Lacks the always-on display feature found in the Series models, requiring you to raise your wrist to see the time and information.
- Limited Health Sensors: Omits some advanced health sensors like blood oxygen, ECG, and temperature sensing.
- Shorter Battery Life Compared to Some Fitness Trackers: While battery life is typical for an Apple Watch, it’s less than some dedicated fitness trackers, particularly those without smartwatch features.
Apple Watch SE vs. Series 8/9/10: The SE prioritizes affordability by omitting some premium features like the always-on display and advanced health sensors. It’s perfect for users who want the core Apple Watch experience for fitness tracking, notifications, and basic smartwatch functionalities without the higher cost of the Series models. If advanced health tracking and always-on display are important, the Series models are more suitable.
Apple Watch Series 7 (2021)
(Image credit: Apple)
The Apple Watch Series 7, although a couple of generations older, can still be found at attractive prices and offers a solid Apple Watch experience. It’s a good option for value-conscious buyers who don’t need the absolute latest features.
Specifications:
- Launch Price: £369 (UK Launch Price)
- Sizes: 41mm, 45mm
- Display: Always-On Retina display, up to 1,000 nits brightness
- Chip: Apple S7, Apple W3 wireless chip, Apple U1 Ultra Wideband chip
- Battery Life: Up to 18 hours, fast charging
Reasons to Buy:
- Affordable Price (Potentially): Likely available at discounted prices compared to newer models, offering good value for money.
- Always-On Display: Features a bright always-on display.
- Fast Charging: Introduced fast charging capabilities.
- Crack-Resistant Design: Improved durability with a more crack-resistant front crystal.
Reasons to Consider Alternatives:
- Older Processor: Uses the older S7 chip, which is less powerful than the chips in newer models, though still adequate for most tasks.
- Missing Newer Features: Lacks features introduced in later models, such as crash detection, temperature sensing, and Double Tap gesture.
- Limited Availability: May be harder to find new from retailers, potentially only available refurbished or from third-party sellers.
Apple Watch Series 7 vs. Newer Series: The Series 7 is a step behind in terms of processing power and features compared to the Series 8, 9, and 10. However, it still offers a good core Apple Watch experience with an always-on display and fast charging. It’s a viable option if budget is a primary concern and the latest features are not essential.
Older Apple Watch Models: Considerations
While Apple primarily sells the latest models, older Apple Watches like the Series 6, SE (1st generation), and Series 5 are available on the secondary market. These can be even more budget-friendly, but consider:
- Software Updates: Older models may eventually stop receiving the latest watchOS updates, limiting access to new features and potentially impacting app compatibility.
- Battery Health: Used devices will have some battery degradation, potentially requiring more frequent charging or battery replacement sooner.
- Feature Set: They lack newer features like crash detection, advanced health sensors (temperature, blood oxygen in some cases), and potentially slower performance.
How We Test Apple Watches
Our reviews involve extensive hands-on testing to simulate real-world usage. We evaluate ease of use, display quality, responsiveness, app performance, battery life under various conditions, and the accuracy of fitness and health tracking features. We also incorporate insights from other reputable tech review sites to provide a comprehensive perspective.
FAQs about Apple Watch Generations
How many Apple Watch generations are there currently?
Apple has released a new Apple Watch series almost annually since the original Apple Watch in 2015. Including the original, there have been ten main series (Series 1 through 10), plus two generations of the Apple Watch SE and two generations of the Apple Watch Ultra. While Apple currently sells the Series 10, Ultra 2, and SE (2nd Gen) directly, older generations remain available through various retailers and the refurbished market.
What are the key differences between Apple Watch 8 and SE?
The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is designed as a more affordable alternative to the Series 8 (and now Series 10). Key differences include:
- Display: SE lacks always-on display.
- Health Features: SE omits blood oxygen and ECG sensors, temperature sensing, and advanced ovulation tracking.
- Durability: Series 8 has IP6X dust resistance, which the SE lacks.
- Charging: SE does not have fast charging.
- Materials: SE is only available in aluminum, while Series 8 offers aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium options.
- Size Options: SE comes in 40mm and 44mm, while Series 8 was available in 41mm and 45mm.
However, the SE (2nd Gen) shares the same S8 processor as the Series 8, ensuring comparable performance for most everyday tasks.
Is buying a refurbished Apple Watch a good idea?
Buying a refurbished Apple Watch can be a smart way to save money. However, it’s crucial to:
- Check the Refurbisher’s Reputation: Ensure the seller is reputable and offers a warranty. Read reviews and understand their refurbishment process.
- Apple Refurbished: Apple’s own refurbished Watches are generally considered the highest quality, using genuine parts and undergoing rigorous testing. They come with a warranty and are often like-new.
- Third-Party Refurbishers: Third-party options can be cheaper but require more due diligence to ensure quality and reliability.
Buying refurbished can provide significant savings while still getting a functional Apple Watch.
Why is the Apple Watch SE more affordable?
The Apple Watch SE is priced lower because it omits some of the premium features found in the higher-end Series and Ultra models. These omissions include the always-on display, more advanced health sensors (ECG, blood oxygen, temperature), and premium materials. By focusing on core functionalities and using less cutting-edge technology in certain areas, Apple can offer the SE at a more accessible price point, making the Apple Watch experience available to a wider range of consumers.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Apple Watch Generation
Deciding which Apple Watch generation to buy depends on your individual needs, priorities, and budget.
- For the latest technology and best display: Choose the Apple Watch Series 10.
- For premium features and performance at a potentially better value: Consider the Apple Watch Series 9.
- For extreme sports and rugged durability: The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is unmatched. The original Apple Watch Ultra remains a strong contender for ruggedness at a potentially reduced price.
- For a balance of features and value: The Apple Watch Series 8 is still highly capable and may be available at attractive prices.
- For budget-conscious buyers and first-time users: The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) provides the essential Apple Watch experience without breaking the bank. The Apple Watch Series 7 might offer a good balance of features and affordability if found at a competitive price.
By understanding the differences between Apple Watch generations, you can confidently select the model that best suits your lifestyle and enjoy the benefits of Apple’s industry-leading smartwatch technology.
