You know how everyone talks about how much Apple dominates the smartwatch scene? Well, it’s true. As of 2024, Apple’s got the biggest slice of the pie, with a whopping 22% share of the smartwatch market. But here’s the thing: with over five different versions of the Apple Watch out there, figuring out which one suits you best, whether you’re buying for the first time or looking to upgrade, can be a bit of a head-scratcher.
What is the Best Apple Watch to Buy?
Having thoroughly explored and tested different Apple Watch models for tasks ranging from managing text messages to navigating lengthy trails and running numerous smart home apps, setting cooking timers, and keeping track of important tasks, I’ve amassed quite a bit of experience. After years of hands on testing, I confidently recommend the Apple Watch Ultra 2 as the top choice overall. Its expansive screen, impressive battery life of over 24 hours, and handy emergency siren feature make it stand out. Keep reading to discover which Apple Watch suits your needs best.
Best Apple Watches 2024
FEATURES:
PROS
- Larger, brighter, more useful screen
- Over 24-hour battery life
- Super durable
- Emergency Siren
CONS
- Too big for small wrists
- Double the price of the base Apple Watch Series 9
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 boasts a range of superior features compared to other models in the Apple Watch lineup. The standout enhancement lies in its expansive, vivid display, which is flatter and brighter, encased in durable sapphire crystal, and bordered by a titanium casing, ensuring heightened durability against daily wear and tear. Additionally, it’s equipped with IPX6 dust resistance, enabling functionality underwater up to 100 meters (328 feet), and bears MIL-STD 810H certification for toughness. Furthermore, the Ultra 2 is adept at handling high altitudes, shocks, vibrations, and extreme temperatures ranging from 4 degrees Fahrenheit to 130 degrees Fahrenheit.
Features:
PROS
- Brighter screen
- Full array of health sensors
- Hands-free double-tap gesture
- More accurate Siri commands
CONS
- Cellular connectivity costs extra
- Not as durable as the Ultra 2
The Apple Watch Series 9 offers comprehensive tracking capabilities, including activity, steps, heart rate, respiratory rate, blood oxygen (lung function), wrist temperature, sleep, and environmental sound levels (aimed at safeguarding your hearing). According to user reviews, these features significantly simplify everyday life. Moreover, it employs algorithms and machine learning (commonly known as AI) to identify potentially hazardous patterns and notify users to seek medical assistance when necessary. Numerous anecdotes now highlight life-saving instances facilitated by health alerts from the Apple Watch.
FEATURES:
PROS
- Family Setup for kids and older adults
- Health and location tracking
- Fall and crash detection
- Very affordable
CONS
- Not as durable as other Apple Watch models
- Cellular connection requires monthly fee
Starting at $189, what I found remarkable about the Apple Watch SE (2nd generation) is how many of the same health and safety features from the Series 8 and the Ultra it actually incorporates. It’s simpler to discuss what’s absent in the SE, it doesn’t track blood oxygen, conduct ECG heart checks, or monitor temperature. While the appearance closely resembles the Series 8, the screen is approximately 20% smaller, and it lacks an always-on display.
However, it encompasses nearly all other features, with cellular connectivity requiring only a $50 add-on for the SE (compared to $100 for the Series 8). Similar to the Ultra and the Series 8, incorporating cellular connectivity typically incurs an additional $10/month with your wireless provider. Even if you opt for the cellular version and choose the larger 44mm Apple Watch SE over the smaller 40mm variant, the price caps at $329 for the SE.
Features:
PROS
- Comes in unique blue and green colors
- Good deal if you buy used or refurbished
- Has most of the latest health features
- Water, dust, and crack resistant
CONS
- Shorter battery life than Series 8 or 9
- Display isn’t as bright as Series 9
When it first launched in fall 2021, the Apple Watch Series 7 brought key upgrades including a 20% larger screen, fast charging (0 to 80% in 45 minutes with a USB-C cable), a more durable face that’s made out of crystal and is 50% thicker than the previous model, and IPX6 dust resistance. Those are features that still aren’t available on the Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen.