The Apple Watch doesn't need much of an introduction because as with most Apple products they have become a part of our culture. However, new iterations are released on a regular basis. So, it can be a bit overwhelming to decide on the best Apple Watch for you.
So what’s included in the Apple Watch lineup? The Apple Watch Series 8, the Apple Watch Series 3, the Apple Watch SE, and the Apple Watch Series 7. Apple pairs fitness tracking with communication well, making it tricky to differentiate between the various models. In this Apple Watch review, we’ll break down how each model stacks up against the other.
In addition to letting you know which Apple Watch we like the best overall, we also provide other options for those who are new to fitness wearables, as well as those who are watching their bottom line.
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The Best Apple Watches - Our Top Picks
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- Best Apple Watch Overall: Apple Watch Series 8
- Best Apple Watch for Beginners: Apple Watch Series 3
- Best Budget Apple Watch: Apple Watch SE
- Best Older Apple Watch: Apple Watch Series 7
Best Overall - Apple Watch Series 8
SPECS
- Display size: 41mm, 45 mm
- Battery life: 36 hours (with low power mode)
- Storage capacity: 32GB
When it comes to the Apple Watch, eight is great! The Series 8 is the latest version of Apple's flagship smartwatch, and the coolest new features have to do with health and safety. This iteration has sensors that detect falls and car accidents, plus you can use the watch to contact OnStar even if you can't reach your in-car button or phone. This makes this an excellent choice for people who are at risk of falling and new drivers. Additionally, if you're out of cellular network range, the Series 8 still allows you to make SOS calls and text messages.
The upgraded health features include menstrual cycle tracking for women, and a built-in electrocardiogram (ECG) that checks your heart rhythm and electrical activity. It also monitors your blood oxygen monitor which helps you track your overall health. The upgraded health features along with the tough recycled aerospace-grade alloy case, the durable Ion-X glass watch face, and the extended battery life make the Series 8 our choice for the best overall Apple Watch.
What We Like
- 36-hour battery life
- Fall and accident sensors
- SOS call/text capabilities
- New health features
What We Don't Like
- Third-party apps can be buggy
- Satellite SOS feature cost extra
- GPS + Cellular model is expensive
Best Apple Watch for Beginners - Apple Watch Series 3
SPECS
- Display size: 38mm, 44 mm
- Battery life: Up to 18 hours
- Storage capacity: 16GB (GPS + Cellular), 8GB (GPS)
New to fitness trackers? The Apple Watch Series 3 is an excellent way to make your first foray into the world of smartwatches. It’s worth noting that this watch has a smaller watch face and it doesn't have many of the features of the later models of the Apple Watch. But, it does offer all of the basics you need for holistic health tracking and it does them well.
The Series 3 has a very solid heart-rate tracker and step counter. And, of course, you can receive texts and calls either via Bluetooth if your phone is nearby or by paying a little extra per month. If you want to try an Apple Watch but are uncertain about how much you’ll use it or if you’re overwhelmed by some of the more feature-heavy options, we recommend the Series 3. Plus, you'll still get the quality that Apple is known for at a bargain price.
What We Like
- Great option for beginners
- Affordability
- Heart rate tracker
- Ease of use
What We Don't Like
- Small watch face
- Low storage capacity
- Slow
Best Budget Apple Watch - Apple Watch SE
SPECS
- Display size: 40mm, 44 mm
- Battery life: 18 hours
- Storage capacity: 32GB
Despite what you may think, not all apple watches cost a fortune. One example? The Apple Watch SE. The Family Setup allows you to stay in touch with your family members as well as track their well-being—even if they don't have an iPhone. This is a great way for children and elderly loved ones to have some independence while giving you peace of mind.
While the SE doesn't have all of the bells and whistles of the smartwatches in other series, not everyone needs that. This watch allows you to track your health and fitness, plus it notifies you of any incoming texts and calls. Additionally, the updated crash and fall detection sensors offer peace of mind knowing you can easily summon help.
What We Like
- Family Setup
- Detailed nightly routine information
- Crash and fall detection
What We Don't Like
- Not as durable as other Apple Watches
- Only available in 32GB
- Extra monthly charge for SOS capabilities
Best Older Apple Watch - Apple Watch Series 7
- Display size: 41mm, 45 mm
- Battery life: 18 hours
- Storage capacity: 32GB
If Siri is your BFF, the Apple Watch Series 7 is for you. Siri brings her A game to the Series 7 by being fast and accurate. She won't often get you in trouble by sending the wrong words in a text and she'll also help you stay on the right track by using reminders. Also, the large watch face makes reading on this Apple Watch easy even if your vision isn't 20/20.
We also like that this watch has excellent water and dust resistance, making it a perfect companion for those who frequently work or play in different kinds of elements. Additionally, you can customize a variety of workouts with this watch and even measure your vertical oscillation when running or hiking. Should you choose to opt for this older model, you’ll save some money without compromising on a lot of features.
What We Like
- Responsiveness of Siri
- Large watch face
- Quick charging
What We Don't Like
- Short battery life
- Only available in 32GB
- Extra monthly charge for SOS capabilities
How to Choose an Apple Watch
You don't amass a loyal customer base by making subpar products. So, while Apple may have some glitches from time to time, they do make products that keep people coming back time and time again. And with the variety of options Apple offers, you can assume there’s an Apple Watch that can suit your needs and budget.
When buying an Apple Watch, be sure to consider the main functions that you will be using it for. Do you just want a smartwatch to track your steps and answer an occasional text message? Or do you want your Apple Watch to be like a Swiss Army knife in the sense that it can do a little bit of everything? For most of us, your choice will most likely fall between those two extremes. Therefore, decide on the most important features for you because although the basic design varies slightly from watch to watch, it won't be much of a consideration.
FAQs About Apple Watches
Is an Apple Watch worth it?
Although Apple Watches can be fairly expensive, they are a quality product that offers a host of benefits and features. You can select what features will be most beneficial to you and find a watch and a price range that suits you.
How long does an Apple Watch last?
The lifespan of an Apple Watch is largely dependent on how well it is taken care of. Over time, older models start to slow down, but they can last for a relatively long time if you take care of them.
Do you need an iPhone to use an apple watch?
This depends on which Apple Watch you have and if you decide to get an additional plan for some of those watches.