The 8 Best Apple Watches of 2024 – Features, Reviews, and Buying Guide

Looking for the best Apple Watch in 2024? You’re in the right place! Our guide covers eight fantastic models, from the budget-friendly Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) to the advanced Series 9. Each watch offers unique features, like health tracking, fall detection, and seamless connectivity with your iPhone. Don’t forget the stylish options available, such as the Midnight Aluminum Case and vibrant display sizes. Whether you prioritize fitness, design, or technology, there’s an Apple Watch that fits your lifestyle. Stick around, and you’ll uncover more details on features, reviews, and your ideal buying choices.

Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) Smartwatch with Starlight Aluminum Case

The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) with its Starlight Aluminum Case is an ideal choice for those seeking a blend of functionality and affordability. This smartwatch offers features like Fall Detection and Crash Detection, ensuring you stay safe while you’re on the go. With watchOS 11, you get enhanced intelligence and personalization, making it easier to manage your daily tasks. You can monitor your health with irregular heart rhythm notifications and heart rate alerts. Plus, the workout app provides various training options and advanced metrics. The 50m water resistance means you can wear it while swimming too. It’s compatible with your iPhone for calls and texts, making it a practical addition to your tech collection.

Best For: Those seeking an affordable smartwatch that offers essential health tracking features and seamless connectivity with iPhone.

Pros:

• Fall Detection and Crash Detection enhance user safety during activities.
• The customizable watch bands and faces allow for personal expression.
• Users report excellent battery life and fast charging capabilities.

Cons:

• Some users experience reduced battery life when tracking workouts extensively.
• Limited features compared to higher-end models may not satisfy tech enthusiasts.
• Compatibility is restricted to iPhone users, limiting accessibility for others.

Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS 45mm) Smartwatch with Midnight Aluminum Case

Looking for a smartwatch that seamlessly blends cutting-edge technology with a commitment to sustainability? The Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS 45mm) with its Midnight Aluminum Case is your perfect match. Made from carbon-neutral aluminum and paired with the latest Sport Loop, it shows Apple’s dedication to the environment. The S9 chip provides a superbright display and touchless interaction, while advanced health features like ECG, sleep tracking, and temperature sensing keep you informed about your wellness. Safety is paramount, thanks to Fall Detection and Emergency SOS. It integrates smoothly with your Apple devices and offers extensive customization options. While daily charging is necessary, user feedback highlights its impressive fitness accuracy and ease of use, making it a top choice for 2024.

Best For: Individuals seeking a technologically advanced smartwatch that prioritizes health tracking and environmental sustainability.

Pros:

• Advanced health features including ECG, sleep tracking, and temperature sensing.
• Seamless integration with other Apple devices for enhanced functionality.
• Customizable design with various watch bands and faces to suit personal style.

Cons:

• Requires daily charging, which may be inconvenient for some users.
• Minor concerns reported about wristband comfort.
• Battery life may be shorter than some competitors in the market.

Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) [GPS 44mm] Smartwatch

For those seeking an affordable yet feature-rich smartwatch, the Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) [GPS 44mm] stands out as an excellent choice. It features a sleek Midnight Aluminium Case and a vibrant Retina Display, ensuring usability and style. You’ll appreciate its health and safety features, including heart rate monitoring, Fall Detection, and Crash Detection, which provide essential insights and peace of mind. Stay connected effortlessly—send texts, make calls, and listen to music directly from your wrist. The Workout app offers diverse training options, and with three months of Apple Fitness+ included, you can elevate your fitness routine. Plus, you can customize your watch with various bands and faces, making it truly yours.

Best For: Individuals looking for an affordable smartwatch that combines health tracking, safety features, and seamless connectivity.

Pros:

• Affordable pricing for a feature-rich smartwatch.
• Comprehensive health and safety features, including heart rate monitoring and Fall Detection.
• Customizable design with various bands and watch faces.

Cons:

• Lacks cellular connectivity options for those who want independence from their iPhone.
• Limited battery life compared to some competitors.
• Some advanced health metrics may require additional subscriptions or services.

Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) GPS + Cellular Smartwatch

With its combination of fitness tracking and seamless connectivity, the Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) GPS + Cellular Smartwatch is perfect for active individuals who want to stay connected without their iPhone. It features a sleek Starlight Aluminium Case and comes with fitness and sleep trackers, a heart rate monitor, and a Retina display. With watchOS 11, you’ll enjoy enhanced intelligence and personalization.

Health and safety are prioritized with fall detection, crash detection, and an emergency SOS feature. You can send texts, make calls, and stream music independently by adding a cellular plan. Plus, it integrates seamlessly with your other Apple devices, allowing for easy access to your Mac and Apple Pay usage. Enjoy three months of Apple Fitness+ to boost your workouts!

Best For: Active individuals seeking a smartwatch that offers fitness tracking and cellular connectivity without needing their iPhone.

Pros:

• Fitness tracking features including workout app, sleep monitoring, and advanced metrics.
• Safety features such as fall detection and emergency SOS for added peace of mind.
• Seamless integration with Apple devices and services, enhancing user experience.

Cons:

• Requires a cellular plan for full functionality without an iPhone.
• Limited compatibility with non-Apple devices and services.
• Price may be higher compared to other non-cellular smartwatches on the market.

Apple Watch Series 10 Smartwatch (GPS 42mm)

The Apple Watch Series 10 Smartwatch (GPS 42mm) stands out as an ideal choice for fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals. It features a sleek jet black aluminum case paired with a black sport band, offering a bigger display that’s up to 30% larger. With its always-on Retina LTPO OLED display, you’ll easily see your metrics, even in bright sunlight.

Health monitoring is enhanced with the ECG app, sleep tracking, and activity rings that keep you motivated. You can stay connected with text, calls, and music, all while enjoying Siri integration. Safety features like Fall Detection and Emergency SOS guarantee your well-being, while the S10 chip delivers impressive performance. Plus, fast charging gets you ready in no time.

Best For: Fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals seeking a versatile smartwatch with advanced health monitoring features.

Pros:

• Always-On Retina display provides excellent visibility in various lighting conditions.
• Comprehensive health features like ECG monitoring and sleep tracking promote well-being.
• Fast charging capability allows for quick power-ups, reducing downtime.

Cons:

• Limited battery life of up to 18 hours may require frequent charging for heavy users.
• Compatibility restricted to iPhone Xs or later, limiting accessibility for Android users.
• Higher price point compared to some other smartwatches on the market.

Apple Watch Series 5 (GPS, 44MM) – Space Gray Aluminum Case

Designed for fitness enthusiasts and tech-savvy individuals alike, the Apple Watch Series 5 (GPS, 44MM) in a striking Space Gray Aluminum case stands out with its always-on Retina display that allows for quick glances at essential information. You can track various workouts like cycling and swimming, set goals, and monitor your progress through the Activity app. With features like ECG capability, built-in compass, and emergency SOS, it enhances your safety during workouts. Enjoy music streaming directly from the watch, keeping you motivated without needing your phone. While it offers impressive durability and performance, keep in mind the battery life may last about a day, especially during active use. Overall, it’s a great option for extensive fitness tracking and connectivity.

Best For: Fitness enthusiasts and tech-savvy individuals looking for comprehensive activity tracking and connectivity in a smartwatch.

Pros:

• Always-On Retina display enhances usability with quick access to essential information.
• Variety of workout tracking options and automatic detection for improved fitness monitoring.
• Music streaming capability allows users to enjoy their favorite tracks without needing a phone during workouts.

Cons:

• Battery life typically lasts about one day, which may not suffice for heavy users.
• Refurbished condition may raise concerns about battery capacity and potential cosmetic wear.
• Syncing issues with iPhone can occasionally hinder user experience and functionality.

Apple Watch Series 4 (GPS, 40MM) – Space Gray Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band

If you’re looking for a smartwatch that combines advanced health monitoring with a sleek design, the Apple Watch Series 4 (GPS, 40MM) in Space Gray Aluminum is an excellent choice. This certified refurbished model features the largest display yet, over 30% larger than previous versions, allowing for easier navigation. With built-in heart sensors, fall detection, and Emergency SOS, it prioritizes your safety. You’ll appreciate new workout options, including yoga and hiking, alongside personalized coaching and activity sharing. The S4 processor offers speed, while the 50% louder speaker enhances communication. Although battery performance may vary, users often find its lightweight design and functionality impressive. Just be mindful of potential cosmetic flaws when opting for a refurbished model.

Best For: Those seeking an affordable smartwatch with advanced health tracking features and a larger display in a stylish design.

Pros:

• Pros:
• Large display enhances navigation and usability.
• Advanced health monitoring features including heart rate notifications and fall detection.
• Lightweight design offers comfort for all-day wear.

Cons:

• Cons:
• Battery performance can be inconsistent among refurbished units.
• Some users experience cosmetic flaws with refurbished models.
• Initial setup may be challenging for first-time users without guidance.

Apple Watch Series 7 (GPS, 45mm) – Renewed

For anyone seeking a reliable smartwatch that combines advanced health tracking with durability, the renewed Apple Watch Series 7 (GPS, 45mm) stands out. It features an always-on Retina display that’s 20% larger than its predecessor, making it easy to view notifications and apps. The design includes thinner borders and a crack-resistant front crystal, ensuring resilience against daily wear. With impressive health features like ECG, blood oxygen measurement, and automatic workout detection, it’s perfect for fitness enthusiasts. Plus, you’ll appreciate its up to 18 hours of fast-charging battery life. While customer ratings hover around 4.3 stars, some users note battery capacity variations. Overall, it’s a solid choice for those wanting a premium smartwatch experience without breaking the bank.

Best For: Those seeking a reliable and advanced smartwatch that excels in health tracking and durability without a hefty price tag.

Pros:

• Always-on Retina display provides a larger viewing area, making notifications and apps easily accessible.
• Robust health features including ECG, blood oxygen measurement, and automatic workout detection cater to fitness enthusiasts.
• Durable design with crack-resistant crystal and water resistance ensures longevity in daily use.

Cons:

• Battery capacity variations in refurbished units may affect longevity and usage time.
• Mixed reviews on included bands and chargers, with some users expressing dissatisfaction.
• Potential pairing issues with older iPhone models due to software updates may frustrate some users.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Apple Watches

When you’re choosing an Apple Watch, several key factors come into play. You’ll want to think about display size and quality, health tracking features, and battery life. Plus, consider the design options and how well it connects with your other devices.

Display Size and Quality

Choosing the right Apple Watch involves considering display size and quality, as these factors greatly impact your overall experience. Apple offers display sizes ranging from 40mm to 45mm, affecting how easily you can interact with apps and notifications. A larger screen means more space for information, and the thinner borders in newer models provide up to 30% more screen area than older versions, enhancing usability.

Brightness is another vital element; with displays reaching up to 2,000 nits, you’ll find it easier to read your watch in various lighting conditions, especially outdoors. The always-on Retina display feature guarantees you can quickly glance at your information without needing to raise your wrist or tap the screen, making it convenient throughout your day.

Additionally, durability matters. The displays are designed with crack resistance and boast water resistance ratings up to WR50, assuring they can withstand different environments and activities. By considering these display aspects, you can choose an Apple Watch that not only meets your aesthetic preferences but also enhances your day-to-day functionality, making sure you get the most out of your device.

Health Tracking Features

Apple Watches offer a variety of advanced health tracking features that can greatly enhance your wellness journey. Many models include ECG monitoring and irregular heart rhythm notifications, helping you stay informed about your heart health. High and low heart rate alerts further guarantee you’re aware of any significant changes.

If you’re looking to improve your sleep quality, select models provide sleep tracking that breaks down your REM, Core, and Deep sleep patterns. This insight lets you make informed adjustments to your nightly routine. The Fall Detection feature is another critical aspect, automatically alerting emergency services in the event of a severe fall, which is especially beneficial for older users.

Comprehensive fitness tracking is also a standout feature. With multiple workout modes and advanced metrics available in the Workout app, you can tailor your exercise routine to fit your fitness level and goals. Additional health capabilities, like cycle tracking with retrospective ovulation estimates, temperature sensing, and overnight health metrics, further enhance your overall wellness monitoring.

When choosing an Apple Watch, consider these health tracking features to find a model that best supports your specific needs and lifestyle.

Battery Life Considerations

For those considering an Apple Watch, battery life is an essential factor that can greatly impact your daily experience. Most Apple Watches typically last up to 18 hours with normal use, but this can fluctuate based on how you use the device. If you’re into extensive workout tracking or constantly receive notifications, you might find yourself charging more often than you’d like.

If you’re looking at refurbished units, keep in mind that they may arrive with battery capacities ranging from 74% to 90%, which can affect overall performance. On the upside, fast charging can quickly replenish the battery to about 80% in just 30 to 45 minutes—perfect for those moments when you need a quick power boost.

However, heavy users should be prepared for the likelihood of needing more frequent charges. Many models struggle to last a full day under intensive use. To help with this, consider using Low Power Mode, which extends battery life by limiting background activities and display features. This can be particularly beneficial if you need longer usage without a charge. So, think about how you’ll use your Apple Watch before making your choice.

Design and Customization Options

When it comes to finding the right Apple Watch, design and customization options play a significant role in personalizing your experience. You’ll notice that Apple offers various case sizes, like 40mm and 44mm, catering to different wrist sizes and preferences. This flexibility helps you choose a watch that feels just right on your wrist.

One of the best features is the ability to customize your watch face. You can select from a range of styles, colors, and complications to match your personal aesthetic and functional needs. Plus, the choice of watch bands—sport bands, loops, and leather—allows for additional personalization regarding style and comfort.

If you’re environmentally conscious, some models incorporate recycled aluminum, which can be a key selling point. And don’t overlook durability; Apple Watches are designed with water resistance up to 50m and crack-resistant displays, ensuring they maintain their sleek appearance while standing up to daily wear and tear.

With these design and customization options, you can create an Apple Watch that truly reflects your style and requirements, making it more than just a gadget—it’s a part of your lifestyle.

Connectivity and Compatibility

Choosing the right Apple Watch involves understanding its connectivity and compatibility features, which can greatly enhance your experience. Apple Watches connect via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, enabling you to send texts, make calls, and stream music independently, especially with cellular models. This means you can stay connected even when your iPhone isn’t nearby.

Integration with other Apple devices is another essential aspect. You can access your Mac automatically and use Apple Pay for quick transactions, making your daily tasks seamless. However, keep in mind that compatibility usually requires an iPhone, and newer Apple Watch models often need updated iOS versions to access all their features.

The Apple Watch also supports various connectivity options, such as Siri for voice commands and GymKit for syncing with your gym equipment. This makes workouts and everyday tasks more convenient. Plus, you can customize your watch with different bands and watch faces, allowing you to express your personal style while staying connected within the Apple ecosystem. So, when selecting your Apple Watch, consider how these connectivity and compatibility features fit your lifestyle.

Safety Features Included

Considering safety features is essential in selecting the right Apple Watch for your needs. Many models come equipped with Fall Detection, which automatically alerts emergency services if you experience a hard fall and don’t respond. This feature can provide peace of mind, especially for those at risk of falls.

Another vital safety feature is Crash Detection, designed to identify severe car accidents. If it detects such an incident, it connects you to emergency services for immediate assistance. Additionally, the Emergency SOS function allows you to call for help quickly by pressing and holding the side button, sending alerts to your designated emergency contacts.

Monitoring your heart health is also important, and irregular heart rhythm notifications can alert you to potential abnormalities in real-time, helping you stay proactive about your well-being.

Lastly, the Check In feature enhances your personal safety by notifying designated contacts automatically when you arrive at a specific destination, keeping your loved ones informed during your travels. These features collectively make Apple Watches a valuable companion for ensuring your safety in everyday situations.

Fitness Tracking Capabilities

While staying safe is essential, keeping fit is equally important, and Apple Watches excel in fitness tracking capabilities. Many models support a variety of workouts, from cycling and yoga to swimming and high-intensity interval training. They even automatically detect when you start a workout, so you don’t have to worry about pressing any buttons.

You’ll benefit from advanced metrics, including heart rate monitoring, calorie tracking, and activity trends that you can view in the Fitness app. This data enhances your insights into your fitness journey. Some models take it a step further with specialized features like ECG capabilities, blood oxygen measurement, and sleep tracking, giving you a thorough view of your health.

The Workout app offers real-time data and customizable goal-setting options, making it easy to tailor your fitness experience. Plus, you’ll receive reminders to stay active throughout the day. Many Apple Watch models also include a free trial of Apple Fitness+, which provides a wide range of guided workouts and classes to keep you motivated. With these features, you’re equipped to take charge of your fitness journey and achieve your health goals.

Price and Value Comparison

When evaluating Apple Watches, it’s vital to weigh the price against the features that matter most to you. If you’re looking for great value, the Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) stands out, especially during sales events. It offers a solid range of features without the hefty price tag of the latest models. Alternatively, consider refurbished options like the Series 5 or Series 4, which can save you significant money, though keep in mind that battery capacity may vary.

For those who want cutting-edge technology, the Series 9 is a worthy investment with its advanced health features and premium build, but it comes at a higher price point. If you prefer a model with an always-on display and all-encompassing health tracking, the Series 7 is another option, albeit a pricier one.

Prices for Apple Watches range from around $189 for new units to several hundred dollars for the latest versions. It’s important to establish a budget and define your priorities, so you can choose an Apple Watch that fits your needs without overspending. Ultimately, balancing price and features will guarantee you get the best value for your investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Apple Watches Compatible With Android Devices?

Apple Watches aren’t compatible with Android devices. You’ll need an iPhone to set up and use all features effectively. If you’re an Android user, consider exploring smartwatches designed specifically for your device.

What Is the Average Battery Life of an Apple Watch?

The average battery life of an Apple Watch varies, but you can generally expect around 18 hours with regular use. If you track workouts or use apps frequently, it might drain faster than that.

Can I Swim With My Apple Watch?

Yes, you can swim with your Apple Watch! Most models are water-resistant, allowing you to track your swims. Just make sure to rinse it off afterward to keep it clean and functioning properly.

How Do I Update My Apple Watch Software?

To update your Apple Watch software, open the Watch app on your iPhone. Go to General, then Software Update. If an update’s available, tap Download and Install, and follow the prompts to complete the process.

What Accessories Are Available for Apple Watches?

You’ve got plenty of accessories for your Apple Watch. Consider bands in various styles, charging docks for convenience, screen protectors for durability, or even cases to personalize and enhance your watch’s functionality and protection.