Best Apple Watch 2024: from basics to brilliance

We're here to make sense of all Apple Watch options so you can choose one that fits your wrist and lifestyle

Best Apple Watch: Apple Watch Ultra 2 displaying Training Peaks workouts
(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)

Welcome to our guide on all things Apple Watch! We've rolled up our sleeves (pun intended) and put the latest models through their paces to help you make the best choice for your wrist.

In this guide, we're not just giving you a laundry list of Cupertino's finest wrist candy. Instead, we're here to break down the key points, compare features, and ensure you're armed with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

Now, we get it. The allure of the latest Apple Watch Series 9 is strong. It's shiny, it's new, and it's generating all the buzz. But before you take the plunge and empty your wallet, let's take a closer look together to see if it's truly the right fit for you.

So, grab a seat, take a deep breath, and let's embark on this journey through the world of Apple Watches. We promise to keep the jargon to a minimum and guide you through every step of the way. Let's find your perfect wrist companion, shall we?

And if there really is nothing you like in this list, check out T3's roundup of the best smartwatches for alternative options.

Best Apple Watch to buy right now

Why you can trust T3 Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Apple Watch Series 9

Apple Watch Series 9 review

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)
Best Apple Watch overall

Specifications

Size: 41mm / 45mm
Chip: S9 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor, 4-core Neural Engine, Second-generation Ultra-Wideband chip
Water resistant: WR50 (swim-proof)
Always-on screen: Yes
ECG and Blood Oxygen: Both

Reasons to buy

+
Faster processor
+
Brighter screen
+
Gesture control
+
Carbon Neutral certification (with specific bands)

Reasons to avoid

-
Battery life hasn't improved

The Apple Watch Series 9 is the best Apple Watch right now. It has a brighter display, a faster microchip, gesture control, and offline Siri, making it a more competent wearable than the Series 8. Better still, it's even carbon-neutral certified in some strap and case material combinations.

From a physical appearance point of view, the Series 9 is very similar to the Series 8 and the Series 7 and comes in two case sizes, 41mm and 45mm. As usual, you can choose between LTE and non-LTE models, as well as aluminium and stainless steel case options. Straps are aplenty, both via Apple and third-party retailers.

What sets the Series 9 apart from the rest of the Apple Watches is the new processor, which makes the smartwatch perform tasks blisteringly fast. The Ultrawide Band microchip is also responsible for the Series 9's offline Siri and gesture control ability. It is truly a game-changer technology!

If you have a Series 6 or an even older model, we recommend getting the Series 9. It's a brilliant smartwatch.

Read our full Apple Watch Series 9 review.

How does the Series 9 compare to other top wearables? Find out here: Apple Watch Series 9 vs Google Pixel Watch 2 and Apple Watch Series 9 vs Garmin Venu 3.

Apple Watch Ultra 2

embargo until Thursday, December 14th at 6:00am US PT / 2pm GMT/ Apple Watch Ultra 2 displaying Training Peaks workouts

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)
Best rugged Apple Watch

Specifications

Size: 49mm
Chip: S9 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor, 4-core Neural Engine, Second-generation Ultra-Wideband chip
Water resistant: WR100 (suitable for diving)
Always-on screen: Yes
ECG and Blood Oxygen: Both

Reasons to buy

+
Faster processor
+
Brighter display
+
New gesture control (Double Tap)
+
Offline Siri
+
Carbon Neutral product (when paired with certain straps)

Reasons to avoid

-
Not suitable for smaller wrists
-
Unless you need some of the watch-specific sports features (e.g. freediving), you're better off with the Series 9

The second iteration of the Apple Watch Ultra is powered by the same Ultrawide Chip that makes the Series 9 our top choice. However, the Ultra 2 encases it in a rugged case, slaps a huge, extremely bright display on it, and crams in a ton of performance-ready features to make it the ultimate outdoor watch on Apple's stable.

The reason why it isn't our top choice for the best Apple Watch is that it hasn't got the mass appeal of the Series 9. Sure, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is better than the Series 9 in every conceivable way, but it only comes in one size, is more expensive, and offers features only active outdoor people will appreciate.

That said, some of these features are seriously impressive. The Ultra 2 has a freediving mode (the Ultra could only track scuba diving), and the operating altitude has also increased significantly. Plus, the Ultra 2 has the brightest ever Apple Watch display with a 3,000-nit maximum brightness.

Read our full Apple Watch Ultra 2 review.

Apple Watch Series 7

Apple Watch Series 7 reviewT3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Future)
Two generations later, an excellent value-for-money mainline Apple Watch option

Specifications

Size: 41mm / 45mm
Chip: S7 dual-core processor
Water resistant: Yes
Always-on screen: Yes
ECG and Blood Oxygen: Both

Reasons to buy

+
New colours added
+
Bigger screen, smaller bezels
+
Handy health & fitness features

Reasons to avoid

-
Don't expect a lot of updates compared to Apple Watch 6

The Apple Watch Series 7 has now been replaced by the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Apple Watch Series 9, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't consider buying it. The Series 7 still has a big, beautiful screen and fast-charging capabilities, making it a more well-rounded smartwatch overall.

Naturally, there are areas it could still improve – in battery life and more nerdy activity tracking in particular – but if you can get a deal on the older Apple Watch and don't need the new temperature sensor on the Series 8 or the latest processor of the Series 9, this could be the Apple Watch for you.

Read our full Apple Watch Series 7 review.

Apple Watch Series 8

Apple Watch Series 8 reviewT3 Best Buy badge

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)
Introducing some solid health and fitness upgrades

Specifications

Size: 41mm / 45mm
Chip: S8 dual-core processor
Water resistant: Yes
Always-on screen: Yes
ECG and Blood Oxygen: Both

Reasons to buy

+
New workout modes and metrics are helpful
+
Improved sleep-tracking capabilities
+
Premium smartwatch experience through and through

Reasons to avoid

-
Almost no changes in physical design compared to predecessor
-
Most fitness feature updates mainly benefit runners 

The Apple Watch Series 8 is a decent iteration of the Series 7 and adds some new features to the ever-expanding function portfolio of the mainline Apple Watch series. Thes include crash detection, medication logging, and Afib history – most of them are niche and doesn't really impact the everyday user experience.

The best thing about the Series 8 is the improved health and fitness features. It can be used for tracking sleep just as well as dedicated sleep trackers, and the new-and-improved workout metrics and views bring the watch ever so close to being used for running training. It has Track Running and Triathlon workout modes!

Should you buy the Apple Watch Series 8? If you have the Series 7, the answer is no. If you have any other Apple Watch or any other wearable in general, we'd recommend at least entertaining the idea of investing in Apple's latest non-rugged wearable. It's a premium smartwatch experience like no other.

Read our full Apple Watch Series 8 review.

Find out what the main differences between the Apple Watch Series 9 and Series 8 are here: Apple Watch Series 9 vs Apple Watch Series 8.

Apple Watch Ultra

Apple Watch Ultra in handT3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)
Scuba divers' dream smartwatch

Specifications

Size: 49mm
Chip: S8 dual-core processor
Water resistant: Yes
Always-on screen: Yes
ECG and Blood Oxygen: Both

Reasons to buy

+
All titanium case
+
Large, bright AMOLED display
+
Longest battery life (for an Apple Watch)
+
Expedition focused features

Reasons to avoid

-
Battery life is not on par with Garmins or other competitors (to say the least)
-
Diving and mountaineering features are aimed at a very niche market

The Apple Watch Ultra was a landmark wearable for Apple. It was the largest Apple Watch to date and also the one with the longest battery life. Granted, the latter is only 36 hours, but that's twice as long as the battery life of mainline Apple Watches.

The Ultra features a titanium case, a large AMOLED screen with a 2,000-nit maximum brightness, dedicated scuba diving mode, and unique training options (e.g. Precision Start). The smartwatch has a superb GPS and offers some outdoor-ready features, too.

Like its successor, the Apple Watch Ultra caters for a niche market than the Series 8; the watch launched alongside it. It won't be everyone's cup of tea, but those who like the look and feel of rugged wearables such as the Garmin Fenix or Epix watches might want to check out the Ultra.

Read our full Apple Watch Ultra review.

Apple Watch SE (2022)

Apple Watch SE 2 review

(Image credit: Matt Kollat/T3)
Best affordable Apple Watch (and then some)

Specifications

Size: 40mm, 44 mm
Chip: S8 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor
Water resistant: Yes, WR50 (swim-proof)
Always-on screen: No
ECG and Blood Oxygen: No

Reasons to buy

+
Multiple case size and colour options
+
Same processor as the Apple Watch Series 8
+
By-yearly release cycle means it retains its value for longer
+
Lighter than Apple Watch Series 8
+
Almost all features as mainline Apple Watches

Reasons to avoid

-
No always-on-screen option
-
No ECG or blood oxygen
-
Slower charge speed
-
Comparatively thick bezel
-
Uses an older optical heart rate sensor

The Apple Watch SE (2022) is a fantastic little wearable. It might not change things up drastically from the original Apple Watch SE, but there are some upgrades, both hardware and software, which make the second iteration of Apple's affordable wearable all the more appealing.

And it is actually cheaper than its predecessor while providing more features – pretty good! If you crave that Apple Watch feeling but can't justify the price of the Apple Watch Series 7, Series 8 or Series 9, the Apple Watch SE (2022) offers an excellent alternative for not a lot of money.

Better still, the SE range is on a by-yearly release cadence, meaning your watch won't go out of date quite as quickly as other Apple Watches, so to speak, slower. Plus, Apple tends to support their wearables with software updates years after their release, which should give people more peace of mind.

Read our full Apple Watch SE 2 review.

Apple Watch Series 6

Apple Watch Series 6 reviewT3 Approved badge

(Image credit: Future)
A viable Series 8 alternative, still supported by Apple

Specifications

Size: 40mm / 44mm
Chip: S6 with 64-bit dual-core processor
Water resistant: Yes
Always-on screen: Yes
ECG and Blood Oxygen: Both

Reasons to buy

+
ECG and Blood Oxygen monitoring features
+
Comprehensive fitness options
+
Always-on screen (drains battery)
+
Brighter display

Reasons to avoid

-
No battery life breakthrough

The Apple Watch Series 6 takes everything that was great about the Series 5 – stylish looks, great fitness features, potentially life-saving health tools, slick notifications and apps – and manages to improve on it. If you already have the Apple Watch Series 5, however, you can feel free to skip this model and go straight for the Series 7.

So what do you get in the Apple Watch Series 6? For a start, four colourways: graphite stainless steel, (PRODUCT) RED aluminium, gold stainless steel, and the blue aluminium that we reviewed. Then, in terms of features, you’ve got a blood oxygen monitoring option – otherwise known as SpO2 tech. This makes use of a new red light sensor that monitors the colour of the blood being reflected back and, thus, the level of oxygen in it.

The Series 6 also boasts Apple’s sixth-generation S6 chip, which unlocks a bunch of performance features. It's 20% faster than that in the Series 5 watch, bringing a 2.5x boost in always-on display brightness in daylight and an 18-hour battery, even with the demands of nightly SpO2 readings.

Read our full Apple Watch Series 6 review.

Apple Watch SE

Apple Watch SET3 Award

(Image credit: Future)
For those after an Apple Watch bargain

Specifications

Size: 40mm / 44mm
Chip: S5 with 64-bit dual-core processor
Water resistant: Yes
Always-on screen: No
ECG and Blood Oxygen: No

Reasons to buy

+
Fast and smooth to use
+
Comfortable, wearable design
+
Clear and bright screen
+
Great background health features
+
Excellent fitness tracking overall

Reasons to avoid

-
No always-on screen
-
Sleep tracking is basic
-
No blood oxygen or ECG sensors

The Apple Watch SE is a truly excellent smartwatch, there's no doubt about it. Where Apple has cut back for the more budget price, you won't notice it significantly in general use. It feels like a full Apple Watch experience, with all the advantages that bring in convenience, fitness tracking, and health and safety features… for iPhone users. As ever, Android users need not apply.

If you're looking at your first Apple Watch, the SE gets a really strong recommendation from us. For those who can spend the extra over the cost of the Apple Watch Series 3, you'll be very glad you did – it's better in every way, from screen to design to sensors to being more future-proofed thanks to its faster processor. It's also important to note that these translate into better health features, including more accurate heart sensing (important for detecting irregularities) and fall detection, which the Series 3 doesn't have.

If you're looking at upgrading an older Watch, the SE makes a great replacement for anything from the Series 3 (if you bought it at launch, especially) or earlier. Though the core of the experience is the same, we think it will still feel like a worthy upgrade, thanks to all the things we mentioned above.

Read our full Apple Watch SE review.

Apple Watch Series 7 Nike+ Edition

Apple Watch Nike Series 7T3 Award

(Image credit: Future)
A sporty Apple Watch for runners

Specifications

Size: 40mm / 44mm
Chip: S6 with 64-bit dual-core processor
Water resistant: Yes
Always on screen: Yes
ECG and Blood Oxygen: Both

Reasons to buy

+
More breathable straps than standard
+
Custom Nike watch faces
+
Bright design

Reasons to avoid

-
The main difference is the band and the additional watch face

The Nike edition of the Apple Watch Series 7 has all the standard Series 7 software features, including the sports and health ones, but is a sporty iteration designed for gym enthusiasts and athletes. The big differences are the straps, exclusive Nike branding and watch faces

The Watch is described as 'the perfect running partner' for the Nike Run Club app, and the Nike Training Club app is optimised for the watch too. They include all the usual tracking features as well as a new audio-guided run every week with a curated soundtrack and 'custom cheers', while the training app has over 180 free workouts and notifications to provide workout recommendations to close your 'Exercise ring' (the colourful tracker) for the day. There are also special Nike watch face designs

The Nike Bounce watch face is new for this Series 7 Nike watch and can't be used on any other Apple Watch model. This makes it a little bit special, and it's actually pretty cool – the numbers wobble as you move your wrist or touch the screen. The Other Nike faces are great, too, if you plan to exercise regularly while wearing the watch.

Read our full Apple Watch Series 7 Nike+ Edition review.

How we test the best Apple Watch

At the Apple Watch review lab (a.k.a. T3), we're like the timekeepers of tech, meticulously examining each new model to help you make the most bang for your buck decision. Picture us in our lab coats, wielding our Apple Watches like scientific instruments of precision.

During our rigorous testing phase, we're not just swiping left and right on the latest features. Oh no, we're diving deep into everything Apple throws at us – from new health gizmos to fitness modes that make you sweat just thinking about them. And trust me, if it's a fitness feature, we've got our fitness editor breaking a sweat to give it the full workout treatment.

But wait, there's more! We're not just here for the shiny new stuff; we're also putting these watches through the classic smartwatch paces. We're talking display clarity, smartphone connectivity reliability, battery life endurance, and how easy it is to find that crucial piece of info when you're on the go.

Once we've put the watches through their paces, we'll whip up a full review complete with a star rating – because who doesn't love a bit of gold stars, right? And for those who prefer their information short and sweet, we'll toss in a bite-sized review in this guide too.

But our work doesn't stop there. Oh no, we're in it for the long haul. We'll keep wearing these watches day in and day out, putting them through the wringer until the next shiny thing comes along. It's a tough job, but hey, someone's gotta do it.

How to choose the best Apple Watch for you?

When selecting the ideal Apple Watch, it's crucial to assess various aspects tailored to your lifestyle and preferences.

Firstly, take a moment to identify your primary requirements. Are you primarily interested in fitness tracking, communication features, or perhaps the overall style and aesthetics of the device? Understanding your needs will help narrow down the options available.

Compatibility is another key consideration. Ensure that the Apple Watch you're eyeing is compatible with your iPhone model. Not all Apple Watches work with every iPhone, so it's essential to verify compatibility to avoid any compatibility issues down the line.

Next, delve into the features offered by different Apple Watch models. Evaluate factors such as display size, materials used in construction (such as aluminum, stainless steel, or titanium), water resistance capabilities, battery life, and additional functionalities like ECG monitoring or blood oxygen monitoring. Assessing these features will help you determine which model best suits your requirements.

Budget is another crucial factor to consider. Determine a budget range that aligns with your financial constraints and expectations. Apple Watch prices can vary significantly depending on the model, materials used, and included features. Establishing a budget beforehand will help you narrow down your options and make a more informed decision.

If possible, try on different Apple Watch models in person. Visit an Apple Store or authorised retailer to assess factors such as comfort, fit, and overall aesthetics. Trying on the device will provide valuable insights into its wearability and help you determine which model feels most comfortable on your wrist.

By considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you can confidently choose the best Apple Watch that meets your needs and preferences.

FAQ

What is the best Apple Watch?

The best Apple Watch overall currently is the Apple Watch Series 9. Although it might look similar to its predecessor, it has a brighter AMOLED screen, a faster processor and exclusive features (e.g. Double Tap). It's a brilliant update that might convince even Series 8 users to upgrade.

Is there a big difference between Apple Watch 3 and 8?

The Apple Watch Series 8 offers significant improvements over the Series 3 in several key areas. The Series 8 features a more modern design with larger display options and improved aesthetics. It also boasts a faster processor, resulting in smoother performance and better overall responsiveness.

In terms of health and fitness tracking, the Series 8 introduces advanced features like ECG and blood oxygen monitoring, which are not available on the Series 3.

Additionally, the Series 8 offers improved connectivity options, including faster Wi-Fi and cellular capabilities. While both models provide basic health and fitness tracking, the Series 8's enhanced capabilities make it a more comprehensive and feature-rich option.

Overall, if you value the latest technology, advanced health monitoring, and improved performance, the Series 8 is a significant upgrade from the Series 3.

How long do Apple watches last?

Apple watches are designed to last several years with proper care and maintenance. While the exact lifespan can vary depending on factors such as usage patterns, battery health, and technological advancements, most users can expect their Apple Watch to remain functional and reliable for at least three to five years.

With regular software updates and occasional battery replacements, some users have reported using their Apple Watches for even longer periods. However, like any electronic device, wear and tear over time may eventually necessitate an upgrade to a newer model.

Matt Kollat
Section Editor | Active

Matt Kollat is a journalist and content creator who works for T3.com and its magazine counterpart as an Active Editor. His areas of expertise include wearables, drones, fitness equipment, nutrition and outdoor gear. He joined T3 in 2019. His byline appears in several publications, including Techradar and Fit&Well, and more. Matt also collaborated with other content creators (e.g. Garage Gym Reviews) and judged many awards, such as the European Specialist Sports Nutrition Alliance's ESSNawards. When he isn't working out, running or cycling, you'll find him roaming the countryside and trying out new podcasting and content creation equipment.

With contributions from