Editor’s note: Cyber Monday has come and gone. Fortunately for those who missed out on the annual shopping event, we’ve pulled together a detailed list of the best Cyber Monday deals still available.
If you have an iPhone, the Apple Watch is certainly the best smartwatch for you. When the smartwatch was first unveiled in 2015, only one model existed. Fast forward to today, and Apple offers three distinct versions: the entry-level Watch SE, the standard Series, and the rugged Ultra model. Each caters to different needs, and good news for potential buyers: with my extensive experience testing every Apple Watch since the Series 2, I can help guide you to the right choice.
What we’re looking for
How we test Apple Watches
Apple Watches are versatile devices, capable of tracking health metrics, managing notifications, and more. Our evaluation process includes year-round experiential testing along with performance benchmarks. For example, while we don’t intentionally test Fall Detection by taking tumbles down stairs, we observe if accidental slips during walks trigger the feature. We also assess the accuracy of sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, and GPS against established control devices like the Oura Ring or Garmin watches. Additionally, we compare various Apple Watch models in terms of durability, performance, and battery life.
Who is it for?
It’s essential to choose the right Apple Watch based on your lifestyle. For instance, an Apple Watch Ultra isn’t the best fit for someone who lives a more sedentary lifestyle—unless, of course, they prioritize battery longevity. My goal is to direct you toward the model that suits your specific needs.
Price
When considering a purchase, it’s smart to think about whether to buy new or refurbished. Since Apple generally doesn’t introduce massive changes year over year, refurbished models can offer substantial savings.
Feature set
Do you want to invest in a cellular plan? Which models include specific sensors that are relevant to your health goals?
Cellular or GPS
Choosing between cellular and GPS models depends on your lifestyle needs. Some users can confidently stick with GPS models, while others may find cellular capabilities essential.
The best Apple Watch for most people
$199
The Good
- Always-on display available
- Innovative double-tap and wrist flick features
- Expanded health monitoring options
- 5G connectivity
- Fast charging capabilities
- Improved durability
- On-device Siri for convenience
- Upgraded processing power
- Integrated speaker for enhanced audio
The Bad
- Bezel design could be improved
- A longer battery life would have been preferable
Sizes: 40mm, 44mm / Weight: 26.3g (40mm), 32.9g (44mm) / Battery life: Up to 18 hours / Display type: Always-on LTPO OLED / GPS: Built-in GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, Beidou / Connectivity: Optional 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi / Water resistance: Up to 50 meters / Music storage: 64GB
The third-gen Apple Watch SE offers incredible value. The differences between this entry-level model and the more advanced Series 11 are minimal. You can now enjoy features like an always-on display, an upgraded S10 chip for gesture controls, rapid charging, on-device Siri, and additional health tracking capabilities thanks to a new wrist-temperature sensor. For users mainly concerned about maintaining good health, advanced features such as blood oxygen monitoring and EKGs for AFib detection may not be necessary. The SE 3 still delivers fundamental notifications, a new Sleep Score, and alerts for sleep apnea.
Aside from its health features, the SE 3 is more about aesthetics. Though it features a thicker bezel and a slightly shorter battery life, I experienced no feelings of missing out while using the SE 3 alongside the Series 11. And for a $150 price difference? This is indeed the Apple Watch that most individuals should consider.
Read my review of the Apple Watch SE 3
The best Apple Watch for health monitoring
$339
The Good
- Improved battery life over previous models
- 5G connectivity
- FDA-cleared hypertension notifications
The Bad
- Some updates may not be significantly innovative for previous users
Sizes: 42mm, 46mm / Weight: 30.3g (42mm), 37.8g (46mm) / Battery life: Up to 24 hours, extended to 38 in low-power mode / Display type: Always-on LTPO OLED / GPS: Built-in GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, Beidou / Connectivity: Optional 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi / Water resistance: Up to 50 meters / Music storage: 64GB
While the SE 3 is a solid choice for most users, if advanced health monitoring is your priority, the Series 11 shines. It encompasses all the key sensors for AFib monitoring, and its larger battery is beneficial for sleep tracking and sleep apnea functionalities. Apple has included FDA-cleared hypertension notifications, a feature absent from the SE 3. Its sleeker profile and larger display also make it an excellent option for older adults.
If you’re budget-conscious, hunting for a Series 10 may offer good savings. The differences between the Series 10 and 11 are primarily about connectivity and modest improvements in battery life.
Read my Apple Watch Series 11 review
It’s important to note that the blood oxygen monitoring feature isn’t crucial for most wearables today. Many only offer spot checks or track SpO2 passively during sleep, with averages provided the following morning. These features cannot replace medical-grade fingertip pulse oximeters.
The best Apple Watch for athletes
$780
The Good
- Extended battery life
- Larger display with thinner bezels
- 5G and satellite connectivity options
The Bad
- Most users may not perceive significant improvements in 5G or satellite features
Sizes: 42mm, 46mm / Weight: 30.3g (42mm), 37.8g (46mm) / Battery life: Up to 24 hours, 38 in low-power mode / Display type: Always-on LTPO OLED / GPS: Built-in GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, Beidou / Connectivity: Optional 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi / Water resistance: Up to 50 meters / Music storage: 64GB
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is often considered over-engineered for casual users. Its enhanced durability, bright display, siren, and Action Button serve best those with active lifestyles—frequent hikers, outdoor runners, and recreational divers. However, even non-athletes enjoy its impressive battery life and spacious screen, making it a popular choice among various demographics. Personally, I’ve used the Ultra as my daily driver for two years, and I stand by its aesthetics.
If you seek a deal, the Ultra 2 may offer a minor cost advantage since this year’s model saw only subtle enhancements. Moreover, if you’re already an Ultra 2 owner, consider delaying any upgrades unless the new satellite feature is particularly valuable for your adventures. While my hikes in New Jersey have not shown any dead zones, those in rural areas may find this connectivity beneficial.
Read my Apple Watch Ultra 3 review
The best Apple Watch for kids
Sizes: 40mm, 44mm / Weight: 26.3g (40mm), 32.9g (44mm) / Battery life: Up to 18 hours / Display type: Always-on LTPO OLED / GPS: Built-in GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, Beidou / Connectivity: Optional 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi / Water resistance: Up to 50 meters / Music storage: 64GB
Unless there are explicit health issues, the SE 3 serves as an ideal smartwatch for children. Its advanced features like those in the Series 11 are unnecessary for them. Additionally, given its compact size and affordability, the SE 3 is less burdensome should it experience accidental damage. For parents who aren’t ready to hand over full iPhones yet, ensure to select the cellular model to utilize the Apple Watch for Kids functionality.
Read my review of the Apple Watch SE 3
With the fall iPhone event recently concluded, it’s time to scout for Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals. This period typically offers attractive promotions on older models, perfect for those looking to save some cash.
Otherwise, Apple generally refreshes their smartwatches annually, with the next anticipated updates to be unveiled during the upcoming watchOS at WWDC in June.
Update, November 26th: This article has been updated to reflect new picks, availability, pricing, and minor format changes. Adjustments have also been made to the blood oxygen monitoring section and upcoming features.
Image Credit: www.theverge.com
