2023 Apple Watch All Model Comparison – Compare the 5,6,7,8 and Ultra

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Apple is potentially the best and most popular smartwatch you could find. Specifically, the Apple Watch 8 /Ultimate is the ultimate choice if you own an Apple phone and want to share information, monitor your health, use Apple apps and get the same superb quality, well-integrated, extended functionality on your wrist. However, we think the older models still have value and you could get great prices on the Apple Watch SE, Apple Watch 6 and 7 or even the SE 2 which is a much more affordable device. This is even more so, if you consider new features introduced by Watch OS 9 (available now) like the low power mode that can extend battery life up from the standard 18 up to 36 hours. (model dependent)

Table of Contents

• Current Apple Watch Model Comparison
• Older Models
• Which is the best Apple Watch in 2022?
• The Apple Watch Series Range
• Accessibility and assistance technology
• Apple Watch FAQ

Differences between Apple Watch 6, 7 and 8 and Ultra

Apple Watch 8 (what’s new)

The main new features offered on the Apple Watch 8 are the new temperature sensor and car crash detection. The temperature sensor is particularly useful for women wishing to monitor their period or ovulation.

The car crash algorithm will detect severe car crashes and notify emergency services in 10 seconds.

Battery life remains the same at up to 18 hours, but it can be extended with a new Low Power Mode added in watchOS 9. With Low Power Mode, the Apple Watch can run for up to 36 hours.

Apple Watch Series 8 [GPS 45mm] Smart Watch w/Midnight Aluminum Case with Midnight Sport Band -...

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Apple Watch Ultra

With the Ultra (49mm as standard) you get all Series 8 features plus a large stronger case and a depth sensor for divers. Nearly everything is upgraded with the Ultra model: You get a stronger, rugged body and front flat sapphire glass. An extra, large customizable action button for quick access to additional functionality (Garmin style) and a much brighter screen. The battery now lasts up to 36 hours and up to 60 in low-power mode.
Three, extra sensitive, microphones produce better sound recording quality and noise reduction when making calls from your watch. You also have a very loud SOS siren feature for when you need it. The upgraded dual GPS is much more accurate in both sensors and algorithms for greater granularity in tracking your track. MIL-STD-810H certifies ruggedness for extreme temperatures, shock, water endurance, and dust. The Apple Watch Ultra also has 2 more features not found on the 8 – the water temperature sensor measures water temperature for when you are diving or swimming and also the depth app measures your diving depth.

Apple Watch Ultra [GPS + Cellular 49mm] Smart Watch w/Rugged Titanium Case & Orange Alpine Loop...

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Comparing the 7 and 6 Series Apple Watches

The main differences between Series 6 and 7 used to be the full keyboard (not really an issue with Watch OS updates), bigger visible display, and stronger, more durable screen. It’s also a bit faster and you can expect better responsiveness in some functions. It also charges faster. You can get most watches faces to work on all the Apple Watch models, apart from specific ones that specifically use the edges on Apple Watch 7 (e.g. Contour). This means that visually, all models look very similar.

The main functional difference between the 6 and SE versions is that the SE has no ECG and blood oxygen functions and does not have an always-on display. Both the 6 and SE are very good smartwatches.

The Apple Watch 3 does not have all of the above – no fall detection, wireless charging or cellular option. It’s also slightly smaller in screen sizes, less sophisticated, and has fewer supported apps.

With that in mind, our comparison of the Apple Watch models will help you choose the right one.

Current Apple Watch Model Comparison

Older Models

See the high-res full comparison table for the current and past models together.

We’ve created this Apple Watch SE Genius Choice Page for you to find, compare prices and choose your favorite merchant, and deals – have a look.

Which is the best Apple Watch in 2022?

You might know which Apple Watch Series you want. Perhaps you’ve not given thought to the case material, size, color, or kind of strap, though? There are a lot of combinations to choose from. And making a choice can be overwhelming. You could also find lots of stylish bands for women in our in-depth review.

The Apple Watch Series Range

There are three versions of the new Apple Watch available to buy today. These are the Apple Watch Series 8, the Apple Watch SE 2, and the Apple Watch Series 7. Apart from that, there is the high-end Ultra.

Apple discounted every other model. These are the Series 1 through 5 and 7. Despite this, you can pick them up either refurbished or secondhand.

Going back to the current range. Some features appear on all three models. But, you’ll notice the Series 3 isn’t as sophisticated as the SE or 6 and 7. More, the latter two have some unique features. And here we’ll go into them.

Considering the SE and Series three only come in aluminum and the Series 6 additionally comes in stainless steel or titanium. 

Additionally to case material, you’ll find each model has different finishes and colors. Firstly, Series 7 comes in Midnight, Starlight, Green, Blue, and Red. The Series 6 aluminum variant comes in space grey, silver, gold, blue and red. The stainless steel model 6 has silver, gold, and graphite versions. Finally, titanium comes in space black or titanium. 

Now, for the SE your only options are silver, gold, and space grey – potentially the most popular ones.

Finally, the Series 3 will offer you a choice between space grey and silver only. Each model has plenty of strap options, but these affect the price. 

In the case of the SE, Series 6, and Series 7 you can opt for cellular connectivity. If not, you still get GPS. As it stands today there is no cellular option for the Series 3.

More Apple Watch SE Offers…

Cost

It’s easy to do an Apple Watch comparison on cost because Apple offers a simple pricing system. You select the model you like and can add extras to upgrade it if you wish.

We’ve created a comparison chart to show you everything that each model has to offer (excluding the 7 at this point). So, use that chart to see what features, sizing, materials, colors, and other factors you’re interested in. The costs of these models have gone down a bit now that the 8 is out. We recommend checking Amazon or Apple Directly for updated pricing.

The kinds of straps you can get hold of are:

• Solo Loop
• Braided Solo Loop
• Sport Loop
• Sport Band
• Leather Loop
• Leather Link
• Buckle
• Link Bracelet
• Milanese Loop

We also cover Apple watch cases, bands for men and Apple watch bands for women. There are also a lot of chargers to choose from, especially if you want to charge your phone and watch together.

Apple Watch Comparison – Which Apple Watch should I buy?

Firstly you should decide how much you can or want to pay for a model. For example, if you want the newest and best Series 7 then you’ll have to pay at the higher end. However, if the Apple Watch Series 3 meets your requirements then you may be more comfortable with the lower price. Consequently, the middle-ground Apple Watch SE will cost you a little less than the series 6 and the series 7.

Read more: Who should choose an Apple Watch and why?

Should I get the Apple Watch 3, SE, or Apple Watch 6?

Undeniably the cheaper price tag is going to appeal but we advise you to go for the SE if you can push your budget a little. This is because you’ll get the benefits of three versions’ worth of upgrades. Also, the Series 3 will no longer have WatchOS software updates sooner rather than later, so it’s not a long-term option. 

Saying that we do highly recommend Series 3 for kids and we’ve written about that, here. Perhaps you like the idea of Family Setup, in which case you’ll want to treat them to an SE and get the best setup for it.

The Apple Watch SE has a lot of features not seen in Series 3. So you do get extra for only a little extra money.

Notedly, the Series 3 doesn’t have fall detection, nor does it have an altimeter or compass. Also, the speaker and mic aren’t as sophisticated as the later versions. Consequently, it does have an Always-On screen.

Apple Watch 7

Apple Watch 7 was unveiled on September 14 alongside the iPhone 13, marking a major redesign for the brand’s watch line. We now know more about what to expect from the wearable, which is expected later this year (Q3 2021). It seems to be a series of minor updates.

There are more screen real estate, rounded corners, and smaller bezels in the Apple Watch 7, it also comes in two new sizes, 41mm and 45mm. This is the first major update since the Apple Watch 2’s 40mm and 44mm sizes were extended. However, the changes were not as dramatic as we had initially hoped.

We’re still in round-edge territory, despite reports of a more dramatic makeover to a flat-edged appearance like the iPhone 13.

Compare prices and choose your favorite merchant to buy the Apple Watch

Apple Watch Series 7 [GPS 45mm] Smart Watch w/Midnight Aluminum Case with Midnight Sport Band....

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Key features

Apple has also ruled out adding new health-tracking features – such as blood pressure and glucometer sensors, expected to appear in Apple Watch 8 next year. It appears that the Apple Watch 7 does not offer any significant improvements over its predecessor.

On the inside, the Apple Watch 7 boasts a 70% brighter Always-On display, IP6X dust protection, and similar water resistance as previous models, as well as greater durability. There is no difference in battery life (18 hours), however, the battery recharges 33 percent quicker.

With the Apple Watch 7, the company has released its latest watch after its Apple Watch 6. Apple Watch SE remains the most affordable wearable in Apple’s lineup while the Apple Watch SE 2 is still being developed.

watchOS 8

The new watchOS 8 will run on the Apple Watch 7, just as it does on Apple Watch 3 and later wearables – but it’s best suited for the Apple Watch 7.

Even though the Apple Watch 7 isn’t a revolution, it’s still the best Apple Watch money can buy (or it will be, once it’s released later this month).

The Apple Watch 7’s probable processor, storage, and weight have been disclosed via a leaked specifications sheet and another leak.

To conclude, this is a quick tour of the main differences between the current Apple models on offer.

You can find some Apple Watch 7 deals on eBay, Amazon or shop with Apple directly. For a wider choice of deals and buying options see this link.

See our guide and comparison of Apple Watch 6 and 7 here.

Apple Watch SE

We’ve somewhat discredited the Series 3 model but do not be fooled into thinking it isn’t a great watch, it is! There’s a reason it’s still in production over its predecessors.

But, what about the Apple Watch SE? The cost isn’t much more than a Series 3. Again, the prices are so close. Considering the Apple Watch Series 6 isn’t much dearer, and how long you’ll want the watch for, it might be worth having a realistic look at what you can afford and go for the newest and best.

The SE has features that the Series 3 doesn’t. Equally, the SE doesn’t have features the Series 6 does. So what’s lacking?

The SE and 6 both come in 40mm and 44mm sizing. Both are thinner than the Series 3. What’s more, Family Set Up can be used if you have a Series 6 or SE. Finally, both have an altimeter.

Also, it lacks the Always-On screen. Meaning you must raise your wrist to see the time.

Apple Watch SE (GPS + Cellular, 44mm) - Space Gray Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band...

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The Series 6 is special because it can measure your ECG and blood oxygen. Respectively, both these features are potentially life-saving. Granted, the SE will still notify you if you have an irregular heartbeat. Mainly the features lacking in the SE are the inability to measure blood oxygen, ECG, and provide an Always-On screen. If these features are unimportant to you, then you’ll love the SE.

You can find the Apple Watch SE on Amazon, eBay, or Apple directly.

Apple Watch 6

If you’re able to spend more on Series 6 then there are some key differentiators. Undeniably, the Series 6 is superior to the SE despite similar features. Namely, the 6 has an S6 chip whereas the SE has an S5. Additionally, the 6 has a U1 chip, providing ultra-wideband. Neither SE nor the Series 3 have this.

You’ll find an Always-On display on Series 6. Indeed, you can still tap it to wake it or raise your wrist. When it’s asleep it’s simply dimmed and shows a less cluttered version of your watch face.

Key features

The Series 6 key features are the addition of measuring blood oxygen and taking an ECG reading. In fact, the ECG feature was present on the Apple Watch Series 5, but it’s not on the SE. You can compare the Apple Watch 5 and 6 in full here.

Another feature lacking from the SE and 3 is the choice of materials. For example, with the 6 you can pick from multiple choices of material and color. Of course, this depends on how much you want to spend. Say you’ve got a lot to spend on a watch, you can go for the titanium version. Subsequently, if you got a matching titanium link bracelet you could easily spend over a thousand dollars. Essentially, there’s a version for all budgets within a given range.

Apple Watch Comparison – Cellular Options

Another choice you’ll need to make is if you want a cellular option. Granted, it’s another expense. But these use a SIM card to allow the watch to make and receive phone calls and texts. Additionally, it allows the watch to work independently of an iPhone.

Your decision to opt for the cellular or normal model depends on how much you’ll use it. For example, if you get a lot of calls, it might be handy. However, if you just think it’s a cool nice-to-have, then your budget will tell you if it’s worthwhile or not. Of course, if your budget is a restraint you can still enjoy all the features, you’ll just need your iPhone close by.

Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS, 44mm) - Space Gray Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band (Renewed)

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Should I upgrade Apple Watch from older models?

So far we’ve compared the available models, but how about the older versions? Here, we’re talking about Series 0 through to Series 5. If you’re currently using any of these (bar the 3, as we’ve discussed) then either of the three is going to feel like a huge improvement!

In fact, we’re going to give you a rundown of the highlights from each model:

Series 0 from 2015

Where it began. Let’s knock Series 0 out of the running immediately. Essentially, it’s obsolete. Unfortunately, even if you could find a working model, it’ll be painfully slow and the battery life shocking.

Original versions

Series 1 from 2016: This has a faster processor but is basically a rebadged version of the 0.

Series 2, also from 2016: A well-received upgrade. Namely, better battery life and a brighter screen. Also the addition of GPS, another, faster, processor, and improved water-proof rating.

Series 3 from 2017: Introduction of cellular connectivity and again a faster processor.

Series 4 from 2018: Here we got a bigger screen with a slimmer body. Additionally, the heart rate sensor improved and we saw the introduction of fall detection. Another faster processor.

Later versions

Series 5 from 2019: The introduction of the Always-On display, more onboard memory, and a compass. There were power management improvements that positively impacted the battery life compared to the very similar Series 4. There was an S5 chip introduced but there is little noticeable difference to the S4. 

SE from 2020: Here we get the option to use Family Set up. Also, there’s the Always-On feature and an altimeter.

Series 6, also from 2020: A new, faster U1 chip, Family Set-Up, ECG and blood oxygen readings, and all the great safety features including fall detection.

Series 7, 2021: Two additional sizes are available, as well as dust resistance IP6X and faster charging.

Series 8, 2022: Same sizes as the Series 8. Added car crash detection and skin temperature sensor. Added health features (including female-specific) relating to temperature sensing.

Apple Watch Comparison – Size

You get two screen sizes for all four models. Specifically, the SE and 6 both have either 40mm or 44mm sizing. However, Series 3 offers 38mm or 42mm because the bezels are significantly bigger. The seven offers 41mm and 45mm screen sizes.

The Apple Watch 7 and 8 come in 41mm and 45mm sizes. For a complete Apple Watch sizing guide – see here.

The rule of thumb is that these models are designed to fit the average man and woman’s wrist but there are no rules to say you can’t go bigger or smaller depending on your personal taste and wrist size. 

Note, that there are no design changes between sizes. Saying that there are weight changes depending on the size, material, and cellular options.

Display Comparison

The display is always a key element of smartwatches, so how do the Apple Watches measure up?

The Apple Watch range all feature OLED Retina displays and they also all have Force Touch built-in too. This allows users to enact different functions depending on the force they use on the watch face.

The Apple watch Ultra screen is 1.92″ and is 7% bigger than the 8. After the Ultra, the Series 7 and 8 watches have the largest display. This display is 20% larger than the Watch SE and Series 6, and a further 50% larger than the older Series 3 model. The Series 7 display has a more seamless look as the bezels around the display are also reduced. The Watch SE and Series 6 opinions have a 30% larger display than the Series 3 model too. 

Always-on is a popular smartwatch feature, which is seen on the Series 6 and 7 watches but not the Watch SE or the Series 3. This feature means you don’t have to raise your arm to turn the display on, making life easier for the wearer. 

Recap:

• Series 8, 7 & 6 and Ultra include an LTPO OLED Always-on Retina display with additional Force Touch.
• The Watch SE and SE 2 has an LTPO OLED Retina display and Force Touch.
• The Series 3 Watch only features an OLED Retina Display with added Force Touch.

Design Comparison

The Design varies as the models get more advanced, but which is best for you?

Apple Watches always feature a rectangular design with a separate button on the right side. They also all have a microphone and speaker on the left side. All of the watches are also waterproof to 50M and they all feature a heart rate monitor on their undersides. The Ultra is waterproof to 100M depth. The release buttons for changing bands are also under the watch face. 

The main difference between the Apple Watch designs is that the Series 8 and 7 feature an electrical heart rate sensor built into it and an added optical heart rate sensor too. The 6 and 7 both have a SpO2 sensor and reduced bezels around the main display. The 8 has the added temperature sensor and car crash detection. The Series 3 is also a thicker design. 

Recap:

• All watches are waterproof to 50M.
• Series SE, 6,7 and 8are 10.7mm thick, whereas Series 3 is 11.4mm thick. 
• Series 8, 7 & 6 also include electrical heart rate sensors, blood oxygen sensors, and are IPX6 dust resistant.  

Software Comparison

The latest watchOS8 runs on the Series 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and SE models. This means they all provide similar experiences, apart from any additional features on the later watches (e.g. ECD functions or fall detection sensors). The Apple Watch Series 7 offers a new QWERTY keyboard and QuickPath to help users type and send messages easier. 

Recap:

• All watches use watchOS 8.
• The later watches (Series 6 & 7) offer more features.

Accessibility and assistance technology

Fall detection

The mechanics of fall detection have piqued people’s attention. Medical warning gadgets use gyroscope and accelerometer technology to detect falls automatically. They have the ability to track your daily activities and inform you if you fall. It may also be compatible with other gadgets you possess, such as a smartwatch. Accelerometers track velocity or speed variations over time.

The new Apple Watch functionality invites the user to indicate whether they are alright or desire to notify emergency services if they become immobilized. It will automatically notify emergency personnel and send your position to your emergency contacts if there is no activity for more than 60 seconds. Prompt intervention may often save a life in these sorts of emergency circumstances.

Which versions offer fall detection?

Since Series 4, Apple Watches have had fall detection, and each subsequent generation has improved the feature. The fall detection mechanism was improved even further in Series 7. It improved the algorithm and technology in order to improve accuracy.

If the Series 7 detects a major fall, the watch’s alarm is preserved, enabling users to call for help straight from the watch. With the inclusion of Series 7 fall detection technology, the watch can now identify when the user falls, even during exercise.

Bear in mind that Fall Detection needs an LTE connection to make emergency calls and send messages to chosen contacts. This may be done using your iPhone (within Bluetooth range) or the Apple Watch (but with an LTE model). It must also be connected to wifi.

Accessibility freatures of the Apple Watch

Apple has made a point of emphasizing how accessible its devices are to as many people as possible. This means including capabilities for a variety of accessibility requirements across its proud t range. If your eyesight is compromised, for example, features like VoiceOver may provide auditory navigation for your device. These features have not been limited to the iPhone or Mac.

You can use your iPhone or Apple Watch to access the Accessibility menu. If you already have accessibility features set up on your phone, you may find it simpler to set up accessibility on your iPhone than your watch at first.

It’s also worth mentioning that many of these features may be tweaked via Siri. If you’re visually impaired, for example, you may want to ask Siri to switch on VoiceOver so you can explore the accessibility menu without help.

Other adjustments include:

Assistive Touch

Assisted Touch gestures that respond to subtle muscle movements for those with mobility issues. This is a cool feature that can be used by anyone wishing to navigate the watch with gestures:

With AssistiveTouch and Hand Gestures turned on, navigate your Apple Watch using the following default gestures:

1. For Forward action – Pinch your fist
2. For Back action – Double-pinch
3. Tap to Clench
4. Show the Menu by double clenching.
5. You could also use the motion pointer to show a cursor appears on the screen and move your watch to move the pointer.

Other Accessibility Features

• Various hearing accessibility options for those with hearing impairment
• RTT (real-time text) enables you to use text during phone calls
• Mono audio for the most appropriate sound balance for hearing requirements
• Headphone notification for loud levels of music
• A dedicated complication for hearing devices
• Audio transcriptions
• Automatic call answering 
• Font adjustments
• Display brightness, greyscale, and transparency customization
• Reduction in the movement of animations for those with visual or cognitive needs
• Customizable haptics and chimes

Docks, stands, and chargers

Your Apple Watch will come with a charger, but there are some cool docks available. Simply place your watch on a dock next to your bed and it’ll charge overnight for you. 

Please note Apple Watches will no longer be delivered with a power adaptor. So if you need one, you’ll have to buy it separately.

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Apple Watch FAQ

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Last Updated on January 21, 2023

Emma Morris( Editor and Social Media Manager )

Emma brings over a decade of freelance copy and content writing experience and is our Editor, Social Media Manager, and regular contributor. Specializing in long-form content such as blogs, articles, lead magnets, and white papers, Emma also provides businesses with email marketing, website copy, and landing pages.