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2021 Apple Watch Comparison – All Models

We have created this Apple Watch Comparison and made sure it updated as of 2021. It now includes all the watches from the first Apple Watch to the newly released Apple Watch 6. Feel free to share but we ask that you include a link to Superwatches as the source. This comparison is also available as a PDF Download. Hope you find it useful. Share comments below.

Apple Watch Comparison

Which is the best Apple Watch in 2021?

You might know which Apple Watch Series you want. Perhaps you’ve not given thought to the case material, size, colour or kind of strap, though? There are a lot of combinations to choose from. And making a choice can be overwhelming. 

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

The Apple Watch Series Range

There are three versions of the Apple Watch available today. This is the Apple Watch Series 6, the Apple Watch SE and the Apple Watch Series 3.

Apple discounted every other model. These being the Series 1 through 5. 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. More, the latter has some unique features. And here we’ll go into them.

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

Additionally to case material, you’ll find each model has different finishes and colours. Firstly, the Series 6 aluminium variant comes in space grey, silver, gold and, new for this year, blue and red. Secondly, the stainless steel model 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.

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. 

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

In the case of the SE and Series 6 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.

How much does the Apple Watch cost? 

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. So, use that chart to see what features, sizing, materials, colours and other factors you’re interested in.

The kinds of strap you can get hold of are:

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

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 6 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 6.

Undeniably the cheaper price tag is going to appeal but we advise you go for the SE if you can push your budget a little. This is because you’ll get the benefits of three version’s 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 the Series 3 for kids and we’ve written about that, here. Perhaps you like the idea of Family Set up, in which case you’ll want to treat them to an SE.

The Apple Watch SE has a lot of features not seen on the Series three. 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 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.

The SE lacks the Always-On screen. Meaning you must raise your wrist to see the time.

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 to provide an Always-On screen. If these features are unimportant to you, then you’ll love the SE.

Apple watch 6 - against trees with emoji

Apple Watch 6

If you’re able to spend more on the 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 the 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.

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 colour. 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.

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

We’ve compared the Series 6 to the SE here, for more information. 

What are the 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 closeby.

Upgrading your Apple Watch from older models

So far we’ve compared the available models, but how about the older versions? Here, we’re talking about the Series 0 through to the 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 the 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. 

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.

Series 5 from 2019: The introduction of the Always-On display, more onboard memory and a compass. There were power management improvements which 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.

Which size Apple Watch should I buy?

As we’ve covered, the SE and 6 come in both 40mm or 44mm sizing options. Whereas the 3 comes in either 38mm or 42mm. 

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, there are zero design or feature changes between sizes. Saying that, there are weight changes depending on the size, material and cellular options.

Apple watch charger

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.

For more information or to request permission to do anything other than share this document as is, quoting the source – contact admin@spacewatches.com. Download a pdf version of the above visual.

Relate Articles to this Apple Watch Comparison
  • Apple Watch SE in depth
  • The Apple Watch 6 – Everything you need to know
  • Apple Watch 5 review
  • The Apple Watch 6 versus Apple Watch SE – What’s the difference?
  • The benefits of family sharing in the Apple world

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January 28, 2021 By Superwatches 2 Comments Filed Under: Comparisons Tagged With: Apple, apple watch, Apple Watch 4, Apple watch 5, apple watch 6, apple watch SE, apple watch series 1, apple watch series 2, apple watch series 3, comparison, superwatches

The new Apple Watch SE – Review

Apple Watch SE – Image Credit: Apple

The Apple Watch SE was revealed this week along with the Apple Watch 6. It’s been marketed as the more accessible Apple Watch and it really is. People should not be fooled into thinking it is a cheap version.

It’s stripped back, but it’s got a powerful punch. If you compared the SE to an Apple Watch Series 3, you’d see that you get a superior model for your money.

With that, people are referring to the SE as the successor of the Apple Watch 3 and that’s a fair assessment. The Series 3 is not being reduced in price and is still available around $264.

The Apple Watch SE is by no means ‘cheap’. It’s less than a Galaxy Watch 3, granted, but it lines up with the eagerly anticipated Fitbit Versa 3, Oppo Watch and Huawei Watch GT2. 

Apple watch 6 - against trees with emoji

Here’s everything you’ll want to know about the new Apple Watch SE.

The design is the same as the Apple Watch Series 6, but doesn’t come in as many options. It got its shape from the Series 4, although naturally Apple have made some minor changes and the SE is incredibly sleek. You get the same dimensions and display (including the resolution) as the Series 6, so you can trust you’re getting a quality visual experience.

It comes in the standard 40mm and 44mm sizing.

It will come in an LTE version. This will not only be capable of making phone calls, but thanks to the latest WearOS 7 on board, allows users to enjoy the new Family Setup feature. This makes the SE a great smartwatch for families with kids or elderly relatives. The user can pair a Watch with an iPhone. Meaning, you can limit the use of the watch for kids (things like only sending messages to trusted contacts or selected app downloads). Best of all, no one will get lost by using the location tracking features. Safety is paramount!

Reduced Price
New Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS, 40mm) - Space Gray Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band
New Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS, 40mm) - Space Gray Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band
  • GPS model lets you take calls and reply to texts from your wrist
  • Measure your blood oxygen with an all-new sensor and app
  • Check your heart rhythm with the ECG app
Check Amazon Price

Quick comparison – SE versus 6

The SE doesn’t come with the newer S6 chip, and that’s the compromise you make. There’s an S5 chip inside but it’s still twice as fast as the Series 3. You’ll need this as Apple’s apps continue to improve.

You shouldn’t expect the ECG and blood oxygen sensors, so the SE is more a smartwatch than fitness and health tracker.

You don’t get an always-on display, so you still need to flick your wrist to see your notifications or the time.

Don’t fear, it’s not all cut-backs; you get access to new features.

SE and Series 6 users can both enjoy the accurate accelerometer and altimeter as well as noise monitoring, fall detection and improved emergency SOS features. 

Reduced Price
New Apple Watch SE (GPS + Cellular, 44mm) - Gold Aluminum Case with Pink Sand Sport Band
New Apple Watch SE (GPS + Cellular, 44mm) - Gold Aluminum Case with Pink Sand Sport Band
  • GPS + Cellular model lets you call, text, and get directions without your phone
  • Large Retina OLED display
  • Up to 2x faster processor than Series 3
Check Amazon Price

Release date and price

You can order your SE (or 6) right now.

The SE model also comes in 40mm or 44mm versions and starts at $279 if you want the GPS variant.

If you want to enjoy the location tracking features, you’ll need the cellular version which starts from $329. 

If you’re not sure which Apple watch is best for you then we have created an easy comparison of all Apple offerings from the first generation to the Series 6 and SE. Check it out here.

Related Articles:

  • Apple Watch 6 – Everything you need to know
  • Apple Watches for Kids
  • Apple Family Sharing Functions and Benefits
  • The Control and Safety Benefits of Apple Family Set Up
  • Apple Watch Comparison


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Maygen
Maygen

Maygen is a multifaceted writer, proofreader and an experienced smartwatch industry writing and editing professional.

January 28, 2021 By Maygen Leave a Comment Filed Under: Brands, Reviews Tagged With: Apple, apple watch, apple watch 6, apple watch news, apple watch reviews, apple watch SE, New smartwatches, smartwatch reviews, smartwatches, superwatches

The Apple Watch 6 versus Apple Watch SE – What’s the difference?

Apple Watch 6 vs SE. Image Credit: Apple

Apple launched two new smartwatches this week (on September 15th), the Apple Watch 6 and Apple Watch SE. They both run on the new Wear0S 7 and both come in wifi-only and cellular variants, but the Watch SE has been consciously designed to be cost-effective. It offers fewer features and runs on a less cutting-edge S5 chip, but that does not make it the poor person’s Apple Watch.

An Apple Watch 6 will set you back $399 whereas the Watch SE will cost you $279.

If you’re interested in an Apple Watch and it’s either your first time or you’re not sure which model to get next, we’re going to compare them for you here.

Apple watch latest model quick comparison

Apple Watch Design

Off the bat, they look incredibly similar. The Series 6 is available in more variants, though.

Both the 6 and SE offer the same display (including the same resolution), so to the eye you get the same experience. They’re both water-resistant so you can confidently take them swimming. Apple has offered users two new bands; the Solo and the Braided Solo.

The Watch 6 comes in more colour and design choices. Additionally to the usual grey, silver, gold and aluminium, the Apple Watch 6 comes in a new blue and never-before-seen red. You can opt for a steel or titanium version, of which both come in different colours.

The well-known fashion brand Hermes has teamed up with Apple to offer exclusive bands in different materials and colours for the Series 6.

The Series 6 continues the always-on feature. This was first seen on the Series 5 last year. This feature means your display is literally always on so you don’t have to flick your wrist to turn it on to check the time or your notifications.

Apple watch activity watch face

Inside 

The Apple Watch Series 6 comes with the S6 chipset; the latest from Apple. The SE, on the other hand, comes with the S5. The whole point is that the SE had to make some sacrifices to be more accessible and this is one of those elements. Users will notice that the SE isn’t as advanced as the 6. Apple did claim the SE is still twice as fast as the 2017 Series 3.

The Series 6 comes with an Ultra Wideband (also known as a U1 chip). This is what you typically see in an iPhone, starting with the 11 onward. It’s used for spacial awareness and its function is to allow devices to find other devices with accuracy, albeit within short distances. Apple said this was being used to further develop AirDrop, the service that allows an iPhone user to share things with other iPhones in close proximity. Apple teases us with their promise that this is just the beginning of what they’re planning. People have suggested that the U1 will be used for Apple’s tile tracking device, which has been rumoured for a while.

Blood Oxygen App

One huge difference between not only the Apple Watch 6 and Apple Watch SE, but all predecessors is the addition of the blood oxygen sensor. More commonly referred to as an oximeter. This will track key information about your breathing and blood circulation. Getting a reading will take exactly 15 seconds. This will give insight into your overall cardiac and respiratory health. It’s been coined the “COVID-catching watch” as blood oxygen levels can tell us how deeply this virus is affecting the body. You can read more on how smartwatches are diagnosing COVID-19 in our article.

There’s an app that accompanies the oximeter. It will continually take measurements in the background (like when you’re asleep), but you’re able to take a manual reading any time you like. The data will be shown in the Health app and you can monitor changes and trends.

Both devices have an optical heart rate sensor which will keep an eye on your heart rate. The Series 6 has the accompanying ECG app, which we saw make its debut on the Series 4. This will catch an irregular heartbeat.

Blue Apple watch with apps open

Software

As we’ve said, both devices run on WearOS 7. New to this version is the Family Setup feature. This lets a user pair either device with an iPhone. This is great for people with kids or elderly relatives. You can do things like limit which contacts the watch can send messages to, apply controls over app downloads or set automatic location tracking. Breaking away from the norm for Apple, the other user doesn’t have to have an iPhone to use this feature. We wrote more on this and why it’s great for families with kids, here.

Aside from Family Setup, WearOS 7 comes with new watch faces including Memojis.

There have been a few other exciting updates like noise level monitoring, fall detection, more accurate altimeter (which Apple say will detect to one foot of difference) and emergency SOS contacting.

Price

Apple Watch Series 6

The Series 6 takes the throne from the Series 5. Happily, the pricing remains the same. (updated November 2020)

The 40mm GPS model is $399. The 44mm starts at $429
The cellular versions of either will add $100 to the tag. Check Amazon price for up to date pricing and deals.

Reduced Price
New Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS, 40mm) - Space Gray Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band
New Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS, 40mm) - Space Gray Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band
  • GPS model lets you take calls and reply to texts from your wrist
  • Measure your blood oxygen with an all-new sensor and app
  • Check your heart rhythm with the ECG app
Check Amazon Price

Apple Watch SE

The SE model also comes in 40mm or 44mm versions and starts at $279 if you want the GPS variant.

If you want to enjoy the location tracking features, you’ll need the cellular version which starts from $329.

Reduced Price
New Apple Watch SE (GPS + Cellular, 44mm) - Gold Aluminum Case with Pink Sand Sport Band
New Apple Watch SE (GPS + Cellular, 44mm) - Gold Aluminum Case with Pink Sand Sport Band
  • GPS + Cellular model lets you call, text, and get directions without your phone
  • Large Retina OLED display
  • Up to 2x faster processor than Series 3
Check Amazon Price

Release date

Shipping commenced Friday, September 18th.

If you’re not sure which Apple watch is best for you then we have created an easy comparison of all Apple offerings from the first generation to the Series 6 and SE. Check it out here.

Related Articles:

  • Apple Watch 6 – Everything you need to know
  • Apple Watches for Kids
  • The new Apple Watch SE – Review
  • Apple Family Sharing Functions and Benefits
  • The Control and Safety Benefits of Apple Family Set Up
  • Apple Watch Comparison

Follow Us

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Maygen
Maygen

Maygen is a multifaceted writer, proofreader and an experienced smartwatch industry writing and editing professional.

January 28, 2021 By Maygen Leave a Comment Filed Under: Brands, Comparisons Tagged With: Apple, apple watch 6, apple watch news, apple watch reviews, apple watch SE, New smartwatches, superwatches

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