Rewrite this title Which Apple Watch to buy? Complete comparison

Oct 12, 2024

Which Apple Watch to choose? Discover our complete guide:

2024 models compared
Key Features Analyzed
Price and performance evaluated

Apple Watch buying guide: the ultimate comparison to make the right choice

Find the perfect iPhone compatible smartwatch for you. From the budget-friendly Apple Watch SE to the high-end Ultra 2, we reveal the best choices based on your needs and budget.

Apple Watch Series 10

See price and reviews on Amazon

Technical characteristics:

46mm screen, 40% brighter
Thickness 9.7 mm (-10%)
Charges 80% in 30 min
Sleep apnea detection

Benefits :

Ultra-thin design, maximum comfort
Advanced health monitoring
Improved autonomy

Disadvantages:

High price
No blood oxygen tracking

Recommended use:

Demanding athletes
Connected health geeks

What are the main advantages of the Apple Watch Series 10 compared to previous models?

Key benefits of Apple Watch Series 10:

Larger screen: 30% more display area.
Slimmer design: 10% thinner and 20% lighter.
Fast recharge: 80% battery in 30 minutes.
Advanced health features: Apnea notifications, depth gauge, water temperature sensor.
Optimized performance: Better energy efficiency with SiP S10.

These improvements make it superior to previous models.

Why buy Apple Watch Series 10 over Apple Watch Series 9?

Here are the main advantages of the Apple Watch Series 10 over the Series 9:

Design:

Thinner: 9.7 mm vs 10.7 mm
Larger screen: 42/46 mm vs 41/45 mm

Screen :

Display area +9%
Maximum brightness identical: 2000 nits

Performance:

New S10 chip
Faster Neural Engine

New features:

Depth sensor for diving
Faster recharge: 80% in 30 min

Autonomy:

Same: 18 hours in normal use

In summary: refined design, enlarged screen, more powerful chip, new diving functions. Interesting improvements but not revolutionary. Relevant choice for new buyers, questionable upgrade for Series 9 owners.

Apple Watch Series 9

See price and reviews on Amazon

Technical characteristics:

2000 nits LTPO OLED Retina display
S9 chip, 64 GB storage
Sensors: ECG, SpO2, temperature
Resistance 50m, IP6X

Benefits :

Contactless interaction (double tap)
Advanced health/fitness tracking
Perfect integration with the Apple ecosystem

Disadvantages:

Limited autonomy (18 hours standard)
High price

Recommended use:

Sports/fitness addicts
Health-conscious techies

What are the advantages of Apple Watch Series 9 compared to previous models?

Benefits of Apple Watch Series 9

Performance: S9 chip, 2x faster.
Screen: 2000 nits, brighter.
Control: “Double tap” gesture without screen.
Sport: Improved tracking for cyclists.
Ecology: Carbon neutral aluminum.
Autonomy: Slight improvement.

In summary, speed, brightness, new interactions.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 GPS+

See price and reviews on Amazon

Ultimate sports watch. 49mm titanium case. 3000 nits Retina display. 64 GB storage.

Features:

Ultra-precise dual frequency GPS
Water resistance 100m
Battery life 36 hours (72 hours eco mode)
Advanced health sensors

Benefits:

Extreme robustness (military standard)
Versatility (running, diving, hiking)
Safety functions (fall detection, ECG)

Disadvantages:

High price (€899)
Impressive size

Use:
Extreme sportsmen. Adventurers. Not for small wrists.

What types of sports activities are optimized by the Apple Watch Ultra 2?

Here are the sports activities optimized by the Apple Watch Ultra 2:

Running: precise GPS, track detection.
Cycling: Speed tracking, heart rate, compatible sensors.
Swimming: Detection of swimming styles, counting lengths.
Hiking: Compass, navigation tools.
Diving: Depth, temperature with Oceanic+ app.

Ideal for extreme athletes and adventurers.

How does the Apple Watch Ultra 2 compare to other Apple Watch models?

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 stands out from other Apple Watch models on several points:

Larger and brighter screen: 49 mm with 3000 nits of maximum brightness.
Superior autonomy: 36 hours in normal use, up to 72 hours in energy saving mode.
Increased robustness: titanium case, military standard, 100m water resistance.
Advanced functions for extreme sports: diving, hiking, etc.
New S9 processor faster than other models.
Higher price, from €899.

Main differences with the Ultra 1:

S9 chip instead of S8, more efficient.
50% brighter screen (3000 vs 2000 nits).
New “Double-tap” gesture to control the watch.

Compared to the Series, the Ultra 2 offers more robustness and advanced sports functions, but in a more imposing format.

The Apple Watch SE (2023)

See price and reviews on Amazon

Apple’s affordable smartwatch.

Technical characteristics:

40mm Retina display
Dual-core S8 chip
32 GB of storage
Autonomy 18h

Benefits :

Attractive price: €249
Accident detection
Waterproof 50m

Inconvenience :

Recommended use:

Basic fitness tracking
Smartphone notifications

Perfect watch for beginners. Essential features at a discounted price. Ideal for occasional sportsmen and technophiles. Unbeatable value for money.

What advantages does the Apple Watch SE have over newer models?

Main benefits of Apple Watch SE:

Attractive price: From €249, cheaper than recent models.
Integrated safety: Accident and fall detection.
Efficient performance: S8 chip, 18 hours battery life.
Waterproofing: Resistant up to 50 meters.
Optimal compatibility: Integrates perfectly with the Apple ecosystem.

Ideal for those who want a high-performance connected watch without breaking the bank.

Is Apple Watch SE easy to install and configure?

Yes, Apple Watch SE is easy to install and configure.

Get your iPhone ready: Update iOS, turn on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
Pairing: Turn on the watch, bring it closer to iPhone. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Configuration: Choose to configure as new watch or restore. Create an access code.
Finalization: The watch synchronizes automatically.

Quick and intuitive installation. Ready in minutes.

Here are the best Apple Watches according to user profiles:

Sporty :
Apple Watch Ultra 2. High precision GPS. Battery life up to 72 hours. Extreme resistance.

Busy professional:
Apple Watch Series 10. Always-on screen. Instant notifications. Hands-free calls.

Geek/Technophile:
Apple Watch Ultra 2. Advanced features. New black titanium case. Double tap gesture.

Traveler/Adventurer:
Apple Watch Ultra 2. Dual frequency GPS. Water resistance 100m. Integrated compass.

Health-conscious person:
Apple Watch Series 10. ECG, oximeter, sleep tracking. Comprehensive health notifications.

We would love to know your opinion! Leave a comment to ask your questions or share your experience with your Apple Watch.

What model do you use and why are you satisfied with it?

Your feedback is valuable in helping other users make their choice.

Posted on

October 12, 2024

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Thomas Kaufmann

Thomas Kaufmann is an expert in Swiss horology and a passionate advocate for the art of Swiss watchmaking. He has devoted his career to theSwitzerland’s finest timepieces, working in all the layers of watchmanking, from precision mechanism workshops to major swiss brand promotions around the world. As the founder and lead writer of the “Swiss Made Watch” blog, he provides in-depth insights and detailed analyses, showcasing his profound knowledge and appreciation for these artisanal timepieces. Thomas’s engaging articles and thorough reviews not only educate but also connect with a worldwide community of enthusiasts, fostering a deeper understanding of the Swiss watchmaking tradition. His work plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting this rich cultural heritage for future generations.