Choosing the Right Apple Smartwatch in 2023
31 Jan 2023
Sometimes back choosing an Apple smartwatch used to be easy. There was not much variety available and you had to pick either this one or that one. Then the technology improved and Apple started releasing a variety of smartwatches under different series. Today users have to figure out which features to prioritize and why. If a piece of choice is within their budget? Then there is the aesthetic aspect of these devices, which is something we all value. Such micro decisions consume time and energy. To help you avoid all this we have put together a quick guide to choose the Apple smartwatch that best suits your needs.
The SE-22 is an entry level smartwatch from Apple and comes without features that check your blood oxygen and ECG. It has the most recent S8 chip found in the Series 8 as well as newer features like ‘Crash Detection’ to call your emergency contact in case you have been in a car accident and unresponsive for 10 seconds. Also, it has the fall detection feature and updated Compass app. This basic smartwatch comes in 40-mm case size with a nylon back that makes it a lighter gadget. This SE series Apple smartwatch supports international roaming.
The second best we recommend is Series 8 smartwatches that comes with health features missing in the earlier SE-22. It measure oxygen levels in your blood, records ECG and notifies you high and low heart rates. For those who value their health, it is a wonderful option. Apart from ‘Crash Detection’, it has a temperature sensing feature also. This series 8 smartwatch has three different stainless steel finish, comfortable to wear and does not hurt. Flashy health features and steel finish make it pricey than the basic Apple smartwatch SE.
Ultra smartwatch that Apple released in 2022 is best choice for those who love outdoor sports. It is certified to the MIL-STD-810H standard for military equipment, has a flat sapphire crystal display, and a 49-mm impact-resistant titanium shell, so it won't freeze on a lift or shut off on a sweltering trek.
It contains many specialized navigation functions, such as a brand-new hybrid digital-analog compass software that enables you to set waypoints at significant landmarks or to retrace your steps if you walk off the route and get lost. Certain features, such as a precise dual-frequency GPS system that is made to function well in congested cities and three built-in microphones with unique wind-reduction algorithms so you can take work calls from particularly uncomfortable locations, seem to be targeted specifically at weekend warriors. These complement the Ultra's 2.5-day battery life, which is remarkable for an Apple Watch but is still insufficient for relatively short weekend hiking trips. This is the Apple Watch for you if you have an iPhone and have been switching to a Casio on the weekends.
However, if you are a committed outdoorsy type folk then Apple Watch Ultra is not the only option. There are more-rugged and longer-lasting options available but by Garmin that are more expensive.
Do not ignore Series 7 smartwatch that Apple dropped last year along with the Series 5 and Series 6. The Series 7 was one of the best sports watches on the market last year, thanks to its improved water- and dust-resistance, updated algorithms, larger screen, and full-size keyboard for messaging. Additionally, there is almost no difference in display, size and brightness when you hold the Series 7 and Series 8 side by side. So, we recommend do not ignore this one and purchase if you find it on sale somewhere online for approximately $300.
Similarly, if you find somewhere Series 4 Apple watches and are significantly marked down then they are worth considering. But you should double-check to make sure the watch includes the health functions you desire because Apple has been gradually adding them to each watch. For example, the Series 5 comes without SpO2 monitoring, and SpO2 monitoring doesn't work on the Series 6 for under 18 users or doesn't have a paired iPhone.
Best Apple Smart Watches for Beginners
Apple Watch SE - 2022
The SE-22 is an entry level smartwatch from Apple and comes without features that check your blood oxygen and ECG. It has the most recent S8 chip found in the Series 8 as well as newer features like ‘Crash Detection’ to call your emergency contact in case you have been in a car accident and unresponsive for 10 seconds. Also, it has the fall detection feature and updated Compass app. This basic smartwatch comes in 40-mm case size with a nylon back that makes it a lighter gadget. This SE series Apple smartwatch supports international roaming.
Apple Series 8
The second best we recommend is Series 8 smartwatches that comes with health features missing in the earlier SE-22. It measure oxygen levels in your blood, records ECG and notifies you high and low heart rates. For those who value their health, it is a wonderful option. Apart from ‘Crash Detection’, it has a temperature sensing feature also. This series 8 smartwatch has three different stainless steel finish, comfortable to wear and does not hurt. Flashy health features and steel finish make it pricey than the basic Apple smartwatch SE.
Smart Watch for Outdoor Sports
Apple Watch Ultra
Ultra smartwatch that Apple released in 2022 is best choice for those who love outdoor sports. It is certified to the MIL-STD-810H standard for military equipment, has a flat sapphire crystal display, and a 49-mm impact-resistant titanium shell, so it won't freeze on a lift or shut off on a sweltering trek.
It contains many specialized navigation functions, such as a brand-new hybrid digital-analog compass software that enables you to set waypoints at significant landmarks or to retrace your steps if you walk off the route and get lost. Certain features, such as a precise dual-frequency GPS system that is made to function well in congested cities and three built-in microphones with unique wind-reduction algorithms so you can take work calls from particularly uncomfortable locations, seem to be targeted specifically at weekend warriors. These complement the Ultra's 2.5-day battery life, which is remarkable for an Apple Watch but is still insufficient for relatively short weekend hiking trips. This is the Apple Watch for you if you have an iPhone and have been switching to a Casio on the weekends.
However, if you are a committed outdoorsy type folk then Apple Watch Ultra is not the only option. There are more-rugged and longer-lasting options available but by Garmin that are more expensive.
Low Priced Smart Watch Options
Series 7 and Series 4
Do not ignore Series 7 smartwatch that Apple dropped last year along with the Series 5 and Series 6. The Series 7 was one of the best sports watches on the market last year, thanks to its improved water- and dust-resistance, updated algorithms, larger screen, and full-size keyboard for messaging. Additionally, there is almost no difference in display, size and brightness when you hold the Series 7 and Series 8 side by side. So, we recommend do not ignore this one and purchase if you find it on sale somewhere online for approximately $300.
Similarly, if you find somewhere Series 4 Apple watches and are significantly marked down then they are worth considering. But you should double-check to make sure the watch includes the health functions you desire because Apple has been gradually adding them to each watch. For example, the Series 5 comes without SpO2 monitoring, and SpO2 monitoring doesn't work on the Series 6 for under 18 users or doesn't have a paired iPhone.
Smartwatches You Should Avoid
Until a year ago merchants have been selling Series 1 and Series 2 Apple smartwatches. Not sure, they are still there. May be some of them are still listed somewhere on resale websites but they are most likely not worth the money. You cannot purchase these as more affordable solutions for your very old or very young family members because Family Setup only works on Series 4 and higher. The Series 1 is not waterproof and neither one comes with cellular capability. Also, none of the above two is compatible with WatchOS 9. So we have covered all the best options for Apple smartwatch overs. At entry level you have two options based on functions and price. Then there are military style rugged watches for outdoor sports and other activities. Low priced dated gadgets are not always to be ignored; they serve their own purpose that’s why we have highlighted some of the best among them.
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