Buying an Apple Watch can be confusing with all the options out there. The latest models include the Ultra 2, Series 10, and SE, each with different features and price points. The Apple Watch Series 10 offers the best balance of features and value for most iPhone users, with its sleek design and comprehensive health tracking capabilities.
Here are the latest updates (July 2025) on the best Apple Watch models for every budget:
Top Picks by Budget Tier
Premium: Apple Watch Ultra 2
- Rugged design with 100 m water resistance, bright 3,000‑nit display, S9 chip, and large battery (≈36 h typical, up to 60‑72 h in low‑power mode)
- Currently available for around $729, down from the usual price of ~$799–$829
Best for Most Users: Apple Watch Series 10
- Thinnest Apple Watch yet, featuring larger 42/46 mm OLED screen, fast S10 chip, improved battery, and new sensors including sleep apnea detection, skin temperature, and gesture control
- Available for as low as $299–$329, down from the standard $399 MSRP
Budget-Friendly: Apple Watch SE (2022, 2nd Gen)
- Offers essential features like heart rate alerts, crash and fall detection, and full support for watchOS 11
- Missing more advanced sensors like ECG, SpO₂, and an always-on display
- Priced at $169, with occasional drops to around $149
Expert Recommendations
- The SE is a great entry-level Apple Watch, ideal for users who want basic tracking and notifications at a low price
- The Series 10 is considered the best all-around model, combining sleek design, advanced health features, and improved performance without the bulk of the Ultra line
- The Ultra 2 remains the top pick for athletes, hikers, divers, and outdoor enthusiasts who need rugged durability and maximum battery life
Sales & Deals (Prime Day Coming Soon)
- Prime Day (July 8–11) is expected to bring early discounts:
- Series 10: $289–$329
- SE 2: $149–169
- Ultra 2: $729–799
- Major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, Verizon, and AT&T are offering bundle deals and trade-in incentives
- End-of-fiscal-year discounts in other regions may include additional Apple Watch offers
Quick Comparison Chart
| Tier | Model | Features | Typical Price (Now) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | Apple Watch SE 2 | Heart rate, Crash detection, Family Setup; no ECG, SpO₂, always-on display | $169 (could drop to $149) |
| Everyday | Apple Watch Series 10 | OLED display, S10 chip, sleep apnea, ECG, depth/temp sensors, gestures | $299–$329 |
| Premium/Outdoor | Apple Watch Ultra 2 | Rugged, brightest screen, long battery, S9 chip, durable titanium build | $729–$779 |
🛍️ Smart Buying Tips
- Prime Day is the best opportunity to buy, with deals starting early
- Consider trade-in programs or bundle offers to maximize savings
- Choose based on feature needs and budget:
- SE 2 for basic, affordable smartwatch functionality
- Series 10 for the best mix of features and value
- Ultra 2 for serious fitness, exploration, or extreme use
Summary:
- Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the rugged, power-packed option—perfect for outdoor adventurers
- Series 10 offers the best combination of price and features for everyday users
- SE 2 is a strong entry-level watch, delivering key features at the lowest price point available today
Not sure which Apple Watch fits your needs? Each model serves different purposes and budgets. The Ultra 2 targets outdoor enthusiasts, while the more affordable SE covers basic smartwatch functions. Your choice depends on what you plan to use it for – fitness tracking, health monitoring, or simply getting notifications from your phone.
1. Apple Watch Ultra 2
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is designed for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With its rugged 49mm aerospace-grade titanium case, it offers both style and durability for active users.
Battery life is a standout feature, with many users not having to worry about running out of power during their activities. One Reddit user rated it 9.5/10, specifically mentioning reliable battery performance.
The Ultra 2 now comes in black, adding a sleek option to the lineup. This model includes built-in GPS and Cellular connectivity, making it useful even when your phone isn’t nearby.
Water resistance is impressive on this model. It can handle depths up to 100 meters, making it suitable for scuba diving and other water sports.
The Smart Stack feature brings added convenience to daily use. Widgets appear automatically based on factors like time and location, such as warning you about incoming rain. This helps users stay informed without needing to dig through apps.
For current Apple Watch owners, the Ultra 2 might be worth considering as an upgrade. Business Insider notes it’s Apple’s best fitness tracker and among the top smartwatches available today.
The combination of advanced features, rugged design, and reliable performance makes the Apple Watch Ultra 2 a strong contender for anyone seeking a premium smartwatch experience, particularly those with active lifestyles.
2. Apple Watch Series 10
The Apple Watch Series 10 represents a significant design update in Apple’s smartwatch lineup. It’s the thinnest Apple Watch ever created while featuring a larger display than previous models.
Battery performance has improved with the Series 10. Apple has made this their fastest-charging watch, which helps users who need quick power boosts before heading out for the day.
Health monitoring remains a key focus for the Series 10. The watch now includes sleep apnea notifications among its health insights, expanding its potential as a health monitoring device.
The build quality has seen upgrades too. Available in titanium cases, the Series 10 has been praised for its aesthetic appeal. The premium materials give it a more sophisticated look compared to earlier models.
Performance doesn’t disappoint either. The Series 10 runs on a powerful processor that handles tasks smoothly. The watch has earned a 4-star rating and Editors’ Choice award from PCMag, making it their top recommendation for most users.
Display brightness has been enhanced, particularly for off-axis viewing. This improvement makes the screen easier to read from different angles without having to position your wrist directly in front of you.
Users report positive experiences after extended use. Reddit discussions mention strong battery life and effective health features after two weeks of ownership.
The Series 10 positions itself between the Ultra 2 and the more budget-friendly SE in Apple’s current watch lineup. For those wanting to compare specific features, Apple offers a detailed comparison tool on their website.
3. Apple Watch SE (2022)
The Apple Watch SE (2022) offers an excellent balance of features and affordability. As the second generation of the SE line, it serves as a perfect entry point for first-time smartwatch buyers or younger users who want Apple’s wearable technology without the premium price tag.
Priced at $249, the Apple Watch SE costs significantly less than the flagship models while retaining many essential features. It comes in three case colors, giving users some style options to match their preferences.
For fitness enthusiasts, the SE includes core tracking capabilities that monitor your daily activities. The health and safety features are quite robust, including fall detection and emergency SOS that can provide peace of mind.
Battery life is comparable to other Apple Watch models, typically lasting a full day with regular use. The display, while not as advanced as the Series models, remains bright and responsive for daily interactions.
Users particularly appreciate the SE’s connectivity options. It keeps you linked to your iPhone for notifications, calls, and messages—perfect for staying connected without constantly checking your phone.
The SE (2022) has received positive reviews from users who appreciate its reliability as both a primary and secondary watch. Many highlight its value proposition compared to pricier alternatives.
What makes the SE stand out is that it includes almost everything most people want in a smartwatch without unnecessary extras. It handles notifications, fitness tracking, and phone connectivity with ease.
When comparing Apple Watch models, the SE sits comfortably between the flagship Series and the Ultra editions. It skips some advanced health sensors and the always-on display but keeps the core experience intact.
4. Apple Watch Hermès Series 10
The Apple Watch Hermès Series 10 represents a luxurious partnership between Apple’s technology and Hermès’ classic design sensibilities. This premium version comes with a titanium case in a polished silver finish, giving it an elegant look.
The latest iteration features a slimmer case design with a larger display than previous models. This creates a more streamlined look while making information easier to read at a glance.
What makes the Hermès version special are the exclusive bands and watch faces you can’t get with standard Apple Watch models. The new bands showcase Hermès’ craftsmanship, with options like the Satiné Grand H watch band highlighted in recent unboxings.
The leather bands deserve special mention. Many Apple Watch users consider Hermès leather bands the finest available, outperforming both Apple’s standard leather offerings and most third-party options.
Functionally, the Hermès edition includes all Series 10 features plus built-in GPS and cellular connectivity. This means you get health tracking, notifications, and communication tools in a package that makes a fashion statement.
The watch comes with unique Hermès-designed digital faces that complement the physical bands. These digital faces feature distinctive typography and color schemes aligned with Hermès’ design aesthetic.
While considerably more expensive than the standard Series 10, the Apple Watch Hermès appeals to those wanting both cutting-edge technology and luxury fashion credentials. It’s particularly attractive to fans of the Hermès brand who appreciate the French design house’s attention to detail.
For collectors, the Hermès edition represents one of the rarest Apple Watch variants, making it desirable beyond just its functional capabilities. Each release typically features limited edition color combinations and band designs.
5. Apple Watch Series 9
The Apple Watch Series 9 stands as one of the most recent additions to Apple’s smartwatch lineup. It offers a blend of features that make it a compelling choice for iPhone users.
The Series 9 comes with an improved S9 chip that enables faster performance and better battery efficiency. Users particularly appreciate the haptic alarm and camera remote features, which add convenience to daily use.
Many consider it the best smartwatch for iPhone owners. Its integration with iOS provides a seamless experience that other smartwatches simply cannot match.
Health monitoring remains a key strength of the Series 9. The watch recently gained FDA-cleared sleep apnea detection, joining the Ultra 2 as the only Apple Watch models with this feature.
The Series 9 comes in various options to suit different preferences. Buyers can choose between different sizes and colors, as well as GPS-only or GPS + cellular models.
Double tap functionality represents one of the more innovative additions. This feature allows users to control the watch by tapping their thumb and index finger together twice, useful when their other hand is occupied.
Battery life typically lasts a full day with normal use. The fast charging capability means users can quickly top up the battery when needed.
The watch maintains Apple’s commitment to health and fitness tracking. It monitors heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and activity while providing helpful insights and motivation.
For those trying to decide between models, the Series 9 sits between the more affordable SE and the premium Ultra 2. It offers a balanced mix of features at a mid-range price point in the Apple Watch ecosystem.
6. Editor’s Choice: Apple Watch Series 10
The Apple Watch Series 10 stands out as our top recommendation for most users. This model earned a 4-star rating and Editors’ Choice award thanks to its balance of features, design, and performance.
What makes the Series 10 special is its sleek design and powerful processor. The watch offers a more comfortable fit than previous models, making it suitable for all-day wear. In fact, some users report it’s the first Apple Watch they can comfortably wear while sleeping.
Battery life has always been a concern with smartwatches. While the Series 10 doesn’t dramatically improve battery duration, it compensates with much faster charging. The watch can now charge to 80% in just 30 minutes, reducing downtime significantly.
The display on the Series 10 is easy to view in various lighting conditions. This improved screen visibility pairs well with Apple’s latest health tracking features, making it excellent for fitness and wellness monitoring.
Apple introduced titanium cases with the Series 10, resulting in what many consider the best-looking Apple Watch to date. This premium material adds durability without excessive weight.
Performance is another strong point. The watch handles apps smoothly and responds quickly to commands. Fitness tracking has improved with more accurate sensors and expanded workout options.
For users upgrading from older models, the Series 10 offers meaningful improvements across the board. The combination of better comfort, faster charging, and enhanced features makes it the ideal choice for most Apple users.
7. Best for Most: Series 10
The Apple Watch Series 10 stands out as the top choice for most users in 2025. It offers an excellent balance of features, performance, and price that makes it suitable for everyday wear.
The Series 10 has a sleek design that’s thinner than previous models. This slimmer profile makes it more comfortable to wear all day and night. Many users find they can now wear it while sleeping without discomfort.
Apple packed the Series 10 with a powerful processor that handles tasks smoothly. The watch responds quickly to taps and voice commands, making daily interactions feel seamless.
Battery life is solid, though not as impressive as the Ultra 2 model. Most users can get through a full day without needing to recharge.
The display on the Series 10 is bright and easy to read in various lighting conditions. Text appears crisp, and colors look vibrant on the screen.
At around $329, the Series 10 sits in the middle of Apple’s watch lineup. It costs more than the SE but significantly less than the Ultra 2.
Health tracking features are comprehensive on the Series 10. It monitors heart rate, sleep patterns, and activity levels with good accuracy.
The watch earned a 4-star rating and Editors’ Choice award from PCMag, highlighting its value proposition. Reviewers praise its combination of design and functionality.
Water resistance makes the Series 10 suitable for swimming and other water activities. This adds to its versatility as an everyday wearable.
For anyone upgrading from an older Apple Watch, the Series 10 offers meaningful improvements that justify the switch. The enhancements to comfort, speed, and features make it a worthwhile investment.
8. Budget Pick: Apple Watch SE
The Apple Watch SE offers great value for people looking to try a smartwatch without spending too much. As the most affordable option in Apple’s lineup, it’s excellent for first-time smartwatch buyers and younger users wanting core features without premium pricing.
While it lacks some fancy features of more expensive models, the SE handles the basics well. You’ll get fitness tracking, notifications, heart rate monitoring, and the same core software experience as pricier models.
Price is a major selling point. The Apple Watch SE typically retails for $250, but you can often find it discounted to $200 or less. This makes it significantly more affordable than the Series 10 or Ultra models.
For new smartwatch users, the SE provides a perfect entry point. It’s less overwhelming while still delivering the essential Apple Watch experience. The learning curve isn’t steep, and the interface remains user-friendly.
The SE is also physically smaller and lighter than premium models. This makes it comfortable for daily wear, especially for people with smaller wrists or those who prefer a less bulky device.
Battery life matches other Apple Watch models, generally lasting a full day with normal use. You’ll need to charge it nightly, just like with other Apple Watches.
The main compromises come in display technology and health sensors. The SE lacks the always-on display and advanced health features like ECG and blood oxygen monitoring found in pricier models.
Currently, Amazon and Walmart offer some of the best deals on the Apple Watch SE. Many users on forums like Reddit consider the SE a smart choice that balances price and performance effectively.
9. Premium Pick: Ultra 2
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 stands out as the top-tier option for those willing to invest in premium features. This model comes in a rugged 49mm aerospace-grade titanium case that offers exceptional durability for active users.
Battery life is a major advantage of the Ultra 2. Users report it can last nearly three days on a single charge, making it ideal for weekend adventures or multi-day events without needing to worry about running out of power.
The Ultra 2 now comes in a sleek black titanium finish, adding a sophisticated option to its lineup. This watch includes built-in GPS and Cellular connectivity as standard features, eliminating the need to choose between models.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Ultra 2 offers the brightest screen in the Apple Watch family. This makes it easy to read in direct sunlight during hikes, runs, or water activities.
The watch includes advanced health, fitness, and safety features that go beyond what’s available in other models. These tools help serious athletes track performance metrics with greater precision.
While the Ultra 2 carries a higher price tag, it justifies the cost through its premium materials, extended battery life, and expanded feature set. It represents the pinnacle of Apple’s wearable technology.
The Ultra 2 weighs more than the Series 10 Titanium, which some users might find less comfortable for sleep tracking. However, the extra heft contributes to its rugged appeal and durability.
For users seeking the absolute best Apple Watch experience without compromise, the Ultra 2 delivers exceptional performance in a robust package designed to handle demanding conditions.
10. Top Rated: Series 10
The Apple Watch Series 10 stands out as the top choice for most people in 2025. It earned a 4-star rating and Editors’ Choice award from PCMag, who praised its sleek design and powerful processor.
What makes the Series 10 special is its balance of features and comfort. It’s Apple’s thinnest watch yet, but it comes with the biggest display in the standard lineup. This combination makes it more comfortable to wear all day and night.
The comfort factor is significant. Many users report it’s the first Apple Watch they can wear while sleeping without discomfort. This matters because the Series 10 includes advanced health monitoring features like sleep apnea notifications.
Battery life has improved compared to older models, though it doesn’t match the Ultra series. The Series 10 makes up for this with faster charging – it’s Apple’s fastest-charging watch to date. This quick power-up feature helps offset the daily charging needs.
The Series 10 currently sells for around $329, making it a mid-range option in Apple’s lineup. While not cheap, it offers more value than the Ultra models for those who don’t need extreme durability or extra-long battery life.
Health tracking remains excellent with heart rate monitoring, ECG, blood oxygen readings, and temperature sensing. The watch runs the latest watchOS smoothly, with no lag when switching between apps or responding to notifications.
Water resistance, workout tracking, and smart home control options round out the package. For most users, the Series 10 hits the sweet spot of features, comfort, and price.
Features of the Best Apple Watch
The Apple Watch offers a mix of powerful health monitoring tools, stunning visual design, and impressive performance capabilities that make it stand out in the smartwatch market.
Health and Fitness Tracking
Apple Watch excels at health and fitness tracking with features that go beyond basic step counting. The latest models include an ECG app that can detect irregular heart rhythms and advanced sleep tracking that monitors different sleep stages.
Fall detection is another standout feature, automatically calling emergency services if you take a hard fall and don’t respond. This makes it particularly valuable for older users or those with health concerns.
The watch tracks a wide range of workouts, from swimming to yoga, with accurate metrics for each activity type. Blood oxygen monitoring is available on newer models, giving users insight into their overall wellness.
Many users appreciate the Activity Rings system, which encourages movement throughout the day with simple visual goals for standing, exercising, and moving.
Design and Display
The Apple Watch Series 10 features significant display improvements with a wide-angle OLED screen that remains visible even when viewed from different angles. The LTPO3 technology introduces a ticking second hand, adding a classic watch feel to the digital display.
The watch comes in various materials including aluminum and stainless steel, with multiple size options to fit different wrists. The always-on display remains bright and visible in outdoor conditions without significant battery drain.
Watch bands are easily interchangeable, allowing users to customize their look for different occasions. The digital crown provides intuitive navigation through apps and menus.
Water resistance is standard across models, making it suitable for swimming and showering without concern.
Battery Life and Performance
Battery performance varies across Apple Watch models, but most offer all-day battery life with regular use. The Series 10 introduces faster charging capabilities, reducing downtime when you need a quick power boost.
Performance improvements make navigating the watch interface smooth and responsive. Apps open quickly, and voice commands through Siri respond promptly.
The watch handles notifications efficiently, allowing users to respond to messages directly from their wrist. The camera remote feature lets you control your iPhone camera from a distance—perfect for group photos or specialized shots.
Battery saving modes extend the watch’s life during travel or when you’re unable to charge. GPS tracking remains accurate without significant battery impact during outdoor activities.
Choosing the Right Apple Watch for Your Needs
Apple offers several watch models with different features and price points. The right choice depends on what you need from your smartwatch and how much you want to spend.
Compatibility with iOS Devices
Apple Watch works exclusively with iPhone. All current models require an iPhone 8 or later running iOS 17 or newer. This tight integration creates a seamless experience between your devices.
Your watch will receive notifications from your iPhone apps and allow you to respond to messages quickly. You can also use it to find your phone when misplaced.
Some models offer cellular connectivity, letting you make calls and use data without your iPhone nearby. The Apple Watch Series 10 and Ultra 2 have this option, but it requires an additional monthly fee from your carrier.
When choosing a model, consider how you’ll use it with your iPhone. If you always have your phone with you, the GPS-only version might be sufficient and more affordable.
Pricing Considerations
Apple Watch prices vary widely based on model, size, and materials. The Apple Watch SE is the budget option starting around $249, while the high-end Ultra 2 costs $799.
The Series 10 sits between these at $399 and offers a good balance of features to price. Many users find this model provides the best value.
Key factors affecting price include:
- Display type: Always-on display costs more but lets you see information without raising your wrist
- Materials: Aluminum is cheaper than stainless steel or titanium
- Health sensors: Advanced health monitoring adds to the cost
Sales happen throughout the year, especially when new models launch. Refurbished Apple Watches from Apple’s store come with a warranty and can save you 15-20%.
Consider how long you plan to keep the watch. A pricier model might last longer with more future-proof features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apple Watch models differ in features, price points, and target users. Each version offers unique advantages depending on your specific needs and preferences.
What features distinguish the Apple Watch Series 10 from its predecessors?
The Apple Watch Series 10 brings several important updates over previous models. It features a brighter display that’s easier to read outdoors and improved battery life lasting up to 24 hours with normal use.
The Series 10 includes a faster S10 chip that makes apps open quicker and animations feel smoother. Health tracking has been upgraded with more accurate heart rate sensors and expanded workout detection.
New for the Series 10 is enhanced water resistance (now up to 100 meters) and improved fall detection algorithms that can better identify different types of accidents.
Which Apple Watch model offers the best value for women seeking advanced health tracking?
The Apple Watch Series 9 provides the best balance of health features and price for women’s health tracking. It includes cycle tracking with temperature sensing and comprehensive fitness metrics without the premium price of the Series 10.
The Series 9 offers detailed sleep tracking with sleep stage analysis and blood oxygen monitoring. Its health tracking capabilities include heart rate variability measurements that can help identify stress patterns.
The watch size options (41mm and 45mm) fit comfortably on smaller wrists while maintaining excellent screen readability.
How does the Apple Watch Series 9 compare to the Series 8 in terms of performance and features?
The Series 9 improves upon the Series 8 with a 20% faster processor, making everyday tasks smoother. The S9 chip enables faster Siri responses and on-device processing.
Battery performance sees modest improvements in the Series 9, typically lasting 18 hours compared to 16-17 hours on the Series 8. The display on the Series 9 is also 30% brighter, making outdoor visibility better.
Both watches share similar health features, but the Series 9 adds more accurate heart rate monitoring and slightly improved GPS tracking for workouts.
What are the key differences between the Apple Watch SE (2nd gen) and the Series 7?
The Apple Watch SE (2nd gen) costs significantly less than the Series 7 while maintaining core functionality. The SE lacks the always-on display found on the Series 7, meaning you need to raise your wrist to see the time.
Health features differ notably. The SE (2nd gen) skips the ECG and blood oxygen sensors included in the Series 7. The SE does include essential health monitoring like heart rate tracking and fall detection.
The Series 7 offers a larger display with thinner bezels and faster charging capabilities (0-80% in about 45 minutes) compared to the SE’s standard charging speed.
Which Apple Watch is considered the best for fitness enthusiasts and why?
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 stands out as the top choice for serious fitness enthusiasts. Its titanium case and sapphire crystal display provide exceptional durability for outdoor activities and intense workouts.
Battery life on the Ultra 2 reaches up to 36 hours in normal use and 72 hours in low power mode, perfect for multi-day adventures or training sessions. The dual-frequency GPS delivers extremely accurate route tracking, even in dense urban environments.
Unique to the Ultra 2 is the customizable Action button, which provides quick access to workouts, and the improved water resistance (to 100m) makes it ideal for swimming and water sports.
For overall quality and user satisfaction, which Apple Watch model is recommended by the community?
The Apple Watch Series 9 receives the highest community praise for its balance of features and price. Users consistently highlight its reliable performance and comprehensive health tracking capabilities.
Community discussions show strong satisfaction with the Series 9’s battery life and display quality. Many users appreciate that it offers most premium features without the Ultra 2’s higher price tag.
The Series 9 also earns high marks for its broad compatibility with third-party apps and accessories, making it versatile for different uses and personal preferences.
