Are you looking for the perfect Apple Watch for your needs? With so many models and features available, deciding which Apple Watch is right for you can be challenging. In this blog, I’ll go over the options available and tell you what to look for when buying. So, whether you’re looking for a fitness companion, a feature-packed smartwatch, or something affordable, this will help you find the best Apple Watch for your needs in 2023.
How to choose the right Apple Watch
The Apple Watch is the best wearable to pair with your iPhone. In 2022, Apple released three new models: Apple Watch Ultra, Apple Watch Series 8, and Apple Watch SE 2. But which Apple Watch is the best?
Your fitness activities, your budget, the materials your watch is made of, and even your wrist size will all influence which Apple Watch is perfect for you. With so many possibilities, it is not always true that newer is better. Apple has released different models for specific people, so you can get an older model that’s still useful and valuable.
First, assess your needs and preferences and match them to the functionality of the watch. All new Apple Watches come with cutting-edge features like always-on displays, advanced sensors, updated software, and more sporting gadgets.
Another factor to consider when buying a new Apple Watch is its price. Apple usually charges more for its new models and stops selling the old one. However, you can still buy them from many online retailers (sometimes at a deep discount). These watches have a similar look and function.
So, let’s see what works best for you and if the older, cheaper models are a good fit.
1. Apple Watch Ultra is the best choice for sports and adventure enthusiasts
- Screen: 1.9 inch OLED
- Assembly: Titanium frame
- Processor: S8
- Memory: 32 GB
- Battery: 542 mAh
- IP rating: IP6X; Water resistant up to 100 metres, water resistant up to 40 metres.
Apple Watch Ultra is the ultimate outdoor watch built for extreme conditions. If you are into outdoor activities, this is undoubtedly the best Apple Watch to buy. Certified to military standard MIL-STD-810H for durability. You get a flat screen sapphire crystal with a 49mm shockproof titanium case.
It offers unique features like dual-frequency GPS, siren, depth app, night mode, etc. In addition, the action button provides access to a host of customizable features. In addition, there are three built-in microphones with unique wind-blocking algorithms that make it easy to take business calls.
The best part is that the Apple Watch Ultra offers 60 hours of battery life. So it is generally expensive but effective. However, after extensive testing, I can say with confidence that if you outfit your Apple Watch with accessories, it will be Apple’s most affordable wearable.
Positives
- Big Screen
- utility button
- Excellent performance for outdoor activities
- Extended battery life
cons
2. Apple Watch Series 8 – focused on health
- Display: 1.69 / 1.9 OLED
- Assembly: stainless steel frame
- Processor: S8 chip
- Memory: 32 GB
- Battery: 308 mAh
- IP rating: IP6X; Water resistant up to 50 metres
If you want to know which Apple Watch a woman should buy, the Apple Watch Series 8 is ideal, as it provides menstrual cycle tracking and allows you to control your fertile period. In addition, there are vital functions such as collision detection and health monitoring functions such as ECG, wrist temperature monitoring at night, heart rate zone monitoring, cardiac recovery, and so on.
Therefore, it is best for the elderly to stay safe and healthy.
While it’s a good all-in-one piece of software with all the features you need, you won’t need to update if you have an Apple Watch Series 7. WatchOS 9 includes most of the new features, not the hardware. Special temperature sensors only and three new stainless steel finishes are essential additions to the Series 8.
Positives
- Packed with fitness and health features
- Advanced temperature sensors
- Track your menstrual cycle and ovulation
- New training interface
cons
- There are not many updates compared to the Apple Watch Series 7
3. Apple Watch SE (2nd generation) – Yes
- Screen: 1.78″ OLED
- Assembly: aluminum frame
- Processor: S8 chip
- Memory: 32 GB
- Battery: 296 mAh
- IP rating: 50 meters water resistant
The SE Watch is Apple’s entry-level model. This is recommended for people who want an Apple Watch but are on a budget and not for health or sports. The second-generation Apple Watch SE lacks unique features such as a blood oxygen meter, ECG, period tracking, and an ultrawide chip for AirTags. The screen is also smaller and does not have the IP6X certification of the other two Apple Watches.
However, it does include the latest S8 chip and all of the popular features of WatchOS 9, such as Low Power Mode. So if you don’t need the Always On Display and health or outdoors-specific features, your best bet is to buy the Apple Watch.
The case size is 40 mm with the nylon case back making it lighter. In addition, the bright 1000 nits screen ensures crisp images. Surprisingly, the battery here exceeded expectations, lasting almost two days. So, the SE is perfect for you if you just want a basic smartwatch.
Positives
- Lightweight and beginner friendly
- Latest slides
- Available with all features
- Housing in color
cons
- There is no always-on monitor and ECG
- IP6 is not supported
4. Apple Watch Series 7 – more for less
- Display: 1.69 / 1.9 OLED
- Assembly: stainless steel frame
- Processor: S7 chip
- Memory: 32 GB
- Battery: 309 mAh
- IP rating: IP6X; Water resistant up to 50 metres
The Series 7 becomes one of the best sports watches of the past year with improved water and dust resistance, updated algorithms, a larger display, fitness tracking modes and a full-size keyboard for messaging. It looks just like the Series 8 and offers all the features of WatchOS 9.
The only downside is the S7 chipset. Apple has stopped selling it and you can buy it on e-commerce stores. Therefore, I suggest buying it only at discounted prices of up to $300.
Positives
- Offers the same features as the Series 8 at a lower price.
- Supports watchOS 9
- Good battery life
cons
- There are no temperature sensors
- Supports Bluetooth 5.0
Should you buy older versions of the Apple Watch?
Apple Watch Series 1, Series 2, or Series 3 are now available only through resale locations. So they are not worth their money. Also, you can’t buy it for your family because Family Setup only works on Series 4 and up. Also, this watch is cellular but not waterproof and not compatible with WatchOS 9.
What should be the perfect Apple Watch for 2023?
All Apple Watches will have roughly the same basic features and quality standards. However, depending on your needs, you can decide whether to buy the powerful Apple Watch Ultra or the more affordable Apple Watch Series 8.
It’s okay if you want an Apple Watch but can’t afford an Apple Watch 8. However, the Apple Watch SE 2 is excellent because not everyone needs blood oxygen and ECG monitoring. Plus, the Ultra is the obvious choice if you need adventure features like a siren, dive computer, and so on.
If you’re looking for something special, consider the Apple Watch Hermès Edition. It offers the same functionality as the Series 8, plus exclusive straps and watch faces.
While Apple may not sell all models, some stores still sell the Apple Watch Series 7. If you want to try the Series 8 for less, go for it. The Series 7 still has the functionality and software support you need, which makes it valuable.
Instructions
Do I need an iPhone to use the Apple Watch?
no. There are many things the Apple Watch can do without the iPhone. So you don’t have to buy an iPhone to try out the Apple Watch.
Which Apple Watch did you like?
I started with the Apple Watch SE and later bought an Apple Watch Series 8 for my mom. Let me know what your first Apple Watch was/will be in the comments. Besides, if you’re looking for cases, straps, and other accessories for your Apple Watch, check out our expert guides.
Find out more…
- Apple Watch Series 8 vs Apple Watch Ultra: Which Should You Buy?
- Apple Watch GPS vs Cellular: Which is Better for You?
- 9 reasons to buy the Apple Watch