Buying Guide for the Best Apple Watches
Choosing the best Apple Watch for you is all about understanding how you want to use it and which features match your daily habits and goals. Apple Watches can do a lot more than just tell time—they track your activity, keep you connected, and even monitor certain health metrics. Before deciding which watch to buy, think about what matters most to you: Do you exercise frequently? Want to stay connected without your phone? Need advanced health monitoring? Knowing this will help you focus on the specs that match your lifestyle, making the process less overwhelming.SizeThe size of an Apple Watch refers to the height of the watch case, usually measured in millimeters. This spec is important for both comfort and how easy it is to view the screen. Apple Watches typically come in two sizes—one smaller and one larger. The smaller size is more discreet and suitable for slimmer wrists, while the larger one offers a bigger screen, which can be easier to use and see, especially if you access lots of information at a glance. To pick the right size, think about which will feel most comfortable on your wrist and whether you favor portability or readability.
Display TypeDisplay type relates to the screen technology used in the watch, which affects brightness, color, and battery efficiency. Newer models have always-on displays, meaning you can see the time and other information at a glance without raising your wrist. Older models might require wrist movement or a tap to wake. If you often glance at your watch or need quick access to information, an always-on display could be very useful. If battery life is more important or you don’t mind raising your wrist, display type might not be a top concern.
Health & Fitness FeaturesApple Watches offer various health and fitness features, such as heart rate monitoring, ECG, blood oxygen tracking, and fall detection. These features are important if you’re focused on tracking your health or have specific medical needs. Basic models might only offer standard activity tracking and heart rate, while advanced versions include more sensors and health tools. If your priority is overall wellness and you’re active, look for models with comprehensive health features. If these are less critical, a simpler model may suffice.
GPS and Cellular ConnectivityWhen choosing an Apple Watch, you’ll often see options for GPS-only or GPS + Cellular. GPS-only models use your phone for full functionality, while cellular models can make calls, send texts, and stream music independently. Cellular models are valuable if you want freedom from your phone while staying connected, playing music, or using maps during runs or workouts. If your watch will always be near your phone, a GPS-only model will cover basic needs. Assess how important it is to be untethered from your phone to guide this decision.
Battery LifeBattery life varies across Apple Watch models and depends on which features you use. More advanced features (like always-on display or GPS+Cellular) generally use more power. Standard usage typically gets you through a full day, but some high-end or newer models might last longer, or offer fast charging as a bonus. If you don’t like charging every day, prioritize models with longer battery life. If using power-hungry features all day (like continuous GPS tracking), you may want to check reviews for realistic battery performance.
CompatibilityApple Watches only work with iPhones, but you should also check which iPhone models and iOS versions are supported by the watch you're considering. This is important because features and software updates may not be available if your phone is too old. Make sure your iPhone can pair with the watch so you get all the benefits—check support details before purchasing.
Durability and Water ResistanceApple Watches are built for everyday use, and many models are water-resistant, allowing you to swim or shower with them. Some also have more durable materials (like sapphire glass or titanium) which resist scratches or damage. If you’re active, swim, or tend to bump your watch, look for higher durability or deeper water resistance ratings. If you’re careful or mostly use it for basic tracking, standard resistance is usually enough.