How to choose which Apple Watch to buy

Since April 2015, Apple Watch has taken the world by storm in the wearable gadget sector. Within 7 years, Apple Watch has become the leading choice by millions of users across the world. Back in the day, it used to be easy to choose the Apple Watch. Just go with the latest Apple Watch but that’s not the case anymore. Now, we have three different sections of the Apple Watch: Apple Watch Series, Apple Watch SE, and Apple Watch Ultra. If you are confused as to which Apple Watch to buy, then this article is for you.

The affordable version of the Apple Watch called SE came out first in 2020 and in 2022 we have a second generation SE watch which is low cost and focused mainly on first-time Apple Watch users.

Let’s get something clear first

So, before we jump into what Apple Watch would work for you, let’s get something very very clear. Apple Watch is the best smartwatch for iPhone users. I’m sure there are other devices which is definitely compatible with Apple smartphones but it’s not even close to what Apple Watch provides.

So, the debate is whether you should go with Apple Watch Series 8, Apple Watch SE 2, or Apple Watch Ultra. With an Apple Watch, you can control your iOS devices, third-party apps, use built-in apps like Calculator, Alarm, etc.,

Some Apple Watch alternatives are:

• Garmin Venu 2
• Huawei Watch GT3
• Fitbit Sense 2
• Fitbit Versa 4
• Amazfit GTR 3 Pro
• Amazfit GTS 2 Mini
• Garmin Epix Gen 2 / Fenix 7
• Withings ScanWatch

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I’m sure these watches are lovely but as an Apple Watch user and someone who has built apps for the Apple Watch, the communication and the ease of information between devices are so well thought out. But we are not confused as to whether we should buy an Apple watch. But all we need to figure out which apple watch to buy.

Series 8 and Watch SE

Let’s compare and contrast Series 8 (the latest of the normal Apple Watch series) and the special edition SE. Normally, both the watches come in two different sizes (40mm & 44mm) except the Series 8 which has the options 41mm and 45mm. Based on your wrist size, you can make the choice between the available size variations. Apple Watch provides you the option to wear it on either of the wrists and the display will change accordingly. You can change it anytime in the Apple Watch settings app. Both devices have aluminum cases with an additional option of stainless steel in the Apple Watch Series 8.

These are some of the major differences in devices and it’s pretty obvious that Apple is going for a cheaper, introductory device for first-time Apple Watch users. Now, let us talk about Apple Watch Ultra.

Apple Watch Ultra

The best way to explain Apple Watch Ultra is by using the following equation

{{{{{{ Apple Watch Ultra = Adventure }}}}}}

Apple Watch Ultra is ultimately intended for adventure seekers. If you were to see the introductory video that Apple put together then you would know who the audience for this Watch is. I have put together the list of all the Ultra features down here.

• 36 hours of battery life & 60 hours on Low Power Mode
• Always‑On Retina display with a peak of 2,000 nits
• Orange Action button
• GPS Antenna + Satellite connectivity
• Dual Speakers
• 86 decibel Siren
• Depth Gauge
• 49 mm titanium case
• Water resistance up to 100 m
• IP6X dust resistance

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As you can see these are pretty solid features that are definitely maxed out from the Apple Watch Series 8. It costs about $799 which is the cost of the regular iPhone. So, if you are willing to pay that much for a watch I would highly recommend you to get this Ultra. Also, this would look chunky and out of place for your daily use. If you are an adventurer, then this is the device for you.

Final Verdict

Now is the time to choose which apple watch to buy among the three. If I were to make a decision, I’d say go for the Apple Watch Series 8 if you are not in a money crunch. I’m assuming you already have some apple devices before jumping into buying an Apple Watch. But if money is a concern to you and also you have never used an Apple Watch, then Apple Watch SE is your best option.

Please don’t buy Apple Watch Ultra if you are not an adventurer of any sort. Nobody wants to see you wearing Apple Watch Ultra with your office casual suit. Invest in Apple Watch Ultra only if you are a long-distance runner or rock climber or ultramarathon person or triathlon person. Unless you are someone who dedicates a big chunk of your life to adventurous pursuits, then please don’t make it a thing to invest in Ultra. For a hobbyist or even an active person, the normal Series 8 is more than enough for your fitness life.