Is it worth buying the new Apple Watch Series 10, or should you save money with the Apple Watch SE 2, or go all-in for the Apple Watch Ultra 2? Choosing the wrong one could mean missing out on some life-changing features or paying too much for things you don’t need. Each of these watches has distinct strengths, especially for iPhone users, but their differences can get confusing. Let’s break down the unique aspects of each in design, fitness, and functionality to help you make the right choice.
Apple Watch Series 10 vs. Ultra vs. SE: Which One’s Really Worth Your Money?
| Feature | Apple Watch SE 2 | Apple Watch Series 10 | Apple Watch Ultra 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $249 | $399 (Aluminum) / $699 (Titanium) | $799 |
| Cellular Option | Optional ($50 extra) | Optional (Aluminum) / Included (Titanium) | Included |
| Materials | Aluminum only | Aluminum or Titanium | Titanium only |
| Color Options | 3 colors (aluminum only) | 6 colors | 2 colors |
| Display Size | 40mm / 44mm | 42mm / 46mm | 49mm |
| Always-On Display | No | Yes | Yes |
| Brightness (nits) | 1,000 | 2,000 | 3,000 |
| Bezel Thickness | Thicker | Thinnest | Thicker |
| Blood Oxygen Sensor | No | Disabled (U.S. models) | Disabled (U.S. models) |
| ECG | No | Yes | Yes |
| Body Temperature Sensor | No | Yes | Yes |
| Sleep Apnea Notifications | No | Yes | Yes |
| Dual-Band GPS | No (L1 GPS only) | No (L1 GPS only) | Yes (L1 and L5) |
| Siren Mode | No | No | Yes |
| Water Resistance | 50 meters | 50 meters | 100 meters |
| Depth Gauge | No | Up to 6m | Up to 40m |
| Battery Life | 18 hours | 18 hours | 36 hours |
| Charging Speed | 0-80% in 30 mins | 0-80% in 30 mins | 0-80% in 1 hour |
| Processor | S8 | S10 | S9 |
| Storage | 32GB | 64GB | 64GB |
| Unique Features | Basic health tracking | Double Tap, Health data access via Siri, Music playback via speaker | Dual-band GPS, Enhanced durability, Extra button for quick actions, Night mode |
Health & Fitness Tracking
The health tracking features vary across the models:
- Apple Watch SE 2 lacks ECG for heart irregularity detection and sleep apnea tracking. It’s great for basic health metrics but skips premium sensors.
- Apple Watch Series 10 and Ultra 2 offer sleep apnea notifications, advanced body temperature tracking, and ECG for heart health insights. However, due to regulatory limitations, blood oxygen tracking is no longer active in the U.S. models.
- GPS Accuracy: The Ultra 2 shines here with dual-band GPS, making it the go-to for outdoor athletes needing precise tracking.
Design & Durability
Apple has distinct designs for each model:
- SE 2: Made from aluminum, it’s lightweight but easier to scratch. Available in smaller sizes, it’s a good option for those who prefer a compact watch.
- Series 10: Comes in aluminum and titanium with six color choices and a large display in a slimmer design.
- Ultra 2: Only available in titanium, it’s ultra-durable with a flat, scratch-resistant display, perfect for rugged use.
Display & Brightness
- The SE 2 has a 1,000-nit display, while the Series 10 boasts 2,000 nits, and the Ultra 2 tops it at 3,000 nits. For those often outside, the Ultra’s brighter display is a bonus. Only the Series 10 and Ultra 2 have an always-on display for easy viewing.
Unique Features
- Ultra 2 adds a customizable action button and a red-shifted display at night, while both the Series 10 and Ultra 2 offer better Siri integration, faster processing with their advanced chips, and higher storage.
- Speaker & Microphone: Both Ultra 2 and Series 10 have updated audio capabilities, but Ultra 2’s siren mode and advanced location-finding features make it a step above for safety-conscious users.
Battery Life
Battery life is a major point.
- SE 2 and Series 10: Offer 18 hours, which usually means charging nightly.
- Ultra 2: Lasts up to 36 hours, and though it charges a bit slower, it’s a significant convenience for people on the go.
Price
- Apple Watch SE 2: Starts at $249 (non-cellular), making it a budget-friendly entry.
- Apple Watch Series 10: Starts at $399 with a $499 cellular version and a $699 titanium model.
- Apple Watch Ultra 2: At $799, it’s the most expensive but provides the best durability, display, and battery life.
Which Apple Watch should you buy?
- For Everyday Users: The SE 2 is great for basic health tracking and Apple Watch features.
- For Premium Experience: Series 10 balances price with advanced health features.
- For athletes and adventure seekers, Ultra 2 is the top choice, with enhanced durability, battery life, and outdoor features.
The right choice comes down to your lifestyle and needs—whether it’s the budget-friendly SE 2, the balanced Series 10, or the top-tier Ultra 2.
