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Beautiful and powerful, the Apple Watch Series 9 is the best Apple Watch of 2024.
Powered by S9 system-in-package (SiP) for faster, smoother performance; onboard Siri; and useful Double Tap gesture. Bright, always-on screen stretches edge-to-edge and shows off beautiful watch faces. Offers advanced heart rate sensor and single-lead ECG. Available not just in aluminum but also premium stainless steel with sapphire crystal face.
Can be somewhat pricey. Health sensors shouldn’t replace actual medical results. Can no longer take blood O2 in the U.S.
The Apple Watch SE lets you enjoy the best benefits of owning an Apple Watch at a bargain price.
Runs on S8 SiP, same as on Apple Watch Series 8. Aesthetically pleasing compared to similarly priced fitness trackers with a great choice of watch faces. Produces detailed health and fitness metrics from sensor data. Stores music, audiobooks and podcasts with 32GB of onboard storage. Can connect to Siri. Can make calls with a paired iPhone.
Screen has wide bezels and isn’t always on. Glass face can chip or scratch. Lacks an ECG sensor or UWB chip.
There’s nothing like the Apple Watch Ultra 2 in size, screen or toughness for the adventurous among us.
Titanium case is big and rugged. Flat sapphire crystal face withstands hard knocks. Supports dual-band GPS for added accuracy in challenging conditions. Has advanced navigation sensors and maps for use in backcountry. Enhanced waterproofing for use in intense water activities; functions as a dive computer. Surprisingly comfortable.
Expensive. Bulky design. Can’t use watch bands from other models.
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 now comes in a new Satin Black case and our test team think it’s the model to buy if you want a smartwatch that packs the widest feature set and an all-day battery. It’s completely waterproof, comfortable to wear and has a bright easy-to-read display.
It’s easier to view in bright light than any other Apple Watch. Boasts 100 meters of water resistance, which is twice as much as the Series 10. Offers the longest battery life you can buy in an Apple Watch.
With its $799 price tag, even the upgraded titanium-cased Apple Watch Series 10 with LTE is cheaper than the Apple Watch Ultra 2.
This Apple Watch pairs with your cellular data plan for an always-on connection
There are multiple bands to choose from including sports bands and Milanese loops. The screen comes in two sizes, one for small wrists and one for larger ones. It also comes with a fast-charging magnetic cable.
We wish its battery lasted a full day.
After going through an intensive research process to narrow down our short list of top products in this space, we tested the Apple Watch Series 7 to be sure that it’s worthy of our recommendation. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter and test to verify manufacturer claims.
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Are you looking for a new Apple Watch? Three 2024 models are available, and buyers enjoy five connectivity options within these choices. Location, fitness, notifications, music and health tracking are the primary benefits of an Apple Watch, but the best Apple Watches offer much more than that.
When Apple introduced the first Apple Watch in 2015, some doubted whether it was anything more than a niche product. Fast forward a decade, and they've become almost ubiquitous. Pitched originally as fashion accessories, Apple Watches have found their best function as health aids, coaching wearers to get up and move while monitoring their vitals and connecting them to the world.
At BestReviews, we've tested numerous Apple Watches over the years, rating them on comfort, usability, practicality and the accuracy of their sensors. The best Apple Watch available now is the Apple Watch Series 9 with GPS. If you’re on a tight budget but still want a top Apple Watch, we believe the Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) GPS provides a desirable suite of functions at a bargain price.
Flashy yet Affordable
Case Size: 41 mm, 45 mm | Case Material: Aluminum, stainless steel | Battery Life: 18 hours (32 hours low-power mode) | Processor: Apple S9 | Storage Capacity: 64GB
The best Apple Watch you can get in 2024 is the Apple Watch Series 9 GPS model. It offers an advanced processor and system, Apple’s latest health sensors and tons of functionality in an elegant package.
The Series 9 is slim and sleek with an always-on screen that shows off a face, even when sitting idle on your wrist. It comes in two case sizes, 41- or 45-millimeter, and two case materials, silky aluminum or polished stainless steel. Its screen stretches almost edge-to-edge on its Ion-X glass or sapphire crystal face, showing off 2,000 nits of brightness and a multitude of dazzling faces.
We noted the speed and fluidity of its functions, thanks to its advanced S9 system-in-package (SiP), and we liked how it sped up Siri while allowing it to run locally for privacy.
We also appreciated the Double Tap gesture introduced with the Series 9; it allowed us to interact with timers, messages or notifications when our hands were full.
The Series 9 can run a single-lead ECG and sports a third-generation heart rate monitor. Further, it can withstand 40 meters of water for use while swimming.
It’s beautiful, powerful and useful, and it scores 5 out of 5 as the best Apple Watch of 2024.
Bargain Pick
Case Size: 40 mm, 44 mm | Case Material: Aluminum | Battery Life: 18 hours | Processor: Apple S8 | Storage Capacity: 32GB
You don’t need to spend an arm and a leg on an Apple Watch. The Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation) packs everything we think you need to use and enjoy the benefits of a smartwatch at significant price savings over the Series 9.
The SE has a case design dating from the era of Series 3 to 5, but inside, it runs on the same S8 package as 2022’s top-line Series 8 model. It comes in 41- and 44-millimeter sizes in three colors of aluminum, and it has a face of Ion-X glass and a nylon composite back.
It features a second-generation optical heart sensor, 40-meter water resistance for light swimming and a screen that gets as bright as 1,000 nits.
We loved the comfort of the SE and appreciated the in-depth health and fitness information it generated. We found it more aesthetically pleasing than similarly priced fitness trackers.
Sure, it's not as fast or full-featured as the Series 9, but the Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation) covers the basics and then some. An excellent bargain, it earns a score of 4 out of 5.
Feature-packed
Case Size: 49 mm | Case Material: Titanium | Battery Life: 32 hours (72 hours low power mode) | Processor: Apple S9 | Storage Capacity: 64GB
The second-generation Apple Watch Ultra 2 is bigger, brighter, bulkier and tougher than other Apple Watch models, with a rugged body designed to excel in tough and extreme conditions.
The Ultra 2 features a 49-millimeter case made of solid, natural-finish titanium. This makes it stronger and lighter than steel, lowering the extra weight of its size. We found it unexpectedly comfortable during testing to the point that we forgot we had it on.
Its case is rugged to protect its flat sapphire crystal face and internals, which include the S9 SiP with 64GB of storage. We love that it has twice the battery life of the Series 9. Wearers enjoy approximately 32 hours with normal use and 72 hours in low-power mode.
The Ultra 2 connects to two GPS frequencies instead of one, and it has a brighter display than the Series 9. It’s not just waterproof to 100 meters for high-speed water sports; it’s also safe to 44 meters for recreational diving with a depth gauge and water temperature sensor to go with its other sensors.
It features international emergency calling, enhanced crash and fall detection, cellular connectivity and even a loud emergency siren.
We rate it 5 out of 5 and consider it an outstanding companion for outdoor adventures and extreme sports.
Most Comprehensive
Case Size: 41 mm, 45 mm | Case Material: Aluminum, stainless steel | Battery Life: 18 hours (32 hours low-power mode) | Processor: Apple S9 | Storage Capacity: 64GB
As a comprehensive package, we recommend the Apple Watch Series 9 GPS + Cellular. Its built-in cellular connection frees you from being tethered to your iPhone, so you can leave it behind and get all your calls, messages, notifications and essential apps on your wrist.
The cellular-equipped Series 9 is otherwise identical to its Wi-Fi-only version with the clean, smooth lines and slim build that make the Series 9 so elegant. It’s available in 41- and 45-millimeter sizes and aluminum and stainless steel cases. So, whether you choose the everyday or premium versions, you stay connected.
It has the same 40-meter water resistance as the Wi-Fi-only Series 9, the same Ion-X or sapphire face options and the same suite of health sensors, including the third-generation optical heart sensor and the electric heart sensor for ECG.
You’ll still need an Apple device to set it up, but once you do, the Apple Watch Series 9 GPS + Cellular (which scored a 5 out of 5) can stand alone.
Best for Everyday Use
Case Size: 40 mm, 44 mm | Case Material: Aluminum | Battery Life: 18 hours | Processor: Apple S8 | Storage Capacity: 32GB
You may be surprised to learn that the Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation) comes in a model with cellular capabilities. You’ll find outstanding value in this smartwatch, especially if you have kids or teens who cannot use a smartphone at school.
Like the Wi-Fi-only model, the SE with cellular has a 1,000-nit retina screen that goes dark when not in use. It also has a second-generation heart sensor and waterproofing to 40 meters for casual swimming.
With 32GB of storage, you can use it as a music player with Bluetooth headphones, so you can enjoy your favorite tunes on the go.
Priced lower than the Series 9 with cellular, the cellular-equipped SE (2nd Generation) can stay connected for emergencies and everyday use without the distraction of a full-fledged iPhone.
It’s available in 40- and 44-millimeter case versions and in all three aluminum finishes, and you have the whole ecosystem of watch bands to choose from. We rate it 4.5 out of 5.
We tested several models of the Apple Watch, including all three series in the lineup: the second-generation SE, the Series 9 and the Ultra 2 (and original Ultra). In our testing, we looked at factors including setup, usage, metrics, design and battery life.
Apple Watches in 2024 come in five case sizes, depending on their series. The Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation) each come in two case sizes, while the Apple Watch Ultra 2 comes in only one case size.
The Apple Watch Series 9 comes in 41- and 45-millimeter case sizes. The 41-millimeter size suits smaller wrists, while the 45-millimeter case looks best on larger wrists. Watch bands aren’t compatible with different case sizes. A band designed for the 41-millimeter case won’t fit the 45-millimeter case, and vice versa.
The same is true for the Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation), except its cases are 1 millimeter smaller: 40 millimeter and 44 millimeter, respectively. The SE case resembles those of the previous Series 3, 4 and 5 Apple Watches, which are somewhat thicker and squarer than those of the Series 9 and its predecessors from Series 6 to 8.
The Apple Watch Ultra series comes in a 49-millimeter case size with a rugged design for withstanding knocks and bumps.
Each Apple Watch case size has a matching screen size. The 40-millimeter Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation) currently has the smallest screen size at 324 by 394 pixels. This is followed by the 41-millimeter Series 9 (352 x 430 pixels), the 44-millimeter SE (368 x 448 pixels), the 45-millimeter Series 9 (396 x 484 pixels) and the Ultra 2 (410 x 502 pixels).
The Series 9 display extends almost to the edge of its face, giving it more display area for its size than the SE. The 41-millimeter Series 9 is closer in display area to the 44-millimeter SE than the 41-millimeter version.
Both the Series 9 and SE (2nd Generation) have faces with curved edges. The Ultra 2’s screen is flat.
The high-resolution Retina displays of Apple Watches must be bright enough to work in direct sunlight. The Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation) gets up to 1,000 nits in brightness, brighter than many smartphones and laptops. The Apple Watch Series 9 doubles that to 2,000 nits, and it proved vividly clear in direct sunlight during our tests. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 gets even brighter: Its 3,000-nit top brightness is intended to stand up to the glare of sand or snow while out on adventures.
At the other end, both the Series 9 and Ultra 2 can get as low as 1 nit in darkness, allowing you a clear view of the screen without ruining your night vision. This is another capability we verified during testing.
Apple Watches come in three case materials: aluminum, stainless steel and titanium. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 has a case made of solid titanium, which is stronger and lighter than steel. This helps keep its weight down, which we noticed when we tested both the Ultra 2 and its predecessor, the original Ultra.
The Apple Watch Series 9 is available in both case sizes in your choice of aluminum or stainless steel. Apple Watches with aluminum cases have a smooth, satin finish and come in five color choices, including red. Those made of stainless steel have polished, glossy finishes and three metallic color choices, including gold.
The Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation) only comes in four colors of aluminum. Stainless steel models cost more and are positioned as more luxurious items than aluminum models.
Aluminum SE and Series 9 models have faces made of Ion-X glass, which can sometimes be gouged or chipped from impact. Stainless steel Series 9 models and the Ultra 2 have faces made of much harder sapphire crystal. Series 9 and Ultra models have backs made of ceramic, while the back of the SE (2nd Generation) is solid nylon.
Apple Watches run on what’s called a system-in-package, or SiP. This is essentially a complete computer with a processor, memory and storage in one.
The Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 run the S9 SiP, which includes a 64-bit, dual-core processor plus a 4-core “Neural Engine” that enhances machine learning and algorithm handling. This leads to smoother, faster operation over the S8 SiP in the Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation). We can confirm that the same operations were faster and smoother on the S9-equipped models compared to the SE, including Siri, which can process many of its commands on the device instead of contacting the cloud.
Each SiP comes with storage. The S9 has 64GB of storage. The S8 has 32GB of storage. If you download a lot of music files, photos or complex apps, you may like the extra storage of the Series 9 and Ultra 2. That said, we rarely felt like 32GB of storage on an Apple Watch was too small.
Health tracking is the Apple Watch’s biggest selling feature. All Apple Watch models in 2024 have an optical heart sensor to measure your pulse via photoplethysmography, shining a green light to measure red blood flow.
The Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation) uses an older heart sensor than the one in the Series 9 and Ultra. Based on our testing, all Apple Watches offer solidly accurate measures once calibrated.
The Series 9 and Ultra 2 have an electric heart sensor to conduct a one-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) to monitor heart function and sinus rhythm. Both models have a skin-temperature sensor that helps inform cycle tracking and ovulation measures. These sensors combine with data from positioning, motion and location to generate health measurements such as balance, gait and VO2 max.
Until 2024, the Series 9 and Ultra 2 had the ability to measure blood oxygen, or blood O2. This functionality was deactivated for all Apple Watch models sold by Apple in the U.S., but it’s still available in other countries.
Health data isn’t the only information Apple Watches can track. All Apple Watch models in 2024 have a sensitive gyroscope and accelerometer to detect movement. For example, an altimeter measures elevation. A GPS module is standard and tracks the watch’s location for navigation and workout tracking.
When it comes to these sensors, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 stands out with an enhanced altimeter that goes from -500 meters below to +9,000 meters above sea level and two GPS modules to connect to two different GPS frequencies. It also has sensors for the Ultra family’s aquatic sports and diving capabilities.
The Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation), Series 9 and Ultra 2 all support watchOS 10, although the SE doesn’t have hardware for some OS features. All models also support watchOS 11, which is due in late 2024.
Apple Watches in 2024 average 18 hours of battery life. All charge via an included charging puck that magnetically attaches to the back plate of the watch. The other hand plugs into any USB-C power adapter or port. Previous Apple Watch charging pucks plugged into USB-A ports, and these can still charge newer models.
The Apple Watch SE (2nd generation) and Series 9 offer up to 18 hours of battery life with regular use. In our tests, a Series 9 got 14 hours of screen-on time and eight hours of overnight use without charging. The Series 9 also has a low-power mode that extends battery life up to 36 hours.
The battery life of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is much longer. It’s so long, in fact, that it was one of the most impressive improvements we found in our testing. Under normal use, an Apple Watch Ultra 2 can last 36 hours on a single charge and extend to 72 hours in low-power mode.
Apple Watch models have different tolerances for water. The Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation) is water-resistant to 50 meters and can be used in the pool for light swimming. The Series 9 has the same resistance rating.
The Ultra 2 is a different breed. Its water resistance is rated to 100 meters, making it suitable for what Apple terms “high-speed” water sports. It can withstand a depth of 40 meters for recreational diving, and it has a depth gauge and water temperature sensor to act as a dive computer.
Both the Series 9 and Ultra 2 are rated IP6X resistant to dust ingress. Thus, they can be worn in dirty and dusty situations, including sand and trail hiking. The SE (2nd Generation) doesn’t have a dust-resistance rating.
Apple Watches connect to the internet and other devices wirelessly. It’s one of the main ways they differ from traditional watches and how they provide extra usefulness in daily life.
With a wireless connection to a smartphone or the internet, an Apple Watch can tell time and measure your fitness as well as show notifications for all your apps. It can also show messages, emails and alerts; stream music or podcasts directly from your wrist; allow you to interact with Siri and even make phone calls.
Apple Watch bands are removable and swappable. You get a band when you buy an Apple Watch, but you can buy more bands and switch them up to suit your style. For example, you could have a sweatproof band for sports, a band for everyday occasions and a band of leather or metal for formal occasions.
Hundreds of Apple Watch bands are available in stores and online. Just ensure you get the right size for your Apple Watch case and wrist. Apple Watches with 40- and 41-millimeter cases have the same size watch bands as do those with 44- and 45-millimeter cases. Notably, Nike and Hermès make bands in collaboration with Apple that are sold at Apple Stores.
Since the first Apple Watch debuted, users have been able to choose from numerous watch faces featuring both analog and digital clocks plus dozens of complications (face elements) for almost every app available. You can choose faces from a gallery on the Watch app on your iPhone or directly from your Apple Watch. Many of these faces can be further customized with colors and complications of your choosing.
Apple Watches with always-on screens, such as the Series 9 and Ultra 2, can show a face or elements of a face while idle, allowing you to match a face to a look or outfit. Favorite faces include Modular, Solar, Activity, Unity, Pride, Mickey Mouse and Snoopy & Woodstock. An Apple Watch screen protector is a great way to keep your watch looking its best.
A. An iPhone is required to set up an Apple Watch. Apple Watch For Your Kids, formerly Family Setup, lets you use an iPhone to set up Apple Watches for kids or other family members who don’t have an iPhone of their own.
Apple Watches with cellular connectivity don’t need iPhones to make calls or connect to the internet, but they still need to be set up with an iPhone.
A. Yes, left-handed users can wear an Apple Watch. The watch’s orientation and which wrist it’s placed on can be specified in the Watch app on a paired iPhone. You can designate whether you wear your Apple Watch on your left or right wrist and whether you wear the Digital Crown on the right or left side of the watch. If you flip the case so the Digital Crown is on the left, you can also swap which end of your Apple Watch band attaches to the “top” and “bottom” of the watch case.
A. The Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation) and Series 9 provide around 18 hours of battery life and up to 32 hours with Low Power Mode activated. The amount of time varies based on how you use your watch. For example, using the cellular radio to make calls, using the screen at maximum brightness or taking advantage of turn-by-turn directions and map navigation may drain the battery faster than listening to locally stored music.
Jmar Gambol has owned an Apple Watch since 2016 and has written numerous articles about smartwatches and all the latest computers and gadgets for BestReviews since 2021. He also personally tested some of the Apple models listed here.
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