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the best apple watch to buy As the holiday shopping season approaches, Apple Watch enthusiasts and potential buyers are eager to know which model offers the best value and features for their needs.

the best apple watch to buy

The Evolution of Apple Watch

Since its launch in 2015, the Apple Watch has transformed from a single model into a diverse lineup catering to various user preferences and lifestyles. Today, consumers can choose from three primary models: the entry-level Apple Watch SE, the standard Apple Watch Series, and the rugged Apple Watch Ultra. Each of these models is designed to meet different needs, whether for casual users, health-conscious individuals, athletes, or even children. This article aims to guide you through the best options available based on your specific requirements.

The Best Apple Watch for Most People

Apple Watch SE 3

Score: 9

Pros: Always-on display, double-tap and wrist flick gestures, enhanced health features, 5G connectivity, fast charging, improved durability, on-device Siri, upgraded processor, built-in speaker.
Cons: Thick bezels, battery life could be better.

Where to Buy: $249 at Apple, $199 at Amazon, $199 at Best Buy

Sizes: 40mm, 44mm / Weight: 26.3g (40mm), 32.9g (44mm) / Battery life: Up to 18 hours / Display type: Always-on LTPO OLED / GPS: Built-in GPS, plus GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, Beidou / Connectivity: 5G (optional), Bluetooth, Wi-Fi / Water resistance: Up to 50 meters / Music storage: 64GB

The third-generation Apple Watch SE is an exceptional value proposition. With features that closely mirror those of the more advanced Series 11, the SE 3 stands out as the best option for most consumers. The introduction of an always-on display and an improved S10 chip allows for new gestures like double-tap and wrist flick, enhancing user interaction. Additionally, the watch now supports fast charging and on-device Siri, making it more convenient for daily use.

For users who are generally healthy, the SE 3 provides essential health monitoring features, including abnormal heart rate notifications, a new Sleep Score, and sleep apnea notifications. While it lacks advanced health features like blood oxygen monitoring and EKG capabilities, these may not be necessary for everyone. The SE 3’s thicker bezels and slightly shorter battery life are minor drawbacks, but they do not detract from its overall value. Priced at $150 less than the Series 11, the SE 3 is the most sensible choice for the average consumer.

The Best Apple Watch for Health Monitoring

Apple Watch Series 11

Score: 8

Pros: Slightly better battery life, 5G connectivity, FDA-cleared hypertension notifications.
Cons: Limited exciting updates; many features are also available in watchOS 26 for older models.

Where to Buy: $399 at Apple, $339 at Amazon, $349 at Best Buy

Sizes: 42mm, 46mm / Weight: 30.3g (42mm), 37.8g (46mm) / Battery life: Up to 24 hours, 38 in low-power mode / Display type: Always-on LTPO OLED / GPS: Built-in GPS, plus GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, Beidou / Connectivity: 5G (optional), Bluetooth, Wi-Fi / Water resistance: Up to 50 meters / Music storage: 64GB

For those whose primary focus is health monitoring, the Apple Watch Series 11 offers several advantages over the SE 3. It features advanced sensors that enable atrial fibrillation (afib) monitoring, which can be crucial for users with specific health concerns. The Series 11 also includes FDA-cleared hypertension notifications, a feature that is not available on the SE 3. Its larger display and slimmer profile make it a more appealing option for users who prioritize aesthetics and usability.

While the Series 11 is a solid choice for health monitoring, budget-conscious consumers might consider the Series 10, which remains available in stock. The two models are nearly identical, with the Series 11 offering only minor upgrades, such as 5G connectivity and a slight improvement in battery life.

What About Blood Oxygen Monitoring?

In a significant development, Apple ceased the sale of Apple Watches with blood oxygen monitoring capabilities in the U.S. as of January 18, 2024. This decision stemmed from a patent dispute with medical device manufacturer Masimo, which led to an import ban on Apple Watches featuring this functionality. However, in August 2025, Apple received approval for a workaround that restored the blood oxygen feature via a software update for all U.S. models.

Despite this, the blood oxygen feature is not considered essential for most users. Many wearables offer only spot-check capabilities or passive overnight tracking, which should not replace traditional fingertip pulse oximeters. Therefore, while the absence of this feature may be a concern for some, it is not a dealbreaker for the majority of consumers.

The Best Apple Watch for Athletes

Apple Watch Ultra 3

Score: 8

Pros: Extended battery life, larger display, thinner bezels, satellite and 5G connectivity.
Cons: Most users may not notice the improvements from 5G or satellite features.

Where to Buy: $799 at Apple, $779.99 at Amazon, $799 at Best Buy

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is tailored for those with active lifestyles, offering features that are particularly beneficial for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. Its enhanced durability, larger display, and additional functionalities such as a siren and Action Button make it ideal for activities like hiking, diving, and intense workouts. While it may seem excessive for everyday use, many users appreciate its long battery life and robust design.

For those considering an upgrade from the Ultra 2, it is advisable to evaluate whether the new satellite connectivity feature is worth the investment. While this feature may not be necessary for users in urban areas with reliable coverage, it could be a game-changer for those venturing into remote locations.

The Best Apple Watch for Kids

Apple Watch SE 3

Where to Buy: $249 at Apple, $199 at Amazon, $199 at Best Buy

For parents looking to purchase a smartwatch for their children, the Apple Watch SE 3 is the most suitable option. Unless there are specific health concerns, children do not require the advanced health tracking features of the Series 11 or the rugged design of the Ultra 3. The SE 3 provides ample functionality for communication and monitoring, making it a practical choice for younger users.

Additionally, the SE 3 is available in a smaller size, making it more comfortable for children. Its price point is also more manageable, reducing the financial risk if the watch gets damaged. Parents should consider opting for a cellular model to take advantage of the Apple Watch For Your Kids setup feature, allowing for effective communication without needing a separate iPhone.

What’s Coming Next

As the fall iPhone event has concluded, consumers should keep an eye out for Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, which often feature significant discounts on previous models. This is an excellent opportunity for those looking to save money while still acquiring a quality smartwatch.

Apple typically refreshes its smartwatch lineup once a year, so the next major update is expected to be announced during the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June. This event may introduce new features and enhancements to the watchOS, further improving the user experience across all Apple Watch models.