Queen of connected watches, the Apple Watch covers a wide range of different functionalities and materials. What are the essential features of the Apple Watch, and how to choose among its variations? We tell you in this article.
What are the Apple Watch models?
There are several generations of Apple Watch. Three of them are now available for purchase. The Apple Watch Series 3, the Apple Watch SE, and the Apple Watch Series 6. Small comparison of the different models.
Apple Watch Series 3: the classic watch
The Apple Watch Series 3 corresponds to the fourth generation of Apple Watch. Released in 2017, this model is now the entry-level Watch. Ergonomic and efficient, it includes most of the attractive features of the Apple Watch: a GPS to find your way in space, a heart rate sensor, the famous “rings” that measure your physical activity in real time, the essential iMessage and Apple Music, the possibility of paying with your watch via Apple Pay. All with a case size (which determines the Retina screen size) of 38 or 42 mm, depending on your preference.
Apple Watch SE: the right compromise
The first of the two Apple Watches released in 2020, the Apple Watch SE is equipped with an S5 chip, which is more efficient than that of the Series 3, as well as innovative features such as fall detection (an alert is automatically sent to emergency services in an accident), sound volume (a sound level meter warns you when you are in a too noisy environment) or hand washing (a twenty-second stopwatch starts when you rub your hands).
It also offers a larger case and a larger screen: 40 or 44 mm. Unlike Series 3, it is also available in two configurations: GPS only or GPS + cellular. Finally, the Apple Watch SE offers a “family sharing” feature that lets you control someone else’s watch with your own iPhone. Useful if you have a child or a parent who wants a smartwatch without having their own iPhone.
Apple Watch Series 6: the most complete Watch
The most complete and high-end Apple Watch, the Series 6, has the same exterior design, enhancements, and features as the SE. Added to this are additional options: first, a sensor called a “pulse oximeter” can measure the level of oxygen saturation in your blood and send you an alert in the event of particularly low levels: a good measurement. Useful for athletes, but also saving in the period of pandemic we are living.
Another special feature: the Retina display says “Always-on” is always on, where other models only activate when you raise your wrist, with usually a small delay of one or two seconds.
How do I choose my Apple Watch?
Now that you know the differences between the top three Apple Watches, it’s time to take your pick! Here are some tips to help you choose the watch that’s right for you.
According to your use
Because it has a wide range of features, this watch appeals to many users. But depending on your use, not all Apple Watches are created equal. Thus, geeks and fans of the Apple universe, who essentially want to take advantage of iMessage, Apple Music, and other GPS shortcuts, will be able to turn to entry-level models like the Series 3 or the SE.
On the other hand, those looking for precise measurements of their state of health or their sporting activity should turn to the more complete Series 6 and its useful pulse oximeter.
According to your budget
There is no doubt that this criterion weighs in the balance. The starting price of the Apple Watch is $219 for the Series 3, $299 for the SE, and $429 for the Series 6. Then comes the choice of the dial (larger or smaller screen; steel case, titanium, gold or aluminum, etc.) and the strap (leather, metal, silicone, etc.), which also causes the price of the watch to vary.
Finally, pay attention to the distinction between the basic models, offering only GPS connectivity, and the hybrid GPS + cellular models, which are more expensive.
According to the functionalities
As we have said, the Series 3 includes fewer sensors: no fall detection or hand washing, no pulse oximeter, no sleep data. It is also only available with GPS connectivity. Sufficient for the use of the compass or navigation apps, but which does not allow you to make calls or send texts from the watch if your iPhone is discharged or you don’t have it with you.
Conversely, the SE and the Series 6 offer a GPS + cellular model. These are equipped with their own “virtual SIM card” (to request from your operator) so that you can call, text, surf the Internet, even without your iPhone nearby. If you like outdoor sports and don’t want to mess around with your phone, having a “really” connected watch can be a real bonus.
According to its bracelet
Last selection criterion: design. As we have said, the cases are available in different colors and materials, more or less noble and precious. This is also the case for bracelets: the Sport silicone bracelet is more flexible and resistant to perspiration, while the more expensive Leather or Steel bracelets rely on a high-end design. The “Single Buckle” bracelet, for its part, is only available on the Watch SE and Watch Series 6. It has the particularity of not having a clasp. Finally, there are special editions, such as the Apple Watch Nike, whose overall design aims to appeal to athletes.
