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New to smartwatches or upgrading? Use this guide choose the right Apple smartwatch
We get asked two questions more than any other here at Wareable: ‘Should I buy [insert Apple Watch model]?’ and ‘Should I upgrade from [insert Apple Watch model]?’.
This guide answers those questions. It’s the definitive cheat sheet for deciding which Apple Watch is best and whether this is the right time to buy it.
We’ve tested and lived with every Apple Watch released since the first generation in 2015, so we’re well-positioned to tell you whether any model is still worth considering in 2026.
Following the launch of the Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3, we have completed our in-depth testing of all three models. Our recommendations have been updated in full to reflect the changed landscape.
Explore below to find summaries of each Apple Watch and our buying and upgrade recommendations. And make sure you read our guide to the best Apple Watch alternatives.
How we recommend Apple Watch versions: The traffic light system
- Green = An excellent Apple Watch that comes thoroughly recommended for the next few years at least
- Orange = Still a solid Apple Watch, but comes with a major caveat (usually related to value or software support)
- Red = What was once a great Apple Watch is now no longer a viable option (usually related to a combination of availability, value, performance, or software support)
Apple’s latest smartwatches—and what to expect in 2026
Apple’s September 2025 event was a major one for the Apple Watch. In fact, it represented the first full, top-to-bottom refresh of the entire lineup since 2022.
This new generation includes the premium Apple Watch Ultra 3, the flagship Apple Watch Series 11, and the new entry-level Apple Watch SE 3.
We’ve completed our in-depth testing of all three models and have updated our official buying recommendations below, reflecting the latest state of play.
For 2026, it’s still too early to have any sense of what Apple is planning. However, with a smartwatch launch every September for over a decade, it’s reasonable to expect a refresh later this year.
We’ll continue to update this section as rumors and leaks begin to surface.
Apple Watch Ultra 3
- Release year: 2025
- Should you purchase status: Green
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is a solid evolution of a winning formula, reaffirming the line’s position as the best overall smartwatch available.
It’s not a major reinvention of the Ultra 2 (released in 2023), but the noticeably larger and brighter display and the potentially life-saving addition of satellite connectivity make it seriously compelling.
Apple has skillfully reduced the bezel, increasing the active screen area within the same 49mm chassis. This extra real estate makes a real difference, giving watch face complications and full-screen apps like Maps more room to breathe.
The new satellite features are also a genuine game-changer for the Ultra’s target audience of hikers, trail runners, and adventurers, providing a robust safety net when you’re off-grid. Coupled with its best-in-class dual-frequency GPS and heart rate sensor—plus solid 2-3 day battery life—it’s an unmatched all-rounder.
Still, the core experience is very similar to its predecessor. If you already own an Apple Watch Ultra 2, there is almost no reason to upgrade. The older S9 chip in that watch is still incredibly fast, and the two share the same core design.
But for those new to the Ultra line or upgrading from a Series model, the Ultra 3 is the pinnacle of the Apple Watch experience.
- Check out our full Apple Watch Ultra 3 review
Apple Watch Series 11
- Release year: 2025
- Should you purchase status: Green
The Series 11 is another assured and polished iteration, and is the smartwatch for iPhone users who don’t mind paying a bit extra for a more modern design than the SE 3 provides.
It’s only a refinement of the Series 10’s major redesign, with this generation’s focus shifting to internal and software-led improvements. The most significant hardware change is a new Ion-X glass on the aluminum models that is twice as scratch-resistant, a welcome durability boost for daily wear.
The real upgrades are in watchOS 26, which introduces powerful health features like passive hypertension notifications and a native ‘Sleep Score’. These features are powered by the S10 chip, making the Series 11 an even more powerful, passive health monitor.
However, it’s an incremental update. The Series 10 offers a virtually identical experience—it has the same thin case, large 42/46mm display, and the same chip. While the Series 11 is the best ‘standard’ Apple Watch you can buy new, savvy shoppers should be on the lookout for deals on the Series 10. You’ll get most of the experience and likely save a decent amount of money.
- Check out our full Apple Watch Series 11 review
Apple Watch SE 3
- Release year: 2025
- Should you purchase status: Green
The Apple Watch SE 3 is an excellent smartwatch and continues the line’s legacy as the best choice for most first-time iPhone buyers.
It’s a masterclass in smart compromises. On the outside, Apple has retained the dated design of its predecessor, which features the thick-bezeled chassis of the 2018-era Series 4. However, on the inside, Apple has equipped it with the flagship S10 chip—the same processor found in the high-end Ultra 3.
This S10 chip is the secret weapon. It makes the watch incredibly fast, future-proof for years of watchOS updates, and unlocks modern features like the ‘Double Tap’ gesture. This means you get the core, premium Apple Watch experience—flawless app performance, seamless notifications, and integration with Apple’s services—for a fraction of the price. The SE 3 also delivers excellent, reliable single-band GPS and heart rate accuracy, making it a superb fitness tracker for beginner runners.
The trade-offs are clear. You still have to live with the single-day battery life, meaning a daily charging routine is unavoidable. You also miss out on advanced health sensors for ECG and SpO2, as well as new hypertension monitoring. However, it does include the temperature sensor for cycle tracking, as well as the software-based sleep apnea alerts and ‘Sleep Score’.
For the price, it’s an incredible value and the perfect gateway to the Apple Watch ecosystem.
- Check out our full Apple Watch SE 3 review
The previous Apple Watch generation: Ultra 2, Series 10, SE 2
The 2024 Apple Watch refresh was slightly underwhelming, with the brand releasing only an update for the mid-range Series devices. However, as we now know, each device in the family was updated in 2025. That means these devices are now officially discontinued by Apple (though they are still available widely from other retailers).
Apple Watch Ultra 2
- Release year: 2023
- Should you purchase status: Orange
Although the Apple Watch Ultra 2 lacks a few key features of the Ultra 3, it’s a fantastic smartwatch—and will remain one for a few more years.
It has a healthy two-day battery life, a durable, bright display, and the same S10 chip as the newer model. That makes it an ideal fit for those who want to upgrade to an Ultra model without spending current-gen prices.
With that said, we have—unusually—already seen plenty of early discounts on the Ultra 3. Our recommendation is that you only consider the Ultra 2 if it’s available at a significant discount and the newer model is at its MSRP.
If you’re on the fence about an upgrade, this is one of the trickier Apple Watch models to place in 2026. We only recommend upgrading if you specifically want the 2025 edition’s satellite features—but you can read our full Ultra 2 vs Ultra 3 comparison here.
- Check out our full Apple Watch Ultra 2 review
Apple Watch Series 10
- Release year: 2024
- Should you purchase status: Green
As with every fourth Apple Watch Series release, the Series 10 represents a new design direction.
With no physical case changes for the Series 11, this remains the joint-thinnest and lightest Apple Series design to date. It’s a seriously powerful smartwatch, but the single-day battery life remains the option’s Achilles’ heel—and it’s true of the Series 11 as well, if you’re considering an upgrade for better battery life.
The ultra-large display is also a lot to handle on the wrist, compounded by the fact that it’s only available in 42mm and 46mm case sizes.
For the first time in Apple Watch history, the successor also doesn’t feature a better chip. That means there’s no performance drop-off, and, as such, it should mean the Series 10 still has plenty of life in front of it. Plus, if Apple’s design philosophy holds, it will be the up-to-date look until the Series 13 is released.
- Check out our full Apple Watch Series 10 review
Apple Watch SE 2
- Release year: 2022
- Should you purchase status: Red
The Apple Watch SE 2 had a great run. However, with the arrival of the much-improved SE 3, we can’t make the case for choosing this smartwatch in 2026.
This entry-level option may feature the same dated design as the SE 3, but it’s inferior in practically every other way—and you won’t find it so cheap that it’s worth choosing instead.
It’s still workable if you already own it, since it supports watchOS 26, but it’s time to consider an upgrade.
- Check out our full Apple Watch SE (2022) review
The Ultra 1, Series 9, and SE 1 generations
This is the set of Apple Watch devices that came before the above. Like the last-gen models, they’re no longer produced in factories or sold in Apple stores. However, in some cases, they remain a superb alternative to the latest releases.
Third-party retailers typically have ample stock in the first year or two after discontinuation. This means it can be one of the best ways to save money on an Apple Watch while still getting an experience that lasts for years.
Apple Watch Ultra
- Release year: 2022
- Should you purchase status: Red
- Should you upgrade to Ultra 2/3: Yes
As detailed in our comparison of Apple’s super outdoor smartwatches, the OG Apple Watch Ultra is incredibly similar to the Ultra 2 (and also the Ultra 3). On paper, this makes it a strong candidate for cost savings. However, it’s not necessarily that straightforward.
Now that nearly four years have passed since its release (and three since its discontinuation), stock is generally scarce. Even if you do manage to snag one, it’s not that much cheaper than the Ultra 2/3.
From a software support and usability perspective, the Ultra is still recommended. However, if the price difference is under $200, we recommend selecting one of the newer models.
Thanks to the newer, more powerful chip, you’ll likely get an extra year of watchOS support, plus features like Double Tap support and the option to select a black titanium case with the Ultra 2. And with the Ultra 3, there are even more upgrades to enjoy.
- Check out our full Apple Watch Ultra review
Apple Watch Series 9
- Release year: 2023
- Should you buy status: Green
- Should you upgrade to Series 10/11: No
The Series 9, like the Series 10, is a straightforward recommendation. It features the previous design standards—meaning the overall size is smaller and thicker, and there is no option for a titanium case—but we think most people won’t notice the difference.
As we covered with the Series 10/11, the larger overall case footprint in both case sizes also won’t suit every wrist, so this is potentially a win-win if you’re after an Apple Watch with a smaller profile.
Additionally, it remains powerful enough to handle the next few watchOS updates, and stock levels are still acceptable. Choosing it is a reasonable way to save some money, but you can still weigh the differences between the Series 9 and Series 10 if you’re torn.
- Check out our full Apple Watch Series 9 review
Apple Watch SE (2020)
- Release year: 2020
- Should you buy status: Red
- Should you upgrade to SE 2: No
- Should you upgrade to SE 3: Yes
- Should you upgrade to Series 9-11/Ultra 2-3: Yes
With the Apple Watch SE 2 no longer recommended, it will be no surprise that we advise avoiding the original SE (if you can even find stock).
If you have this model, it’s time to upgrade. It no longer supports the latest software (watchOS 26), which means you’re missing out on the latest features. Plus, the list of major hardware features released since 2020 is now substantial.
As with the SE 2, the design differences among the Series 7-9, Series 10-11, and Ultra 1-3 are significant.
- Check out our full Apple Watch SE (2020) review
Upgrade guide for older models: Series 0-8
This section comprises the remaining Apple Watch generations released since 2014. Aside from refurbished models, the fact that these are no longer manufactured makes them virtually impossible to purchase brand new.
However, given the limited year-on-year need to upgrade Apple Watch, you likely own one of the devices below and are considering whether it’s time to upgrade. Here’s what we think.
Apple Watch Series 8
- Release year: 2022
- Should you buy status: Orange
- Should you upgrade: No
The Series 8 isn’t much different from the Series 9, which itself isn’t a huge downgrade from the Series 10 released in 2024. The major exclusives you miss compared to the newer generations are Double Tap, carbon-neutral designs, and the potential for a thinner/lighter case with a bigger display.
That said, the gap is beginning to widen compared with the Series 11. For example, it cannot support certain significant new features, such as hypertension monitoring, even though it can still access others (such as the Sleep Score).
This still has some life left, and we wouldn’t consider replacing it if you don’t care for the upgrades delivered to the Series line over the last three years (or prefer a full switch to the Ultra 2/3).
You could also do worse as a cheap second-hand purchase. However, it is closer to the end of its software support life than to the start, and new stock is now very hard to source.
Apple Watch Series 7
- Release year: 2021
- Should you buy status: Red
- Should you upgrade: No
The Series 7 lacks the temperature sensor found in the Series 8. This enables more accurate menstrual cycle tracking and many other upgrades mentioned above.
However, it still supports watchOS 26. This means it will likely remain suitable for another year on the software front. However, it’s hard to recommend picking up unless you can find a very, very low price.
That said, it’s only worth upgrading if you’re eyeing the Ultra 2/3 or one of the new features available in the Series 9-11.
Apple Watch Series 6
- Release year: 2020
- Should you buy status: Red
- Should you upgrade: Start considering
This gets a thumbs-down from us. The Series 6 features the same dated design as the SE line and is likely in its final year of software support.
If you own it, the fact that it can still run watchOS 26 means it’s (just about) viable heading into 2026. However, we advise considering your next Apple Watch over the coming year.
Apple Watch Series 5
- Release year: 2019
- Should you buy status: Red
- Should you upgrade: Yes
The Series 5 no longer supports the latest software and lacks major hardware upgrades introduced over the past half-decade.
There’s no good reason to buy it nowadays. You would experience a significant upgrade by upgrading to Series 9-11 or Ultra 2/3.
Apple Watch Series 4
- Release year: 2018
- Should you buy status: Red
- Should you upgrade: Yes
The Series 4 is now very old in smartwatch terms. So old, in fact, it was the first Apple Watch to feature ECG and the first to debut a significant redesign. Like the Series 5, it’s time to upgrade if this is still your daily driver.
After all, it doesn’t even boast an always-on display.
Apple Watch Series 3
- Release year: 2017
- Should you buy status: Red
- Should you upgrade: Yes
We can still remember being wowed by the Series 3’s separate cellular capabilities—but, only faintly, because it was released a lifetime ago.
Do the right thing and treat yourself to the Series 9-11, SE 3, or Ultra 2/3.
Apple Watch Series 2
- Release year: 2016
- Should you buy status: Red
- Should you upgrade: Yes
With watchOS 6 being the last major software update the Series 2 could handle, we’d be impressed if you’re still using it for anything other than ornamental reasons.
As with the Series 3, consider the Series 9-11, SE 3, or Ultra 2/3.
Apple Watch Series 0/Series 1
- Release year: 2015
- Should you buy status: Red
- Should you upgrade: Yes
Unless you’re a collector, enthusiast, or hoarder, there’s no reason either of these should be in your possession—let alone still in active service.
If this were your sole Apple Watch experience, you could technically upgrade to any and be better off. However, do yourself a favor and pick up one of our green-lit recommendations.
