If you're an iPhone owner in search of a smartwatch, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better match than Apple's own. The Apple Watch is both a smart companion and a reliable fitness partner with its smooth UI, seamless compatibility with Apple's entire suite of products and powerful health tools that are constantly getting updated and improved.
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But picking the right one is not as straight-forward as it sounds. In 2025, Apple sells more than one watch: the flagship , the rugged Ultra 3 and the budget-friendly SE 3. With WatchOS 26 bringing new health features like hypertension notifications and sleep scores to older models, those may also be worth a look if you can find a good deal.
Whether you’re buying your first Apple Watch or upgrading from an older model, here are the best options available now for every need and every budget
What is the best Apple Watch?
The Apple Watch Series 11 is the best Apple Watch for most people. It’s the Goldilocks of the lineup, landing right in the middle of the pack in terms of features, design, battery life and price.
With its sleek build and edge-to-edge screen, it’s the most polished and comfortable to wear, while still giving you plenty of viewing space across two sizes.
While its features may not drastically differ from the Series 10, its longer battery life ensures it will likely outlast its predecessor for sleep tracking and daily use. It also has a few more subtle upgrades, like tougher cover glass (on the aluminum version) and 5G connectivity for phone-free use.
Best Apple Watches for 2025
Pros
- FDA-cleared hypertension alerts
- 24+ hour battery life and fast charging
- More reliable cellular connectivity and 5G
- 2x more scratch-resistant screen
- More cohesive UI and seamless compatibility with iOS
Cons
- Same processor as older models
- Minimal design changes
- No dual-band GPS
- Gesture control is still limited to pre-selected options
The Apple Watch Series 11 faces steep competition from within its own family, but it's a step forward because of its versatility with a wider range of pricing options, sizes and features. It takes an already great Apple Watch (the Series 10) and adds subtle but meaningful improvements, like six hours more battery life, 5G connectivity, and potentially life-saving hypertension notifications.
Battery life is officially rated for 24 hours, but in my testing, I regularly stretched it closer to 30 hours depending on use. And with ultrafast charging, just 15 minutes on the puck gives you enough power for a full night of sleep tracking. That consistency makes a real difference, since health features like sleep apnea alerts, ovulation predictions, and overnight vitals tracking all depend on wearing the watch to bed.
Why we like it
The Series 11 is still the Goldilocks of the lineup: sleek, comfortable, and versatile enough to transition from workouts to workdays to nights out. It balances price, features, and design better than any other Apple Watch.
Who it's best for
Apple fans craving deep integration with the ecosystem and more ways to customize their watch will find the Series 11 a strong fit. It’s ideal for anyone upgrading from an older model who wants a sleeker design, better battery life and every health feature possible, without the bulk or cost of the Ultra 3.
The 40mm Starlight Apple Watch SE 3 on my 6.5" wrist.
Pros
- Always-on display
- Ultrafast charging: 8 hours of use in just 15 minutes
- Same S10 processor as pricier Series 11 and Ultra 3
- Almost half the price of the flagship Apple Watch
- 5G connectivity on the cellular model
Cons
- No blood oxygen tracking or hypertension notifications
- No ECG (electrocardiogram) feature
- Smaller, dimmer display
- Battery life still limited to one full day (and night) of use
The Apple Watch SE 3 is Apple’s most affordable new smartwatch, proving that a lower price doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality or core features. The always-on display, faster charging and expanded health features put it on par with its higher-end siblings, making it easy to forget this is the entry-level model.
While it skips a few advanced health metrics like ECG and hypertension alerts, most people won’t miss them in day-to-day use. It also has a shorter battery life than the rest, but it holds up to a full day of real-world use, including a 40-minute outdoor workout (GPS-enabled) and sleep tracking.
Why we like it
You’re getting the same processor and nearly all the features found in the higher-end Series 11 (almost twice the price) and the Ultra 3 (three times the price), making it a solid value. The Apple Watch SE 3 has Apple’s latest updates like 5G connectivity, ultrafast charging and new wellness tools such as Sleep Score and Workout Buddy, along with features from older models like temperature tracking and sleep apnea notifications.
Who it’s best for
The SE 3 is the Apple Watch we’d recommend for most people. It’s the most affordable way to access Apple’s newest features without feeling like you’re missing out. It’s ideal for first-time Apple Watch owners or those upgrading from older models (Series 7 or earlier). It’s also a great first smartwatch for kids, allowing parents to stay connected without introducing a smartphone.
If you’re at higher health risk and want ECG or blood pressure monitoring, the Series 11 might be worth the extra cost. Those prioritizing longer battery life or a larger display should look at the Ultra 3.
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 with the Waypoint watch face.
Pros
- Two-day battery life
- Ultra fast charging (12% in 15 minutes)
- Satellite connectivity for off-the-grid emergencies
- Bright screen for clear visibility in harsh sunlight
Cons
- Only one (49mm) sizing option
- $800 price tag is double that of the Series 11
- Rugged design is less versatile than other models
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 builds on its predecessors with the addition of 5G and satellite connectivity, which gives you an extra layer of protection when you’re off the grid. It also comes with a faster processor, longer battery life, potentially life-saving hypertension notifications, and (to my surprise) a design that isn’t nearly as bulky as I feared, even for sleep.
In today’s smartwatch landscape, the Ultra 3 sits between two extremes: feature-first rivals like Samsung and Google, and endurance-first brands like Garmin, with their week-long battery life and robust satellite tools. The Ultra 3 bridges the gap, offering rugged reliability alongside the seamless iPhone integration that only an Apple Watch can deliver.
Why we like it
The Ultra 3 is like a Land Rover for your wrist: ready for adventure, but still convenient and sleek enough to transition back into everyday life. Its two-day battery life stretches further than any Apple Watch, making it more practical for longer workouts, outdoor adventures and round-the-clock health tracking. Satellite connectivity adds a new safety net that strengthens Apple’s already impressive portfolio of emergency features, extending its reach even when you’re entirely off the grid.
Who it’s best for
The Ultra 3 is ideal for athletes and sports enthusiasts who aren’t ready to commit to a dedicated sports watch but need a watch they can push harder in terms of durability and battery life without sacrificing the seamless integration of Apple’s ecosystem. If you upgrade from the original Ultra, the longer battery life, faster charging, and improved processor will also feel like a welcome upgrade.
Best Apple Watches Compared
| Apple Watch Series 11 | Apple Watch Ultra 3 | Apple Watch SE (3rd Gen) | |
| Design & sizes | Rectangular, 42mm, 46mm | Rectangular, 49mm | Rectangular, 40mm, 44mm |
| Display | 42mm: 446 × 374 pixels; LTPO3 OLED Retina display (wide-angle) 46mm: 496 × 416 pixels; LTPO3 OLED Retina display (wide-angle) | 49mm: 514 × 422 pixels; LTPO3 OLED Retina display (wide-angle, Always-On) | 44mm: 368 × 448 pixels (Always-On Retina LTPO OLED) Apple 40mm: 324 × 394 pixels (Always-On Retina LTPO OLED) |
| Brightness | Between 1 and 2000 nits | Between 1 and 3000 nits | Up to 1000 nits |
| Thickness & weight | 46mm: 9.7mm; 37.8g (aluminum GPS), 36.9g (aluminum GPS+Cellular), 43.1g (titanium) 42mm: 9.7mm; 30.3g (aluminum GPS), 29.7g (aluminum GPS+Cellular), 34.6g (titanium) | 49mm: 14.4mm; 61.6g (titanium) | 44mm: 10.7mm; 33.0g (aluminum GPS+Cellular) 40mm: 10.7mm; 26.4g (aluminum GPS+Cellular) |
| Material & finish | Aluminum: Jet black, Rose gold or Silver finish; Titanium: Slate, Gold or Natural finish with saphire crystal dysplay (titanium) | Titanium, natural or black finish with saphire crystal dysplay (titanium) | 100% recycled aluminum, midnight and starlight |
| Durability | 2X more scratch resistant glass (aluminum), 5ATM Water + IP6X (dust) | Water resistance 100m; dust IP6X, scuba to 40m, tested to MIL-STD 810H | Cover glass is 4X times more resistant to cracks than the SE 2; made of Ion-X glass. Water resistant up to 50 meters. |
| Battery life | Up to 24 hours, up to 38 hours Low Power (always-on) + Fast charge: 80% in 30 min, 100% in 60 min | Up to 42 hours; up to 72 hours Low Power. Fast charge to 80% in 45 min, 100% charge 75 min | All-day, 18-hour battery life. Fast charging with 8 hours of normal use in just 15 minutes on the charger. |
| Sensors | ECG, 3rd-gen optical heart sensor, skin temp, depth gauge, SpO2, Noise monitoring, water temperature, compass | ECG, 3rd-gen optical heart sensor, skin temp, depth gauge, SpO2, Noise monitoring, water temperature, compass | Wrist temperature, Second-generation optical heart sensor, Noise monitoring, compass |
| Emergency features | Emergency SOS, Fall detection, Crash detection, Check-in and Backtrack | Satellite SOS, Emergency SOS, Fall detection, Crash detection, Check-in and Backtrack | Fall Detection, Crash Detection, Emergency SOS, and Check-In |
| AI & coaching | Siri (voice assistant); Workout Buddy | Siri (voice assistant); Workout Buddy | Siri (voice assistant); Workout Buddy |
| Processor | S10 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor, W3 Apple wireless chip | S10 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor, W3 Apple wireless chip | S10 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor, W3 Apple wireless chip |
| RAM/Storage | 64GB (storage) | 64GB (storage) | 64GB (storage) |
| Payments | Apple Pay | Apple Pay | Apple Pay |
| Price (US) | $399-$750 (titanium) | $799 | $249 (starting) |
Recent updates
In October 2025, we added the Apple Watch SE to replaced the second generation SE as the latest entry-level model.
Factors to consider when buying an Apple Watch
All Apple Watches share the same core DNA: a square screen with rounded edges, a rotating crown, interchangeable straps and Apple's WatchOS with Siri integration.
The differences lie in the details with factors like advanced health sensors, durability, battery life and screen size. Oh, and price.
Budget: If you're on a budget and want the best deal, it might be worth waiting for major discount days like Black Friday when most retailers, including Apple, offer sales or gift-card cash-back incentives. Another way to cut costs is by purchasing a refurbished Apple Watch directly from Apple. They come with the same one-year warranty as new models, eligibility for AppleCare and a 14-day return window.
Design: There are a lot of ways to customize your Apple Watch, including different finishes and watch bands. But dressing up your Apple Watch doesn't always come cheap and some of the more premium design options like the titanium finish and stainless steel band can increase the base price by $600. You can also customize the size of your screen; older models or the SE 3 will have the smallest option (40mm) while the Apple Watch Ultra 3 offers the largest (49mm) display.
Battery: Battery life continues to be a major pain point for Apple Watch users, with no model going past the three-day mark like some Android models. And while Apple has made strides in this category, it's best to taper your expectations by accepting that you'll probably get about 24-30 hours of use on a single charge (with the always on display) on most models. If that's a deal breaker, you'll need to splurge on the Apple Watch Ultra 2, which is the only model that lasts up to 48 hours (or 72 hours on battery saving mode).
Wi-Fi Only vs. Cellular: Most users will find the Wi-Fi version sufficient. It tracks workouts and makes mobile payments independently from the phone but needs to be in range of your iPhone to access some of the smart features like notifications, messaging and calls. Cellular and Wi-Fi models are only worth the splurge (an additional $100) if you plan to ditch your iPhone on a regular basis and need the watch to be a standalone device and have access to all the features. And it's your only option if you're buying the Ultra 2 as it doesn't offer a Wi-Fi only option.
How we test Apple Watches
We test all our Apple Watches in the real world and focus on any new features or claims in addition to all the other features you'll be using on a regular basis like fitness tracking and connectivity. All Apple Watches, including the cellular models, need to connect to an iPhone so we also assess how easy the companion software is to navigate.
Durability and design: Smartwatches are something you wear on your body so we assess how comfortable they are to wear. We also know that everyone has a different-sized wrist so we try to see how it fits and feels on a variety of people. Then we look at how it stands up to wear and tear with daily life. Some models, like the Ultra 2, offer increased durability like dust resistance or water resistance that's suited for activities like scuba diving and, where possible, we'll test this out for ourselves.
Battery: Battery life will vary depending on how you use a smartwatch so we test battery life with a few standard tests. We see how long it generally lasts on a single charge with features that represent typical use, like the always-on display, sleep tracking and doing one outdoor workout with GPS.
Yes, you can take calls, talk to Siri or use the Walkie Talkie feature to chat with your friends and family who also have Apple Watches, but you might get some funny looks.
Fitness and health sensor accuracy: We test the accuracy of the Apple Watch using a few different methods. The heart rate sensor, for example, is compared against the readings taken from a chest strap, considered the gold standard in consumer heart rate tracking, during a variety of cardio-based activities like running or cycling. We also check to see how long it takes to connect to a GPS signal when doing an outdoor workout. Other health sensors, like a blood oxygen sensor (not active on newer models), are compared against a pulse oximeter for spot readings where possible, and for the ECG feature, we tested it against a hospital grade ECG.
Other Apple Watches we tested
While no longer sold directly by Apple, the is still a strong option if you can find it. Stores like Best Buy and Walmart often have it in stock for about $70 less than the Series 11. You'll miss out on the slightly longer battery life, but its running on the same processor (S10 chip) and still includes key health features not available on the cheaper SE 3, like the ECG app, and hypertension notifications.
Apple Watch FAQs
What is the best alternative to an Apple Watch?
What is the best Apple Watch for kids?
What to know about the blood oxygen sensor
What to look forward to in 2026
Smartwatches are only getting smarter about health, and the Apple Watch is no exception. Whether it's better sensors, new metrics or more personalized coaching, Apple is taking notes from competitors like Garmin and Google and leaning more on AI to make sense of your data.
Meanwhile, the definition of a wearable is expanding fast, with more smart rings making their debuts and upgraded earbud options with built-in health sensors already nudging into smartwatch territory. They probably won't replace watches entirely, but they're definitely raising the bar and will continue giving the Apple Watch a healthy push forward.
