If you are a iPhone owner looking for a smart watchyou’ll be hard-pressed to find a better solution than Apple’s. Apple Watch is both a smart companion and a reliable fitness partner with its fluid user interface, seamless compatibility with Apple’s entire suite of products, and powerful health tools that are constantly being updated and improved.
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But choosing the right one is not as easy as it seems. In 2026, Apple sells more than one watch: the flagship product the robust Ultra3 and the economical SE 3. With WatchOS 26 bringing new health features like hypertension notifications and sleep scores to older models, these 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 right now for every need and 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 line, sitting right in the middle of the pack in terms of features, design, battery life and price.
With its sleek build and edge-to-edge display, it’s the sleekest and most comfortable to wear, while giving you plenty of viewing space across two sizes.
While its features don’t differ drastically from the Series 10, its longer lifespan ensures that it will likely last longer than its predecessor when it comes to sleep tracking and everyday use. It also has some more subtle improvements, like stronger protective glass (on the aluminum version) and 5G connectivity for phone-free use.
Best Apple Watches for 2026
Benefits
- FDA-cleared hypertension alerts
- Battery life of over 24 hours and fast charging
- More reliable cellular connectivity and 5G
- 2x more scratch-resistant screen
- More consistent user interface and seamless compatibility with iOS
Disadvantages
- Same processor as older models
- Minimal design changes
- No dual-band GPS
- Gesture control is always limited to pre-selected options
The Apple Watch Series 11 faces strong competition within its own family, but it’s a step forward due to its versatility with a wider range of price options, sizes, and features. It takes an already great Apple Watch (the Series 10) and adds subtle but meaningful improvements, like six hours of extra battery life, 5G connectivity, and potentially life-saving high blood pressure notifications.
Battery life is officially rated at 24 hours, but in my testing I regularly extended it to 30 hours depending on usage. And with super-fast charging, just 15 minutes on the puck gives you enough power for a full night of sleep tracking. This consistency makes a real difference, since health features like sleep apnea alerts, ovulation forecasts, and overnight vitals tracking all depend on wearing the watch to bed.
Why we love it
The 11 Series is still the goldilocks of the line: stylish, comfortable, and versatile enough to take you from workouts to workdays and nights out. It balances price, features, and design better than any other Apple Watch.
Who is it best for?
Apple fans looking for deep integration with the ecosystem and more ways to personalize their Watch will find the Series 11 an ideal choice. It’s ideal for anyone upgrading from an older model and wants a sleeker design, better battery life, and all the health features possible, without the bulk and cost of the Ultra 3.
Benefits
- Permanent display
- Ultra-fast charging: 8 hours of use in just 15 minutes
- Same S10 processor as the more expensive Series 11 and Ultra 3
- Nearly half the price of the flagship Apple Watch
- 5G connectivity on the cellular model
Disadvantages
- No blood oxygen tracking or hypertension notifications
- No ECG (electrocardiogram) function
- Smaller, darker screen
- Battery life still limited to a 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 basic 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 that it’s the entry-level model.
Although it ignores some advanced health metrics like ECG and hypertension alerts, most people won’t miss them on a daily basis. It also has shorter battery life than the others, but it can hold up to a full day of real-world use, including a 40-minute outdoor workout (GPS compatible) and sleep tracking.
Why we love it
You get the same processor and almost all the features of the high-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, super-fast charging, and new wellness tools like Sleep Score and Workout Buddy, as well as features from older models like temperature tracking and sleep apnea notifications.
Who is it best for?
The SE 3 is the Apple Watch we recommend for most people. It’s the most affordable way to access Apple’s latest features without feeling like you’re missing out. It’s ideal for new 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 have a higher health risk and want ECG or blood pressure monitoring, the Series 11 might be worth the extra cost. Those who prioritize longer battery life or a larger screen should look to the Ultra 3.
Benefits
- Two-day battery life
- Ultra fast charging (12% in 15 minutes)
- Satellite connectivity for off-grid emergencies
- Bright display for clear visibility in direct sunlight
Disadvantages
- Only one size option (49mm)
- The $800 price is double that of the Series 11
- Rugged design is less versatile than other models
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 builds on its predecessors by adding 5G and satellite connectivity, giving you an extra layer of protection when you’re off-grid. It also comes with a faster processor, longer battery life, potentially life-saving high blood pressure notifications, and (much to my surprise) a design that’s not as bulky as I feared, even for sleeping.
In today’s smartwatch landscape, the Ultra 3 sits between two extremes: feature-focused competitors like Samsung and Google, and endurance-focused brands like Garmin, with their week-long battery life and robust satellite tools. The Ultra 3 bridges the gap, delivering rugged reliability along with the seamless iPhone integration that only an Apple Watch can provide.
Why we love it
The Ultra 3 is like a Land Rover on your wrist: ready for adventure, but still practical and stylish enough to get back to everyday life. Its two-day battery life extends further than any Apple Watch, making it more practical for longer workouts, outdoor adventures, and around-the-clock health tracking. Satellite connectivity adds a new safety net that bolsters Apple’s already impressive portfolio of emergency features, extending its range even when you’re entirely off-grid.
Who is it 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 that they can push further in terms of durability and battery life without sacrificing seamless integration into Apple’s ecosystem. If you’re upgrading from the original Ultra, the longer battery life, faster charging, and improved processor will also be a welcome upgrade.
Comparison of the best Apple Watches
| Apple Watch Series 11 | Apple Watch Ultra 3 | Apple Watch SE (3rd generation) | |
| Design and sizes | Rectangular, 42mm, 46mm | Rectangular, 49mm | Rectangular, 40mm, 44mm |
| Display | 42mm: 446 × 374 pixels; 46mm Retina OLED LTPO3 (Wide Angle) Display: 496 × 416 pixels; Retina OLED LTPO3 display (wide angle) | 49mm: 514 × 422 pixels; Retina OLED LTPO3 display (wide angle, always on) | 44mm: 368 × 448 pixels (Retina LTPO OLED always on) Apple 40mm: 324 × 394 pixels (Retina LTPO OLED always on) |
| Brightness | Between 1 and 2000 nits | Between 1 and 3000 nits | Up to 1000 nits |
| Thickness and weight | 46mm: 9.7mm; 37.8g (aluminum GPS), 36.9g (aluminum GPS + cellular), 43.1g (titanium) 42mm: 9.7mm; 30.3 g (aluminum GPS), 29.7 g (aluminum GPS + cellular), 34.6 g (titanium) | 49mm: 14.4mm; 61.6 g (titanium) | 44mm: 10.7mm; 33.0 g (GPS+Aluminum Cellular) 40 mm: 10.7 mm; 26.4 g (GPS+Aluminum Cellular) |
| Material & finish | Aluminum: jet black, rose gold or silver finish; Titanium: Slate, Gold or Natural finish with dysplay sapphire crystal (titanium) | Titanium, natural or black finish with dysplay sapphire crystal (titanium) | 100% recycled aluminum, midnight and starlight |
| Sustainability | Glass 2 times more scratch resistant (aluminum), 5ATM water + IP6X (dust) | Water resistance 100m; dust IP6X, diving up to 40 m, tested according to MIL-STD 810H | The protective glass is 4 times more crack resistant than SE 2; made of Ion-X glass. Water resistant up to 50 meters. |
| Battery life | Up to 24 hours, up to 38 hours Low consumption (always on) + Fast charge: 80% in 30 mins, 100% in 60 mins | Up to 42 hours; up to 72 hours low co nsummation. Fast charge to 80% in 45 mins, charge to 100% in 75 mins | All day battery life, 18 hours. Fast charging with 8 hours of normal use in just 15 minutes on the charger. |
| Sensors | ECG, 3rd generation optical heart sensor, skin temperature, depth gauge, SpO2, noise monitoring, water temperature, compass | ECG, 3rd generation optical heart sensor, skin temperature, depth gauge, SpO2, noise monitoring, water temperature, compass | Wrist temperature, second generation optical heart sensor, noise monitoring, compass |
| Emergency functions | Emergency SOS, fall detection, crash detection, recording and rewind | Satellite SOS, Emergency SOS, Fall Detection, Crash Detection, Recording and Rewind | Fall detection, crash detection, emergency SOS and recording |
| AI and coaching | Siri (voice assistant); Workout Buddy | Siri (voice assistant); Workout Buddy | Siri (voice assistant); Wo rkout buddy |
| Processor | S10 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor, Apple W3 wireless chip | S10 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor, Apple W3 wireless chip | S10 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor, Apple W3 wireless chip |
| RAM/storage | 64 GB (storage) | 64 GB (storage) | 64 GB (storage) |
| Payments | Apple Pay | Apple Pay | Apple Pay |
| Price (United States) | $399 to $750 (titanium) | $799 | $249 (starting at) |
In October 2025, we added the Apple Watch SE to replace the second-generation SE as the latest entry-level model.
All Apple Watches share the same basic DNA: a square screen with rounded edges, a rotating crown, interchangeable bands and Apple WatchOS with Siri integration.
The differences are in the details with factors like advanced health sensors, durability, battery life, and screen size. Oh, and the price.
Budget: If you’re on a budget and want the best deal, it may be worth waiting for big discount days like Black Friday, when most retailers, including Apple, offer sales or cash back incentives on gift cards. Another way to reduce costs is to purchase a refurbished Apple Watch directly from Apple. They have the same one-year warranty as the new models, AppleCare eligibility, and a 14-day returns window.
Design: There are many ways to personalize your Apple Watch, including different finishes and watch bands. But dressing up your Apple Watch isn’t always 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 your screen size; older models or the SE 3 will have the smallest option (40mm) while the Apple Watch Ultra 3 offers the largest screen (49mm).
Battery: Battery life continues to be a major issue for Apple Watch users, with no models surpassing the three-day mark like some Android models. And while Apple has made progress in this category, it’s best to lower your expectations by accepting that you’ll probably get about 24 to 30 hours of use from a single charge (with the always-on display) on most models. If that’s a deciding factor, you’ll have to splurge on the Apple Watch Ultra 2, which is the only model that lasts up to 48 hours (or 72 hours in battery saver mode).
Wi-Fi only or cellular: Most users will find the Wi-Fi version sufficient. It tracks workouts and makes mobile payments phone-agnostic, but needs to be within range of your iPhone to access some smart features like notifications, messaging, and calls. The cellular and Wi-Fi models are only worth it ($100 more) if you plan to ditch your iPhone regularly and need the watch to be a standalone device and have access to all the features. And it’s your only option if you buy the Ultra 2 because it doesn’t offer a Wi-Fi only option.
We test all of our Apple Watches in the real world and focus on any new features or claims in addition to all the other features you’ll use regularly, like fitness tracking and connectivity. All Apple Watches, including cellular models, need to connect to an iPhone. We therefore also evaluate the ease of navigation of the companion software.
Durability and design: Smartwatches are something you wear on your body, so we evaluate 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. We will then see how it resists everyday wear and tear. Some models, like the Ultra 2, offer added durability, such as dust or water resistance, suitable for activities like scuba diving and, where possible, we’ll test this for ourselves.
Battery: Battery life varies depending on how you use a smartwatch. So we test the battery life with some standard tests. We see how long it typically lasts on a single charge with features that represent typical use, like always-on display, sleep tracking, and doing an outdoor workout with GPS.
Yes, you can take calls, talk to Siri, or use the Walkie Talkie feature to chat with friends and family who also own Apple Watches, but you might get some funny looks.
Charles Wagner/CNETAccuracy of fitness and health sensors: We test the accuracy of Apple Watch using different methods. The heart rate sensor, for example, is compared to measurements taken from a chest strap, considered the gold standard for tracking consumers’ heart rates, during various cardiovascular activities like running or cycling. We also check how long it takes to connect to a GPS signal during outdoor training. Other health sensors, like a blood oxygen sensor (not active on newer models), are compared to a pulse oximeter for one-time readings when possible, and for the ECG feature, we tested it against a hospital-grade ECG.
Although no longer sold directly by Apple, the is always a nice 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 the slightly longer battery life, but it runs 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.
What is the best alternative to an Apple Watch?
Unless you’re ready to upgrade from your iPhone to an Android device, it’s best to avoid Wear OS watches like Samsung’s Galaxy Watch or Google’s Pixel Watch because they offer limited compatibility with Apple devices. Instead, consider watches that run proprietary operating systems, such as Garmin’s Venu 3 or Huawei’s Watch Fit 3. Garmin is known for its fitness-focused models aimed at athletes, but they also offer solid smartwatch features. The Amazfit Bip 6 is also worth considering for a simpler, budget-friendly option that covers the basics.
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What is the best Apple Watch for kids?
The best Apple Watch for kids is the Apple Watch SE 3 with Wi-Fi and cellular. A feature aptly called “Apple Watch for your kids” allows parents to set up the watch from their own iPhone without needing a separate iPhone for the child. Parents can track their child’s location in real time and manage who their children can contact and at what times to minimize distractions during school hours. Even if you want to treat your child to one of the newer models, key features like ECG, wrist temperature, and sleep tracking are disabled in this mode anyway. Learn more: Apple Watch for kids
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What to know about the blood oxygen sensor
If you purchased an Apple Watch in the last year, you may have noticed that the Blood Oxygen feature in your apps list wasn’t loading. It wasn’t a problem; Apple had to disable SpO2 (blood oxygen) tracking in units sold in the United States after January 18, 2024, due to a patent dispute with medical technology company Masimo.
A recent software update reintroduces blood oxygen monitoring to the Apple Watch Series 9 (or higher), SE 3, and Apple Watch Ultras (2 and 3) in the US, but with a slightly different setup than before. The main difference: while the sensor still collects raw data on the watch, the measurement and calculation now takes place on your paired iPhone. You can view the results in the Respiratory section of the Health app.
To benefit from this feature, your iPhone must be updated to iOS 18.6.1 and your Apple Watch must be running WatchOS 11.6.1.
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Smartwatches are only getting smarter when it comes to health, and the Apple Watch is no exception. Whether it’s better sensors, new metrics, or more personalized coaching, Apple is taking note of competitors like Garmin and Google and relying more on AI to make sense of your data.
Meanwhile, the definition of wearable is rapidly expanding, with more smart rings debuting and improved earbud options with built-in health sensors already entering smartwatch territory. They probably won’t replace watches entirely, but they definitely raise the bar and will continue to give the Apple Watch a nice boost.