Buying Guide

Best Apple Watch: which one should you buy?

This is an independent overview informed by hands-on experience and long-term testing patterns. It’s designed to help you pick the right Watch quickly, without spec overload.

Quick picks

Best for most people

Apple Watch (latest Series) — bright always-on display, fast charging, comprehensive health & fitness sensors, wide choice of straps.

Best battery & outdoors

Apple Watch Ultra line — bigger, tougher build, longer battery life, better GPS options, depth & action button for quick controls.

Best value

Apple Watch SE — core Apple Watch features at a lower price; ideal for families, first-time buyers, or a gym-friendly second device.

How to choose the right Apple Watch

1) Display & comfort

If you glance at your wrist often, the always-on display of the main Series and Ultra models is worth it. Smaller cases (40–41mm) suit slimmer wrists; larger (44–49mm) feel roomier for maps and messages.

2) Battery life

Daily top-ups are normal for the Series models. The Ultra line stretches further, especially with Low Power Mode for multi-day trips. Night-time sleep tracking? Fast charging helps: 15–30 minutes before bed usually does the trick.

3) Health & safety

All current models cover the essentials: heart rate, fall detection, Emergency SOS and workout tracking. Flagship models add extras like skin-temperature trends and blood oxygen. If you don’t need the full sensor stack, the SE saves money without losing the core experience.

4) Cellular vs GPS

Cellular lets you leave the iPhone at home for calls, music and safety features. It’s brilliant for runners or school runs, but check plan costs with your network first.

Our picks in detail

Mainstream all-rounder: Apple Watch Series

The standard Series is the Apple Watch most people should buy. It’s the sweet spot of display quality, comfort, charging speed and app support. If you want the full platform without the Ultra’s size, start here.

Endurance & adventure: Apple Watch Ultra

Ultra models are built for long days and rough conditions. The bigger display is glorious for navigation, the battery stretches further, and the action button is a genuine time-saver for starting workouts or waypoints with gloves on.

Great value: Apple Watch SE

SE keeps the essentials—strong fitness tracking, heart rate, notifications, Apple Pay—while trimming advanced sensors and the always-on screen. For everyday health and family setups, it’s a bargain.

Where to buy in the UK

Retailer availability changes frequently; prices and plans vary. DealsToUK may earn a small affiliate commission if you purchase via links, at no extra cost to you.

FAQs

Which Apple Watch is best for everyday use?

The latest Apple Watch Series balances display, sensors and charging. If you want the full experience in a comfortable size, it’s the default pick.

Which Apple Watch has the best battery life?

Apple Watch Ultra models last longest, especially with Low Power Mode. They’re ideal for weekends away or long training days.

Is Apple Watch SE still worth it?

Yes. It delivers the core experience at a lower price, making it ideal for first-time buyers or family plans.

Do I need Cellular?

Cellular is brilliant if you run without your iPhone or want fall-back connectivity. It adds a monthly plan cost; check network coverage and tariffs first.