the apple watch series 9

Amidst the heated rivalries in the tech world, Apple’s efforts to expand its repertoire of cool accessories and wearables have been nothing short of impressive. From the introduction of Apple Watch back in 2014, followed by AirPods just two years later, Apple continues to shake things up with each new release, giving us gadgets that redefine how we rock tech on the move.

With so many models available, choosing the right Apple Watch can be tricky. In this article, we’ll compare the Apple Watch Series 10, Apple Watch Ultra 2, and Apple Watch SE to help you find the model that fits your needs.

  Apple Watch Series 10
Apple Watch Ultra 2 Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen)
Dimensions

42 x 36 x 9.7mm

46 x 39 x 9.7mm

49 x 44 x 14.4mm

40 x 34 x 10.7mm

44 x 38 x 10.7mm

Weight 29.3g (42mm, Aluminium)

36.4g (46 mm, Aluminium)

61.4g

27.8g (40mm)

33.0g (44mm)

Battery Life Up to 18 hours Up to 36 hours Up to 18 hours
Storage 64GB 64GB 32GB
Water Resistance 50m 100m 50m
CPU S10 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor S9 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor S8 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor
Display

Wide-angle Always-On Retina LTPO3 OLED

Up to 2,000 nits brightness

Always-On Retina LTPO OLED

Up to 3,000 nits brightness

 Retina LTPO OLED

Up to 1,000 nits brightness

Construction Aluminium Titanium Aluminium
Double Tap Yes Yes No
Fast Charging Yes Yes No
GPS Yes Yes (Precision dual-frequency) Yes
Pricing

from $28.70/mth (42mm)

from $30.37/mth (46mm)

from $50.04/mth Currently unavailable

🥇 Apple Watch Series 10: The Best Apple Watch for Most People

🌟 Specifications
  • Size: 42mm & 46mm
  • CPU: S10 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor
  • Battery Life: Up to 18 hours
  • Display: Wide-angle Always-On Retina
    LTPO3 OLED (up to 2,000 nits brightness)


👍 Pros

  • 46mm display is the largest available on a non-Ultra Apple Watch
  • Charges faster than any other Apple Watch model
  • Features an always-on display
  • Offers additional health and wellness features similar to the SE
  • Significantly more affordable than the Ultra 2

 

👎 Cons

  • Same battery life as the Series 9
  • Overall design feels similar to previous models
  • Display brightness is lower than the Ultra 2

✨ Why you should choose the Apple Watch Series 10?

The Apple Watch Series 10 marks a major design shift, offering the biggest update to the Series lineup in years. Compared to the Series 9, the new model sports a larger, wider display with thinner bezels. The wide-angle OLED screen is not only bigger but also 40% brighter when viewed from an angle. Plus, the always-on display now refreshes faster, making features like the ticking second hand on certain watch faces a reality.

Even though the Series 10 is the largest model yet, with a 46mm option that’s nearly as big as the Ultra, it feels noticeably thinner and lighter than previous versions. While you can opt for the premium titanium model, most users will likely go with the more affordable aluminum version.

There are also new water temperature and depth sensors for water activities, an improved speaker that now supports music playback, and a larger charging coil in the metal back for even faster charging.

👉 StarHub Apple Watch Series 10 (42mm)

👉 StarHub Apple Watch Series 10 (46mm)

🏃‍♂️ Apple Watch Ultra 2: Best Apple Watch for Outdoor


🌟 Specifications

  • Size: 49mm
  • CPU: S9 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor
  • Battery Life: Up to 36 hours
  • Display: Always-On Retina LTPO OLED (up to
    3,000 nits brightness)


👍 Pros

  • Offers all Series 9 features and more, including a
    precision dual-frequency GPS
  • New action button provides enhanced control for quick tasks and customizations
  • Largest and Brightest display of any Apple Watch to date
  • Runs on Apple's latest S9 SiP chip


👎 Cons

  • Considerably more expensive than other Apple Watch models
  • size may be too large for some users

✨ Why you should choose the Apple Watch Ultra 2?

The Apple Watch Ultra 2, released in 2023, is the most rugged, capable, and expensive Apple Watch yet. Available in two finishes - Natural and Black - it’s designed for extreme athletes, adventurers, and even recreational scuba divers, but it’s also perfect for anyone who wants the best smartwatch Apple offers.

With its largest, brightest display, longest battery life, and toughest build, the Ultra 2 is made for those who need a watch that can keep up with the most demanding conditions. It’s also ideal for those who simply want the biggest, most premium Apple Watch available.

👉 Starhub Apple Watch Ultra 2 (49mm)

💸 Apple Watch SE: The Best Apple Watch if You’re on a Budget


🌟 Specifications
  • Size: 40mm & 44mm
  • CPU: S8 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor
  • Battery Life: Up to 18 hours
  • Display: Retina LTPO OLED (up to 1,000 nits brightness)


👍 Pros

  • More affordable than other Apple Watch models
  • Retains many of the same features as the Series 9 and Series 10
  • Most budget-friendly Apple Watch option available


👎 Cons

  • Does not include an always-on display
  • Slower performance compared to newer models with the S10 chip
  • Lacks Double Tap gesture and certain health features

✨ Why you should choose the Apple Watch SE?

The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen), released in 2022, is largely unchanged from the 2020 model. It retains the same design, heart-rate tracking, GPS, and 18-hour battery life.

The main upgrades include a newer processor and additional color options, but the biggest change is the lower price—starting at $249 instead of $279. This makes the SE a great option for those new to the Apple Watch or anyone who doesn’t need all the advanced features.

Compared to the Series 10 and Ultra 2, the SE lacks an always-on display and omits some health features like cycle tracking and sleep tracking. However, it still offers solid performance for users seeking a more affordable Apple Watch experience.

🤔 Apple Watch Cellular vs. GPS: Which Should You Buy?

apple watches arranged in a circle

One common dilemma most people face is whether to go for the Apple Watch GPS vs Cellular model. The GPS model is perfect for those who want fitness tracking and notifications without the need for a phone. On the other hand, the cellular version allows you to make calls, send messages, and stream music directly from your watch, even without your phone nearby.

Here's a table outlining the key differences between a cellular and GPS model:

Feature GPS Model Cellular Model
Standalone Use Requires iPhone nearby for most features Can make calls, send texts, and stream music independently
Emergency Calling Limited to emergency calls when iPhone is nearby Can make emergency calls directly from the watch, even without iPhone
Monthly Fees No additional monthly fees Requires a cellular plan with your carrier
Streaming Music Stream music via Wi-Fi or through paired iPhone Stream music directly from the watch using cellular

Which Should You Choose?

  • Choose GPS-only if you primarily use your Apple Watch as an extension of your iPhone and are looking for a more affordable option.
  • Choose Cellular if you want the freedom to stay connected without your phone, whether for fitness, travel, or when you're on the go.

 

✨ Get the Full Apple Experience Now!

aesthetic image of the apple watch ultra 2

Just like a masterpiece is never complete without its centerpiece, your iPhone is the key to unlocking the full potential of your Apple Watch. When paired with your iPhone, Apple Watch features like call, message, and notification syncing are optimized for a seamless, connected experience.

The best part? It's easy to get your hands on the latest Apple devices with StarHub! Whether you're eyeing the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro, or the iPhone 16 Pro Max, we have the perfect mobile plan to fit your needs. Plus, with StarHub’s Buy Now, Pay Later option through Star Plan, you can skip the paperwork and enjoy your new Apple devices right away.

For exclusive deals on Apple Watches, head over to StarHub’s Online Store and see what’s waiting for you!

This article was originally published on 26 April 2024 and updated on 13 Dec 2024.

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