The Apple Watch made its debut in 2014 and has since evolved into three variations: the Apple Watch SE, Apple Watch Series, and Apple Watch Ultra. Each has different price points and features. If you are new to the Apple Watch, looking to upgrade, or just curious about their differences, this article is for you. We will compare the latest versions: the Apple Watch SE (2nd gen), Apple Watch Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2.

When focusing on the design and build of each Apple Watch, the key differences are the screen sizes and the materials used. The Apple Watch SE (2nd generation) features an aluminum case, which is high-quality and made from recycled materials. Aluminum is lightweight, strong, and highly resistant to corrosion. The Apple Watch Series 10 offers both aluminum and titanium case options.

The aluminum version shares the same benefits as the SE, while the titanium version provides increased durability and a premium finish. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 comes exclusively with a titanium case, known for its exceptional durability and resistance to fingerprints. Additionally, the Ultra 2 has a larger display compared to the SE and Series 10 models.

The Apple Watch is known for its life-saving health features. While all models include essential health tools, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Apple Watch Series 10 offers the most advanced features, particularly for fitness enthusiasts. If your primary goal for either upgrading, or purchasing a new Apple Watch is for health and fitness, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 or Apple Watch Series 10 are your best option.

No matter which Apple Watch you purchase, you will have access to:

Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Apple Watch Series 10 owners will have access to the above, plus the additional features below:

The Apple Watch Series 10 is water-resistant up to 50 meters and can be used at depths of up to 20 feet. The Apple Watch Ultra 2, on the other hand, is water-resistant up to 100 meters and designed for depths of up to 130 feet. This makes the Apple Watch Ultra 2 ideal for recreational scuba divers, swimmers, and anyone involved in high-speed water sports.

For hikers and backpackers, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 may be the better choice. Its always-on altimeter has an expanded operating range from –500m to 9,000m, making it perfect for deep canyons and high mountain peaks. Additionally, its precision dual-frequency GPS is ideal for backcountry hiking, where cell service is often unreliable.

As with any Apple product, we can expect that as the Apple Watches evolve, their battery life and performance will improve. The Apple Watch Series 10 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 both offer fast charging capabilities; however, each watch's battery life varies:

Apple offers a wide range of price points for their Apple Watches, with some models including GPS + Cellular, while others have only GPS, which is often cheaper. Most plans to add cellular on top of GPS range from $50 to $100 more. It is best to consider getting cellular in addition to GPS because your Apple Watch won’t function like a cellphone unless it is connected to WiFi.

After navigating the various features, price points, and color options, your final decision awaits. An Apple Watch can complement your life in many ways, and the right choice for you may not necessarily be the one with all the added features. For example, if you prefer a casual Apple Watch experience, the Apple Watch SE is a great option. However, if you need advanced health tracking, the Apple Watch Series 10 or Apple Watch Ultra would be the better choice.

Be sure to check out the SANDMARC Apple Watch band collection, available for Apple Watch Series 8, 9, and 10, as well as Apple Watch Ultra 1 and 2. Choose from stainless steel, titanium, or leather bands in various colors.