Which Apple Watch Should You Buy in 2025?

If you’re looking at Apple’s shiny new Apple Watch lineup and wondering which one is the best fit for you, you’re in the right place. This year Apple has focused on health features even more, introducing hypertension notifications, Sleep Score, and Workout Buddy. Paired with watchOS 26 and longer battery life, all the latest models are one-of-a-kind.

In this article, I’ll share which is the best Apple Watch to buy in 2025 so you can pick the right Apple Watch for your lifestyle, budget, and personal needs. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, a casual user, a fitness enthusiast, or buying a watch for your child, there’s a model for you.

How to Choose Which Apple Watch is Perfect For You 

Choosing the right Apple Watch depends on several factors. Here are the key points we’ve followed in selecting the best Apple Watch for different needs: 

1. Find your purpose 

• Health and fitness: If you prioritize health tracking, look for models with the latest high blood pressure tracking, sleep score, ECG, etc. 
• Everyday use: For general use, opt for models that strike a balance between style and function for notifications, messaging, and daily tasks, such as 5G cellular support, Workout Buddy, and double-tap gestures. 
• Luxury: If you seek a more premium experience, options like the Apple Watch Hermès or models with luxurious finishes might appeal to you. 

2. Features 

• Advanced health monitoring: Look out for models with all-inclusive health features, such as Series 11. It offers sleep apnea notifications, advanced fitness monitoring, blood oxygen sensing devices, and other features. 
• Design and build: Depending on your preference for lightweight or durable builds, consider aluminum or titanium models. Also, look for design aspects that suit your style. You may change Apple Watch bands for different looks. 
• Size: Getting an Apple Watch suitable for your wrist size is important as well. An accurate fit ensures you can access the best possible health monitoring. 
• Battery life: Evaluate battery performance, especially if you plan to use your watch for extensive fitness tracking or notifications throughout the day. 

3. Compatibility 

Ensure that you select a compatible Apple Watch with your iPhone model. For example, the new Apple Watches, such as Series 11 and Ultra 3, require an iPhone 11 or later, including iPhone SE 2 and 3, running iOS 16+. You may check Apple Watches and iPhones compatibility before buying. 

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4. Budget

• Mid-range: Models like the Apple Watch Series 11 provide a fine mix of good features and prices. 
• Entry-level/first-time buyer: With its essential features, the Apple Watch SE 3 is less expensive. 
• Premium budget: The Ultra 3 is designed for those willing to capitalize on top-quality specifications and durability. 

5. Who is it for:

When selecting a model, consider the target users, from fitness enthusiasts to tech lovers and luxury seekers. So, consider who will be using the watch. For example, the SE 3 is excellent for kid,s whereas Series 10 is for elderly users due to its simplicity and health monitoring features. 

What Is The Best Apple Watch To Buy Now?

At the Awe Dropping event, Apple introduced three new Apple Watch models so selecting the best one is largely dependent on your special needs. Here are our best choices for 2025: 

• Best overall: Apple Watch Ultra 3
• Best for most people: Apple Watch Series 11
• Best value for money: Apple Watch Series 10
• Best budget-friendly: Apple Watch SE 3

Such models cater to a wide range of people, offering everything from expensive features to affordable alternatives. 

Best Overall: Apple Watch Ultra 3

Key Specs

• Case Size and Build: 49mm titanium case.
• Display: Massive LTPO3 wide-angle OLED and up to 3,000 nits brightness.
• Battery Life: Up to 42 hours on a charge with fast charging to 80% in about 45 minutes.
• Connectivity: Only GPS + Cellular with 5G support plus emergency satellite SOS.
• Health Features: Hypertension notifications, sleep score, Blood Oxygen, ECG, sleep apnea detection, and nightly wrist temperature tracking. 
• Price: Starts at $799.

If you’re the type who works out actively, goes on camping trips, or just wants a rugged, powerful watch, grab the Ultra 3.  It features the brightest and largest screen in the Apple Watch lineup, with 24% thinner bezels than the Ultra 2. Moreover, the power-efficient LTPO3 display enables a 1Hz always-on refresh rate, so you never miss a ticking second.

I liked its new Waypoint watch face to see the live compass, quickly access satellite messaging, and turn on Night Mode with a tap. Also, the built-in 5G modem is a game-changer for calls, messages, and streaming your favorite songs or podcasts. Using Apple Intelligence from your iPhone, you get audible motivation from your Workout Buddy.

Ultra 3 now has two-way satellite communication, so you can stay connected even without cellular or Wi-Fi data. All the Messages and Find My app features work the same. Apple has also pushed the battery to last up to 72 hours in Low Power mode. Also, you will get 12 hours of battery life with only 15 minutes of charging.

The customizable Action button on the left side works similarly to the iPhone. With one click, you can access various functions. Along with all the new health features and watchOS 26, it’s a powerhouse for adventurers. However, skip it if your “adventures” are limited to the grocery store run.

Who should buy this Apple Watch

• Outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, campers, trail runners, divers
• Folks who go to remote places where cell coverage is spotty or non-existent
• Athletes or triathletes who want detailed tracking and multisport tracking
• Users who want maximum safety and emergency features on their wrist

Note

Even though Apple has phased out, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 still remains a capable option with its watchOS 26 support and can be quite economical as compared to Ultra 3. You may find it in some selected retail stores, but you should ensure that you buy an original Apple Watch

Best For Most People: Apple Watch Series 11

Key specs

• Case Size & Build: 42mm or 46mm aluminum and Titanium, with Ion-X glass.
• Display: LTPO3 always-on wide-angle OLED, up to 2,000 nits.
• Battery Life: Up to 24 hours, but fast charging for 15 minutes tops up to 8 hours.
• Connectivity: GPS + Cellular with brand-new 5G.
• Health Features: Sleep score analysis, hypertension alerts, ECG, blood oxygen, fall/Crash Detection.
• Price: Starts at $399 (GPS) and $499 (GPS + Cellular).

The Series 11 is like the sweet spot for most Apple Watch users; it has all the core sensors, health, and fitness features, and watchOS 26. If you need a thinner and lighter watch, it’s comfortable for everyday wear, sleeping, exercising, or office wear. The new Ion-X front glass in an aluminum case is twice as scratch-resistant as Series 10.

In addition, the health monitoring functionalities, particularly the new blood pressure tracking and sleep score, are helpful. The double-tap and Wrist Flick gestures control, AI-powered Workout Buddy, and refreshed Liquid Glass UI make the watch more fun to interact with. You miss out only on the satellite capabilities and scuba or water sports functionality since it’s only 50m water resistant.

In everyday wear, I’d choose the Series 11 as an excellent do-it-all: full of features and fashionable but not as bulky or pricey as the Ultra range. Battery life is good, though it won’t be enough for multi-day usage. There’s a range of color options available in both aluminium and titanium cases.

However, the upgrade is less important if you already have a Series 10. The majority of features are similar to past versions. If you already have a Series 8 or earlier, you can trade it in and receive the Series 11 at a discount.

Who should buy this Apple Watch

• Most casual to serious users who want health tracking, style, and smart features without the premium price tag.
• Office workers, everyday folks, fitness enthusiasts who don’t need hardcore outdoor gear.
• People who want a modern smartwatch for general use, sleep tracking, workouts, and notifications.

Best Value For Money: Apple Watch Series 10

Key Specs 

• Case Size & Build: 42mm or 46mm aluminum or titanium options. 
• Display: LTPO3 always-on wide-angle OLED, up to 2,000 nits. 
• Battery Life: 18 hours standard, but zips to 80% charge in just 30 minutes—faster than the newbies. 
• Connectivity: GPS + Cellular with 4G connectivity. 
• Health Features: Hypertension alerts, sleep score, ECG, blood oxygen, sleep apnea detection, temp sensing, Cycle tracking. 
• Price: Now around $299-$359. 

Wait, hear me out, the 2024 Series 10 isn’t old, sleek, speedy, and surprisingly future-proof. With the new models dropping, expect good discounts, packing nearly all the bells and whistles of its successor. You get the same display, S10 chip, sensors, health tracking features, watchOS 26, and water resistance at a steal. 

Only the durable Ion-X glass, the latest 5G connectivity, and the Wrist Flick gesture are missing. Additionally, the battery life is shorter, lasting only 18 hours. However, thanks to the fast charging, you can get to 80% in just 30 minutes. So, I feel like it’s more than enough for daily life use. You may even buy a refurbished watch to save some more bucks.

Who should buy this Apple Watch 

• Users who want robust health and fitness tracking without paying full price for the newest model 
• Fitness buffs, casual users, and people who don’t need the Ultra’s rugged design 
• Buyers who don’t need satellite messaging or extreme outdoor adventure features 
• People who want a reliable Apple Watch at a discount 

Best Budget-Friendly: Apple Watch SE 3

Key Specs 

• Case Size & Build: 40mm or 44mm aluminum. 
• Display: LTPO always-on OLED, up to 1,000 nits. 
• Battery Life: Up to 18 hours, with fast charging to 80% in 45 minutes. 
• Connectivity: GPS + Cellular with 5G. 
• Health Features: Heart rate zone and irregular rhythm notifications, sleep score, sleep apnea tracking, temp sensing, Vitals app. 
• Price: Starts at $249 (GPS) and $299 (GPS + Cellular). 

Budget doesn’t mean boring, and the SE 3 proves it. This watch is Apple’s 2025 entry-level stunner that punches way above its older lineup. At $249, it’s loaded with upgrades like an always-on OLED display with Ion-X front glass, which is 4x durable compared to SE 2.  

Moreover, the S10 chipset incorporates many flagship features like complete sleep tracking, Wrist Flick and double-tap gestures, and much more. You will also get advanced health tracking features, excluding only the latest Hypertension alerts, ECG, and Blood Oxygen. The battery holds up to 18 hours, and the 2x fast charging provides 8 hours of juice in just 15 minutes.

Who should buy this Apple Watch 

• First-time Apple Watch buyers or those upgrading from older SE models 
• Users who want smart notifications, fitness tracking, and sleep data without needing top-tier health sensors. 
• Parents buying Apple Watch for kids who don’t need high tracking 
• Budget-conscious buyers who want a modern smartwatch experience at a lower cost 

Which Apple Watch Model Should You Buy? 

Use Case	Recommended Model	Why It’s a Good Fit
Rugged outdoor use, trail running, backcountry safety, diving	Apple Watch Ultra 3	Best battery life, satellite SOS, navigation tools, rugged build, detailed health + safety features
Every day smartwatch use, workouts, health monitoring, notifications	Apple Watch Series 11	Balanced mix of smart features, health insights, comfort, and battery life, great all-rounder
Want health tracking and performance without premium price tag	Apple Watch Series 10	Many flagship health and fitness features, solid battery, but generally available at better prices
Looking for a lower-cost modern Apple Watch with useful tracking and comfort	Apple Watch SE 3	Entry-level but modern, with updated chip, display, basic health tracking, and a friendly price

All Apple Watches have similar basic features and quality standards. However, depending on your needs, you may choose the powerful Apple Watch Ultra 3 or the affordable Apple Watch Series 11. 

It’s okay if you want an Apple Watch but cannot afford it. The Apple Watch SE 3 is excellent since not everyone requires blood oxygen and ECG monitoring. 

If you’re looking for something premium, consider the Apple Watch Hermès edition. It offers the same functionality as the Series 11, along with exclusive bands and watch faces. Also, Apple announced the Hermès edition for the Ultra 3 model. 

Although Apple may not sell every model, some stores still offer the Apple Watch Series 10 and Series 9. If you want to experience Series 11 at a lesser price, go for it. It still has essential functionality and software support, making it valuable. Additionally, consider the Apple Watch Ultra 2 for its Action button and rugged performance at discounted prices.

Which Apple Watch To Avoid In 2025

As new models are released every year, older versions may not offer the best value or features. Models like the Apple Watch Series 6 and earlier lack essential features and compatibility with the latest iOS versions, making them less future-proof. You may buy the Watch Series 7 if it’s heavily discounted, as Apple may provide support for two more years.

Bottom Line

Choosing the right Apple Watch in 2025 comes down to a few simple questions, like whether you want advanced health tracking, use it in remote or outdoor settings, your budget and style.

• If adventure, safety, GPS accuracy, and emergency features are priorities, and you’re okay with a larger and more expensive watch, go for the Ultra 3.
• If you want a well-rounded Apple Watch that’s comfortable for daily wear, fitness tracking, sleep monitoring, and smart features, Series 11 is your best bet.
• If price is a concern but you still want good health and fitness tracking, the Series 10 offers a strong middle ground.
• If you’re just getting into Apple Watches or want something functional without spending too much, the SE 3 gives you a modern and capable experience with a smaller investment.

At the end of the day, the best Apple Watch to buy is the one that suits your wrist, lifestyle, and habits. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but in 2025, Apple has given us a smart lineup that spans from rugged explorers to casual users, so choosing wisely means picking the right tool for your wrist.

In the comments, let me know which Apple Watch you’ve had or will have as your first One. Moreover, if you are looking for cases, bands, and other accessories for your Apple Watch, go through our expert guides.

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