Expectations were huge with the event. The entire web was flooded with predictions based on the launch of Apple Watches, iPad Air, and iPhone 12. The major bet had been on Apple’s flagship phone, iPhone 12. Speculations about its features and technical aspects were doing the rounds. Bloggers and analysts left no stone unturned to represent Apple’s plannings. However, things changed soon after the clock touched 10:00 AM PT.
The dawn of 15th September closed all speculations, and Tim finally took the curtains off from the new generation of Apple Watches; Apple Watch Series 6 and Apple Watch SE. While the former comes adorned with some remarkable features, the Special Edition is nowhere behind.
However, the noticeable price gap between the two undoubtedly raises the question – What’s the difference between Apple Watch 6 and Apple Watch SE?
Comparison Between Apple Watch Series 6 and Apple Watch SE
‘It already does that’ this is precisely the vision ‘Big Boys’ at Apple had while designing the new watches. There has been buzz about the two watches for quite some time. However, the exact information rolled out during the ‘Time Flies’ event, and the details indeed are intriguing. Both the versions are similar, with little differences and a lot in common between them.
What’s in Common
What’s the first thing you notice when you look at a product? Is it the appearance? If the answer’s yes, you might be happy to know that both the versions come with the same screen size and resolution. The newly introduced solo loop bands, including soft silicone and braided yarn, will remain with both versions.
Talking about the specs and features, both the versions will come with features like fall detection, emergency calling SoS, noise monitoring, optical heart sensors, heartbeat fluctuation notifications, real-time altimeter, etc. Acknowledging that both the versions will mate with iOS 14, the newly introduced features with the new iOS will remain default.
What’s Missing
Being tech-savvy, a significant difference I noticed between the two watches is the processor they use. While the 6 Series comes with S6 dual-core processor, the SE version has a Series 5 processor in it. However, looking from a user’s perspective, three significant features won’t be in the later version include the ECG app, Blood Oxygen app, and the always-on Retina Display. Not just this, the screen in series 6 watch gets a little brighter to make it easier for you to check notifications and specs even during the bright days.
Also, the new Red and Blue dials are only available for the Series 6 version. The remaining dials stay common for both the models.
Comparison Chart
| Apple Watch 6 | Apple Watch SE | |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | ||
| Processor | S6 with 64-bit Dual Core | S5 with 64-bit Dual Core |
| OS Version | watchOS 7 | watchOS 7 |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth 5.0 | Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Wireless Chip | W3 | W3 |
| Resolution | 44mm: 368*448 40mm: 324*394 |
44mm: 368*448 40mm: 324*394 |
| Battery Life | Up to 18 Hours | Up to 18 Hours |
| Heart Sensor | The second generation, Optical heart sensor | Optical heart sensor |
| Features | ||
| Family setup support | ✔ | ✔ |
| ECG | ✔ | — |
| Noise Monitoring | ✔ | ✔ |
| Fall Detection | ✔ | ✔ |
| Blood Oxygen app | ✔ | — |
| Emergency SOS | ✔ | ✔ |
| Irregular heart notifications | ✔ | ✔ |
| Always on Retina Display |
✔ |
— |
| Real-time altimeter | ✔ | ✔ |
Which Apple Watch Should You Buy: Apple Watch SE or Apple Watch 6?
Closely looking at both the version, there isn’t much difference, and the Series 6 and SE models are relatively the same. If you are already a series 5 user and muddled on whether to upgrade or not to the 2020 tech marvel, you aren’t wrong. Despite including the Blood Oxygen level is inspired by the need raised during Covid time, there isn’t much that people can look into this series 6 model.
However, other inclusions like the powerful S6 processor, which makes the series 6 two times faster than series 5, and the intriguing new single loop bands, can make a good reason to lure you towards the series 6 watch.
Also if you own Apple Watch Series 3 or 4, buying this can be a wise choice considering the features and the future compatibility of various apps. Yes, you read that right. Looking at the direction in which Apple is moving, the future has a lot in the box. Taking a jump to Series 6 from 3 or 4 will undoubtedly be a wise decision.
Looking at the health perspective and its price, the watch undoubtedly has many potentials to gain a new section of the audience. If you are a first-timer, this undoubtedly can be your preference.
Talking about the SE version, there are only a handful of features where it lacks behind. However, with this little difference and pocket-friendly price, the Watch SE will undoubtedly make a groundbreaking presence. If you are planning to have a watch for your kids or you haven’t yet purchased due to budget issues, this can be the right buy.
Now that you are acquainted and can make a decision. Here’s how much they’ll cost you;
Price of Apple Watch Series 6: Starting $399
Price of Apple Watch SE: Starting $279
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