Today, I’m comparing the Apple Watch Series 9 vs the Apple Watch SE second generation, and I’m going to determine what’s the better device for a thrifty consumer. As someone who has owned both wearables, I know their ins and outs, and I think one is overall better for consumers than the other. However, both are good at what they do, and both can be an excellent option depending on what you’re looking for. Keep reading to learn what’s the best choice for your wrist and your wallet.
Apple Watch SE Second-Gen: What to Know
Considering the SE is meant to be a device that’s friendly for a consumer’s budget, the second generation Apple Watch SE still packs powerful features. At this point, however, many may consider the hardware to be stuck in the past. The second generation SE is sporting the S8 SiP (system in package), which means it’s already a bit slower when it comes to the Series 9’s S9 SiP. So right out of the box, the Apple Watch SE is going to be behind on hardware. However, both do have a 64-bit dual-core processor.
When it comes to wearables, I don’t think it’s that big of a deal that it doesn’t contain the latest and greatest hardware: it’s all about the features, right? Fortunately, the second-gen SE still packs lots of them, though you miss out on some things that may be a big deal.
With the second-gen SE, there is still a lot under the hood: it comes packed with Fall Detection, Crash Detection, heart monitoring, Emergency SOS, cycle tracking, and more. However, there are some things you are going to miss out on if you choose the SE over the Series 9. You should also consider that since the Apple Watch SE is a bit older than the Series 9, the SE may stop receiving watchOS updates before the Series 9. Keep these things in mind as we move to the next section.
Apple Watch Series 9: Big Power in a Little Package
Look, the Series 9 is just outright going to be an improvement over the second-gen SE. Not only do you get an always-on display with up to 2000 nits (compared to 1000 in the SE) so you get a brighter screen, but you’re also gaining access to double-tap gestures, a faster on-device Siri that includes accessible health data, an ECG app, longer battery life in Low Power Mode and access to fast charging.
Considering the number of features you miss out on by going with the SE over the Series 9, you should ask yourself how much you really need them. Remember that despite Series 9 having more stuff, both still share plenty of things in common. Each wearable is going to offer GPS and cellular options, 18 hours of battery life and both are water resistant up to 50 meters. Both also feature emergency features such as Emergency SOS and Crash and Fall Detection.
With this in mind, it’s really a matter of how much you want the features found in Series 9. If you feel you can live without an always-on display, double-tap, and more, it may be worth it to save the money and go with the Apple Watch SE. However, as someone who recently had to upgrade from the SE to the Series 9, I can tell you that these features actually create a night-and-day difference between the two devices.
But of course, it’s always about the money.
Apple Watch SE VS Series 9: What’s the Better Price?
Like most things, price is really going to be a big factor in determining which device you should get. The Apple Watch SE starts at $249 with GPS and $299 with GPS and cellular, whereas the Apple Watch Series 9 starts at $399 with GPS and $499 with GPS and cellular. Both also feature different sizing options, with the Series 9 being available in 41mm or 45mm, and the SE is available in 40mm and 44mm options. Expect the larger models to cost a bit more.
Keep in mind that these prices are through the official Apple Website, so finding deals can be possible with some sleuthing. A quick Google search found the SE available for around $150 and the Series 9 around $300, though these are likely the base options. Regardless of what you choose, I would recommend doing some searching for a deal before diving into buying it from Apple outright.
What About the Apple Watch Series 10?
While little is currently known about the Apple Watch Series 10, it’s worth considering that Apple is likely to release it this year. While I won’t go until a full breakdown comparing the Series 9 to the Series 10, this is certainly worth factoring into a purchasing decision. Though little is known, consumers can expect a better screen, battery, and SiP in the 10 over the 9.
It’s also worth noting that the second-gen Apple Watch SE came out alongside the Series 8, and Apple did not release a third-gen SE alongside the Series 9. It is possible that the company will release a third-generation SE this year, which may sway some consumers toward the latest devices. Considering new Apple hardware typically arrives in the fall, this is definitely something to consider.
So, What Should You Get?
Personally, I would wait to see what Apple releases, if you can. Many are expecting the Apple Watch Series 10 to come with major improvements, though currently, these are still rumors. However, if you’re looking to save some money, or simply don’t care about having the hottest release, I would go with the Apple Watch Series 9. I think the features available within it offer more than the SE, and I think a consumer would be overall happier with it in the long run.
However, if you really don’t care about features, or are simply purchasing a new Watch for a relative or child that doesn’t care about these sorts of things, the second-gen Apple Watch SE is still a great purchase. I owned an SE for years and I absolutely loved it. For the money, I would argue that it’s one of the best Watches on the market dollar-for-dollar, especially if you find a deal on it.
Either way, you’re getting a good device no matter what you go with. However, the Series 9 is going to have that extra oomph that some people just can’t live without.
At the end of the day, it’s a matter of what you need in a wearable, what you want in a wearable, and how much you’re willing to spend. Considering the device can last you for years, it may be worth spending the extra money upfront.
You may also want to know if it’s worth it to move to watchOS 11 from watchOS 10.