If you are looking to upgrade your wearable technology, knowing which Apple Watch is the “latest” can be slightly confusing because Apple currently maintains three distinct lines. As of May 2024, there are three primary current-generation models.
1. The Mainstream Flagship: Apple Watch Series 9
Released in September 2023, the Apple Watch Series 9 is the standard choice for most users. While it looks identical to the Series 8, the internal upgrades are significant.
- The S9 SiP (System in Package): This is the most powerful chip ever in an Apple Watch, making the interface smoother and enabling on-device Siri processing.
- Double Tap Gesture: You can now tap your index finger and thumb together twice to answer calls, stop timers, or play music without touching the screen.
- Brighter Display: The screen now reaches up to 2000 nits (double the Series 8), making it much easier to read in direct sunlight.
- Precision Finding: A second-generation Ultra Wideband chip helps you find your misplaced iPhone with directional guidance.
2. The Rugged Powerhouse: Apple Watch Ultra 2
Also released in September 2023, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is designed for athletes, divers, and outdoor enthusiasts. It is the biggest, toughest, and most expensive model in the lineup.
- Extreme Durability: Features a 49mm titanium case and sapphire crystal front.
- Insane Brightness: The display reaches a staggering 3000 nits, the brightest ever for an Apple wearable.
- Battery Life: It offers up to 36 hours of normal use and 72 hours in Low Power Mode.
- Modular Ultra Face: A new watch face that uses the outer edges of the large display to show real-time data like altitude or depth.
3. The Budget-Friendly Option: Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen)
The Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation) was technically released in late 2022, but it remains the “current” budget model in Apple’s official 2024 catalog.
- Best Value: It offers core features like Fall Detection, Crash Detection, and heart rate monitoring at a much lower price point.
- What’s Missing: It lacks the Always-On Display, the ECG app, Blood Oxygen monitoring, and the newer S9 chip.
Comparison Table: Which one should you choose?
| Feature | Apple Watch Series 9 | Apple Watch Ultra 2 | Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Case Size | 41mm or 45mm | 49mm | 40mm or 44mm |
| Display | Always-On Retina | Always-On Retina | Retina (No Always-On) |
| Chip | S9 SiP | S9 SiP | S8 SiP |
| Battery Life | 18 – 36 Hours | 36 – 72 Hours | 18 Hours |
| Water Resistance | 50m | 100m (Dive to 40m) | 50m |
| Key Health Sensor | ECG, Blood Oxygen, Temp | ECG, Blood Oxygen, Temp | Heart Rate Only |
Should you buy now or wait?
Apple typically announces new hardware in September. If you are reading this between June and August, you may want to wait.
Rumors suggest that 2024 marks the 10th anniversary of the Apple Watch, and many analysts expect a “Series 10” or “Apple Watch X” with a thinner design and a new magnetic band attachment system. However, if you need a watch today, the Series 9 and Ultra 2 are the most advanced wearables on the market.
Summary for your search:
The latest flagship is the Series 9, the latest pro model is the Ultra 2, and the current entry-level model is the SE (2nd Gen).
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