Picking the Best Apple Watch to Buy in 2025

Are you thinking about buying an Apple Watch? The Apple Watch is a great health, fitness, and communication tool, but there's a lot to consider when making a purchase.

You need to choose the case material and band, pick a GPS or cellular model, and decide whether to buy the latest Apple Watch with a rich feature set, or save money by picking a more affordable option.

This guide walks you through the different options you can choose from with the aim of helping you figure out which Apple Watch will best meet your needs, but it assumes you're already aware of the feature set.

If you want to know what the Apple Watch can do, our Apple Watch roundup is a good resource with an overview of features like the always-on display, hypertension alerts, Blood Oxygen monitoring, heart rate tracking, ECG functionality, and more.

Apple Watch Series 11 vs. Apple Watch SE 3

For most of the lifetime of the Apple Watch there's been a new flagship model and an older, less powerful model to choose between, but that changed starting in 2020 with the introduction of the low-cost Apple Watch SE, a more affordable Apple Watch option that offers much of the same functionality as the flagship model but at a lower cost.

As of September 2025, Apple is selling the Apple Watch Series 11, which starts at $399, and the third-generation Apple Watch SE, which starts at $249, and there are multiple differences that make it easy to decide between the two. There's also a higher-end Apple Watch Ultra 3, outlined below.

The Apple Watch Series 11 and the third-generation Apple Watch SE have different form factors and display sizes. The Series 11 comes in 42mm and 46mm case sizes, features a slimmed-down profile, and it has a larger display with thinner bezels.

The Apple Watch SE 3 comes in 40mm and 44mm case sizes and has thicker bezels dating back to the Series 6 design. There are several major features that the SE is missing compared to the Series 11: ECG functionality, blood oxygen monitoring, hypertension alerts, a larger and brighter display, water temperature sensor, depth gauge, and more.

Despite these missing features, ‌Apple Watch SE 3‌ received updates that make it a better value than before.

The ‌Apple Watch SE 3‌ has the same S10 chip as the Series 11 with support for Double Tap and Wrist Flick gestures, plus it offers Always-On display technology, which is new this year. Apple added Sleep Score, Sleep Apnea detection, a wrist temperature sensor, and fast charging capabilities. Both the SE 3 and the Series 11 support 5G connectivity.

There are fewer reasons than ever to recommend the Series 11 over the cheaper ‌Apple Watch SE 3‌, but it does have blood oxygen detection (with results viewable on iPhone in the U.S.), a third-generation heart rate sensor with ECG, a better display with larger sizes, a longer battery life, and faster charging.

If you want any (or all) of these features, the Series 11 is the best pick, but if you don't need the feature set offered by the Apple Watch Series 11 and are mainly interested in standard health and fitness functionality like heart rate and movement tracking along with notifications and similar features, you can save a decent amount of money opting for the Apple Watch SE.

It's also worth noting that the ‌Apple Watch SE 3‌ does not come in titanium, so your only option is an aluminum casing in Starlight or Midnight if you opt for the more affordable model.

Apple Watch Ultra 3

Apple updated the Apple Watch Ultra to add a third-generation model in 2025. The Apple Watch Ultra is a higher-end Apple Watch that is aimed at those who need a more rugged, durable device. The Apple Watch Ultra is the most feature-rich Apple Watch, but it is also the most expensive, starting at $799. The updated version of the Apple Watch Ultra includes 5G, satellite connectivity, an S10 chip, and a slightly bigger display with slimmed down bezels.

Compared to the Series 11, the Apple Watch Ultra has a more rugged design with squared edges that are designed to protect the sapphire crystal display, along with a protected Digital Crown. It is equipped with a customizable Action button that is not on other Apple Watch models, with the button able to launch apps, workouts, and more. There is also a built-in 86-decibel siren, and it has more precise L5 GPS capabilities.

Battery life is also longer, the display is brighter, and since it is titanium, it is light and durable. Water resistance is better so that it can support deeper diving, and it has satellite connectivity for getting help, sending messages, and updating location when Wi-Fi and cellular are not available. It also has all of the features in the Series 11.

The ‌Apple Watch Ultra 3‌ is only available in titanium and it only comes in a 49mm size, which may not fit all wrists. With its long list of features, the Apple Watch Ultra is the most advanced Apple Watch you can buy at this time.

• 49mm case size
• Always-on Retina LTPO3 OLED display
• Brighter screen (3,000 nits)
• Dedicated watch faces with Night Mode for low-visibility conditions
• Customizable Action button
• Mil-STD-810H durability rating
• Dual speakers and three-mic array with beamforming
• 5G cellular connectivity + L5/L1 GPS for better accuracy
• Satellite connectivity when off-grid
• 64-bit dual-core S10 Chip
• Double Tap/Wrist Flick gestures
• W3 wireless chip
• Haptic Digital Crown
• Optical heart sensor
• Temperature sensing
• Hypertension alerts
• Sleep Score
• Heart rate notifications
• Emergency SOS (International)
• Fall Detection
• Crash Detection
• 86-decibel siren
• Noise monitoring
• Water resistance up to 100 meters, EN13319 certification
• Water temperature sensor, plus depth gauge and Depth app up to 40 meters
• 5GHz Wi‑Fi 4 and Bluetooth 5.3
• Compass and always-on altimeter
• 64GB capacity
• 42-hour battery life, almost 2x Series 11
• Gen 2 Ultra Wideband chip
• Blood Oxygen app
• ECG app
• Fast charging (0–80% in 45 minutes)
• Titanium casing

Apple Watch Sizing

The Apple Watch Series 11 comes in two sizes: 42mm and 46mm, while the ‌Apple Watch SE 3‌ comes in 40mm and 44mm sizes. The ‌Apple Watch Ultra 3‌ is available in a single 49mm size. Apple says that the 40mm/41mm/42mm Apple Watch is designed to fit 130 to 200mm wrists, while the 44mm/45mm/46mm Apple Watch is designed to fit 140 to 220mm wrists. The 49mm Apple Watch Ultra can fit wrists sized 130mm to 220mm.

When choosing a case size, you need to consider your wrist size and how you want the Apple Watch to fit. People with small wrists will likely want to opt for a 40mm/41mm/42mm model, while people with larger wrists will want to opt for a 44mm/45mm/46mm model. The 49mm Apple Watch Ultra is very large and can look oversized on many wrists, but it should fit anyone able to wear a 44mm/45mm/46mm Apple Watch.

For some people, size choice will be obvious, but for those who have medium-sized wrists where the choice is less clear cut, the best solution is visiting an Apple Store or a retail location that sells the Apple Watch to try it on because there's really no substitute for seeing the way that it fits on the wrist in person. We especially recommend trying the Apple Watch Ultra in person because it is large, but sized to fit on any wrist.

Apple Watch Model Options

There are two different casing materials available: aluminum and titanium, along with special Apple Watch models designed in partnership with Hermès and Nike.

All Apple Watch models, regardless of casing material, have the same internal components and capabilities.

Apple Watch Aluminum

Aluminum Apple Watch models are the lightest weight and the most affordable Apple Watches that Apple sells. Apple in the past marketed its aluminum Apple Watch models as "sport" models for their light weight, but has since dropped the sport branding. Aluminum is not as durable as some of the other casing options, but it has the benefit of being less heavy.

The aluminum is a soft, brushed aluminum for the Silver, Space Gray, and Rose Gold colors, but polished to a glossy, reflective shine on the Jet Black models. These models are not, however, as tough as titanium casings. Aluminum Apple Watch models have an Ion-X glass display, which is less scratch resistant than the sapphire glass used in more expensive models, though it has been improved this year. Apple says it is 2× more scratch resistant than before.

For most people, the aluminum Apple Watch is the best choice because it's ideal for all kinds of activities and it's the most affordable, starting at $399 for the Series 11 42mm model and $429 for the 46mm model. Cellular models are $100 more. Aluminum ‌Apple Watch SE 3‌ models are even cheaper, starting at $249 for the 40mm model.

Apple Watch Titanium

Apple previously used stainless steel for its middle-tier Apple Watch models but upgraded these to titanium starting with the Series 10. They're more expensive than the aluminum models but less expensive than the Apple Watch Ultra models that also use titanium.

Compared to the aluminum models that are designed for everyday wear including activity, the titanium models have more of a high-end professional look. Titanium Apple Watches are heavier than aluminum models and may be preferred by those who like a heftier weight on the wrist.

Titanium Apple Watch Series 11 models come in Slate, Gold, and Natural, with an aerospace-grade polished finish for all three colors. Unfortunately, that shiny finish can be more prone to scratching than aluminum, but it looks nicer.

Apple's titanium models also feature sapphire crystal for the display covers instead of Ion-X glass, so the displays are more resistant to scratching and damage.

Paired with Apple's cheapest band options, the titanium Apple Watches start at $699 for the 42mm model and $749 for the 46mm model. All models include support for cellular connectivity.

Apple Watch Ultra in Titanium

The Apple Watch Ultra is Apple's most expensive Apple Watch option for those who are looking for a higher-end, premium watch.

The titanium casing of the ‌Apple Watch Ultra 3‌ has a unique brushed finish that's stain and fingerprint resistant. It comes in a Natural titanium finish or a satin Black finish, and it is worth noting that while the titanium Apple Watch Ultra is heavier than the 46mm titanium Series 11 option, users generally feel it is light and comfortable on the wrist because of the material and the size distribution.

The Apple Watch Ultra is priced starting at $799. It is ideal for those who need the more advanced durability and functionality for specialized activities like diving and hiking in remote areas where more advanced GPS can come in handy.

Apple Watch Nike

Designed in collaboration with Nike and aimed at runners, the Apple Watch Nike models are identical in every way to Apple's aluminum Apple Watch models. They can be purchased with special Nike-branded bands, though, including reflective Sport Loops in unique colors and Sport Bands with perforations for better ventilation.

Nike Apple Watches also have unique Nike watch faces and come pre-installed with the Nike Run Club app. Like aluminum Apple Watch models, Nike Apple Watch options start at $399.

Nike Apple Watch models are ideal for runners, fans of the Nike brand, or those who simply prefer the look of Nike bands.

Apple Watch Hermès

Created in collaboration with Hermès and aimed at those looking for a higher-end luxury watch, the Apple Watch Hermès models come in a silver titanium finish designed to match the stainless steel of previous generations and are functionally identical to Apple's standard titanium Series 11 models, but with high-end, expensive Hermès band options.

Like Nike Apple Watch models, Hermès Apple Watches feature unique Hermès watch faces that are not available on other Apple Watch options. All Hermès Apple Watches also come with a special Hermès Orange Sport Band.

Apple Watch Hermès models are priced starting at $1,249, and they are available in a silver titanium finish. Apple has also introduced an Apple Watch Hermès Ultra 3 starting at $1,399.

Band Choices

Apple's standard aluminum and titanium Apple Watch models can be paired with almost any of the bands that Apple sells through the Apple Watch Studio feature on Apple's website.

Once you're selected a model on the Apple Watch purchase page, click through the configuration steps until you reach the band section where you can choose from available rubber, textile, and stainless steel bands with any case pairing. Below is an overview of each band option that can be added to a standard watch:

• Solo Loop ($49) - Similar to the Sport Band, the Solo Loop features a slip-on design with no buckle or clasping mechanism. It's made from a stretchy rubber that can fit over the hand and then collapse down to fit the wrist. These bands come in nine sizes, and finding the right size can be tricky, so it's best to get fitted in an ‌Apple Store‌ if you can.
• Braided Solo Loop ($99) - The Braided Solo Loop is also designed without a buckle or clasp, and it is made from a stretchable recycled yarn interwoven with silicone threads so it can fit over the hand. As with the Solo Loop, getting the right fit can be challenging, so visiting an ‌Apple Store‌ is your best bet so you don't have to hassle with returns.
• Sport Band ($49) - Sport Bands are made from a flexible and lightweight fluoroelastomer that's designed for use when exercising or vigorous activity. These bands are waterproof and come in a range of colors.
• Sport Loop ($49) - Sport Loops are made from a fabric material and they're designed to be soft, breathable, and lightweight. They're fabric so if you get them wet they're going to feel damp, but they dry quickly. Sport Loops are also available in a range of colors.
• Nike Band ($49) - Sold with Nike Watches or standalone, Nike Bands are similar to Sport Bands but have a perforated design with holes for better breathability. There are also Nike Sport Loops in unique colors.
• Modern Buckle ($149) - While the Modern Buckle was previously made from leather, it now constructed of a microtwill material dubbed "FineWoven" by Apple and is limited to the smaller 41mm Apple Watch models. It features a two-piece magnetic buckle and it has the bulkiest fastening mechanism of Apple's watch options.
• Magnetic Link - Replacing the previous Leather Link style, the Magnetic Link is also made of FineWoven material with a magnetic clasp, and it comes in a range of muted colors.
• Link Bracelet - ($349 to $449) - The Link Bracelet, made from a stainless steel alloy, is Apple's most expensive band. It's designed to look like traditional metal watch bands and it comes in silver and space black.
• Alpine Loop - The Alpine Loop is two integrated layers constructed from a continuous weaving process that does not require stitching to ensure longtime durability. The top loops provide adjustability and an attachment point for the titanium fastener. It is designed for the Ultra, but compatible with other models.
• Trail Loop - The Trail Loop is Apple's thinnest band to date, modeled after the Sport Loop. It uses a lightweight woven textile material that is soft and flexible, and it has a pull tab to make size adjustments quick and easy. It is designed for the Ultra, but compatible with other models.
• Ocean Band - The Ocean Band is made for extreme water sports and recreational diving. It is crafted from a flexible fluoroelastomer that is designed to stretch, and it has an added long tail that can allow it to fit over a wetsuit. The band is equipped with a titanium buckle and it has a spring-loaded loop. It is designed for the Ultra, but compatible with other models.
• Milanese Loop - ($99) - The Milanese Loop is made from a flexible mesh material that wraps around the wrist. It's such a fine mesh that it's comfortable to wear, lightweight, and looks more professional than the casual Sport Loop and Sport Band options.
• Hermès (Pricing varies) - Along with Hermès Apple Watches, Apple sells a selection of canvas, woven, braided, and rubber Hermès bands on a standalone basis, all of which are designed by the fashion house.

All of Apple's bands can also be purchased separately, so you can get several bands for a single watch if desired and switch between them. Hermès and Nike bands are only available in a bundle when purchasing a Hermès or Nike Apple Watch and can't be paired with a standard casing, but they can be purchased separately.

All Hermès Apple Watch models ship with a Hermès band, while all Nike Apple Watch models ship with a Nike band. Current color options for each type of Apple Watch can be found on Apple's website.

Cellular vs. GPS-Only

Since the Apple Watch Series 3, Apple has offered both cellular models and less expensive GPS-only models that do not have cellular connectivity. The Apple Watch Series 11, SE 3, and Ultra 3 all support 5G connectivity in 2025. When 5G is not available, the devices use LTE.

With a cellular connection, the Apple Watch is untethered from the ‌iPhone‌ and does not require an ‌iPhone‌ or a known Wi-Fi network for an internet connection. This means that Maps, Phone, Messages, and more can all be used on the Apple Watch without an ‌iPhone‌.

With the dedicated App Store, the Apple Watch can be used almost entirely independently of an ‌iPhone‌, though an ‌iPhone‌ is still needed for some functions.

Cellular connectivity through a carrier also requires that an ‌iPhone‌ be on the cellular plan, so a cellular Apple Watch cannot be purchased and used without an ‌iPhone‌ unless it is configured via Apple Watch For Your Kids, which is intended for family members who do not use an ‌iPhone‌ and is managed through the family organizer's ‌iPhone‌.

Most cellular plans for the Apple Watch add a ~$10 monthly fee to your cellular phone bill. Cellular connectivity is the default in the higher-end Apple Watches, but aluminum 5G models are $100 more expensive than their GPS-only counterparts for Series 11 and $50 more expensive for SE 3.

If you're always going to use an Apple Watch with an ‌iPhone‌, there's probably no need for cellular connectivity, but if you'd like to leave the ‌iPhone‌ behind for activities like runs and hikes, the cellular feature is worth considering.

Apple Watches with 5G are available in many countries around the world, with a list available on Apple's website.

Pricing

A full comparison of the Apple Watch pricing in each finish with both 5G and GPS-only options is below, so you can see the cost differences at a glance. Note that these are the starting prices for each model, and the final price could vary based on band choice.

Apple Watch Series 11

• 42mm Aluminum Non-5G - $399
• 42mm Aluminum 5G - $499
• 46mm Aluminum Non-5G - $429
• 46mm Aluminum 5G - $529
• 42mm Titanium (5G only) - $699
• 46mm Titanium (5G only) - $749
• 42mm Nike Non-5G - $399
• 42mm Nike 5G - $499
• 46mm Nike Non-5G - $429
• 46mm Nike 5G - $529
• 42mm Hermès (5G only) - $1249
• 46mm Hermès (5G only) - $1299

Apple Watch SE 3

• 40mm Aluminum Non-5G - $249
• 40mm Aluminum 5G - $299
• 44mm Aluminum Non-5G - $279
• 44mm Aluminum 5G - $329

Apple Watch SE models are only available in aluminum so there are no options for stainless steel or titanium.

Apple Watch Ultra 3

There is only one Ultra model, priced starting at $799, although configuring it with a Titanium Milanese Loop band bumps the price up to $899. There's also an Apple Watch Hermès Ultra 3 priced at $1,399.

Which Apple Watch is Best For You?

If you want all of the latest bells and whistles for the best price, the aluminum Apple Watch Series 11 models or the Apple Watch Ultra is going to be your best bet. The aluminum Apple Watch is the Apple Watch that we recommend for most people given its rich feature set, its light weight, and its affordable price point. The Nike models, if you prefer that aesthetic, are identical to the aluminum Apple Watch models.

Those looking for a higher-end watch that's still affordable should check out the titanium models, while those who want the best Apple has to offer should take a look at the Apple Watch Ultra. If you want the extra durability and specialized functionality like Action button or siren, the Apple Watch Ultra is the device to choose.

Band choice and size is a personal preference. Sport Bands and Sport Loops are some of the most comfortable options and come in a range of colors that change seasonally, while Apple's higher-end bands offer a classier look, although many users have been critical of Apple's leather-replacement FineWoven material used in the Modern Buckle and Magnetic Link. The Solo Loop and Braided Solo Loop options are comfortable, but use caution if ordering online because sizing can be tricky.

The Alpine Loop, Trail Loop, and Ocean Band were new for the original Apple Watch Ultra in 2022 and are worth checking out, with the Alpine and Trail designed for comfort and the Ocean Band aimed at water use. The Milanese Loop for the Ultra aims to blend style with water resistance for use in any setting.

For those who just want a basic Apple Watch primarily for activity tracking and don't want to spend a whole lot of money for health features like ECG along with the faster chip and the always-on display, the ‌Apple Watch SE 3‌ offers an excellent value. Priced starting at just $249, the ‌Apple Watch SE 3‌ offers all of the same fitness functionality as the Series 11, and most of the same health features too.

For an in-depth overview of the features available in the Apple Watch and a closer look at the different models, make sure to check out our Series 11 Apple Watch roundup, our Apple Watch SE 3 roundup, and our Apple Watch Ultra 3 roundup.

Guide Feedback

Have a question about the Apple Watch, need to know more about a feature, or want to offer feedback on this Buyer's Guide? Send us an email here.