Comparison of connected watches 2020: which Apple Watch to buy for what budget?

To know which Apple Watch to buy, you must first know all the models still on sale. In reality, there are actually only three, which seriously narrows the range of possibilities. Indeed, the manufacturer only leaves the possibility of choosing between the Series 6, the Apple Watch SE and the oldest of all: the Apple Watch Series 3. And it must be said that they are in reality very different. from each other!

Perfection with Apple Watch Series 6

Let's start with the best of all Apple Watches: the Series 6. As its name suggests, this is the sixth high-end edition of the connected watch from Cupertino. It is soldfrom 429 euros, which also makes it the most expensive of all Apple Watches. But as it is more recent, it is also equipped with better components making it particularly efficient compared to other versions. Starting with hislatest processor, the Apple S6, coupled with a gigabyte of RAM, all powering the proprietary watchOS 7 software.

Unlike the Apple Watch Series 3 and Apple Watch SE, the Apple Watch Series 6 has ablood oximeterand an application to recordECG. It is also the only one to be entitled to a Retina screen which remains on permanently. Another advantage ofl’Apple Watch Series 6if you buy it: there is a stainless steel edition and another intitanium. Two materials impossible to find on the Series 3 and the Apple Watch SE. There are also a lot more colors, with ten different shades to choose from in total. Finally, it is the only Apple Watch to have an electrical heart rate sensor.

Choosing the most affordable Apple Watch SE

Is the Apple Watch Series 6 too expensive for you? No problem ! Apple has thought of everything and at the same time unveiled the Apple Watch SE, which is also based on the chassis of the Apple Watch Series 5. But not only that, since it also uses the internal components, with aSiP S5 bicoeur, GPS, compass, always-on altimeter, second-generation speaker and microphone. A serious alternative therefore, which does not skimp on means despite its much more accessible price than the Series 6.

Buying the Apple Watch SE will still mean that you will have to do without some customization options. However, as this Apple Watch was released at the same time as the Series 6, it will probably be supported for that long, especially since it also runs watchOS 7. The battery, for its part, lastseighteen in a rowaccording to the manufacturer: we remain average, but it is not better either. In addition, you should know that the U1 (ultra wideband UWB) chip is only included in the Apple Watch Series 6, and not in the Apple Watch SE. In short, we can therefore consider the Watch SE as a mid-range model which remains honorable without falling into the discount category. And thisfrom 299 euros.

Apple Watch Series 3: the unbeatable

But for eighty euros less, then you can treat yourself to the Apple Watch Series 3. What advantage? Quite simply enjoying a high-end Apple Watch, but at a lower cost. Because when it was released a few years earlier, the Apple Watch Series 3 was the best in its family across all generations. It took the Series 4, then the Series 5 and finally the Series 6 to take away this title, but it is still sold by Applefrom 219 euros!

Unfortunately,no mobile networkon the program with the Series 3. It connects to the iPhone via Bluetooth and allows you to relay its notifications, but that stops there. The size is not the same either: this time,the screen is smaller with a 38 or 42 mm casedepending on the version chosen. This also results in wider borders. Please also note that the Apple Watch Series 3 does not detect falls and that it does notno compass: watch out for the clumsy people who make hiking their favorite weekend activity! Finally, let's talk about the colors of the Series 3: there are only two; space gray or silver.

Opt for a special edition

Are the classic Apple Watches a little too classic for your taste? No worries, Apple has thought of everything there too. Indeed, the company of Steve Jobs and Tim Cook has created special editions of its connected watch in partnership with major brands in the fashion world. Because it must be said, this is more of a fashion accessory than a real essential connected object: its instantly recognizable design and its rather high price prove it. But then, what are thecollaborationscurrently offered for Apple Watches?

First, there's the Apple Watch editionHermes. Its price can reach several thousand euros depending on the bracelets chosen, but recalls the elegant luxury of the leather goods firm which has a storefront in many French cities. Add to this the Apple WatchNike, whose design is on the other hand more sport-oriented, and you get the most original duo of all the versions of Apple Watch available. But as with the Hermès watch, you will have to spend more here, with the price climbing without worry to more than 800 euros each.

What are older Apple Watch models worth?

Now that we've taken the time to sift through all the Apple Watch models still released by Apple, let's take a look at those that are no longer manufactured. These are, in fact, all the editions preceding the Series 6 (except of course the Series 3 which is still on sale). Starting with the always excellentApple Watch Series 5, which is entitled to an architecture in many points similar to that of the Apple Watch SE. Format, screen, processor, software: Apple has in fact relied on almost the same technical sheet, which means that the Series 5 remains an excellent general public option.

Just before Series 5, we also find theSeries 4. Released in September 2018, it weighs a little heavier than the models that succeeded it, just 48 grams. However, its options in terms of bracelet are just as substantial and versions can be found at a lower cost from many retailers. It is certainly no longer produced by Apple directly, but that is what makes it more interesting from a budget point of view. What more could you ask for?

Three tips for choosing the right Apple Watch

So here we are at the end of this comparison of the different Apple Watches. It is thereforethe Apple Watch Series 6 winshands down in our ranking. Newer and faster, it nevertheless remains less expensive.

This is why we advise you above all to consult the performance/price ratio of each Apple watch that catches your eye. This is where the biggest differences come into play! Additionally, if you opt for a Series 3 or Apple Watch SE, check that your daily activity is compatible with the sensors that are missing on these devices.

The third and final factor when choosing which Apple Watch to buy, in addition to the design, is of course thecompatibility. Therefore, some are not compatible with all headed mobiles. As for Android devices, it goes without saying that this is not the subject.