Before deciding which smartwatch to buy, check out the differences between them. Find out more!
The Apple Watch is a worthwhile investment, but it's important to do some research beforehand because of its high price tag. The cheapest models on the market can start at R$2,000, depending on the device. However, some models that Apple no longer produces can cost less than that, but they don't have features or updates.
That said, how do you choose the right smartwatch for you? With the right information, the task can be much easier. Read on to find out more.
Important information
Before you start shopping for your Apple Watch, it’s important to remember that a Watch can only be set up with an iPhone. You’re free to use it as long as you have always-on Wi-Fi or buy a model with 4G or 5G connectivity. Before you buy a Watch, there are a few basic questions you need to answer.
Do you want to swim with your watch?
All second-generation Apple Watches are water resistant to 50 meters. That doesn't mean it's fully scuba-ready, but it can be used for swimming. The company doesn't recommend using the watch for activities that involve speed or depth. That said, if you plan on swimming with a watch to track your activity, you'll want to buy a watch from the 2nd generation onwards. However, if you plan on using it for more extreme uses, the Ultra is water resistant to 100 meters and is recommended for submersion of up to 40 meters.
Is the aim to run a marathon?
All Apple Watches are suitable for running tracking. They have the necessary features for this type of activity. You can track your steps and your pace per kilometer. You can also listen to music without needing your phone. The only feature that can make a difference and is only available on Apple Watch Series 6 and later (not on the SE) is SpO2. The tool is used to track blood oxygen levels during exercise.
Do you use it for the gym?
There are also no significant differences between Apple Watch models for exercise tracking. Your activity is recorded through the Workout app, which gives you credit, so you know how many calories you’ve eaten and how much you’ve moved (e.g., step counter). You can see a list of workouts your Apple Watch can track on Apple’s website . In the Workout app, you can also select “Other” to record heart rate and movement for activities not listed.
Are you going to use it to monitor your health?
You can already find more differences between the models here. For example, the blood oxygen sensor is only available on the Series 6 and Ultra models. The 40mm Apple Watch SE does not monitor it. Apple replaced the electronic heart sensor in the Series 6 and carried it over to the 3rd generation. However, the electrocardiogram (ECG) is available from the Series 4 onwards and is also not present in the SE model. This means that blood oxygenation and ECG are not available on the lower-end models. Other health resource Only available on some models is the temperature sensor. However, even on the Seires 8 and Ultra, which are the only ones with this technology, it is a feature that has not yet been fully improved.
Do you want the cheapest?
For those looking to get the cheapest Apple Watch currently on sale, there's the first-generation Apple Watch SE. Its successor is also a great option, but it's not quite as developed to justify the nearly R$1,000 investment. But if you can afford to spend a little more money, the second-generation SE will last you longer. So it's up to you to decide whether you can afford to invest or not.
