Best Apple Watch for 2026

All Apple Watches share the same basic DNA: a square screen with rounded edges, a rotating crown, interchangeable bands and Apple WatchOS with Siri integration.

The differences are in the details with factors like advanced health sensors, durability, battery life, and screen size. Oh, and the price.

Budget: If you’re on a budget and want the best deal, it may be worth waiting for big discount days like Black Friday, when most retailers, including Apple, offer sales or cash back incentives on gift cards. Another way to reduce costs is to purchase a refurbished Apple Watch directly from Apple. They have the same one-year warranty as the new models, AppleCare eligibility, and a 14-day returns window.

Design: There are many ways to personalize your Apple Watch, including different finishes and watch bands. But dressing up your Apple Watch isn’t always cheap, and some of the more premium design options, like the titanium finish and stainless steel band, can increase the base price by $600. You can also customize your screen size; older models or the SE 3 will have the smallest option (40mm) while the Apple Watch Ultra 3 offers the largest screen (49mm).

Battery: Battery life continues to be a major issue for Apple Watch users, with no models surpassing the three-day mark like some Android models. And while Apple has made progress in this category, it’s best to lower your expectations by accepting that you’ll probably get about 24 to 30 hours of use from a single charge (with the always-on display) on most models. If that’s a deciding factor, you’ll have to splurge on the Apple Watch Ultra 2, which is the only model that lasts up to 48 hours (or 72 hours in battery saver mode).

Wi-Fi only or cellular: Most users will find the Wi-Fi version sufficient. It tracks workouts and makes mobile payments phone-agnostic, but needs to be within range of your iPhone to access some smart features like notifications, messaging, and calls. The cellular and Wi-Fi models are only worth it ($100 more) if you plan to ditch your iPhone regularly and need the watch to be a standalone device and have access to all the features. And it’s your only option if you buy the Ultra 2 because it doesn’t offer a Wi-Fi only option.