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I love my Apple Watch and have the tan line to prove it.
Apple just released the Apple Watch Series 10 and after a year of thoroughly using the Series 9, I’m excited to share a review of the new device.
When the tech giant releases the latest version of a popular device, a top question is, “Should I upgrade?” Or perhaps you’re considering the Apple Watch for the first time. Either way, I address both scenarios, discuss the updated features of the latest watch and make recommendations on whether to consider the latest device or previous models.
The major upgrades with the Series 10 include a thinner watch face, a brighter and bigger screen and clearer audio for calls. You can also listen to music, podcasts and other audio playbacks on the Series 10.
What: Apple Watch Series 10 Cost: Starting from $549 (same as the previous year’s Apple Watch Series 9) Where to buy: Apple | Amazon | Best Buy Date available: Sept. 20, 2024
As mentioned, I love the Apple Watch and recommend it for iPhone users. I like that it keeps track of my steps, heart rate and fitness data. I also like being able to quickly see emails, messages and other notifications without having to look at my phone. It’s water and sweatproof, so I rarely take it off. However, most Apple Watches can check off these uses.
The Series 10 is another fantastic watch by Apple and I would recommend it to people who are new to the device or those who have one that is a few years old, as the difference between the Series 9 and 10 isn’t huge (though the “size” is the main story of the newest watch).
All of the new features come without compromising battery life. The battery life is the same as the last few models and the 10 charges faster.
Size: As mentioned, the size of the Apple Watch 10 is the major difference between the newest model and its predecessors. The display is larger and the device is thinner.
Display area (and brightness) — The previous few models were available in 41mm and 45mm, while the 10 comes in 42mm and 46mm — which provides a nine and seven per cent increase in size, respectively. The 10’s display size is a much more significant difference when compared to the series 4, 5 and 6, which offers a 30 and 25 per cent screen increase. I can easily see that the 10 is larger than the 9 and appreciate the jump in size without having to go for the larger (and more expensive) option. The larger display makes it easier to navigate the watch. The keyboard is still small and I only use it if I shouldn’t be using the text dictation feature (like if I’m in an environment where it’s not appropriate to speak).
The 10’s display is brighter than previous models — when viewed at an angle (up to 40 per cent, according to Apple). I can’t speak to the specific percentage, but when doing a 9 and 10 side-by-side, I can perceive that the 10 is brighter.
Thinner/lighter — The 10 is thinner and lighter than the Series 7, 8 and 9. It’s almost a 10 per cent difference being a couple of grams lighter. I appreciate this upgrade because I wear the watch so often. It feels lighter, thinner and sleeker. It’s not a huge difference compared to the 9, but it’s a nice level-up in a less-is-more way.
Voice isolation: This is a big bump up compared to previous models. I only occasionally answer calls on my watch, but when I do I’m surprised that the other person can hear me so well. That other person is in for a treat since the audio on the Series 10 just got a lot clearer. The 10 uses voice isolation to reduce background noise including wind. I tried out this feature and appreciate the 10’s added clarity. If you’re often taking/making calls on your watch, this will be a significant enhancement.
Audio playback: You can now listen to music and podcasts on the newest watch. However, this will significantly reduce the battery life, getting approximately 10 minutes to the hour. So maybe it’s not time for a dance party courtesy of your watch music, but it’s useful in a pinch if you want to listen to something handsfree in the car or other scenarios.
Water companion: I didn’t test this feature but the Apple Watch 10 has a depth gauge for up to 6m. Similar to previous models, the 10 has a 50-meter water resistance rating. The latest model also has a temperature sensor, displaying the water temperature once submerged in water. For snorkelling enthusiasts, the 10 also supports the Oceanic+ app, which offers important and interesting data for underwater exploration.
Faster charging: You can now get up to 80 per cent battery in 30 minutes, versus 45 minutes from previous models. This can be useful for people who like to wear their watches at night.
The Apple Watch Series 10 is a beautiful device that I look forward to wearing most of the time. It’s sleek, comfortable and keeps me accountable to my fitness and health goals. Comparing the series 9 and 10, it’s not a huge leap forward.
If you have a Series 9 that is working well, the only scenario where I may recommend the upgrade is if you love to swim and want to take advantage of the water companion features. Aside from that, if you have the 9, the only other reason to get the 10 is if you like to have the latest and shiniest from Apple (which is me when it comes to the iPhone).
If you have the Series 6 or earlier, yes, get the newest watch. The display size is a major upgrade and should make the Apple Watch experience more enjoyable.
My recommendation gets a bit murkier if you have the Series 7 or 8. For me, it would depend on the state of my current watch. If my current device was working well, I may skip the upgrade. However, if there are battery issues or scratches on the screen, I’d go for gold (well, I’d like to go for gold, but realistically, rose gold, as the gold is only available in titanium which starts at $999 versus the rose gold which is $549).
What: Apple Watch Series 10 Cost: Starting from $549 (same as the previous year’s Apple Watch Series 9) Where to buy: Apple | Amazon | Best Buy Date available: Sept. 20, 2024
Size: Available in 42mm or 46mm Processor: S10 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor Battery: Up to 18 hours, fast charging allows you to charge up to 80 per cent in around 30 minutes Finishes: Aluminum available in jet black, rose gold and silver Titanium available in slate, gold and natural titanium Titanium available in silver (Apple Watch Hermès only) Sensors: Water temperature sensor, blood oxygen sensor, electrical heart sensor (ECG app), third-generation optical heart sensor, temperature sensor, Crash Detection, GPS, compass, ambient light sensor and more
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