Apple Watch Buying Guide: Difference between Apple Watch Models

When buying an Apple Watch, it’s easy to get confused with all these different models out there. These watches are different in design, size and are available in 25 different variations (without counting the variations of sizes). So, if you are also confused and not sure which one would be the perfect fit for you, you are at the right place. This guide will help you to understand the difference between these models, their features and whether it will be right for you or not.

What are the difference in specs?

This is one of the places where it’s easy to get confused with all the different models and price range. However, it might be surprising to hear that there is almost no difference in specs no matter what model you are buying. There are three different models to choose from: Apple Watch Sport, Apple Watch and Apple Watch Edition. The price range might make you think otherwise but the difference is only in the design, nothing else. All the watches include same software and same storage size which is 8GB. Apple did announce that the 42mm version offers better battery life compared to the 38mm version because of its bigger battery, but it’s not really noticeable.

The Apple Watch and Watch Edition features sapphire glass whereas the Sport Edition features I-on X glass. Although the Sport Edition costs less than the other editions, the I-on X display works better than the sapphire display as it doesn’t reflect much. You will notice too much reflection in the sapphire glass when looking at the display outside. Other than these differences, there are no differences.

Which size to go for?

One of the complaints about the existing smartwatches is that they don’t offer different sizes for people. If you have small wrists, all the existing smartwatches might look too big on your hand. That’s why Apple decided to release smartwatches in two different sizes, 38mm and 42mm. Just like the iPhone 6 Plus and iPhone 6, users get to choose a small 38mm version which costs less than the 42mm version. Both of them features the same thickness which is 10.5mm. It should also work fine whether you decide to wear it on your left hand or right hand.

How much storage do you get inside these watches?

As mentioned earlier, all the models offer 8GB of built-in storage. However, users don’t get to use all of it. You get only 75MB for storing photos and 2GB for storing all your music. The remaining 6GB is mostly used for OS, other apps and their caches. The watch doesn’t include any headphone port so users have to connect a Bluetooth headphone to listen to all their stored music.

What are the difference in material for different watches?

The Apple Watch Sport, which is the cheapest among all the other watches is made from anodized aluminum. If you like the stainless steel look, there is the Apple Watch. However, the most hyped version is the Apple Watch Edition which features 18-carot gold and is “harder than standard gold” according to Apple.

If you are worried about durability, it will be a good idea to go with the Apple Watch Sport. Its Ion-X display is designed to handle rough situations and also weighs less. All the models are IPX7 certified for water resistance. However, it will be a good idea to avoid taking the watch with you when going to swimming somewhere.

How long can does it take to run out of battery?

The Apple Watch is expected to give users about 18 hours of battery life once you charge it completely. This battery life includes using app for 45 minutes, receiving 90 notifications, checking the watch 90 times and listening to music via Bluetooth for 30 minutes. Moreover, there is also a Power Reserve mode which will be enabled when the watch is about to run out of battery. When the Power Reserve mode is enabled, it will only work as a normal watch and is expected to last for about 72 hours. It takes the watch about 2.5 hours to charge 100%.

Users will be able to use the exercise focused apps and Apple Pay even if the associated iPhone device is not nearby or switched off.

Price of the Apple Watch

As you have already learned, there are three different versions and two different sizes and the price varies a lot. The Apple Watch Sport price starts from 1340 AED, the Apple Watch costs about 1695 AED while the Apple Watch Edition is available for a whopping 40414 AED.

Do I need to have an iPhone to use the Apple Watch?

The Apple Watch works only with iPhones and is compatible with iPhone 5, iPhone 5C, iPhone 5S, iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus at the moment.