Welcome to CALIBRE, your trusted source for all things horological. As purveyors of luxury watches, we are committed to providing expert insights and unrivalled expertise to help you make informed decisions when it comes to timepieces. In this article, we delve into the realm of smartwatches, specifically focusing on the iconic Apple Watch.
Join us as we explore the question that many watch enthusiasts ponder: Are Apple Watches worth it?
With its cutting-edge technology and sleek design, the Apple Watch has become a prominent contender in the world of horology. Boasting an impressive array of features and functionalities, this smart timepiece has captured the attention of both tech aficionados and fashion-forward individuals alike. However, as a luxury watch enthusiast, you may find yourself questioning the true value of an Apple Watch and how it stacks up against traditional timepieces.
Throughout this blog, we will dissect the key aspects that contribute to the worthiness of Apple Watches. We will address concerns regarding their longevity, durability, and whether they truly belong in the realm of luxury timekeeping. Moreover, we will provide you with valuable insights that go beyond mere specifications, giving you a comprehensive understanding of Apple’s horological offering.
Are Apple Watches Good?
Overall, if smartwatches are your thing, Apple Watches are very good. The Apple Watch has undeniably made its mark with its sleek design and innovative features, capturing the attention of fashion-forward individuals and tech-savvy users. The sleek Apple Watch integration into the Apple ecosystem has made it a popular product, and with the rapid development of Apple tech each year, we can only see the Apple Watch becoming more and more prominent.
However, as purveyors of luxury watches, we understand the importance of critically examining the true value of a timepiece.
Interestingly, the debate on Apple Watches is one of the more engaging watch arguments, due to the fact it also crosses over into the world of technology enthusiasts! There are tonnes of smartwatches on the market now, and this makes the debate evolve into not only just comparing Apple Watches to traditional pieces, but also its competitors, such as the Tag Heuer Connected and the endless amount of awesome Garmin watches.
It would be most beneficial to take a look at key features of Apple Watches and decide how they weigh up against smartwatch competitors.
The Best Features of Apple Watches
Advanced Technology
Apple Watches are equipped with cutting-edge technology that allows you to do much more than just tell time. With features like health and fitness tracking, heart rate monitoring, GPS functionality, and a wide range of apps, these smartwatches offer an extensive array of functionalities that can greatly enhance your daily life.
User Experience
If you are already an Apple user with devices like iPhone, iPad, or Mac, the seamless integration between these devices and the Apple Watch is a significant advantage. You can effortlessly sync and access your notifications, messages, calls, and apps right from your wrist, creating a seamless and convenient user experience.
Stylish Design
Apple Watches boast a sleek and modern design that appeals to fashion-conscious individuals. They come in various finishes, materials, and interchangeable bands, allowing you to customise the look and feel of your watch to match your personal style.
Health and Fitness Tracking
One of the standout features of Apple Watches is their robust health and fitness tracking capabilities. These watches can monitor your heart rate, track your workouts, measure your steps, and even provide insights into your sleep patterns. They can act as a personal fitness companion, motivating you to stay active and achieve your health goals.
Wide Range of Apps
The Apple Watch has a vast app ecosystem, offering a multitude of applications specifically designed for the watch’s smaller screen. From productivity tools to weather updates, music streaming, and even mobile payments, the availability of diverse apps enhances the functionality and versatility of the Apple Watch.
Regular Software Updates
Apple is known for its commitment to providing regular software updates, including new features and enhancements, for its devices. Apple Watches benefit from these updates, ensuring that you stay up-to-date with the latest advancements and improvements in functionality and security.
How Long Do Apple Watches Last?
On average, Apple Watches are designed to last for approximately three to four years.
It’s important to note that the battery life of an Apple Watch will naturally degrade over time, and you may notice a reduction in its capacity to hold a charge after a few years. Additionally, as new software updates are released, older Apple Watch models may eventually reach a point where they are no longer compatible with the latest operating system versions, limiting their functionality and access to certain features.
To ensure the longevity of your Apple Watch, it is advisable to follow best practices for device maintenance. This includes avoiding exposure to excessive moisture, extreme temperatures, or impact, and regularly updating the watch’s software to benefit from the latest optimisations and security enhancements.
While Apple Watches are generally built to withstand everyday wear and tear, it’s worth noting that physical damage or accidents can significantly impact their lifespan. Proper care, such as using screen protectors or protective cases, can help minimise the risk of scratches or other damage.
Ultimately, the longevity of an Apple Watch also depends on your personal preferences and requirements. Some individuals may choose to upgrade to newer models sooner to take advantage of the latest features and improvements, while others may opt to continue using their existing Apple Watch as long as it meets their needs.
It’s worth mentioning that Apple offers a limited warranty and AppleCare+ protection plans that can provide additional coverage and support for hardware issues. These options can be considered if you want added peace of mind and support for your Apple Watch beyond the standard warranty period.
Is it Worth Buying the Latest Apple Watch Series?
At some point, the previous models of Apple Watch start to become outdated. With Series 8 being the current latest (2023), it’s worth noting its key features. The key features of the Series 8 Apple Watch include advanced health monitoring, including improved heart rate tracking, blood oxygen level measurement, and sleep tracking. With an updated processor, the power and efficiency of the watch result in faster app launches and a smoother overall user experience.
The Series 8’s enhanced display offers better brightness, contrast, and resolution for improved visibility and legibility, especially in outdoor settings, whilst improved battery life allows for extended usage between charges.
Overall, the Series 8 has a super attractive, and pretty out-there design for a smartwatch, and looks quite a bit different from the earlier series’.
Is it Worth Buying an Older Apple Watch?
Deciding whether it’s worth buying an older Apple Watch depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. Some factors to consider when evaluating the value of purchasing an older model include the cost. Older models will tend to be far more affordable compared to the latest releases. You will also have to bear in mind if there are essential features you don’t want to miss out on, that are only available with newer series’. The final consideration of whether you should buy an older Apple Watch is whether you are a fan of the design. The older models may look slightly outdated to some users. However, most of the previous series are pretty damn slick too.
Ultimately, the decision to buy an older Apple Watch depends on your priorities, budget, and willingness to compromise on the latest features. Carefully assess your needs and weigh the available options to determine if an older model offers the value and functionality you seek in a smartwatch.
Apple Watches Compared to Garmin Smartwatches
When comparing Apple Watches to Garmin smartwatches, several factors come into play. Let’s explore the key aspects to consider in this comparison:
Ecosystem and Integration:
- Apple Watches seamlessly integrate with the Apple ecosystem, offering a seamless connection to iPhones, iPads, and Macs. This allows for easy access to notifications, calls, messages, and apps across devices.
- Garmin smartwatches, on the other hand, are more compatible with a wide range of smartphones, including both Android and iOS devices. While they may not offer the same level of integration as Apple Watches, they still provide essential functionalities and connectivity.
Fitness and Health Tracking:
- Both Apple Watches and Garmin smartwatches excel in fitness and health tracking features. However, Garmin is often regarded as more focused on providing comprehensive fitness tracking options, including advanced metrics for running, cycling, swimming, and other activities.
- Apple Watches offer a strong fitness tracking foundation and integrate well with the Apple Health ecosystem. They also feature heart rate monitoring, activity rings, and workout tracking, while newer models offer additional health-focused features like ECG and blood oxygen level measurement.
App Ecosystem:
- Apple Watches have a robust and extensive app ecosystem, with a wide range of apps available for various purposes, including fitness, productivity, entertainment, and more. The App Store offers a vast selection of apps designed specifically for the Apple Watch.
- Garmin smartwatches have a dedicated app store as well, although the selection might be more limited compared to the Apple Watch. However, Garmin excels in providing specialised apps and widgets specifically tailored for fitness and outdoor activities.
Battery Life:
- Garmin smartwatches generally have longer battery life compared to Apple Watches, especially when using GPS tracking or engaging in outdoor activities. Garmin models can typically last several days or even weeks on a single charge, depending on usage.
- Apple Watches, while offering a full day of battery life, may require daily charging, especially with more intensive usage or when using features like GPS tracking.
Design and Style:
- Apple Watches are known for sleek and stylish design, often considered more fashion-forward. They offer a variety of finishes, bands, and customisation options to match personal preferences.
- Garmin smartwatches have a more sporty and rugged design, with a focus on durability and functionality, particularly for outdoor and fitness enthusiasts.
Apple Watches Compared to Samsung Smartwatches
When comparing Samsung smartwatches to the Apple Watch, there are a number of areas where each watch excels over the other:
Ecosystem and Integration:
- Apple Watches seamlessly integrate with the Apple ecosystem, offering a seamless connection to iPhones, iPads, and Macs. This allows for easy access to notifications, calls, messages, and apps across devices. The tight integration ensures a cohesive user experience.
- Samsung smartwatches are designed to work best with Samsung Galaxy smartphones and tablets, running on the Tizen operating system. They offer good integration within the Samsung ecosystem, enabling features like call handling, messaging, and app compatibility. However, the integration might not be as extensive as with Apple Watches.
Fitness and Health Tracking:
- Both Apple Watches and Samsung smartwatches provide robust fitness and health tracking features. They offer heart rate monitoring, activity tracking, workout modes, and sleep tracking.
App Ecosystem:
- Apple Watches have a well-established and extensive app ecosystem through the App Store. Users can choose from a wide range of apps, including fitness, productivity, entertainment, and more. The availability and diversity of apps are strong points for Apple Watches.
- Samsung smartwatches utilise the Galaxy Store, which offers a decent selection of apps, including popular ones like Spotify and Strava. While the app selection may not be as vast as on Apple Watches, Samsung continues to expand its app offerings.
Operating System:
- Apple Watches run on watchOS, a dedicated operating system designed specifically for Apple’s smartwatches. This enables tight integration with iOS devices and ensures optimised performance and compatibility.
- Samsung smartwatches run on the Tizen operating system, which provides a user-friendly interface and a smooth experience. While Tizen may not have the same level of integration with other platforms as watchOS, it offers a good balance of functionality and performance.
Design and Style:
- There is no doubt that Apple Watches have a sleek and stylish design, often considered more fashionable than some other watches on the market.
- Samsung smartwatches also have a sleek design, with options for different watch faces and interchangeable bands. They offer a range of styles, including sporty and elegant options.
Apple Watches Compared to Fitbits
Apple Watches or Fitbits, which areas are they better in than the other?
Ecosystem and Integration:
- Apple Watches’ simple integration allows for easy access to notifications, calls, messages, and apps across devices. The tight integration ensures a cohesive user experience.
- Fitbits are more platform-agnostic and can be used with both iOS and Android devices. While they don’t offer the same level of ecosystem integration as Apple Watches, they still provide essential features like call and message notifications.
Fitness and Health Tracking:
- Fitbits are renowned for their focus on fitness and health tracking. They offer a wide range of features for activity tracking, such as step counting, distance tracking, calorie monitoring, and automatic exercise recognition.
- Apple Watches also provide comprehensive fitness tracking capabilities, including activity rings, heart rate monitoring, built-in GPS for outdoor workouts, and a wide array of workout modes. Additionally, Apple Watches offer advanced health features like ECG and blood oxygen level measurement, which may not be available on all Fitbit models.
App Ecosystem:
- Apple Watches have a vast app ecosystem through the App Store, providing a wide range of apps for various purposes, including fitness, productivity, entertainment, and more. Users have access to a plethora of third-party apps, allowing for a highly customisable experience.
- Fitbits have a dedicated app store called the Fitbit App Gallery, which offers a selection of apps and clock faces. While the Fitbit app ecosystem may not be as extensive as the App Store, it still provides access to essential fitness and health-related apps.
Design and Style:
- Apple Watches are known for their contemporary aesthetic, offering a range of finishes, bands, and customisation options.
- Fitbits typically have a more sporty and minimalist design, focusing on functionality and comfort.
Battery Life:
- Fitbits generally have longer battery life compared to Apple Watches. Fitbit models can typically last several days or even up to a week on a single charge, depending on usage. This longer battery life is advantageous for continuous activity and sleep tracking.
- Apple Watches usually require daily charging, especially with more intensive usage or when using features like GPS tracking. While newer models have improved battery life, they still need to be charged regularly.
Other Interesting Watch Reviews and Guides
- Can you use a Stolen Apple Watch?
- Best Luxury Watches for Teenagers
- Comprehensive Watch Buying Guide
- Complete Guide to Smartwatches
- The Owner of Rolex
FAQ
Limited battery life can require daily charging. It has a higher price compared to some competitors. It heavily relies on being paired with an iPhone, limiting compatibility with other smartphone brands. Customisation options are somewhat limited compared to alternative smartwatches. The small screen size may not be ideal for everyone, especially those with visual impairments. Some users may find the learning curve for navigating the interface and accessing features slightly steep, particularly if they are not familiar with Apple’s ecosystem.
The Apple Watch offers a more comprehensive smartwatch experience with advanced health features, a vast app ecosystem, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. Fitbit, on the other hand, excels in fitness tracking, providing accurate data and longer battery life. Fitbit is often favored by fitness enthusiasts seeking a dedicated fitness tracker. Ultimately, if you prioritise a wide range of smartwatch features and ecosystem integration, the Apple Watch may be the better choice. However, if you primarily focus on fitness tracking and longer battery life, Fitbit may be a better fit.
If you don’t exercise and are not interested in the fitness tracking features, purchasing an Apple Watch may not be necessary. The Apple Watch offers a wide range of functionalities, including health tracking, notifications, calls, messaging, apps, and more, but many of its standout features are centred around fitness and activity monitoring. However, if you appreciate the convenience of having quick access to notifications, the ability to make and receive calls, control music, use apps, and enjoy the seamless integration with other Apple devices, an Apple Watch can still be a valuable companion for your everyday tasks and digital lifestyle.
