Apple Watch Series 9 vs. SE 2nd generation: Which watch is better?

Today I’m comparing the Apple Watch Series 9 to the second-generation Apple Watch SE and will find out which device is better for a frugal consumer. As someone who has owned both wearables, I know their pros and cons and think one is better overall for consumers than the other. However, both are good at what they do and both can be an excellent option depending on what you’re looking for. Read on to find out which is the best choice for your wrist and your wallet.

Apple Watch SE second generation: What you should know

Considering that the SE is meant to be a device that is affordable for the consumer’s wallet, the second-generation Apple Watch SE still offers powerful features. However, many now consider the hardware to be outdated. The second-generation SE comes with the S8 SiP (System in Package), which means it is already a bit slower compared to the S9 SiP on the Series 9. So, right out of the box, the Apple Watch SE will lag behind in terms of hardware. However, both have a 64-bit dual-core processor.

When it comes to wearables, I don’t think it’s a big deal that they don’t have the latest and greatest hardware: it’s all about the features, right? Thankfully, the second-gen SE still offers plenty of them, although you do have to give up some things that could be a big deal.

The second-generation SE still has a lot to offer: it’s packed with fall detection, accident detection, heart monitoring, emergency SOS, cycle tracking, and more. However, there are a few things you’ll miss out on if you choose the SE over the Series 9. You should also keep in mind that since the Apple Watch SE is a bit older than the Series 9, it may not receive watchOS updates until the Series 9. Keep these things in mind as we move on to the next section.

Apple Watch Series 9: Big performance in a small package

Look, the Series 9 will simply be an improvement over the second-generation SE. Not only do you get an always-on display with up to 2000 nits (compared to 1000 on the SE), so a brighter screen, but you also get access to double-tap gestures, a faster on-device Siri that includes accessible health data, an ECG app, longer battery life in low power mode, and access to fast charging.

Given the number of features you’ll miss out on if you opt for the SE over the Series 9, you might want to ask yourself how much you really need it. Keep in mind that while the Series 9 has more features, they still have a lot in common. Each wearable offers GPS and cellular options, 18 hours of battery life, and is water resistant up to 50 meters. Both also have emergency features like emergency SOS and fall and drop detection.

With that in mind, it’s really a question of how much you want the Series 9’s features. If you feel like you can live without the always-on display, double-tap, and more, it might be worth saving the money and opting for the Apple Watch SE. However, as someone who recently had to upgrade from the SE to the Series 9, I can tell you that these features actually make a world of difference between the two devices.

But of course it’s always about money.

Apple Watch SE VS Series 9: Which is better price-wise?

As with most things, price will be a major factor in deciding which device to buy. The Apple Watch SE starts at $249 with GPS and $299 with GPS and cellular, while the Apple Watch Series 9 starts at $399 with GPS and $499 with GPS and cellular. Both also offer different size options, with the Series 9 coming in 41mm or 45mm and the SE in 40mm and 44mm options. Expect the larger models to cost a bit more.

Note that these prices are listed on the official Apple website, so with a little research you can certainly find bargains. A quick Google search showed the SE is available for around $150 and the Series 9 for around $300, but these are likely the base options. Regardless of what you choose, I’d recommend looking for a deal before buying directly from Apple.

What about the Apple Watch Series 10?

While little is currently known about the Apple Watch Series 10, it’s worth remembering that Apple will likely launch it later this year. While I won’t go as far as a full comparison of the Series 9 vs. Series 10, this is certainly worth a purchasing decision factor. While little is known, consumers can expect a better screen, battery, and SiP on the 10 than the 9.

It’s also worth noting that the second-generation Apple Watch SE came out alongside the Series 8, and Apple didn’t release a third-generation SE alongside the Series 9. It’s possible the company will release a third-generation SE this year, which could sway some consumers toward the newest devices. Considering that new Apple hardware usually comes out in the fall, this is definitely something worth considering.

So, what should you get?

However, if you really don’t care about the features, or you’re simply buying a new watch for a relative or child who doesn’t care about those things, the second-generation Apple Watch SE is still a great buy. I owned an SE for years and absolutely loved it. For the money, I’d say it’s one of the best watches on the market, dollar for dollar, especially if you can find a deal on it.

Either way, you’ll get a good device no matter which one you choose. However, the Series 9 will have that extra pep without which some people simply cannot live.

Ultimately, it is a question of what you want from a portable device, what you want in a portable device and how much you want to spend. Considering the device can last for years, it may be worth spending the extra money up front.

You may also want to know whether it is worth switching from watchOS 10 to watchOS 11.