Which Apple Watch to buy: comparison of characteristics of current models. What are the differences between Apple Watch different models?

Hi all! How good it was before... there is one iPhone model - you choose a color and buy it. There is one Apple Watch model - I chose the size, color, strap... bought it. Now the range of gadgets from the company from Cupertino has grown greatly, and at the same time, if we talk about watches, they are not so different. It is absolutely unclear what to choose.

In this article we will not analyze case materials, colors, straps, individual models that differ only in appearance and pre-installed software (such as the Apple Watch Nike+), since the company is constantly adding/removing various options (a lot has changed) and keep track of everything this is simply impossible.

Therefore, let's focus exclusively on the main differences between Apple Watch of different generations.

Well, anyone who wants to look at the current models and choose a strap can do this on the official website.

All. The introduction has been delayed - it's time to start. Let's go!

What's the difference between Apple Watch Series 1 and Series 2?

I decided to summarize all the main characteristics in one table, here they are:

For those who are too lazy to study, I will highlight the most important points of difference between Series 2 and Series 1:

1. Screen brightness. In the 2nd generation Apple Watch, the screen became twice as bright - 1000 nits versus 450 in Series 1. The display resolution did not change.
2. Water protection. Series 2 can be submerged in water up to 50 meters deep and nothing will happen to it. The very first model could only withstand splashes.
3. Dual core processor. Everything should work even faster!
4. GPS. Apple has equipped the second Watch with a GPS module - now you can track the distance traveled directly on the watch.
5. Slight increase in battery capacity. Most likely, this is due to the advent of GPS. It consumes some additional energy, and in order for the second generation of watches to work no less than the previous one, the battery had to be slightly larger.

As you can see, on the one hand, the changes are not very significant. On the other hand... in my opinion, water protection and GPS are very useful things that perfectly complement the image of a sports watch.

What is the difference between Apple Watch Series 2 and Series 3?

Most recently, Apple presented the 3rd generation watch - let's take a look at what the company has been working on for the whole year and what has changed since the Watch Series 2?

This time we will do without a comparison table, because Apple in the 3rd generation of its watches also added a model with a built-in SIM card, which means we have to compare as many as 6 “different” devices! Considering the fact that the dimensions have remained virtually unchanged (a couple of millimeters does not count), we will focus exclusively on the most important differences between Series 3 and Series 2.

So, what's new in Watch 2017?

Nothing else has changed - these are the same good Apple Watch Series 2. With water protection, GPS, a promised operating time of 18 hours (with mixed use), etc.

So which Watch should you choose - first, second or third generation?

Actually, after all these comparisons, this is the most important question. Considering the fact that Apple releases new models approximately once a year, now we will find out what watch to buy in 2017-2018?

It would seem that now we should have a choice of Series 1, 2 and 3. But the company makes money, so after the release of the 3rd generation, it left only Apple Watch 1 and 3 on sale. The second model was discontinued. This means that we will choose between the first and third versions:

1. The Series 1 is worth buying if you want the watch as a companion to your iPhone and nothing else. Receive notifications, watch the time, control music - the first generation of Watch does an excellent job with all these and many other functions.
2. Series 3 is more “about sports”. GPS, full moisture protection, barometric altimeter are useful assistants during training.

And finally, let me remind you of the most important difference - the price.

The difference between Series 3 and Series 1 is on average 6,000-8,000 rubles. Agree, the amount is not small and it’s worth thinking about... Are the additional features of version 3 worth that kind of money? Are they necessary? Or is this complete and absolutely useless nonsense? It's up to you to decide!

P.S. It seems to me that the comparison turned out to be quite complete. However, if you have questions or comments, welcome to the comments!

P.S.S. Is everything clear and there are no questions? Support the author with a “like”! It’s not hard for you, but I’m very pleased :) Thank you very much in advance!

There are much fewer versions of the Apple Watch than the iPhone, but choosing a watch is still a non-trivial task. Series 4 or Series 3? More or less? Or maybe save money and take the good old Series 2? In fact, when Apple discontinued previous generations, it became easier to choose.

Due to the lack of eSIM support in Russia, the line of watches is further reduced: the Apple Watch in a steel case is only available in the version with a cellular module, so it is not officially supplied. In the end, you only have to choose between Series 4 and Series 3.

Special versions of the Nike+ watch are available in both generations of Apple Watch. They have the same equipment as regular ones. The only differences between the Apple Watch Nike+ are the sports straps and exclusive dials that match the design of the watch.

How Apple Watch Series 3 and Series 4 differ

General characteristics

Display

Hardware platform

Sensors and modules

Biometric sensors

Nutrition

Available colors, complete straps and bracelets

Prices

Who should buy the Apple Watch Series 4

The latest generation of Apple Watch is worth buying for anyone who is not used to splurging on small things. - this is without a doubt a huge step forward. The watch benefits from a large and easy-to-read display, a thin body, as well as an advanced 64-bit processor and an abundance of new features such as haptic wheel feedback, ECG and fall detection.

The compact 40mm version is larger in screen size than the larger 42mm models of previous generations. And if previously large watches were considered men's, and small watches were considered women's, now such a division is no longer relevant. Series 4 in a 40mm case can be confidently called universal, and the 44mm version can only be recommended to fans of large watches.

Who should buy the Apple Watch Series 3

The main trump card of the Apple Watch is its price. The watch will cost almost 10,000 rubles less, which makes it an ideal option for those who want to save money. At the same time, the watch has all the necessary features, including water resistance, GPS, altimeter, as well as a more powerful processor compared to previous generations and improved battery life.

Apple Watch Series 3 in a 38 mm case is suitable for those with thin wrists, 42 mm is the choice of those who need a large watch and good screen readability. Apple recommends the first for wrists with a girth from 13 to 20 cm, the second - for wrists with a girth from 14 to 21 cm.

In 2014, Apple Watch was presented to the public at another presentation. The smartwatch was made in three variations:

1. Classic.
2. Sport.
3. Edition.

Many users have a question: what exactly is the difference between Apple Watch: classic, Edition, Sport from each other, since after the presentation the gadgets created a real stir. It is worth noting that the company has not announced anything like this before, and even in several variations. Photo: How do Apple Watches differ from each other? Note that the smartwatch is one of the few company products in the development of which Steve Jobs was not involved. The product, developed under the leadership of Tim Cook, took a leading position among its competitors in the very first days of its appearance.

Classic

Classic is the basic version of the gadget, made of:

• stainless steel;
• ceramics.

The watch display is equipped with sapphire protection. For these gadgets the company has developed:

• special processor S1;
• iOS for compact electronics:
• graphical interface UI - special adaptation for small devices.

The user is presented with .
Table: How does Apple Watch Classic differ from Sport and Edition? The only way the basic Apple Watch differs from the Sport and Edition is the materials used in the watch itself. Smart gadgets have:

• 38 mm;
• 42 mm.

Conventionally, users designated these two variations as “” and “”. The company also presents six strap designs made of different materials:

• metal;
• skin;
• polyurethane.

Edition

Comparison of VariationsApple Watch: basic,EditionSport, can only be produced according to the material of the product. The technical “stuffing” of all devices is absolutely identical. These gadgets have the highest cost - the base of the case is 18-karat gold, which is several times stronger than usual.

The display, as in the basic configuration, is made of sapphire glass. A rose gold version is also available. The device comes with a special “box” that acts as a charger.

Sport

The body of this version is a duet of anodized aluminum and composite material. The company also took care of protecting the sports model from moisture and dust.

One more thing difference between Apple Watch andversionSport- glass. Instead of sapphire, Ion-X glass was used - it is not as durable, as evidenced by numerous tests, but has better optical characteristics.

Read more about smart watches at the link provided.

(10 ratings, average: 4,40 out of 5)

Apple Watch– a companion device for the Apple iPhone smartphone. As of the beginning of 2018, three generations of these smartwatches and several additional versions have been released.

Comparison of technical characteristics of Apple Watch series 1, 2 and 3

Smartwatches of different generations differ in technical and operational characteristics.

Size

Regardless of generation, Apple Watch smartwatches have two sizes (screen diagonals) - 38 and 42 mm. The only difference is in thickness:

• Series 1 – 5 mm;
• Series 2 and 3 – 4 mm.

We are talking about standard versions of watches here. Edition is slightly (a fraction of a millimeter) thicker.

Display

The screen resolution in all versions of the watch is the same - 272x340 pixels for 38 mm models and 312x390 pixels for 42mm. The difference lies in the brightness of the display. For series 1 it is 450 cd/m2, and for subsequent generations it is already 1000 cd/m2.

In all versions, the screen is made using OLED technology and distributes the intensity of pressing (Force Touch). Protective glass – Ion-X. In series 3 its strength was increased. The series 2 Edition has sapphire glass.

Autonomy

In all generations of watches, the battery provides up to 18 hours of battery life.

Processor and memory

All versions of the watch use a proprietary dual-core processor, which is updated annually to a more powerful revision. The amount of permanent memory, regardless of version, is 8 GB.

The difference lies in the amount of RAM. In series 1 and 2 it is 515 MB, in series 3 it is 768 MB.

Waterproof

Apple Watch series 1 comes in a splash-proof case. This means that you can wash your hands in them - and nothing more. The second and third generations are carried out in a waterproof housing, which, according to ISO 22810:2010 specifications, ensures the device’s performance during short-term immersion to a depth of up to 50 m.

This means you can use it for hours in the rain, in the shower, or during short swims in the pool or sea. Not suitable for diving or prolonged stay in water.

Connection

All versions of the watch support Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. In the third generation, support for mobile Internet using eSIM was added (which in Russia as of the beginning 2018 hasn't worked for a year).

Sensors

All watch versions are equipped with:

• Heart rate monitor– a sensor for measuring heart rate;
• Accelerometer and gyroscope– sensors for measuring physical activity;
• Photometer– a sensor for measuring ambient light and automatically adjusting the brightness of the display.

The GPS module for geopositioning and positioning was added only to series 3 and is present in series 3.

Series 3 also added a barometric altimeter, a sensor designed to measure altitude. Counts both floors climbed and mountain peaks conquered.

Materials

Apple Watch series 1 made of aluminum and complemented by a strap made of polymer materials. In the Edition modification they are plated in gold.

Apple Watch series 2 are made of aluminum or stainless steel and are complemented by a nylon, leather or metal strap, depending on the edition. In the Edition modification, their body is made of ceramic.

Apple Watch series 3 made of aluminum and complemented by a strap made of polymer materials. In additional modifications, the strap can be leather or steel. In the Edition version, the case is made of ceramic.

Siri and phone calls

You can only make and answer phone calls on the Series 3 - but not in Russia, because eSIM technology is not supported in that country.

Apple Watch versions

Apple Watch smartwatches are available in different versions.

Standard

There are no additional software or hardware modifications in this edition.

Estimated cost – from 18 thousand rubles for the first and second generations, from 24 thousand rubles for the third generation.

Apple Watch Nike+

Sports version. Available in second and third generations. Equipped with a special polymer sports strap (more comfortable when touching hot and sweaty skin), several additional dials with real-time activity display, as well as compatibility with the Nike+, Runtastic, Endomondo and several others fitness ecosystems.

The estimated cost corresponds to the prices for the standard configuration.

Apple Watch Hermes

A special “fashionable” version of the second and third generations of watches. Developed together with the Hermes fashion house. Equipped with special leather or metal straps and unique dials.

The estimated cost depends on the type of strap and is from 25 thousand rubles.

Apple Watch Sport

A simplified version of the first generation of watches. Equipped with a branded dial and a special strap.

At the start of sales the cost was 349 dollars (about 20 thousand rubles).

Apple Watch Edition

Premium version smart watch. It differs in the material of the case - in the first generation it is plated with gold, in the second and third - it is completely made of polished ceramic.

Estimated cost for series 3 Edition – from 1299 dollars (about 78 thousand rubles).

Which Apple Watch should a girl choose?

Choosing a watch for girls, you should pay attention to the following parameters:

• Size. For a miniature female hand, a small watch – 38 mm – is better suited. They are designed for a wrist with a girth of 13-20 cm. However, nothing will stop a girl from wearing the 42 mm version;
• Price. The 38 mm version usually costs about 2.5 thousand rubles less than the 42 mm version. If price is critical, it is recommended to pay attention to a smaller size;
• Version. If a girl needs a device to view notifications, calls and other events, the standard configuration will do. Nike+ is an ideal device for athletic girls. A series Hermes and version Edition– for those who appreciate style;
• Generation. The third one is definitely recommended - it is both more secure and more functional than all the others.

Apple Watch series 3 – what's new?

Series 3, released in 2017, received the following innovations and possibilities:

• LTE andeSIM. The watch can go online and receive voice calls. Unfortunately, as of the beginning of 2018, eSIM does not work in Russia and the CIS countries;
• Possibility of connecting headphonesAirPods from the company " Apple» . Through them you can listen to music from the Apple Music service, receive voice responses from Siri and talk;
• Wireless charging. The watch can be charged both through the supplied cradle and through a special proprietary AirPower device from the company " Apple»;
• Barometric altimeter. Measures height - from the number of floors climbed to the peaks conquered during mountaineering;
• New processor and increased RAM provide greater productivity.

The rest of the new features were brought by the watchOS 4 operating system, which improved the heart rate monitor and added several new programs.

Key differences between all Apple watch series

To describe it literally in a nutshell, the differences are as follows:

• First generation– the initial release of a companion device from the Cupertino company (and at the same time the cheapest);
• Second generation– excellent screen;
• Third generation– maximum functionality within the ecosystem “ Apple».

Is it worth buying an Apple Watch? Conclusions

If you have an iPhone of one of the latest models (newer than 4), and you need a companion device for viewing notifications, calls, quick access to Siri and some applications, then a definite yes. Also Apple Watch» will appeal to lovers of an active lifestyle. The device is very convenient for everyday use.

But if you don’t have an iPhone, then you don’t need it. You won’t even be able to activate them on an Android smartphone (or another).

After spending 7 days using and testing the Apple Watch, it's time to check out the next expensive model. Since when trying to compare two new products, an Internet search may simply not be enough.

Therefore, you can start comparing the two competitors. Thus, the Apple Watch and Sport are functionally identical: you can only pay more or less due to materials and subtle differences in design. You can also add an insignificant reason, which lies in different packaging of devices.

The Sport watch is available in 10 styles, the Apple Watch in 20. Both models are available in 38mm and 42mm sizes. As for the price of the Sport, it is $349 for the smaller model and $400 for the larger model, regardless of the leather color of the band (black, blue, pink and white). Apple Watch starts at $549 and $599, respectively, based on device size.

The cost of the black Sport watch (which Apple calls space gray) is the same as the silver one. However, the stainless steel option costs significantly more ($1.05 or $1.1) than its siblings.

The black strap is sold with the black Sport strap. That is, for those who want to get a black belt for the device, you should plan your purchase in the form of a dark watch; not silver. However, the black Sport band is also available for silver Apple Watch. The company will always create a choice for those who are willing to pay more. By the way, sales specialists from four different Apple Stores said that Space Gray Sport with a black belt is the most popular among all styles.

The Apple Store will be able to replace the belt for those who want an unavailable combination, but will be required to pay the difference, if any. If the strap is not available when purchasing an Apple Watch, the sales representative will offer to choose something else if you pay more. The straps, by the way, are interchangeable for watches of the same size. They are also very easy to replace as you just press the button on the back and it slides off. Which is good news.

The Apple Watch display is more durable than the Sport's - sapphire glass versus Ion-X glass. The difference is this: If you accidentally hit the device on a hard surface, the sapphire is less likely to be scratched. That being said, tempered crystal is not necessarily better than glass. While the Apple Watch's aesthetics are better than the Sport's, looking at the watch can sometimes make it hard to see its functionality. Outdoors, the sapphire display can be difficult to read. Viewing angles are reduced and even direct viewing can be challenging even at full brightness. There are no such problems with Sport. It's simple: sapphire is a more reflective material. For those who will primarily be wearing their smartwatch outdoors, the Sport may be a better choice.

The Apple Watch itself is likely more likely to show scratches or stains than the Sport. The nature of the material and its shine also play a role here. The aluminum finish is more matte, while the 316L stainless steel is shiny. Apple promises the benefits of sapphire crystal - in the form of durability - but not in this case. Stainless steel scratches more easily. However, this is not a particularly important detail when choosing a device in terms of price or some other indicator.

AppleCare+ for Stainless Steel Watch costs more: It's $69, not $49—and you'll have to pay for extra protection. Sapphire is not immune to drop damage, and Ion-X glass will be shattered if it does. We can only hope for the two-year warranty from the company that AppleCare+ provides.

It remains to add that the Apple Watch weighs significantly more than the Sport. When compared, this is immediately noticeable, because the 42mm Sport weighs 30 grams without a belt. The Apple Watch weighs 50 grams.