When Apple first introduced the Apple Watch back in 2014, it wasn’t immediately clear if this was going to be a hit. Sure, celebrities like Pharrell, Beyoncé, and Drake proudly showed off the new gadget, but the idea of wearing notifications on your wrist seemed, at first glance, more like a novelty than a necessity. Fast forward to 2024, and the Apple Watch has not only cemented itself as an essential accessory but has also redefined what a smartwatch can do.
With the release of the Apple Watch Series 10, the tech giant has made its most significant design overhaul in ten years, packed with innovative features and a sleeker, more luxurious design.
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The Design: Bigger, Thinner, and More Refined
Apple has always been known for its attention to design, and the Series 10 doesn’t disappoint. The watch features a noticeably thinner profile than its predecessors—just 9.7mm thick, making it 10% thinner than the Series 9. This slim design not only improves its wearability but also gives the watch a more refined and luxurious look, especially in the polished titanium variant.
Where the Series 9 came in 41mm and 45mm sizes, the Series 10 has upgraded to 42mm and 46mm models. This larger screen size, combined with a brighter wide-angle OLED display, enhances the overall viewing experience, offering better angles and more vibrant colors. The wider screen isn’t just about aesthetics; it makes interacting with the watch much more enjoyable, especially when using apps, reading notifications, or even just checking the time. In the world of traditional watches, the Series 10’s larger models bring to mind classic oversized timepieces like the Panerai Luminor, favored by celebrities such as Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Advanced Health and Fitness Features: Beyond Tracking Steps
While the design is undoubtedly eye-catching, what sets the Series 10 apart are the new health and fitness features. Apple has continued to push the boundaries of health monitoring with the Series 10, introducing sleep apnea detection—a game-changer for millions who might suffer from this condition without even realizing it. By monitoring your breathing patterns during sleep, the watch can detect irregularities, offering a gentle nudge to see a doctor if needed.
This sleep apnea detection adds to the already robust health features Apple Watch users have come to rely on, such as heart rate monitoring, ECG, and blood oxygen measurements. With the new Vitals app, users can get even more granular insights into their health, and watchOS 11 brings further enhancements to the health-tracking ecosystem. Pausing your Rings (Apple’s motivational system for staying active) is now easier, and new notifications help ensure you don’t miss essential health updates.
In addition to these updates, the Series 10 includes a depth gauge for those who enjoy watersports. Whether you’re snorkeling or diving, the Tides app now lets you keep track of underwater conditions in real-time. Waterproofing has been standard for Apple Watches for a few generations, but the Series 10 takes this feature to new depths—literally.
The Polished Titanium Option: Luxury Meets Function
One of the most exciting aspects of the Series 10 is the introduction of the polished titanium option. For those who want a watch that feels a bit more luxurious, this model brings a sleek, metallic finish that stands out. Paired with the updated Milanese loop band, this design pays homage to classic timepieces like Omega’s No Time To Die Seamaster, combining style with high functionality.
The polished titanium model may not revive the ultra-luxury 18-karat gold Apple Watch of years past, but it does provide a premium option for those looking to invest a bit more into their smartwatch. For the fitness enthusiasts and adventurers, the durable titanium also ensures the watch can withstand a bit more wear and tear than the standard aluminum or stainless steel models.
Battery Life and Fast Charging: Efficiency Meets Convenience
One of the biggest complaints about smartwatches in general has been battery life, and while Apple has made incremental improvements over the years, the Series 10 pushes things a bit further. Thanks to its more efficient design and larger battery, users can expect up to 36 hours of use on a single charge—significant when compared to many competitors. Even better, fast charging ensures that you can get up to 80% battery life in just 30 minutes.
This extended battery life means you can confidently go through your day without worrying about your watch dying in the middle of a workout or important meeting. It also makes the sleep-tracking features more practical, as you no longer need to charge your watch during the night. Simply plug it in for a quick recharge while you shower, and you’ll be ready to go.
A Seamless Transition: Compatibility with Previous Bands
For longtime Apple Watch users who have collected a variety of bands over the years, there’s good news: the Series 10 is fully compatible with all previous Apple Watch bands. Whether you have a sport band, leather strap, or a stainless steel link bracelet, you won’t need to invest in new accessories to match your upgraded watch. This continuity is a thoughtful nod to loyal users who have invested not just in the watch itself, but in its accessories.
The Competition: How Does the Series 10 Stack Up Against the Ultra 2?
For those who prefer something more rugged, Apple also released the Apple Watch Ultra 2 alongside the Series 10. The Ultra series, known for its durability and endurance, has long been the go-to for extreme sports enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The Ultra 2 comes in a satin black finish made from recycled Grade 5 titanium, and while it’s a powerhouse, the Series 10 offers enough enhancements to make it a more compelling upgrade for most users.
The Ultra 2 may have a longer battery life and more rugged features for extreme conditions, but unless you’re planning on running ultramarathons or diving deep underwater regularly, the Series 10 offers a more versatile, stylish option. Plus, the Ultra 2 doesn’t introduce as many new features as the Series 10, which represents a larger leap in both design and functionality.
Pricing and Availability: A Worthy Investment
As with any Apple product, pricing can be a consideration. The Apple Watch Series 10 starts at $399. For those who want the SE version, the price sart at $249.
While these prices may seem steep for a smartwatch, the Series 10 represents a significant upgrade over previous models. With its improved design, enhanced health features, and longer battery life, it offers excellent value for anyone looking to invest in a new smartwatch. And for those still using an older model—especially from the Series 7 or earlier—the Series 10 is a game-changer that makes upgrading more compelling than ever.
