Apple Watch Buying Guide: Is Now the Right Time?

Next month, Apple should be refreshing its entire Apple Watch lineup. It also recently reintroduced the Blood Oxygen feature that was previously missing from the Apple Watch Series 9, Series 10and Ultra 2 – so if you were someone who depended on that feature, there’s no longer a need to hold out. That begs the question, what’s around the corner for Apple Watch?

Next-gen Apple Watch rumors

In just a number of weeks, Apple should be unveiling the Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3. All three models ideally should be available for purchase by the end of September.

All three models this year will likely equip the new S11 chip, though rumors suggest that they won’t provide a performance upgrade over the S9 and S10 chip. An S11 chip would still be good news for the SE though, as the Apple Watch SE 2 currently equips an S8 chip with older technology. On that note, Apple Watch SE 3 is expected to focus on cost, and may equip a plastic shell to come in at a lower starting point.

Apple Watch Ultra is where most of the exciting new stuff comes in. Reportedly, it’ll get a slightly larger display (achieved with thinner bezels, not a bigger chassis) with a higher resolution. It should also equip 5G RedCap and Satellite capabilities, leveling up the connectivity capabilities of the Apple Watch.

It should also equip Blood Pressure monitoringthough it won’t give you active readings – instead just notifying you when there’s something you should be aware of.

While it’s possible Apple Watch Series 11 may equip some of these Ultra 3 features, that isn’t currently rumored. It’s sounding like this year will be a light upgrade for Apple’s mainstream Watch model.

Is it worth upgrading now?

Generally, if you’re someone who’s going to buy an Apple Watch Ultra – I’d say wait until September. There’ll be many features in store for you, and if you’re spending top dollar on an Apple Watch, you might as well get the best of the best.

If you’re buying a standard Apple Watch or an Apple Watch SEthough – the story changes a bit. Why? Deals. Since the current Apple Watch models have been out for quite a while, you can save a fair bit compared to MSRP. If you wait until next month, you’ll be paying full price for the next-gen Apple Watch models.

Currently, you can pick up an Apple Watch SE 2 for just $169. That’s 32% under MSRP, or a whole $80 off. Considering how light the rumors are for the next model, combined with the fact that the SE 3 is rumored to be plastic – I’d say that’s a good deal.

Similarly, you can pick up a 46mm Apple Watch Series 10 in the stunning Jet Black finish for $329 – a whole $100 or 23% off of retail price. If you’re into the smaller 42mm size, you can pick that up for $299 (also $100 off retail.)

Wrap up

Whether or not you want to upgrade now is up to you, but the larger point is that Apple Watches are cheaper than you think if you look at stores other than Apple themselves – and you won’t see this pricing until at least a few months after the Series 11 and SE 3 launch.

In the event that the Apple Watch Ultra 3 rumors don’t interest you (though I’d highly recommend rethinking that) – you can also pick up an Apple Watch Ultra 2 for $649saving $150 compared to new pricing. As mentioned earlier, all current Apple Watch models now once again support the Blood Oxygen feature through a redesigned experience, so that’s one less reason to hold out.

What do you think about the upcoming Apple Watch models? Would you consider buying a current one? Let us know in the comments.

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