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Editor's note: Apple has appealed a prior ITC ruling that required it to pull the Series 9 and Ultra 2 from its online and physical stores, and is allowed to sell both wearables again while it awaits a decision on the appeal.
If you have an iPhone and want the best companion wearable, the Apple Watch is a no-brainer. It delivers a premium smartwatch experience, is one of the best fitness trackers you can buy, and offers unique health monitoring tools that can positively impact your wellness.
Our pick as the best Apple Watch is the Apple Watch Series 9; it features a fast processor chip, enhanced screen brightness, and a handy new single-handed gesture that improves its accessibility. For advanced athletes, we recommend the Ultra 2; it offers up to 36 hours of battery life and unique tracking features for hikers and cyclists.
While each Apple Watch has plenty in common — like Siri and the latest Apple Watch operating system — differences in price, sensors, and features will ultimately determine the best Apple Watch for you.
Top picks for the best Apple Watch
Best overall: Apple Watch Series 9 - See at Amazon
Apple's latest flagship smartwatch offers a large always-on display and a unique new Double Tag Gesture along with a speedy processor and the latest sensors.
Best overall for less: Apple Watch Series 8 - See at Amazon
Apple dropped the Series 8 from its lineup upon the release of the Series 9, but if you can find it on sale for under $300, it's worth considering. Though the Series 9 debuted a few new updates, the Series 8 offers a near-similar experience.
Best for athletes and adventurers: Apple Watch Ultra 2 - See at Amazon
The Ultra 2 is Apple's biggest and most powerful smartwatch, featuring a durable design, nearly double the battery life of the Series 9, and a variety of advanced activity tools designed for outdoor athletes.
Best budget: Apple Watch SE (2022) - See at Amazon
The second-gen Apple Watch SE is a quality entry-level pick that runs on the same processor as the previous generation Ultra and Series 8. While it lacks an always-on display and some newer health features, it's ideal for first-time or casual Apple Watch users.
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