As someone who’s been using Apple Watches for years, I always get a little excited when a new model drops. This time, it’s the Apple Watch Series 10, a device that comes with a lot of buzz about its futuristic design and new features. But is it a substantial leap forward, or just another iteration with a few tweaks?  More importantly, should you upgrade or just stick with Series 9?

In this review, we’ll dive deep into how the Series 10 stacks up against its predecessor, the Series 9, with my personal thoughts and perspective. I will also breaking down the differences in detail to help you decide which is the better pick for your needs.

If you want to make an informed choice, just read before you buy.

First Impressions 

Okay, so I finally got my hands on both the Apple Watch Series 9 and the Series 10, and let me tell you, the hype is real (at least for the most part). I’ve been wearing both watches for a week now, switching them up every day, and I’m ready to spill the tea. 

I immediately noticed the sleeker, more modern design. It felt familiar yet distinct, like meeting an old friend who’s gotten a stylish haircut. Meanwhile, the Series 9 still exudes elegance and reliability, holding its ground as one of the best smartwatches in its class.

First off, let’s talk about the obvious – the Series 10 is a looker. That larger display is seriously impressive. It feels like you have so much more screen real estate to play with, and everything just seems more vibrant and engaging. Glancing at notifications, checking my activity rings, even just telling the time – it all feels more immersive on the Series 10.

But here’s the thing: the Series 9 is no slouch. Honestly, if I hadn’t been using the 10 alongside it, I probably wouldn’t have noticed much of a difference in screen size. The 9 still has a beautiful display, and it’s super responsive.

But let’s dig deeper into the details in some key areas that matter most.

Design and Display 

Series 9: A Classic Apple Look

The Apple Watch Series 9 retains the same iconic rectangular design with curved edges that Apple introduced years ago. It’s sporting a resolution display of 396 x 484 pixels in 45mm size and 352 x 430 pixels in 41 mm model.  It’s sleek, lightweight, and available in aluminum and stainless steel finishes.   

The display is a Retina screen with a brightness of 2,000 nits, which works perfectly well in both indoor and outdoor settings. Even under bright sunlight, I found it easy to read notifications, check fitness stats, and view apps. It’s a design that never felt outdated.

 

Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS 41mm case) in Starlight Sport Loop

One thing I’ve always loved about the Series 9 is its familiarity. It’s comfortable, fits well, and doesn’t feel bulky even during workouts. 

Navigation is easy thanks to the side button and Digital Crown’s flawless operation.

Series 10: Subtle Changes with Big Impact

The Series 10 looks a lot like the Series 9 at first glance, but when you start using it, the differences become apparent. This watch are also available in two variants with a bit increase in screen size, the 46mm (416 x 496 pixels) and 42 mm (374 by 446 pixels). It’s much thinner and slightly lighter, making it more comfortable for all-day wear. But the real standout is the edge-to-edge infinity display.

The first time I strapped it on, I was genuinely wowed by the sheer size and brilliance of the screen.  That display is an absolute showstopper. It’s significantly larger than the Series 9’s screen, stretching closer to the edges and creating a more immersive, almost bezel-less experience.  It’s a subtle but significant change that enhances the watch’s modern aesthetic.

Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS + Cellular 42mm case) in Jet Black Aluminum Case with Ink Sport Loop

The display brightness is remains to 2,000 nits but bumped up or increased its brightness up to 40%, making it easier to read in direct sunlight.  Colors are richer, text is sharper, and everything just seems to pop with vibrancy. It’s like upgrading from a standard definition TV to a 4K OLED – the difference is that noticeable.

The Series 10 also comes in new colors and band materials, which may appeal to tech fans who like to dress up their gear. With more durable structure, you can opt to have an aluminum or titanium case. 

My Thoughts

Don’t get me wrong, the Series 9 still has a beautiful OLDED display. It’s crisp, clear, and responsive. But when you place it next to the Series 10, it’s like comparing a cozy living room window to a panoramic floor-to-ceiling vista. The Series 10 simply offers a more expansive and captivating view. 

Performance 

Series 9: The S9 Chip Gets the Job Done

Powered by Apple’s S9 SiP (System in Package) chip, the Series 9 is no slouch which delivers excellent performance. It’s fast, responsive, and I never experienced any lag or performance issues with it.   

In everyday use, I never felt like the Series 9 was slow or laggy. It handled everything I threw at it, from fitness tracking to streaming music, and third-party apps. 

Series 10: The S10 Chip Pushes the Limits

The Series 10 debuts the S10 chip, which Apple claims is 20% faster. I did notice apps opening slightly quicker and smoother transitions between screens. Siri also felt quicker, responding almost instantly to commands. But if I’m being honest, the difference isn’t night and day. It’s more of an incremental improvement than a groundbreaking leap. 

If you’re coming from the Series 9, you won’t feel a massive jump. But if you’re upgrading from an older model, the S10 chip will make a noticeable difference.

My Thoughts

Theoretically, the S10 chip in the Series 10 should be more powerful. But in my day-to-day use, I honestly couldn’t discern a significant difference in performance.  

Perhaps if I were a power user running demanding apps or playing graphics-intensive games, I might notice a slight edge with the Series 10. But for the average user, both watches are going to feel incredibly responsive and capable.

Battery Life 

Series 9: Reliable for Daily Use

Battery life is one of the most important aspects of a smartwatch, and both the Series 9 and Series 10 deliver solid performance in this area.

With the Series 9, I could get through a day and a half on a single charge, even with heavy use. However, I still found myself charging it nightly, especially if I used features like GPS or sleep tracking.

Series 10: Slightly Better Efficiency

Apple didn’t increase the battery size in the Series 10, but thanks to the S10 chip’s improved efficiency, it manages to eke out a little more life. On average, I found I could stretch it to nearly two full days with moderate use. It’s not a game-changer, but it’s a welcome improvement.

My Thoughts

If you want a battery that lasts a week, neither watch is good. But if you’re cautious about handling features, you can see that the Series 10 has a small boost in efficiency.

Health and Fitness Features 

Series 9: A Fitness Powerhouse

The Series 9 offers robust health tracking, including ECG monitoring, heart rate tracking, blood oxygen levels, and advanced workout modes. It introduced the handy double-tap gesture, which made it easier to control the watch without directly touching the screen. For most users, it covers all the bases.

Another highlight is the double-tap gesture, which allows you to control the watch with a simple tap of your fingers. This feature was incredibly convenient during workouts or when my hands were full.

Series 10: Breaking New Ground

The Series 10 retains all the features of the Series 9 but adds a couple of exciting new ones. The most notable is real-time hydration tracking, which monitors your sweat levels during workouts and provides hydration reminders. As someone who often forgets to drink enough water during the day, this feature was surprisingly useful.

It also included with an upgraded temperature sensor for more accurate tracking of women’s health, which was very helpful for women monitoring their cycle.   

My Thoughts

While the Series 9 is excellent, the Series 10’s hydration tracking and better temperature sensor is a game-changer for fitness enthusiasts and health tracking. It’s one of those features that adds genuine value.

Connectivity 

Series 9: Reliable but Basic

The Series 9 offers solid Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. It’s fine for streaming music, receiving calls, and sending messages. But sometimes there was lag when I switched between Wi-Fi and my iPhone.

Series 10: Dual-Band Brilliance

The Series 10 upgrades to dual-band Wi-Fi, making connections faster and more stable. I noticed smoother transitions between devices and quicker app downloads. If you frequently switch networks, this improvement is a subtle but meaningful upgrade.

My Thoughts

The dual-band Wi-Fi in the Series 10 is a small but noticeable improvement for those who rely heavily on connectivity features.

New Features: The Series 10 Takes the Lead

This is where the Series 10 really starts to differentiate itself. Apple has introduced a handful of new features that genuinely enhance the user experience and make the Series 10 feel like a more refined and polished product.  

If you need a quick reference, here is the summary.

Design and Display

• • Thinner Profile: The Series 10 is approximately 10% thinner than previous models, offering a more comfortable fit on the wrist.
  • Larger Display: It features the largest and most advanced display among Apple Watches, providing up to 30% more screen area than earlier versions.
  • Jet Black Finish: A new glossy Jet Black aluminum option is introduced, polished using silicon nanoparticles for a specialized surface shine.

Apple Watch Series 9

Apple Watch Series 10

Health and Fitness Features

• • Sleep Apnea Detection: Utilizes accelerometer data to monitor breathing disturbances during sleep, alerting users to potential signs of sleep apnea.
  • Depth and Water Temperature Sensors: Equipped with new sensors to measure water depth and temperature, enhancing aquatic activity tracking.

• • Tides App: Provides information on tidal conditions, beneficial for surfers and beachgoers.

Performance and Connectivity

• • Faster Charging: Achieves 80% battery charge in just 30 minutes, making it the fastest-charging Apple Watch to date.
  • Enhanced Call Quality: Incorporates a neural network to suppress background noise, resulting in clearer phone conversations.

These advancements make the Apple Watch Series 10 a significant upgrade, particularly for users interested in health monitoring and aquatic activities. 

Price 

Series 9: Affordable Excellence

With its price now lower, the Series 9 offers incredible value. It has nearly all the features you’d expect in a premium smartwatch at a fraction of the cost.

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Series 10: A Premium for Progress

The Series 10 comes with a higher price tag, and while the upgrades are meaningful, they may not justify the cost for everyone.  If you value the edge-to-edge display, hydration tracking, and better battery efficiency, the higher price might be worth it.  If you’re on a budget, the Series 9 remains a good option.

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My Thoughts

If money is no object, the Series 10 is worth the splurge. Otherwise, the Series 9 delivers 90% of the experience at a lower cost.

Beyond the Specs: The X-Factor

While the specs and features tell a compelling story, there’s also an intangible element to the Apple Watch experience that’s hard to quantify. It’s the seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, the intuitive user interface, the way it effortlessly blends into your life and becomes an extension of yourself.

Both the Series 9 and Series 10 excel in this regard. They’re more than just smartwatches; they’re companions, assistants, and even fashion accessories. They can help you stay connected, motivated, and informed, all while looking stylish on your wrist.

Which One Shoud I buy?  Aluminum or Titanium?

It’s a bit like choosing between a trusty sedan and a high-performance sports car – both will get you where you need to go, but the experience will be different.

Here’s the breakdown to help you choose the best Apple Watch casing for you:

Aluminum:

• • Lightweight Champion: Aluminum is like the featherweight boxer of the watch world. It’s significantly lighter than titanium, making it incredibly comfortable for all-day wear, especially during workouts or sleep. You’ll barely notice it’s there.

  • Wallet-Friendly: Aluminum models are the most affordable, making them a great option if you’re on a budget or just want the most bang for your buck.

  • Rainbow of Choices: Aluminum comes in a variety of colors, from classic silver and space gray to vibrant starlight and (PRODUCT)RED. You can easily find a color that matches your personal style.

• But…

  • • Scratch Magnet: Aluminum is more prone to scratches and dings than titanium. If you’re rough on your watches or tend to bump into things, you might end up with a few battle scars.
    • Not as Luxe: While aluminum looks good, it doesn’t have the same premium feel as titanium. It’s a bit like the difference between a nice cotton shirt and a silk blouse – both are good, but one just feels a bit more special.

Titanium:

• • Built Like a Tank: Titanium is the tough guy of the watch world. It’s incredibly strong and resistant to scratches and wear and tear. If you’re the adventurous type or just want a watch that can withstand the rigors of everyday life, titanium is your best bet.

  • Head-Turner: Titanium has a unique, sophisticated aesthetic that exudes quality and elegance. It’s like wearing a finely crafted piece of jewelry on your wrist.

  • Goldilocks Weight: While heavier than aluminum, titanium is still lighter than stainless steel, offering a good balance of durability and comfort.

• But…

  • Pricey: Titanium models come with a significant price premium. You’ll need to dig a bit deeper into your wallet for that extra durability and style.
  • Limited Edition: Titanium is typically available in fewer color options than aluminum. You might not have as much choice when it comes to matching your personal style.

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The Bottom Line

Which one should you choose?  After spending weeks with both watches, here’s my final thoughts:

• • If you’re coming from a Series 8 or earlier: The Series 10 is a no-brainer. The larger display, double-tap gesture, Action button, and other refinements make it a significant upgrade that you’ll appreciate every day.

  • If you’re rocking a Series 9: It’s a tougher decision. The Series 10 is undoubtedly a better watch, but the improvements might not be essential for everyone. If you’re on a tight budget or perfectly content with your Series 9, you can probably skip this generation. But if you’re a tech enthusiast who always wants the latest and greatest, and those new features appeal to you, then go for it! 

For most users, the Series 9 still stands tall as one of the best smartwatches out there. It is true that the Apple Watch Series 10 is a step forward, but it’s not a revolutionary leap.  However, the Series 10 represents Apple’s vision for the future of wearables, with small but meaningful upgrades that make it worth considering.

At the end of the day, both watches are incredible devices that continue to set the standard for what a smartwatch should be. Whether you choose the Series 9 or Series 10, you’re getting one of the best wearables on the market. It all comes down to what features matter most to you and how much you’re willing to spend.

Personally, I’m keeping the Series 10 on my wrist — it just feels like the future.  

Frequently Asked Questions: (FAQs)

Is the Series 10 significantly faster than the Series 9?    

• • Both watches are powered by Apple’s latest chips and are incredibly fast. In everyday use, you probably won’t notice a significant difference in performance.

What is the double-tap gesture?  

• • The double-tap gesture allows you to perform various actions by double-tapping your index finger and thumb together, such as answering calls, dismissing notifications, or controlling music playback.

What is the action button?  

• • The Action button is a customizable button that you can assign to perform a specific action, like starting a workout, activating a shortcut, or controlling a smart home device.

Are the bands interchangeable between the Series 9 and Series 10?   

• • Yes, the bands are interchangeable between both models.

Do both watches have the same health sensors?

• • Yes, both watches have the same advanced health sensors, including heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen monitoring, ECG, and cycle tracking ovulation. Except that the Series 10 introduces real-time hydration tracking and more precise temperature sensors, which are not available in the Series 9. These features are particularly useful for fitness enthusiasts and women’s health tracking.

Is the Series 9 still a good choice in 2024?

• • Absolutely! The Series 9 remains an excellent option for those looking for a premium smartwatch at a lower price. It offers excellent performance, health tracking, and value for money.