Is Apple Watch Series 10 Worth the Upgrade?

Redesigned for 2024

The Apple Watch Series 10 promises sleek design changes and advanced health capabilities, but is it worth upgrading if you already have an older model? Let’s see what’s new and whether it justifies the investment.

The Apple Watch Series 10 marks the first significant design redesign since the Series 6, featuring a 9% larger display and a smaller frame.

Available in 42mm and 46mm sizes, the slimmer, more streamlined design improves use, particularly for those who prefer typing on the watch’s keyboard. While the design is more subtle, the bigger screen improves clarity and content visibility.

Enhanced Display with Wide-Angle OLED

One of the Series 10’s distinguishing features is its wide-angle OLED display. This technology makes the screen substantially brighter when viewed from an angle, representing a major advance over previous versions.

Whether outside or just glancing at your watch from the side, this feature improves readability without increasing battery consumption.

Same Battery Life but Faster Charging

While the Series 10 retains the same 18-hour battery life as its predecessors, it now offers faster charging.

With the redesigned coils beneath the rear glass, the watch can reach 80% charge in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for individuals who require quick top-ups during hectic schedules.

New Titanium Body Options

Apple has replaced the stainless steel casing with polished titanium on higher-end models. Titanium is lighter and more durable, lending a premium feel to the Series 10.

It comes in natural, gold, and dark slate gray, delivering a trendy look without adding unnecessary weight to the wrist.

Bigger Display for Better Interaction

With a display that is 9% larger than the Series 9, the Series 10 offers additional screen space for interaction.

The larger screen increases accessibility, especially for people who type, tap, and swipe on a larger surface. It also improves content presentation by making apps, notifications, and maps more readable.

Sleep Apnea Detection

The Series 10 includes a vital health feature: sleep apnea detection. The FDA-approved feature analyzes your breathing interruptions during sleep and informs you if it discovers patterns consistent with sleep apnea.

This health-tracking feature has the potential to save the lives of persons who are unaware they have this ailment.

Water Sport Tracking

The Apple Watch Series 10 adds new features for water sports fans, such as swim, snorkeling, and kayak tracking.

The built-in depth gauge and water temperature sensor sync with software updates to track your underwater activities. It is a vital update for anyone who spends time on the water.

Music without Headphones

One of the most distinctive features is the ability to play music directly through the Apple Watch Series 10’s speakers.

While not as loud as a phone, the feature allows users to listen to music, audiobooks, or podcasts without using headphones, which is ideal for those fleeting moments when your AirPods aren’t around.

WatchOS 11 Enhancements

Many of the Series 10’s standout features are derived from the new watchOS 11 upgrade, which includes sleep apnea detection, health monitoring tools, and workout-specific capabilities.

These enhancements are not limited to the Series 10 but are accessible on other models, such as the Series 9 and Ultra 2, allowing more consumers to benefit from these health-related advances.

1Hz Refresh Rate for Always-On Display

Apple’s Series 10 introduces LTPO 3 display technology, which provides a 1Hz refresh rate to the always-on display.

This enables watch faces to display a ticking second hand without additional battery power. The new technology enhances functionality while maintaining the device’s 18-hour battery life.

Enhanced Durability with Crystal Ion X Glass

Apple has increased the durability of the Series 10 with crystal Ion X glass, which now covers the watch face and the sides of the case.

This design protects against scratches and damage, making the Series 10 more durable than prior generations.

Voice Isolation for Clearer Calls

The new voice isolation function on the Series 10 improves call quality by eliminating background noise.

Whether in a crowded area or on a noisy street, this AI-powered feature ensures that the recipient can hear your voice, making using your watch for on-the-go calls easier.

Fingerprint Magnet: Polished Aluminum

Apple is introducing a polished metal finish to the Series 10 for the first time. While this gives the watch a sleek, shiny look, it is also a fingerprint magnet.

Those who care about keeping their gadgets clean may prefer more traditional brushed finishes or titanium choices.

Crash and Fall Detection Powered by AI

The Apple Watch Series 10 uses artificial intelligence to improve its crash and fall detection capabilities. These safety features can identify whether you’ve had a hard fall or been in an accident.

They will immediately contact emergency services if you don’t answer within a specific time frame. It’s an important feature, especially for individuals with health issues or who enjoy outdoor activities.

Limited Battery Life Improvement

Despite numerous changes, as with prior versions, the Series 10’s battery life stays the same at 18 hours.

Users who expected an improvement in this area may need enhanced battery life. However, faster charging helps to overcome this issue.

Same Price Point as Previous Models

Starting at $399, the Series 10 maintains the same price point as prior generations.

While the new design and health features are tempting, the lack of major battery improvements and several software-based features may encourage current Series 9 users to upgrade.

If you’re finding it hard to wake up on time, check out our guide on “Trouble Waking Up? How to Fix Your Apple Watch Alarm” for tips to improve your morning routine.

Is it worth the upgrade?

If you have an older Apple Watch, such as a Series 6 or earlier, the Series 10 has enough new features to justify the upgrade, including a larger display, faster charging, and sleep apnea detection.

However, if you use a Series 9, the changes may only be significant enough to justify the purchase if you are interested in the new design and better display. If you’re curious about where previous models were manufactured, check out “Where Is the Apple Watch Series 8 Made?“