The Apple Watch has solidified its position as a leader in the smartwatch market, blending cutting-edge technology with sleek design and seamless integration into the Apple ecosystem. A recent article by CNN Underscored titled “The best running watches in 2024, tried and tested” highlights the Apple Watch Ultra 2 as a top pick for runners, but the Apple Watch lineup offers something for everyone—whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a tech-savvy professional, or someone looking for a stylish wearable. In this 1200-word review, we’ll dive into the best Apple Watches available in 2025, focusing on their features, performance, and value, while also exploring their broader appeal and potential drawbacks.
The Apple Watch Lineup: What’s on Offer in 2025?
As of May 2025, the Apple Watch lineup includes the Apple Watch Series 10, Apple Watch Ultra 2, and the more budget-friendly Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen). Each model caters to different needs, but they all share core features like heart rate monitoring, notifications, and integration with iOS devices. Let’s break down the key models and what makes them stand out, drawing on insights from CNN Underscored and broader trends in wearable tech.
Apple Watch Ultra 2: The Premium Choice for Fitness Enthusiasts
The Apple Watch Ultra 2, priced at $799, is Apple’s flagship smartwatch, designed for those who demand rugged durability and advanced fitness tracking. CNN Underscored praises its sleek design and robust running features, noting that it “packs a slew of advanced running features into a sleek, high-tech package you won’t want to take off as soon as your workout ends.” This aligns with its appeal for serious athletes and adventurers.
The Ultra 2 features a 49mm titanium case, making it the largest and most durable Apple Watch. Its 3000-nit display is one of the brightest on the market, ensuring readability even in direct sunlight—a boon for outdoor activities. The S9 chip powers the device, enabling features like Double Tap (a gesture to interact with the watch hands-free) and on-device Siri processing for faster responses. The Ultra 2 also boasts an impressive battery life of up to 36 hours in standard use, or 72 hours in low-power mode, which is a significant improvement over the Series 10’s 18-hour battery life.
For fitness tracking, the Ultra 2 excels with precise GPS, a barometric altimeter, and a depth gauge for diving up to 130 feet. It also supports the Oceanic+ app, turning it into a full-fledged dive computer—a feature that sets it apart from competitors like Garmin in the extreme sports market. Runners will appreciate the advanced metrics, such as power output and hill performance, though CNN Underscored notes that it lacks workout recovery data, which might disappoint some ultra-focused athletes.
One notable caveat: due to a patent dispute, newer Ultra 2 models lack the blood oxygen sensor. If this feature is crucial, you’ll need to hunt for older models with model numbers ending in “LW/A.” Despite this, the Ultra 2’s combination of durability, fitness features, and sleek design makes it the best choice for those willing to splurge.
Apple Watch Series 10: The Best All-Rounder
The Apple Watch Series 10, introduced in 2024, is the go-to option for most users, offering a balance of performance, design, and price. Available in 42mm and 46mm sizes, it starts at $399 for the GPS model. Its standout feature is the larger, brighter display—40% brighter than the Series 9 when viewed at an angle, with a display area of 1220 sq mm on the 46mm model, surpassing even the Ultra 2’s 1185 sq mm.
The Series 10 is also Apple’s thinnest watch yet, nearly 10% thinner than its predecessors, and weighs just 1.25 ounces (46mm GPS + Cellular). This slim profile, combined with its lightweight aluminum or titanium case options, makes it comfortable for all-day wear. The S9 chip powers the Series 10 as well, bringing the same Double Tap and on-device Siri capabilities as the Ultra 2. However, its battery life remains at 18 hours, which might require daily charging for heavy users.
Health and fitness features are robust, including heart rate monitoring, ECG, and sleep tracking with the new sleep apnea detection introduced in watchOS 10. Like the Ultra 2, the Series 10 lacks a blood oxygen sensor in newer models due to the same patent issue. For general fitness tracking, it’s more than capable, though it doesn’t match the Ultra 2’s advanced metrics for extreme sports. Its design versatility—available in jet black, rose gold, silver, and titanium finishes—makes it a stylish accessory for both casual and professional settings.
Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen): The Budget-Friendly Option
For those seeking an affordable entry into the Apple Watch ecosystem, the Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is a solid choice, starting at around $249. It lacks some of the advanced features of the Series 10 and Ultra 2, such as the ECG app, blood oxygen monitoring, and the larger, brighter display, but it covers the essentials. It offers heart rate monitoring, crash detection, and basic fitness tracking, making it suitable for casual users.
The SE (2nd Gen) runs on the S8 chip, which is slightly older but still capable, and delivers the same 18-hour battery life as the Series 10. Its 40mm and 44mm sizes are lighter than the Series 10, and its aluminum case comes in midnight, starlight, and silver. While it doesn’t have the Ultra 2’s ruggedness or the Series 10’s expansive display, it’s a practical option for those who want core smartwatch functionality without breaking the bank.
Performance and User Experience
Across the board, Apple Watches deliver a polished user experience, thanks to their seamless integration with the iPhone and the broader Apple ecosystem. Notifications are intuitive, and the watchOS 11 update (expected by late 2025) is rumored to enhance customization with more dynamic watch faces and improved health insights. The S9 chip in the Series 10 and Ultra 2 ensures snappy performance, with apps opening quickly and animations running smoothly.
For fitness tracking, the Ultra 2 stands out with its advanced features, but the Series 10 and SE hold their own for everyday use. The Ultra 2’s precise GPS and altimeter make it ideal for outdoor activities, while the Series 10’s sleep apnea detection adds value for health-conscious users. However, the lack of blood oxygen monitoring in newer models is a notable downside, especially given its utility for monitoring respiratory health.
Battery life remains a mixed bag. The Ultra 2’s 36-hour battery life is a clear win, but the 18-hour limit on the Series 10 and SE can be frustrating for users who forget to charge daily. Third-party chargers, like Satechi’s USB-C Magnetic Charging Dock or Nomad’s power adapters, can help mitigate this by offering portable charging solutions.
Design and Build Quality
Apple’s design ethos shines through in all three models. The Ultra 2’s titanium case and sapphire crystal display exude premium quality, while the Series 10’s slimmer profile and larger screen make it a joy to wear. The SE, while more basic, still feels well-built with its aluminum case. All models are swim-proof, with the Ultra 2 rated for deeper dives, and offer a range of band options—from sporty silicone to elegant leather—to suit different styles.
Value for Money
The Ultra 2, at $799, is a significant investment, but its durability and advanced features justify the cost for athletes and adventurers. The Series 10, starting at $399, offers the best balance of features and price, making it the ideal choice for most users. The SE (2nd Gen) is the budget pick, but its lack of advanced health sensors might push some users toward the Series 10.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
While the Apple Watch lineup is impressive, it’s not without flaws. The battery life on the Series 10 and SE could be better, especially compared to competitors like Garmin, which often last several days. The absence of blood oxygen monitoring in newer models is a letdown, and the Ultra 2’s lack of workout recovery data might not fully satisfy hardcore athletes. Additionally, the Apple Watch is only compatible with iPhones, limiting its appeal for Android users.
Which Apple Watch Should You Buy in 2025?
Choosing the best Apple Watch in 2025 depends on your needs and budget. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the top pick for fitness enthusiasts and those who need a rugged, feature-packed smartwatch, despite its high price and missing blood oxygen sensor. The Apple Watch Series 10 is the best all-rounder, offering a stunning display, solid performance, and a more accessible price point. For budget-conscious buyers, the Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) delivers core functionality at a lower cost, though it lacks some advanced features.
Ultimately, the Apple Watch remains a benchmark in the smartwatch industry, combining style, functionality, and ecosystem integration. Whether you’re running a marathon, tracking your sleep, or simply staying connected, there’s an Apple Watch for you in 2025.
