Apple’s latest smartwatches have just been unveiled at the Apple Wonderlust event, introducing two new models: the latest addition to the primary Apple Watch lineup, the New Apple Watch Series 9, and the Apple Watch Ultra 2, an upgraded iteration of the 2022 Apple Watch Ultra.
While Apple Watch updates are typically characterized by incremental changes, they often bring valuable new features. So, is it worth making the switch to the new Apple Watch?
In this comparison, we’ll pit the New Apple Watch Series 9 against its predecessor, the Series 8, to determine which one emerges as the superior choice. So, without further ado, let us know which Apple watch would be the best option for you.
What are the key differentiators between the New Apple Watch Series 9 and Series 8?
In this section, we will analyze the key differentiators in detail, and in the end, we will see which is the better bit for you.
Display
Both the smaller and larger Apple Watch Series 8 models feature always-on Retina OLED displays, the smaller measuring 1.7 inches and the larger measuring 1.9 inches. The Series 9 Apple Watch, in comparison, has the same display sizes but boosts brightness significantly. Series 9 has a maximum brightness of 2,000 nits, which is twice as bright as Series 8’s 1,000 nits. Additionally, the Series 9 has a minimum brightness of 1 nit, making it perfect for usage in low-traffic areas.
Design
In terms of design, the New Apple Watch Series 9 doesn’t look much different from its predecessor. The Series 9 Apple Watch comes in two sizes, the 45mm measuring 45x38x10.7mm and the 41mm measuring 41x31x10.7mm, similar to prior updates.
Because of how similar the two series seem; you’ll need to choose a new color to tell them apart. Next year will mark the tenth anniversary of the introduction of the first Apple Watch, so additional substantial upgrades could be in store for the Apple Watch Series 10.
Battery
The New Apple Watch Series 9 retains the same battery life as its predecessor, the Apple Watch Series 8. It still has an always-on display, tracks your sleep, and can track your workouts for up to 18 hours on a single charge. Like its predecessor, the Series 9 has a low-power mode that conserves battery life by turning off some but not all of the device’s power-hungry capabilities. The Apple Watch’s battery life is increased to around 36 hours when in low-power mode.
Software
watchOS 10 is compatible with the New Apple Watch Series 9 and the Apple Watch Series 8. The latest version adds a new, noteworthy feature in the shape of a smart stack of widgets that can be customized and accessed from any watch face, providing quick and easy access to the user’s chosen apps and information with a swipe or a digital crown scroll.
The update adds new health-related capabilities, such as recording how long you spend in the sun and keeping tabs on your mental health using the Mindfulness app. Snoopy and Woodstock, two of the most well-known cartoon characters, star in a new animated watch face.
Price
From the original $399 for the 41mm model to the higher prices for the bigger 45mm model and cellular connectivity choices, Apple has consistently maintained its pricing for its Apple Watch series throughout the years. Consumers frequently search for Apple Watch savings online.
The good news for customers is that the Series 9 Apple Watch costs the same as the Series 8. The 41 mm GPS-only variant is still available for the introductory price of $399. The GPS plus cellular version may be purchased for $499. The larger 45-millimeter model will cost at least $429 and can cost as much as $529 depending on its cellular capabilities.
Let’s understand the top differences at a glance
| Feature | New Apple Watch Series 9 | Apple Watch Series 8 |
| Design | Nearly identical design to Series 8 | Nearly identical design to Series 9 |
| Case Sizes | Available in 41mm and 45mm | Available in 41mm and 45mm |
| Band Compatibility | Compatible with the same bands | Compatible with the same bands |
| Starting Price | Starts at $399 | Starts at $399 |
| Color Options | Offers new pink color option | Available in Midnight, Starlight, Product Red, Silver |
| Band Options | Promotes new band options, but compatible with Series 8 bands | Compatible with a range of bands |
| Connectivity Options | Available in Wi-Fi only and cellular models | Available in Wi-Fi only and cellular models |
| Key Upgrades | Improved processing power, brighter display, gesture control | N/A |
| Notable Exclusivity | New pink color exclusive to Series 9 | N/A |
While many current Apple Watch Series 8 users may find little reason to upgrade to the Series 9, individuals with older devices may benefit from the latest model. This includes those who frequently utilize a HomePod, intend to purchase an iPhone 15 with Precision Finding support, require extra storage for offline media, or find the new Double Tap gesture beneficial for one-handed use.
Conclusion
Apple has, over the course of many years, established an exceptionally high standard for smartwatches, and the incremental improvements that it has made have always been delivered. On the other hand, the level of competitiveness in the market for smartwatches is developing and getting better.
The New Apple Watch Series 9 does provide certain improvements, such as a new double-tap capability and a brighter display; nevertheless, these modifications may not be considered ground-breaking; however, they will undoubtedly make the Apple Watch more usable for some customers.
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