Apple released its latest smartwatches in September. The Series 8 (399) and Apple Watch SE (249) were introduced, along with the first Ultra. Apple’s latest smartwatches were launched in September. The new Apple Watch SE ($249), the Series 8 ($399) and the Ultra ($799) all have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Which one of these options should you choose? You should buy the latest watch that you can afford to ensure it receives software updates from Apple. The latest software update, watchOS 9 was released in September for the Apple Watch Series 4 models and newer. However, no one is certain if the Series 4 model will receive the next major update. Remember that unlike with some Apple products the biggest discounts are reserved for the latest models and not the older ones.
If you choose a smartwatch from the most recent generation, it will have an updated design and a number of advanced features. It also has plenty of sensors. Now that Series 3 has been officially retired, it is harder to find a watch which will feel outdated.
Let’s now get to the deal.
Apple’s latest smartwatch features watchOS 9, Crash Detection, and temperature sensors to track menstrual cycles. You won’t see this feature on any other model.
Apple Watch Series 8 isn’t a radical departure from Series 7. However, it offers Crash Detection as well as a number iterative improvements which will make it a popular model.
Apple Watch Series 8 is the latest in Apple’s flagship Series wearables. The Apple Watch Series 8 features a new chipset, which our colleague Victoria Song claims isn’t any faster than its predecessor, new temperature sensors to track menstruation, Crash Detection and a number of other improvements. The Series 8 may have some subtle improvements, but it’s not much different than the previous model, the Apple Watch Series 7
The base Apple Watch Series 8 is now $329 (a saving of $70). This is the price for the 41mm GPS model at Amazon, and Walmart. The 45mm GPS model is currently available at Amazon as well as Walmart, both of which are offering it for $359. This price is $70 less than the previous lowest.
The 41mm LTE model is currently on sale at Amazon, and Walmart. It’s $429 ($70 discount). This same discount of $70 is also available on the 45mm version, which can be purchased at Amazon or Walmart for $459.
Select colors of the Series 7 are currently available for $299 at Walmart — a $100 discount on its original price.
The SE 2022 is a subtle upgrade to the SE of the previous generation. It borrows a few features, including the Series 8 chipset.
Apple’s entry level wearable is a minor upgrade compared to its predecessor, the SE. However, it comes with a faster processor and uses many watchOS 9 features.
Apple’s first generation Apple Watch SE is a step-up from the now discontinued Series 3. It has similar features, and the design is more in line the Series 6 of 2020.
Apple Watch SE was updated in 2022. The Apple Watch SE has the same chipset and design as the Series 8 but it is a little outdated. It also has fewer sensors and no always-on screen. Some people may not be interested in this model, but you might find it to be the perfect fit. The 40mm Wi-Fi/GPS model starts at just $249, $30 less than previous generations’ baseline price. The price of the 40mm model increases to $299 if you choose cellular (44mm will add $20).
The 40mm Apple Watch SE GPS is currently available for $219.99 (a $30 discount), which is the lowest price the wearable has ever been. The GPS-only version is also available at Amazon in 44mm for $249.99 (savings of $30) or in the LTE configuration at Amazon starting at $269.99. In all cases, the discount is applied at checkout.
Walmart has the last-generation Apple Watch in its base configuration for just $149. That’s a savings of $130.