In September, Apple launched its latest batch of smartwatches, including the Apple Watch Series 11, the SE 3, and the Ultra 3. Each has its own pros and cons, but the introduction of Apple’s newest wearables also means there are now more Apple Watch models on the market than ever before — and a lot more deals to be had.
But with all of those options, which one should you pick? Generally speaking, you want to buy the newest watch you can afford so that it continues to receive software updates from Apple. The latest update, watchOS 26, launched in September on the Series 6 and newer models, leaving those with a Series 5 and older devices in the proverbial dust. Fortunately, picking up a watch from the latest (or a recent) generation ensures you’re getting a futureproof smartwatch with an updated design, a robust feature set, and plenty of sensors.
Now, let’s get to the deals.
Apple Watch Series 11 deals
The Apple Watch Series 11 is a fairly iterative update of the Series 10, meaning those who already own Apple’s last-gen flagship may not necessarily feel compelled to upgrade. That being said, the newest model does tout a more power-efficient 5G modem and a more scratch-resistant display, as well as an additional 6 hours of battery life over the Series 10. It’s also the slimmest Apple Watch to date and the first to offer FDA-cleared hypertension notifications out of the gate, which you can also now leverage on both the Series 9 and Ultra 2.
If you are looking to upgrade, however, you can pick up the Apple Watch Series 11 in the 42mm / GPS configuration at Amazon and Walmart starting at $329 ($70 off), which remains the second-best price we’ve seen for the base model. If you prefer the larger 46mm / GPS model, it’s also available at Amazon and Walmart for around $329 ($100 off), matching its lowest price to date.
Read our full Apple Watch Series 11 review.
While the Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3 introduce a handful of iterative updates, the new Apple Watch SE 3 represents a significant upgrade over its 2022 predecessor. The entry-level watch features the same speedy S10 chip found in Apple’s flagship models, for one, letting you take advantage of Apple’s double tap feature, wrist flick gestures, and on-device Siri. The SE 3 also (finally) adds an always-on display, 5G connectivity, support for fast-charging, and audio playback so you can listen to music or podcasts directly from your wrist.
On the health front, the SE 3 introduces a wrist-temperature sensor for retrospective ovulation tracking, along with breathing disturbance alerts, sleep apnea notifications, and a new Sleep Score that breaks down time spent in each stage. What you won’t find are the Series 11’s EKG functionality, blood oxygen monitoring, or hypertension notifications — those are exclusive to the Series and Ultra models.
In terms of deals, the Apple Watch SE 3 is currently available on Amazon in its 40mm base configuration with GPS for $239, a mere $10 discount and about $40 shy of its lowest price to date. You can also pick up the larger 44mm model on Amazon starting at $269, which, again, is $10 less than the MSRP.
Read our full Apple Watch SE 3 review.
Apple Watch Ultra 3 deals
Unsurprisingly, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 offers the most features, sensors, and ruggedness of any Apple Watch available thus far. It features a larger, wide-angle OLED display with a 1Hz refresh rate and thinner bezels, as well as both satellite and 5G connectivity. Better yet, battery life has been extended from 36 hours to 42 hours — a marginal improvement, but one that allows you to squeeze out a bit more life when necessary.
As far as deals go, the Ultra 3 recently dropped to an all-time low of $699.99 ($100 off), which is the current sale price on Amazon when you pick it up with either an Ocean Band or a Trail Loop strap. You can also grab it from Amazon with an Alpine Loop strap starting at $768 ($32 off), which remains one of the better prices we’ve seen on that particular model in recent weeks.
Read our full Apple Watch Ultra 3 review.
Apple Watch Ultra 2 deals
If the latest Ultra isn’t what you’re after, you can save some money by opting for an Apple Watch Ultra 2, which isn’t vastly different than Apple’s latest top-of-the-line model. The wearable runs on the older S9 SiP and features Apple’s second-gen ultra wideband chip, but that may not matter to you since it still offers precise GPS tracking, a range of diving-friendly sensors, and long-lasting battery life.
Right now, you can pick up the Apple Watch Ultra 2 at Best Buy with an Alpine Loop, a Trail Loop, or an Ocean Band starting at $574 ($225 off), which is about $125 less than the current price of the Ultra 3.
Read our Apple Watch Ultra 2 review.
Update, April 9th: Updated to reflect current pricing / availability and several new links.
