Go Big or Stick With the Basics? Apple Watch SE vs. Series 8 vs. Ultra
Apple just unveiled three new smartwatch models and they cover a wide range of features and prices. There's the entry-level Apple Watch SE($249), the standard Apple Watch Series 8 ($399), and the all-new, extreme-environment-focused Apple Watch Ultra ($799). Here's how they stack up against one other.
The Apple Watch SE and Apple Watch Series 8 are both available in two sizes (40 and 44mm for the SE, 41 and 45mm for the Series 8), while the Ultra only comes in one (comparatively huge) 49mm model. That big case might be a bit bulky if you have smaller wrists, especially since the Ultra's titanium body is also by far the heaviest at 2.2 ounces. The SE is only available in aluminum, while the Series 8 is available in aluminum or stainless steel. Aluminum will keep the watches much lighter, between 0.9 and 1.4 ounces, while a 45mm stainless steel Series 8 is a fairly hefty 1.8 ounces.
The Ultra is only available in a titanium finish, though it does come in three versions with very different wrist straps in multiple colors. The Apple Watch SE comes in black, white, or silver finishes, while the Series 8 adds (Product Red) to the mix for its aluminum models, as well as graphite, silver, or gold stainless steel versions. Of course, there are dozens of different wrist straps available for the SE and Series 8 in multiple styles of silicone, nylon, and other materials.
The Ultra's titanium body might be chunky, but it's also by far the sturdiest of the three Apple Watch models. It's IP6X dust resistant, tested to MIL-STD 810H, and has EN13319 certification, with a recreational dive rating to 40 meters and water resistance to 100 meters.
The SE and Series 8 are no slouches, however. Both are water resistant to 50 meters, and the
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