Apple Watch SE 2 vs Series 9 – Which Should You Buy?
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Choosing the right smartwatch depends on your lifestyle, your needs, and your budget. Apple offers several models to suit different types of users, and the Series 9 and SE 2 are prime examples of that approach. The Apple Watch Series 9 offers advanced features and a premium experience with newer hardware. The Apple Watch SE 2 delivers strong performance at a more affordable price, focusing on essential features. This comparison will walk you through the key differences to help you decide which model best fits your priorities and preferences.
Side by Side Comparison
| Feature | Apple Watch Series 9 | Apple Watch SE 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Case Sizes | 41mm, 45mm | 40mm, 44mm |
| Display Type | Always-On Retina LTPO OLED | Retina OLED (no Always-On) |
| Display Brightness | Up to 2000 nits | Up to 1000 nits |
| Processor | S9 SiP (2023) | S8 SiP (2022) |
| UWB | Second-generation Ultra Wideband | First-generation Ultra Wideband |
| Siri on-device | Yes | No |
| Health Sensors | Blood Oxygen, ECG, Optical HR, Temp sensor | Optical Heart Rate only |
| Crash Detection | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Life | Up to 18 hours (36 hours in Low Power Mode) | Up to 18 hours (no extended mode) |
| Case Material | Aluminum | Aluminum only |
| Fast Charging | Yes | No |
Detailed Feature Comparisons
Design and Construction
Both watches use aluminum cases and come in two sizes, but the Series 9 is slightly larger and offers more color options. The Series 9 also features thinner bezels and a more refined finish. The SE 2 has a lightweight feel and skips features like the ceramic back, which is present in the Series 9 for improved wireless connectivity and comfort.
Display Quality
The Series 9 features an Always-On Retina Display with up to 2000 nits of brightness, making it easier to view outdoors. The SE 2 lacks the Always-On feature and caps brightness at 1000 nits. If you’re often in bright sunlight or want a display that’s always visible without wrist-raising gestures, the Series 9 is better suited.
Performance and Processor
The Series 9 uses the new S9 chip, which is faster and supports on-device Siri and new gestures like double tap. The SE 2 uses the slightly older S8 chip. In daily use, both are snappy, but the Series 9 handles more tasks locally without needing a connection to your iPhone.
Health and Fitness Features
The Series 9 includes advanced health sensors for ECG, blood oxygen, and temperature tracking. These features are missing on the SE 2, which only includes an optical heart rate sensor. If health tracking is a high priority, the Series 9 offers more depth.
Battery and Charging
Both models offer the same battery life on paper—up to 18 hours—but the Series 9 supports fast charging and has a Low Power Mode that can stretch usage to around 36 hours. The SE 2 does not support fast charging and lacks the advanced Low Power Mode available in the Series 9.
Safety and Emergency Features
Both support Fall Detection and Crash Detection. However, the Series 9 adds a more advanced second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, which improves precision in locating your iPhone and enables more seamless HomePod interactions.
Software and Siri
With on-device Siri processing, the Series 9 can handle tasks like starting workouts or setting timers without needing an internet connection. The SE 2 relies on cloud-based Siri, which may be slower in low-signal areas. The Series 9 also supports more third-party watch faces and complications due to hardware capabilities.
FAQ
Is the Apple Watch Series 9 worth the extra cost compared to the SE 2?
If you value an always-on display, advanced health sensors, fast charging, and new features like double tap gestures or on-device Siri, the Series 9 is worth the premium. If you mainly want fitness tracking and notifications, the SE 2 may be the better value.
Does the Apple Watch SE 2 support ECG or blood oxygen monitoring?
No, the SE 2 does not have sensors for ECG or blood oxygen levels. These features are available only on the Series 9 and other higher-end models.
Can both watches be used for crash detection and emergency SOS?
Yes, both the Series 9 and SE 2 include crash detection and emergency SOS features for added safety.
Do either of these watches support fast charging?
Only the Apple Watch Series 9 supports fast charging. The SE 2 uses standard charging and takes longer to reach full battery.
Is the performance difference noticeable between S9 and S8 chips?
In basic tasks, the difference is minimal, but the S9 chip enables features like on-device Siri and improved gesture controls that are not possible on the SE 2.
Which watch is better for outdoor visibility?
The Series 9 is better in bright environments with a display that reaches up to 2000 nits and supports Always-On mode, making it easier to view at a glance.
Are both models compatible with the same bands?
Yes, both models use the same band sizes based on their case sizes (40/41mm and 44/45mm), so bands are interchangeable.
Do they both run the same version of watchOS?
Yes, both run the latest version of watchOS and will receive software updates for several years, though the Series 9 may support future features for longer due to newer hardware.
Is the Series 9 heavier than the SE 2?
Yes, slightly. The Series 9 has a ceramic and sapphire back which adds a bit of weight compared to the SE 2’s nylon composite back, but the difference is subtle in everyday wear.
Does the Apple Watch SE 2 have an Always-On Display?
No, the SE 2 does not include the Always-On Display feature. You must raise your wrist or tap the screen to view the time and information.