Apple Watch Series 7 Vs. Watch Series 6: Is It Worth Upgrading?
Apple Watch Series 7 has a larger and brighter display that is also more durable, but there are no new sensors making the decision to upgrade harder.
The Apple Watch Series 7 saw changes to the design, resulting in a new, more rounded look versus the Apple Watch Series 6. In many ways, the devices are still similar which might raise the question of whether this is the right time to upgrade or if an older model still maintains its value? While a new Apple Watch might be an automatic purchase for fitness professionals or the many that rely on the health features, it is useful to be aware of what additional features and capabilities have been added to the new model before considering upgrading.
Apple's sixth-generation wearable, the Apple Watch Series 6, arrived with a brighter always-on display mode. Naturally, the processor became faster than that of the earlier models and a new sensor was added. Blood oxygen measurement is useful in the diagnosis of some medical conditions, most notably sleep apnea, although Apple states that its sensor should not be used for that purpose. Instead, it gives a general idea of how well blood is oxygenated when at rest. Given that there is little variation, almost always between 95 and 100-percent, the value of this sensor is much less than that of the heart rate sensor and ECG capability. That meant the Apple Watch Series 6 was not a huge upgrade over the previous generation.
With the Apple Watch Series 7 the most obvious change is the refreshed look. The new shape is even rounder than before, something that Apple says increases the durability, making this the toughest Apple Watch yet. An IP6X rating indicates dust shouldn't be a problem. The newest Apple Watch matches the swimproof depth of 50 meters that is standard with most Apple Watch models. The new look also provides much more screen space. With 40-percent thinner bezels, the display room has increased by 20-percent over the Apple Watch Series 6. Screen brightness increased by 70-percent, a somewhat startling improvement.
Of course, the ECG app and all other sensors and apps that the Apple Watch Series 6 comes with, are included in the newest version. The Apple Watch Series 7 doesn't contain any new sensors which is a bit disappointing since rumors suggested the possibility of two or more being added. Pricing for the latest version starts at $399, just like the Apple Watch Series 6. The extra durability and protection from dust provide peace of mind, and for owners of the Apple Watch Series 5 or earlier, it might make sense to upgrade to the new model.
Apple continues to make incremental improvements to the Apple Watch and that makes sense as it is one of the most popular wearables in the world. It's a fast, reliable smartwatch that helps manage both health and fitness. A new QuickPath keyboard was announced which will probably be available for the Apple Watch Series 6 as well. Overall, the big changes to the Apple Watch Series 7 are almost entirely related to the screen, becoming larger, brighter, and more durable. While that is one of the most important aspects of the watch, the lack of new sensors means Apple Watch Series 6 owners should probably wait for the next generation. The Apple Watch Series 7 is a significant upgrade when compared to even earlier models and will offer good value if upgrading.
Source: Apple