Fast Facts
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Model Comparison: The Apple Watch Series 11 retains the same design and price ($399 for aluminum) as the Series 10, but introduces incremental upgrades, including improved battery life and connectivity options like 5G.
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Display and Durability: Both models feature similar LTPO3 OLED displays, but the Series 11 uses Ion-X glass that is twice as scratch-resistant and incorporates more sustainable materials, such as 100% recycled titanium.
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Battery Performance: The Series 11 boasts an up to 24-hour runtime (38 hours in Low Power mode), slightly surpassing the Series 10’s 18-hour runtime, with real-world testing showing better than expected longevity.
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Software Features: Both watches run on WatchOS 26, sharing new features like hypertension notifications and sleep tracking, with some connectivity enhancements exclusive to the Series 11.
Pricing and Design: What’s New?
If you’re considering an Apple Watch this holiday season, you face a tough decision. The new Apple Watch Series 11 maintains a starting price of $399, the same as its predecessor, the Series 10. You can also find refurbished Series 10 models for less, which may appeal to budget-conscious shoppers. Both models share the same sleek design, available in 42mm and 46mm sizes. However, the Series 11 adds a new space gray aluminum option to its color lineup. While the designs look nearly identical, the Series 11 is slightly heavier, thanks to advanced materials.
Moreover, Apple made notable advancements in sustainability. The titanium version of the Series 11 now uses 100% recycled material compared to 95% in the Series 10. These environmentally friendly updates represent a commitment to responsible manufacturing while keeping the style intact.
Performance and Features: Upgrade Worth It?
When it comes to performance, both watches house the same S10 processor, so you won’t see a speed difference. However, the Series 11 boasts improved battery life, lasting up to 24 hours on a single charge and extending to 38 hours in Low Power Mode. In real-world testing, users reported that the Series 11 often exceeded this estimate. The Series 10 still performs well but falls slightly short in longevity.
Health features remain consistent across both models, with identical sensors for heart rate and temperature monitoring. Nevertheless, the Series 11 introduces support for 5G networks, allowing for faster connectivity without needing an iPhone. With the new WatchOS 26, both models gain access to features like hypertension notifications and a Sleep Score.
In summary, if you currently use a Series 8 or older, you’ll likely appreciate the advancements in the Series 11. However, if you own a Series 10, the justification to upgrade may not be as compelling. Both watches remain excellent companions for health tracking and daily convenience.
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