Apple’s first jab at making a smartwatch was quite a success, as the first generation Apple Watch became the top selling smartwatch in the world. And during its annual hardware announcement event last year, the company upgraded the original watch with an improved processor and called it the Apple Watch Series 1. In addition, they also introduced the Apple Watch Series 2 variant that offers a slew of improvements and design upgrades. Hence, we do a quick comparison between the two to find out key differences and help you decide which one is a better buying option
Apple Watch Series 1 vs Apple Watch Series 2: Design
In terms of looks, there isn’t much of a difference between the Apple Watch Series 1 and the new Apple Watch Series 2. Both generations of the Apple Watch are offered in 38-millimeter and 42-milllimeter sizes. Users are also given plenty of customization options in the form of different styles and materials. In addition, there are also a plethora of bands to choose from Apple as well as third party retailers.
That said, the new Apple Watch Series 2 offers more customization options than it predecessor. The latest gen Apple Watch is offered in a choice of three casings. The cheapest option of the lot is an aluminum casing, the stainless steel model sits in the middle, while the top-of-the-line model comes with a ceramic exterior. Apple touts that its ceramic casing is four times stronger than stainless steel.
Besides, Apple has also joined hands with Nike for a special Watch+Nike version of the Apple Watch Series 2. Aimed at fitness enthusiasts, this special edition is equipped with a light, breathable band. Also, the special Watch+Nike edition comes with wide range of features and applications that are dedicated towards fitness.
Another highlight of Apple Watch Series 2 is its improved waterproofing capabilities. The smartwatch is waterproof in up to 50 meters of water, which is a big boon for professional swimmers and fitness enthusiasts.
In comparison, the Apple Watch Series 2 was merely splash resistant.
Apple Watch Series 1 vs Apple Watch Series 2: Display
The most noticeable change with Apple Watch Series 2 is its display. It happens to be the brightest screen ever for any Apple product reaching as high as 1000 nits, compared to the 450 nits of its predecessor.
Apple Watch Series 1 vs Apple Watch Series 2: Hardware and Features
While Apple did upgrade the original Apple Watch and called it Series 1. The Apple Watch Series 2 is a more powerful smartwatch, thanks to a new dual-core processor called S2. The S2 is rated to offer 50 percent faster performance than the S1 chipset found on the original Apple Watch. Besides, the GPU on the latest Apple Watch Series 2 is also claimed to be twice as powerful compared to Series 1. Now, this again should offer much improved overall performance and user experience. For instance, apps should open much faster, while navigating around the smartwatch should be a lot smoother and speedier.
Besides, the GPU on the latest Apple Watch Series 2 is also claimed to be twice as powerful compared to Series 1. Now, this again should offer much improved overall performance and user experience. For instance, apps should open much faster, while navigating around the smartwatch should be a lot smoother and speedier.
Also, the latest Apple Watch Series 2 comes with a slightly larger battery capacity than the previous gen Apple Watches. With an upgraded 273mAh battery on the Apple Watch Series 2, the device’s battery life is rated at up to 18 hours.
Elsewhere, one of the glaring shortcomings with the original Apple Watch was the absence of a built-in tracker. Though, the latest Apple Watch Series 2 comes with a GPS tracker, which means there’s no hassle for fitness enthusiasts. They can easily chalk out their fitness roadmap and exercise routine.
Apple Watch Series 1 vs Apple Watch Series 2: Price
The Apple Watch Series 1 gets a starting price tag of $270, while its top-tier ceramic model will cost a whopping $1250.
While the latest Apple Watch Series 2 starts at $370, which includes the standard aluminum version and the Nike+. Besides, there are a plethora of strap choices especially for the Watch Series 2. Hermes is offering a slew of designer leather straps for the Apple Watch Series 2. Besides, there’s also silver buckle model priced at $1399.
The Apple Watch Series 1 carries a much lower price tag than the latest Watch Series 2. That being said, it also lacks key features such as a built-in GPS tracker and waterproofing capabilities. Not to forget, the new Apple Watch also gets a faster processor, an upgraded battery, along with a brighter display. Considering the above, we suggest the Apple Watch Series 2 is a better buy.
