Apple has recently launched the Apple Watch Series 9, the latest addition to its popular smartwatch lineup. The Series 9 boasts several new features and improvements over the previous models, such as a more powerful chip, a brighter display, a new gesture control, and a carbon-neutral option. But is it worth upgrading to the Series 9, or should you stick with your current Apple Watch? Here are some of the pros and cons of the Apple Watch Series 9.
Pros
- Performance: The Series 9 is powered by the new S9 SiP, which is Apple’s most powerful watch chip yet. It has a dual-core CPU with 60 percent more transistors than the S8 chip, and a four-core Neural Engine that can process machine-learning tasks up to two times faster. This means that the Series 9 can handle more complex and demanding tasks, such as on-device Siri, Precision Finding for iPhone, and Double Tap gestures.
- Display: The Series 9 has a brighter display than the Series 8, with a maximum brightness of 2000 nits, which is double the previous model. This makes it easier to read the screen in full sun, as well as in low-light situations, such as a movie theater. The display also dims to just 1 nit, which is ideal for night-time use.
- Double Tap: The Series 9 introduces a new gesture control that lets you use your Apple Watch without touching the screen. You can simply double-tap your index finger and thumb together to perform various actions, such as answering a call, opening a notification, playing and pausing music, and more. This is especially useful when your hands are full or wet, or when you want to avoid smudging the screen.
- Carbon Neutral: The Series 9 is Apple’s first carbon-neutral product, which means that it has a net zero impact on the climate. Apple has achieved this by reducing carbon emissions from materials, electricity, and transportation, as well as by investing in renewable energy and carbon removal projects. You can choose a carbon-neutral option of any Apple Watch case and band combination, which is a great way to support Apple’s environmental efforts.
Cons
- Battery Life: The Series 9 has the same battery life as the Series 8, which is up to 18 hours of mixed use. This is not bad, but it is not impressive either, especially considering the increased performance and brightness of the Series 9. You will still need to charge your Apple Watch every day, or even more often if you use features like GPS, cellular, or always-on display.
- Price: The Series 9 is the most expensive Apple Watch ever, starting at $399 for the 41mm GPS model, and going up to $799 for the 45mm cellular model with a stainless steel case. This is a hefty price tag for a smartwatch, and it may not be worth it for everyone, especially if you already have a recent Apple Watch model. You may want to wait for a price drop or look for a cheaper alternative, such as the Apple Watch SE or the Series 6.
- Compatibility: The Series 9 is compatible with all the existing Apple Watch bands, which is good news if you have a collection of bands that you want to use with your new watch. However, the Series 9 is not compatible with some of the older Apple Watch accessories, such as the magnetic charging dock, the leather loop, and the link bracelet. You will need to buy new accessories if you want to use them with your Series 9.
Conclusion
The Apple Watch Series 9 is a powerful and advanced smartwatch that offers a lot of new features and improvements over the previous models. It is especially appealing for those who want a brighter display, a new gesture control, and a carbon neutral option. However, it is also very expensive, and it does not have a significant improvement in battery life or compatibility. If you are looking for a new smartwatch, or if you have an older Apple Watch model, the Series 9 may be worth considering. But if you already have a Series 6 or a SE, you may want to wait for the next generation or look for a cheaper option.
Apple Watch Series 9 Review: