We tell you if it's worth the upgrade
Are you torn between purchasing an Apple Watch SE 1st Gen and the Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen? With several differences between the two, it’s understandable if you feel overwhelmed by all of the features and options available. In this article, we’ll explore both watches from top to bottom, providing a detailed breakdown of what sets them apart and helping determine which watch will better suit your needs.
Is the 2nd generation worth the upgrade? What changed, and what stayed the same? For some users, it’s enough to know that Apple Watch SE 2 is equipped with the latest chipset, the same one that powers the pricey but popular Apple Watch Series 8 and Apple Watch Ultra. And although Gen 2 brings some new features, you’ll have to ask yourself if they are useful.
Table of Contents
So whether you’re looking for something capable of monitoring your heart rate during a workout session or just need a few spectacular phone management capabilities, we’ll help you decide which Apple Watch model is right for you.
Specs
The table below lists all the crucial specs for Apple Watch SE 1 and Apple Watch Se 2 for easy comparison.
| Specification | Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation) | Apple Watch SE (1st Generation) |
| Display | Retina LTPO OLED (up to 1,000 nits brightness) | Retina LTPO OLED (up to 1,000 nits brightness) |
| Processor | Apple S8 | Apple S5 |
| Memory | 1 GB | 1 GB |
| Storage | 32 GB | 32 GB |
| Battery life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 18 hours |
| Sensor | Compass, Gyroscope, optical heart sensor, Altimeter, Accelerometer, Ambient light, Barometer, always-on altimeter. | Compass, Gyroscope, optical heart sensor, Altimeter, Accelerometer, Ambient light, Barometer, always-on altimeter. |
| Buttons | Power Button and Digital Crown | Power Button and Digital Crown |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n Bluetooth 5.3 GPS/GNS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS Optional LTE | Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n Bluetooth 5.0 GPS/GNS, GLONASS Optional LTE |
| Durability | WR50 Certified | WR50 Certified |
| Price | Start price $249 | Start price $279 |
The only major difference when it comes to specs is in the chipset. Apple Watch SE 1st Generation has an old S5 system, first released in the Apple Watch Series 5. The Second generation SE boasts the newest S8 SiP, a dual-core chipset with a 7nm manufacturing process.
Apple claims this new chip is 20% faster, but is that even that impressive? After all, it’s been three years since SE 1st gen was released. That’s because S8, S7, and S6 chips have the same CPU, and the 20% speed difference is not nearly as noticeable as in the iPhone 14 compared to iPhone 11.
The only other difference is the change from Bluetooth 5.0 to Bluetooth 5.3.
Design
Apple is known for not experimenting with its devices’ designs too much. There’s practically no visual difference between Apple Watch SE and SE 2. Both versions allow you to choose between two display sizes: 40mm and 44mm. And they both come with rounded corners on their slim bezels.
The material for the casing is the same aluminum that makes Apple watches sturdy and robust. However, the back of the watch is different. While SE 1 uses ceramic, SE 2 switched to a nylon composite and sapphire crystal back. The SE 2 gets the advantage here. Although the materials feel the same, the matching back color of the Apple Watch SE 2 makes it more stylish.
Regarding looks, the only real difference between the two models is in their available colors. The SE 1 version comes in silver, gold, and space gray, while SE 2 is available in silver, starlight, and midnight colors.
Performance
The 20% faster performance Apple claims the S8 chip brings is negligible for Apple Watches. However, it’s still an advantage. Being newer means it’s more future-proof when the latest versions of WatchOS arrive. You can update the software without worrying about slowing down your Apple smartwatch.
Battery life remains the same. Apple claims it’s 18 hours for SE 1 and SE 2 and the more expensive Apple Watch Series 8. In reality, the battery life will depend on how you use your watch. You can expect it to last less if you rely on GPS and other tracing features. Turn off GPS and Wi-Fi settings, and your Apple Watch SE 2 might even last two days without charging.
Nevertheless, the first SE generation didn’t support fast charging. It’s a shame the second generation doesn’t support it also, especially since the technical specifications allow it. But the newest WatchOS 9 should allow Apple Watch SE 2 to use its battery more efficiently, especially with the low-power mode.
Fitness and Health Features
Apple Watch SE 2 still relies on the old optical sensor for heart rate monitoring. Still, it’s good enough in detecting abnormalities such as high, low, or irregular heartbeat. You’ll also get a notification when these abnormalities are detected. However, both SE generations lack the blood oxygen sensor available in the S8 and Apple Watch Ultra. But you should know that none of the smartwatches has a reliable heart monitoring sensor, and you shouldn’t panic if you receive such a notification.
As for the sleep tracking feature, the Apple Watch SE 1st Gen was the first smartwatch to implement it. The users loved it so much that it was included with the SE 2nd Gen. You’ll also have various sports trackers with the workout app. This includes water sports such as swimming or casual diving. That’s why both Apple Watch SE and SE 2 are water resistant up to 50 meters deep. Also, you can use the Digital Crown of Apple SE 2 to swap between your favorite workout activities.
That’s not all. With WatchOS 9 came the new Medications app that helps you track your daily intake of meds, supplements, and vitamins. But it will also send reminders to take your meds on time. This app has all the data synced to the iPhone’s Apple Health app.
Although the two Apple Watch SE versions have the same sensors, such as a gyroscope, accelerometer, barometer, always-on altimeter, and compass, SE 2 has a gyroscope and accelerometer updated to newer versions. However, the Always-on display feature is not available on either of these Apple Watch models.
Other Special Features
The Apple Watch SE 2 has some unique features unavailable to its predecessor. Namely the crash detection, Apple Pay for NFC, and Family Setup. These new features put Apple Watch SE 2nd generation into a new spotlight, especially if you’re concerned about your family’s safety.
The Family Setup feature lets you manage the devices of your family members. You’ll always know the exact location of your children or a family member who requires supervision. You can also monitor their messages and calls even if they are not using an iPhone.
The crash detection feature is controlled by the new high-g accelerometer chip. Apple typically reserves such features for their top-tier devices, but this one landed on Apple Watch SE 2. This feature uses motion sensors and advanced algorithms to detect severe car crashes. When one such car crash happens, expect your Apple Watch SE 2 to check in on you and dial emergency if you don’t respond within 10 seconds.
Software and Updates
The Apple Watch SE 2 has the latest WatchOS 9 preinstalled. This software is available for older models too, including Apple Watch SE Gen 1, but they won’t run it quite as smoothly due to the outdated hardware.
The WatchOS has new watch faces, Focus Mode, and a redesigned compass app. If you are outdoorsy, you’ll especially love the new compass design, as it now allows you to set waypoints and backtrack your hiking/cycling routes. It’s especially great for trails when you don’t have network access.
Price and Availability
The starting price of the Apple Watch SE 2 is $249 for the 40mm GPS model and $279 for the 44mm model. But if you add cellular connectivity, the price will go up. The SE 2 will cost you $299 and $329. The LTE models of the SE 1 are priced at $329 and $359.
Should You Upgrade?
If you’re already a proud owner of an Apple Watch SE 1st generation, there might not be enough reason to upgrade to the 2nd generation. But if you think you’ll benefit from the new features and slightly faster performance, go ahead with the upgrade. Remember that the SE 2 has the same battery life, longevity, and durability as its predecessor. It also lacks some of the newer features available in the Apple Watch Ultra and Apple Watch Series 8, such as fast charging, advanced tracking features, and additional sensors, so you might want to upgrade to those models instead.
If you don’t have a smartwatch at all or if you’re switching to the Apple Watch from some other brand, the SE 2 is a smart and budget-friendly choice.
