Should you buy an Apple Watch Series 1 in 2022?

Apple Watch series 1
Apple Watch series 1 (Image credit: Pixabay)

Should you buy an Apple Watch Series 1 in 2022?

Best answer: No, an Apple Watch Series 1 is not worth the buy, especially since you can buy the superior Series 2 model for the same price. The Apple Watch Series 2 came out at the same time as the Series 1, but it has GPS and water-resistance up to 50m, while the Series 1 does not offer these features.GPS + water resistance: Apple Watch 2 ($175 at Amazon)All that plus cellular: Apple Watch 3 (From $299 at Apple)

Get value for your money

Buying an older version of the Apple Watch can certainly save you some cash, especially when the newest models are starting at $399. On the other hand, all Apple Watches are not created equal. Even though the Apple Watch series 1 and 2 series were both released at the same time, they do not offer the same features. The Series 1 has most of the same specs as the original Apple Watch, only with a faster processor.

By contrast, the Apple Watch series 2 was the first to offer GPS and water resistance. GPS is important if you'd like to use your smartwatch for navigation, and if swimming is your preferred form of exercise, the Apple Watch can track your laps and heart rate for you, up to a depth of 50 meters. All of these features are automatically included with the Apple Watch Series 2, but you won't find them in the Series 1.

Picking the best fit

Though Apple discontinued both the Series 1 and 2, they are still supported by WatchOS updates. However, selling for identical price points by aftermarket sellers. To us, the choice seems clear. More features for the same price? Go for the Apple Watch series 2. In fact, if you have the budget, the Apple Watch 3 is an even better choice because it offers cellular data, even when your iPhone is not around. Whatever your budget, you should get the most out of your purchase when you get higher quality for the same price.

Jaclyn Kilani
Contributor

Jaclyn Kilani is a content writer at iMore. She's a longtime Apple addict with a flair for creating (written works, design, photos; you name it!) on her devices. Jaclyn has also worked in the marketing sector for over 16 years, dabbling in a bit of everything from writing to graphic design and digital marketing. In her heart of hearts, however, she is a born writer and an avid reader who adores everything about the written word. Someday she may even churn out a book or two.

Throughout her career, Jaclyn has also developed something of an addiction to all things Apple. Her professional and personal life is enhanced by an ever-growing collection of iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, Apple Watches, and even AirTags. Luckily, this expensive habit is of great use to her work at iMore, where she writes with authority on Apple products and the accessories that go with them.