Which Apple Watch color should you get?

Apple Watch bands
Apple Watch bands (Image credit: iMore)

Apple Watch is the first significant tech product to blur the lines with fashion, but this distinction comes with one of life's toughest questions: Which Apple Watch color should you get? That's because watches have never just been about telling time; they've been about making a statement with colors, materials, and of course, with the best Apple Watch bands. So if you are questioning which Apple Watch color should you get, here's a look at all of the different finishes available for the Apple Watch Series 6, Apple Watch SE, and Apple Watch Series 3.

Apple Watch Series 6

Apple Watch SE

Apple Watch Series 3

Stainless Steel, Titanium, and Silver

Apple Watch Stainless Steel

Apple Watch Stainless Steel (Image credit: Joseph Keller / iMore)

While the traditional Stainless Steel Series 6 Apple Watch is our absolute favorite, all of Apple's silver case options are versatile and work well with bands of any color. The Stainless Steel version does a decent job of hiding normal wear and tear, but after a while, you may notice some light scratches so it does require a little maintenance. Nothing too drastic though, just a little cleaning, buffing, and polishing now and then will make it look like new again.

The Apple Watch Series 6 Edition this year doesn't come in the bright white ceramic, rather, that distinction is reserved solely for the Titanium models. The silver, or "plain," Titanium Edition features a unique brushed metal look that gives it an industrial-vibe—and its neutral color pairs extremely well with a wide assortment of band colors. To keep the Edition protected, Apple applies a special coating that resists stains and even fingerprints.

Finally, the base Apple Watch for the Series 6, SE, and Series 3 models all offer the classic anodized silver color. Apple's anodization is top-notch as it manages to be tougher than most without looking cheap or plastic-like. That said, aluminum is subject to scratches and chips. After a few years, it may show signs of wear. Dressing up the silver similar to the titanium Edition is also quite easy thanks to its subtle finish, so you can create your own custom looks with the plethora of colors available.

Space Black, Space Gray, & Graphite

Apple Watch Series 5 Titanium

Apple Watch Series 5 Titanium (Image credit: iMore)

The durable Space Black Titanium Apple Watch Series 6 Edition is light but significantly stronger than the base aluminum models. The Space Black version sports a stylish brushed look, albeit in a darker, less-noticeable tone, and it includes a special surface coating that protects it from fingerprints and stains.

The Stainless Steel Graphite Series 6 Apple Watch, just like the Titanium model, has its own special DLC coating to keep it looking new. This watch has a clean, polished mirror finish that looks premium from all angles. Since it's a deep black, the display of the Apple Watch blends in well and makes it look like one continuous surface.

Available in Series 6, SE, and Series 3 models, the Space Gray aluminum Apple Watch continues to be one of the most popular case choices due to its rugged good looks and its ability to hide imperfections. When combined with a black Apple Watch Sport band, the Space Gray models look just like traditional watches preventing it from drawing too much attention, while still being full of connected capabilities.

Blue, and (PRODUCT) RED

Apple Watch Series 6 Blue Aluminum

Apple Watch Series 6 Blue Aluminum (Image credit: Daniel Bader / iMore)

We are thrilled that Apple decided to mix things up with the Series 6 release by finally bringing a pair of powerful colors to the line. Available in (PRODUCT) RED and blue, these anodized aluminum watches add a fun dynamic to the iconic smartwatch design. Together, they create even more possibilities when it comes to band combinations.

The (PRODUCT) RED's black accent colors found on its display and the Digital Crown, make the whole package pop so we can't wait to see how it looks with a black band. Plus, if just having a banging watch color isn't good enough, a portion of each purchase goes toward the Global Fund to fight AIDS.

The blue aluminum Series 6 Apple Watch, while more subtle than the (PRODUCT) RED, is still equally as beautiful and is sure to be a favorite. Apple's choice of a dark, navy blue color allows it to blend into the background if needed. When paired with a brighter band, this watch will really come to life. We can easily see this color coming back in future editions of the Apple Watch, and rightfully so. It's a dream come true for many.

Gold and Golder

Apple Watch Series 6 Stainless Gold

Apple Watch Series 6 Stainless Gold (Image credit: Apple)

The gold Stainless Steel Apple Watch Series 6 is all about getting noticed. It's not gold material, but it has a gold PVD coating that will make heads turn. The golds we've tested over the years have all kept their colors well and stood up to daily wear and tear. Of all the Apple Watch Series 6 choices, this yellow-gold color is the one that's most unique for better or worse. Just keep in mind that finding bands with gold lugs could prove to be a little difficult.

For a softer look, Apple's aluminum gold finishes for the Series 6 and the SE, incorporate hues of pink and copper harkening back to the rose golds of the past. Although lighter colored watch bands are a perfect fit, the gold works well with some darker colors like black, navy blue, and even orange. Each of these brings out those underlying colors creating a truly unique look.

Christopher Close

Christopher spends most of his time writing and dreaming about all things HomeKit and the Home app. Whether it is installing smart light switches, testing the latest door locks, or automating his households daily routines, Christopher has done it all.