Should you buy an Apple Watch now or wait? Best time to buy in 2026
According to a report by Macworld… Macworld
Apple’s 2026 Watch lineup is now on sale, with the Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 joining the Apple Watch SE 3. That makes this a reasonable time to buy if you want the latest features. If price matters more, compare the new models with discounted Series 11 and Ultra 3 stock – or wait for the October and Black Friday sales. The SE 3 remains the least expensive option in Apple’s current lineup, but it’s also the oldest as it was introduced in September 2025.
If you don’t need a watch immediately, it’s worth considering the major sales events that follow Apple’s launch. Retailers consistently offer their biggest Apple Watch discounts during Amazon Prime Day (July and October) and Black Friday in November. During Prime Day in June 2026, for example, we saw discounts ranging from $50 to $120 on current models.
In this guide, we’ll explain whether you should buy an Apple Watch now or wait, the best times of year to find the biggest discounts, and how to avoid paying full price just before a new model arrives. Read our Macworld’s Best Apple Watch guide for more buying advice.
Should I buy an Apple Watch now? At a glance
WatchApple Watch SE 3 (Best Value)Apple Watch Series 12 (Best for Most)Apple Watch Ultra 4 (Best for Adventurers)AdviceBuy for valueBuy for health features Buy for battery life and outdoor featuresStarting Price$249/£219$399/£369$799/£749Key health and safety featuresHeart-rate alerts, sleep tracking, temperature sensing, Fall DetectionSE 3 features, plus ECG, Blood Oxygen, hypertension alerts, more frequent heart-rate and HRV readings, and ReadinessSeries 12 health features, plus dive features and satellite Emergency SOSBattery LifeUp to 18 hoursUp to 24 hours; 38 hours in Low Power ModeUp to 50 hours; 84 in Low Power ModeBest ForBudget-conscious users who want core features and iPhone integrationEveryday users wanting the best balance of features, health tracking, and priceAthletes, hikers, and divers needing maximum durability, GPS, and battery life
Buy an Apple Watch now if…
Mahmoud Itani / Foundry
The Series 12 and Ultra 4 are now on sale alongside the SE 3 and there are no new models expected. Buy now if you need a watch soon or the model you want meets your needs at a price you’re happy to pay. The Series 12 is the best everyday choice, the SE 3 is the best value, and the Ultra 4 makes sense if you need its longer battery life or outdoor features. A discounted Series 11 or Ultra 3 could also be worth buying if you don’t need the latest additions.
You should consider buying now if:
Your current Apple Watch cannot run watchOS 27, or its battery no longer lasts long enough for your needs.
You’re buying your first Apple Watch or upgrading from a much older model. The current watches offer substantial improvements in displays, performance, health tracking and battery life.
You want the Series 12 or Ultra 4’s new Health Sensing System, more frequent heart-rate and HRV readings, and Readiness score. Live Rewind and Siri Recap are due in beta later in 2026, so don’t count on using those immediately.
You would benefit from the Ultra 4’s up to 50-hour battery life, satellite communication or specialist outdoor features.
You need a watch before a trip or event, or you find a worthwhile discount on a model that suits you.
Don’t buy an Apple Watch now if…
The main reason to wait now is price: retailers may discount the new models during October sales and Black Friday.
You may want to wait or choose a different model if:
You want the lowest possible price and are happy to wait for the next major sale. Compare any Series 12 or Ultra 4 offer with remaining Series 11 and Ultra 3 stock.
You already own a Series 10 or 11 and do not need the Series 12’s new health sensing features. Its quoted everyday battery life remains 24 hours.
You own an Ultra 3 and its 42-hour battery life and outdoor features already meet your needs. The Ultra 4’s 50-hour rating is its clearest reason to upgrade.
You are considering a used watch that cannot run watchOS 27. The Series 8, SE 2 and original Ultra, along with older models, miss out on the latest major software update.
You use an Android phone. Apple Watch requires an iPhone.
You are considering the SE 3 but need ECG, Blood Oxygen monitoring or the new Health Sensing System. Choose the Series 12 instead.
Should I buy the Apple Watch Series 12?
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Should you buy: Buy
The Apple Watch Series 12 is the best choice for most people. Starting at $399/£369 – the same starting price as the Series 11 – it combines Apple’s advanced health features with a smaller, lighter design than the Ultra 4. Its new Health Sensing System measures heart rate every five seconds and heart-rate variability more frequently, providing data for a new Readiness score. The S11 chip also supports Audio Intelligence features, although Live Rewind and Siri Recap are due to arrive in beta later in 2026.
Apple still rates everyday battery life at up to 24 hours, the same as Series 11. Outdoor workout tracking lasts longer, however, and a 15-minute charge now provides up to 12 hours of use, compared with around eight hours for Series 11. Aluminum models also gain a tougher Ceramic Shield 2 display.
Buy the Apple Watch Series 12 if:
You’re buying your first Apple Watch or upgrading from a much older model and want the best everyday option.
You want the new Health Sensing System, more frequent heart-rate and HRV measurements, and Readiness score.
You want advanced features missing from the SE 3, including ECG, Blood Oxygen monitoring and hypertension notifications.
You prefer a lighter watch with two size choices over the larger Ultra 4.
Don’t buy the Apple Watch Series 12 if:
You own a Series 10 or 11 that still meets your needs. The new health features may not justify the cost of upgrading, and Apple’s 24-hour everyday battery rating has not changed.
You can get a Series 11 at a meaningful discount and don’t need the new health sensing or upcoming Audio Intelligence features.
You mainly want fitness tracking, notifications and basic safety features. The SE 3 costs $150/£150 less.
You need more than a day of battery life, satellite communication or specialist outdoor features. Consider the Ultra 4 instead.
Our verdict: This is the Apple Watch we’d recommend to most people buying a new watch today. Its new health sensing features make it a more substantial upgrade than the Series 11 was, while the starting price has stayed the same. Owners of recent watches should weigh those additions against the cost: a discounted Series 11 – or keeping the watch they already have – may be the better value.
Should I buy the Apple Watch SE 3?
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Should you buy: Buy
The Apple Watch SE 3 is the best-value Apple Watch in the lineup and the model we’d recommend for most iPhone users. Announced in September 2025, it brought many features that were previously reserved for Apple’s premium watches, including an always-on display, temperature sensing, fast charging and the S10 chip used in the Series 11 and Ultra 3.
If you don’t need Apple’s most advanced health sensors, the SE 3 delivers almost everything that makes the Apple Watch great at a much lower price. It starts at $249 / £219, although we’ve already seen it discounted to $199 during major sales.
The SE 3 also supports Siri AI in watchOS 27 when paired with a compatible Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone. Siri AI is currently in beta and rolling out in English. The SE 3 does not support the separate Audio Intelligence features coming to the Series 12 and Ultra 4, including Live Rewind and Siri Recap.
Buy the Apple Watch SE 3 if:
You want the best-value Apple Watch.
You’re buying your first smartwatch.
You mainly want fitness tracking, notifications and Apple’s core smartwatch features.
You want safety features such as Fall Detection, Crash Detection and heart-rate alerts.
You’re buying for a child or older family member, particularly the cellular model.
Don’t buy the Apple Watch SE 3 if:
You need ECG or blood oxygen monitoring, which are only available on the Series 12 and Ultra 4.
You want the brightest display and most premium design—the SE 3 still has thicker bezels than the flagship models.
You need longer battery life. The SE 3 is rated for 18 hours, compared with 24 hours for the Series 12.
You’re happy to spend more for Apple’s most advanced health and fitness features.
Our verdict: The Apple Watch SE 3 is an outstanding budget smartwatch. Its always-on display, S10 processor, fast charging and improved health features make it a huge step up from the SE 2. Unless you specifically need ECG, blood oxygen monitoring or the longer battery life of the Series 11, the SE 3 is the Apple Watch we’d recommend to most buyers.
Read our full
Apple Watch SE 3 (40mm) review
Should I buy the Apple Watch Ultra 4?
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Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide
Should you buy: Yes
The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is Apple’s most capable watch, aimed at endurance athletes, hikers, divers and anyone who regularly spends more than a day away from a charger. It starts at $799/£749, the same starting price as the Ultra 3, and retains the 49mm titanium case, bright display, dual-frequency GPS, satellite communication and diving support.
Battery life is the strongest reason to choose the new model. Apple rates the Ultra 4 for up to 50 hours of normal use, up from 42 hours on Ultra 3, or 84 hours in Low Power Mode, up from 72. Its new Extended Workout modes can track outdoor activity for up to 25 hours with full GPS and heart-rate readings, or up to 45 hours in Max Extended Workout mode. Like the Series 12, it gains the new Health Sensing System, more frequent heart-rate and HRV readings, and a Readiness score. Its S11 chip supports Audio Intelligence, although Live Rewind and Siri Recap are due in beta later in 2026.
Buy the Apple Watch Ultra 4 if:
You want the longest battery life available on an Apple Watch, particularly for travel, long shifts or time away from a charger.
You need extended outdoor workout tracking, precision dual-frequency GPS or satellite communication.
You hike, dive or take part in endurance sports and will use its rugged case, Action button and specialist features.
You want the new Health Sensing System in an Ultra watch and are upgrading from a substantially older model.
Don’t buy the Apple Watch Ultra 4 if:
You already own an Ultra 3 and its 42-hour battery life meets your needs. It retains many of the same outdoor features, including satellite communication and dual-frequency GPS.
You find an Ultra 3 at a substantial discount and do not need the Ultra 4’s longer battery life, new health sensing or extended workout modes.
You mainly want advanced health features in an everyday watch. The smaller Series 12 has the same new Health Sensing System and S11 chip for half the starting price.
You prefer a smaller or lighter watch. The Ultra 4’s 49mm case can feel bulky, especially for sleep tracking.
Our verdict: The Ultra 4 is worth buying if you will benefit from its 50-hour battery life, extended workout tracking or outdoor safety features. It also offers the Series 12’s new health sensing in a more rugged watch. For everyday use, the Series 12 offers better value; if you already own an Ultra 3, compare the cost of upgrading with how much its extra eight hours of rated battery life and new health features matter to you.
Should I buy an older Apple Watch?
Foundry
The Series 11 and Ultra 3 are now the previous-generation models and may be good buys if retailers discount them enough. Before choosing any older Apple Watch, check both its price against the current model and whether it can run watchOS 27. The Series 9 and Ultra 2 are the oldest supported Apple Watch models models in their respective ranges; the SE 3 is the only supported SE.
The following models cannot install watchOS 27, so we would generally avoid buying them unless the price is exceptionally low and you are comfortable using older software:
Apple Watch Series 6 (2020)
Apple Watch Series 7 (2021)
Apple Watch Series 8 (2022)
Apple Watch SE (2nd generation, 2022)
Apple Watch Ultra (1st generation, 2022)
Start by comparing a discounted Series 11 with the Series 12, or an Ultra 3 with the Ultra 4. The Series 11 retains the Series 12’s 24-hour everyday battery rating but lacks its new Health Sensing System and Audio Intelligence features. The Ultra 3 retains satellite communication and dual-frequency GPS, but its rated battery life is 42 hours rather than the Ultra 4’s 50 hours. Series 10 and Ultra 2 can offer further savings if their price and battery condition make sense; Series 9 is the oldest standard model that runs watchOS 27.
What to look for when buying an older Apple Watch
Choose an S9 chip or newer for the longest software support.
Buy refurbished if possible. Apple’s Certified Refurbished Store includes a one-year warranty, while reputable third-party refurbishers can also offer good value.
Shop during major sales. Previous-generation Apple Watches often receive their biggest discounts during Prime Day and Black Friday.
Check the battery and Activation Lock. If you’re buying used, confirm the battery is in good condition, inspect the watch for damage, and make sure Activation Lock has been removed before you buy.
ModelKey advantageWhen it’s a good buyApple Watch Series 11Recent standard watch with 24-hour rated battery life.When discounted enough that you’re happy to give up the Series 12’s new health sensing and upcoming Audio Intelligence features.Apple Watch Ultra 3Ultra outdoor features, including satellite communication.When substantially cheaper than Ultra 4 and its 42-hour rated battery life is enough for you.Apple Watch Series 10A further saving on a standard Apple Watch.When notably cheaper than Series 11 and in good condition.Apple Watch Ultra 2Rugged watch that supports watchOS 27.When notably cheaper than Ultra 3 and its older battery and connectivity specifications meet your needs.Apple Watch Series 9Oldest standard model compatible with watchOS 27.Only when the saving is substantial and its battery is in good condition.
Apple Watch Series 11 (42mm)
Read our review
Apple Watch Ultra 3
Read our review
Apple Watch Series 10 (42mm)
Read our review
Apple Watch Ultra 2
Read our review
When is the best time to buy an Apple Watch?
The best time to buy an Apple Watch depends on whether you want the newest model or the lowest price.
The Series 12 and Ultra 4 are now on sale, alongside the SE 3. If you want the latest model and are happy with its price, you can buy now without an imminent replacement to worry about. If getting a discount matters more, compare retailers during the expected October sales and Black Friday in November.
The September launch also makes the Series 11 and Ultra 3 worth checking. Retailers may reduce remaining stock, but compare the actual saving with the features you would give up: the Series 12 and Ultra 4 add new health sensing, while the Ultra 4 also increases rated battery life from 42 to 50 hours.
Apple kept the new models’ starting prices at $399/£369 for Series 12 and $799/£749 for Ultra 4. Individual configurations and retailer prices vary.
When shouldn’t you buy an Apple Watch?
Avoid buying an Apple Watch:
Just before Apple’s annual September event, unless you need one immediately.
At full price when a major sale is only days away, such as Prime Day or Black Friday.
Without comparing prices. Check multiple retailers and use price-tracking tools such as CamelCamelCamel to avoid inflated “sale” prices.
If you’re paying extra for cellular but don’t need it. Cellular Apple Watch typically cost around $100 more and require a monthly data plan, while the GPS model offers better value for most people.
If battery life is your top priority. Apple Watch battery life still trails some competing smartwatches, so you may prefer an alternative platform if multi-day battery life is essential.
Best time to buyWhyPrime Day (July/October)Best deals on current-generation models.Black Friday (November)Consistently some of the lowest prices of the year.After the September launchPrevious-generation models receive substantial discounts.Worst time: August to early SeptemberNew Apple Watches are expected within weeks.
Best Apple Watch prices
Check below to find the best price we are seeing right now for each configuration compared to the best price we have ever seen and the full price.
U.S. deals
Apple WatchDealMSRPLowestApple Watch Series 11, 42mm, GPS$299 Get the deal at Amazon $100 off$399$279Apple Watch Series 11, 46mm, GPS$329 Get the deal at Amazon $100 off$429$309Apple Watch Ultra 3 $779 Get the deal at Amazon $30 off$799$649Apple Watch SE 3, 40mm, GPS$219 Get the deal at Amazon $30 off$249$199Apple Watch SE 3, 44mm, GPS$249 Get the deal at Amazon $30 off$279$229
U.K. deals
Apple WatchDealRRPLowestApple Watch Series 11, 42mm, GPS£299 Get the deal at Amazon £70 off £369£287Apple Watch Series 11, 46mm, GPS£319 Get the deal at Amazon £80 off £399£317Apple Watch Ultra 3 £729 Get the deal at Amazon £20 off£749£649Apple Watch SE 3, 40mm, GPS£219 at Amazon£219£197Apple Watch SE 3, 44mm, GPS£219 Get the deal at Amazon £30 off£249£189.05
Where to find the best Apple Watch deals
IDG
Apple rarely discounts the Apple Watch itself, so the best deals are usually found at third-party retailers – we check these every month and record the best deals here: Top Apple Watch discounts & deals – Big savings on all models.
Best places to buy: Amazon is consistently one of the best places to find Apple Watch discounts, particularly during major sales. Other good options in the U.S. include Best Buy, Walmart, Target and Costco. In the U.K., check Amazon, Currys, Argos, John Lewis and KRCS.
Shop during major sales: The biggest discounts typically arrive during Amazon Prime Day (July and October) and Black Friday/Cyber Monday (November). Savings of $100–$150 on current-generation models are common. During Prime Day 2026, for example, the Apple Watch Series 11 fell to $279 ($120 off) and the Ultra 3 dropped to $649 ($150 off).
Check for education discounts: Students, teachers and education staff may qualify for discounted Apple Watch pricing through Apple’s Education Store U.S. (and Education Store U.K.). For more information read our guide to how to get a student discount at the Apple Education Store.
Tip: Before buying, compare prices across several retailers and check the recent price history with a tool such as CamelCamelCamel to make sure you’re getting a genuine deal rather than a temporary “discount” from an inflated price.
Is it worth buying a refurbished Apple Watch?
Buying a refurbished Apple Watch is another great way to save money, provided you buy from a reputable seller and choose a model that will continue to receive software updates.
Apple’s Certified Refurbished Store is the safest option. Every watch undergoes rigorous testing, cleaning and inspection, comes with a one-year warranty, includes new accessories, and is eligible for AppleCare. Apart from the plain white box, it’s difficult to tell the difference between a refurbished Apple Watch and a brand-new one. You can typically save around 15% on recent models, with even bigger discounts on older generations.
Check Apple’s U.S. Refurbished Store or U.K. Refurbished Store for current models, configurations and prices. Stock changes regularly; compare any refurbished Series 11 or Ultra 3 with the price of a new Series 12 or Ultra 4 before buying.
The best Apple Watch refurbished deals:
Apple’s U.S. Refurbished Store often has Apple Watch Series 11, 10 and 9, SE 3, SE 2, Ultra 2 and Ultra 3.
Get a refurbished Apple Watch Series 11 for $339, $60 off
You may also find the Apple Watch Series 11, 10 and 9, SE 2, SE 3 and Ultra 3 at Apple’s U.K. Refurbished Store.
Get a refurbished Apple Watch Series 11 for £309, £60 off
Third-party refurbishers can also offer excellent value, but quality varies. Terms such as “Excellent” or “Grade A”aren’t standardised, so always check the seller’s warranty, return policy and battery condition before buying. Be aware that Amazon Renewed devices, for example, aren’t refurbished to Apple’s standards and may not include a new battery or replacement parts.
The other key consideration is software support. Older Apple Watches eventually stop receiving new versions of watchOS, so avoid buying a model that’s nearing the end of its supported life. For the best balance of price and features, compare refurbished Series 11 and Ultra 3 models with the new generation first. Series 9, Series 10 and Ultra 2 can cost less and still run watchOS 27, but check their condition and savings carefully.
A refurbished Apple Watch can be one of the best values in Apple’s lineup – as long as you buy from a trusted seller and don’t choose a model that’s too old.
Read: Should I buy a refurbished Apple Watch? for more information.
FAQ
1.
Should I wait for the next Apple Watch?
You do not need to wait for 2026’s launch: the Series 12 and Ultra 4 went on sale in September 2026, and the SE 3 remains in Apple’s lineup. If you need a watch now, choose the model that fits your needs and budget. If you are mainly looking for a lower price, consider waiting for a sale or comparing discounted Series 11 and Ultra 3 stock.
Apple has not announced when the next Apple Watch models will arrive, but we expect that the next update will happen in September 2027.
2.
How long does Apple support an Apple Watch?
Apple has traditionally supported Apple Watches with major watchOS updates for around five to six years, but that changed with watchOS 27, announced at WWDC 2026.
Apple dropped support for five older models in a single release:
Apple Watch Series 6 (2020)
Apple Watch Series 7 (2021)
Apple Watch Series 8 (2022)
Apple Watch SE (2nd generation, 2022)
Apple Watch Ultra (1st generation, 2022)
As a result, watchOS 27 only supports Apple Watches with an S9 chip or later, starting with the Apple Watch Series 9. While Apple may continue to provide security updates for older models for a limited time, they no longer receive new watchOS features.
The change makes software support a much more important consideration when buying an older or refurbished Apple Watch. If you want the longest possible lifespan, choose a model with an S9 chip or newer.
3.
Is the Apple Watch Series 11 still worth buying?
If it is substantially cheaper than the Series 12. Both have up to 24 hours of rated everyday battery life, but the Series 12 adds more frequent heart-rate and HRV measurements, a Readiness score and support for upcoming Audio Intelligence features, so be sure that you are willing to give those features up for the saving.
complete report is on link below. Source: https://www.macworld.com/article/352228/apple-watch-should-i-buy-or-wait.html