Apple Watch Series 10’s main upgrades are a larger display and a thinner case, alongside sleep apnea notifications and water depth and temperature sensing. In Wareable’s launch-period review, James Stables found it a strong choice for first-time buyers and people upgrading from older models, but noted that the larger fit will not suit every wrist and the battery still calls for daily charging.
Series 10 is a refinement, not a reason for every recent Apple Watch owner to upgrade. Whether it suits you depends on screen size and fit, the health features available where you live, your water activities, and whether daily charging works for you.
What changed in Apple Watch Series 10?
Apple introduced 42mm and 46mm case sizes, in aluminum and titanium. The company says Series 10 is nearly 10 percent thinner than Series 7, 8 and 9, has up to 9 percent more active display area than those models, and can appear up to 40 percent brighter than Series 9 when viewed at an angle. These are Apple’s manufacturer comparisons, not independent measurements.
The larger screen can make reading and interacting easier, but also gives the watch more presence on the wrist. In the Wareable review, James Stables found the smaller 42mm option manageable on a slim wrist; fit is personal, so try a size if you can.
#1 Best Overall
![Apple Watch Series 11 [GPS 46mm] Smartwatch with Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band - M/L. Sleep Score, Fitness Tracker, Health Monitoring, Always-On Display, Water Resistant](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/416RQ0rtsUL._SL160_.jpg)
- A FULL-FEATURED HEALTH TRACKER—Apple Watch Series 11 gives you invaluable insights about your body, right from your wrist. Take an ECG anytime* and get alerts for a high and low heart rate or an irregular rhythm*—so you can stay closer to your heart. You can also view your overnight health tracking metrics with the Vitals app* and be notified of possible sleep apnea.*
- KNOW YOUR SLEEP SCORE—With advanced sleep tracking, Series 11 gives you a daily sleep score. It’s an easy way to help measure and understand the quality of your sleep, so you can make it more restorative.
- GET HYPERTENSION NOTIFICATIONS—Did you know that Series 11 can spot signs of chronic high blood pressure? By analyzing how your blood vessels respond to beats of the heart, it can notify you of possible hypertension.*
- SAFETY FEATURES—A smartwatch that puts your safety first. Series 11 can detect a hard fall or severe car crash, automatically help connect you with emergency services, and notify your emergency contacts.* Check In can automatically notify a loved one when you’ve arrived at your destination.
- A POWERFUL FITNESS TRACKER—With advanced metrics and motivating features like Pacer, Heart Rate Zones, training load, and Workout Buddy powered by Apple Intelligence from your nearby iPhone*—Series 11 is made to help everyone stay active, from runners and hikers to strength-training enthusiasts.
| Feature | Series 10 detail | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Case sizes | 42mm and 46mm | Apple’s 2024 specifications |
| Case materials | Aluminum and titanium | Do not confuse these with the stainless steel options in some earlier models |
| Display area | Up to 9% more than Series 7, 8 and 9 | Apple’s comparison |
| Thickness | Nearly 10% thinner than Series 7, 8 and 9 | Apple’s comparison |
| Battery rating | 18 hours all-day; up to 36 hours in Low Power Mode | Apple’s defined test scenarios; actual results vary |
| Water resistance | 50 meters under ISO 22810:2010 | Not a rating for scuba diving or high-velocity water |
Health features and water use
Series 10 adds sleep apnea notifications. Apple describes this as a feature intended to detect signs of moderate to severe sleep apnea in people aged 18 or older who have not already been diagnosed. It is a screening signal, not a diagnosis, and availability may depend on software and region.
The watch also includes water depth and temperature sensing. Apple describes shallow-water use such as swimming and snorkeling, but warns against scuba diving, waterskiing and deeper or high-velocity submersion. Water resistance can diminish over time. Oceanic+ snorkeling functionality requires a subscription.
Some health and fitness capabilities depend on watchOS, region or both, and are not exclusive to Series 10 hardware. Check Apple’s current feature availability for your location before buying.
Rank #2
![Apple Watch Series 11 [GPS 42mm] Smartwatch with Rose Gold Aluminum Case with Light Blush Sport Band - S/M. Sleep Score, Fitness Tracker, Health Monitoring, Always-On Display, Water Resistant](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31caPPnRysL._SL160_.jpg)
- A FULL-FEATURED HEALTH TRACKER—Apple Watch Series 11 gives you invaluable insights about your body, right from your wrist. Take an ECG anytime* and get alerts for a high and low heart rate or an irregular rhythm*—so you can stay closer to your heart. You can also view your overnight health tracking metrics with the Vitals app* and be notified of possible sleep apnea.*
- KNOW YOUR SLEEP SCORE—With advanced sleep tracking, Series 11 gives you a daily sleep score. It’s an easy way to help measure and understand the quality of your sleep, so you can make it more restorative.
- GET HYPERTENSION NOTIFICATIONS—Did you know that Series 11 can spot signs of chronic high blood pressure? By analyzing how your blood vessels respond to beats of the heart, it can notify you of possible hypertension.*
- SAFETY FEATURES—A smartwatch that puts your safety first. Series 11 can detect a hard fall or severe car crash, automatically help connect you with emergency services, and notify your emergency contacts.* Check In can automatically notify a loved one when you’ve arrived at your destination.
- A POWERFUL FITNESS TRACKER—With advanced metrics and motivating features like Pacer, Heart Rate Zones, training load, and Workout Buddy powered by Apple Intelligence from your nearby iPhone*—Series 11 is made to help everyone stay active, from runners and hikers to strength-training enthusiasts.
Battery life and charging
Apple rates Series 10 for 18 hours of all-day battery life under a specified test that includes time checks, notifications, app use and a workout. Apple also gives a 36-hour Low Power Mode figure under its test scenario. Actual battery life varies with use, configuration, cellular network and signal, so treat these as manufacturer ratings rather than a guarantee.
The watch includes Apple’s magnetic fast-charger-to-USB-C cable. The research available for this review does not establish a verified charge duration, so there is no precise charging-time claim here. Plan on regular charging: Wareable listed one-day battery life as a drawback.
Series 10 compared with other Apple Watches
For an upgrade decision, compare fit and screen readability, thickness and material, health-feature availability, charging habits, intended water activities and the current price of each model. Series 10 is no longer Apple’s newest watch, so compare it with newer models and check live prices and software support before deciding.
Rank #3
![Apple Watch Series 10 [GPS 46mm case] Smartwatch with Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band - M/L. Fitness Tracker, ECG App, Always-On Retina Display, Water Resistant](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31Cud2WnszL._SL160_.jpg)
- WHY APPLE WATCH SERIES 10 — Bigger display with up to 30 percent more screen area.* A thinner, lighter, and more comfortable design.* Advanced health and fitness features provide invaluable insights.* Safety features connect you to help when you need it.* Faster charging gives you 80 percent battery in about 30 minutes.*
- ADVANCED HEALTH INSIGHTS — Take an ECG anytime.* Get notifications if you have high or low heart rate or an irregular heart rhythm.* Understand your menstrual cycle and get retrospective ovulation estimates.* See overnight health metrics like heart rate, respiratory rate, and more with the Vitals app.* Track sleep and get notifications if Apple Watch detects signs of sleep apnea.*
- A POWERFUL FITNESS PARTNER — Measure all the ways you move with Activity Rings, which are customizable to match your lifestyle. Get advanced metrics for a range of workouts with the Workout app. Track the intensity of your workouts with training load. Use depth and water temperature sensors for your aquatic adventures. And Apple Watch comes with three months of Apple Fitness+ free.*
- STAY CONNECTED — Send a text, take a call, listen to music and podcasts, use Siri, and get notifications on the go. Apple Watch Series 10 (GPS) works with your iPhone or Wi-Fi to keep you connected.
- INNOVATIVE SAFETY FEATURES — Fall Detection and Crash Detection can connect you with emergency services in the event of a hard fall or a severe car crash. Emergency SOS lets you call for help with the press of a button.* Check In automatically notifies a loved one when you’ve arrived at your destination.*
| Buyer situation | What to consider |
|---|---|
| First Apple Watch or upgrade from an older generation | Series 10’s thinner case, larger display and added features may make it a compelling step up, according to Wareable’s 2024 review. |
| Recent Apple Watch owner | Weigh the display and fit changes against the features your current watch already provides; the review does not make a universal case to upgrade. |
| Small wrist | Try the 42mm case if possible. The Wareable reviewer found it manageable on a slim wrist, but fit varies. |
| Need more than a day between charges | Series 10’s rated battery life is 18 hours, with a 36-hour Low Power Mode test figure. Consider whether that routine fits your needs. |
| Want a dive watch | Do not treat Series 10’s 50-meter water-resistance rating or depth sensor as dive-watch capability. |
Apple announced a U.S. starting price of $399 at launch in 2024. That is historical launch pricing, not a current offer; check retailers for today’s price and availability.
Verdict
In his September 2024 review, James Stables judged Apple Watch Series 10 a strong option for first-time buyers and people coming from older generations. Its bigger display and slimmer design are the central appeal, while the larger wrist presence and everyday charging routine are important trade-offs. It is not automatically a worthwhile upgrade for someone with a recent Apple Watch.
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Is Apple Watch Series 10 worth upgrading to?
It may be worth considering if you are buying your first Apple Watch or upgrading from an older generation and value the larger display and thinner case. The Wareable review cautions that the larger fit and daily charging may not suit everyone. Compare your current watch’s features with Series 10 before upgrading.
Rank #4
![Apple Watch Series 10 [GPS, 46mm] - Silver Aluminum Case with Denim Sport Band, S/M (Renewed)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41QK6T8A0yL._SL160_.jpg)
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
- There will be no visible cosmetic imperfections when held at an arm’s length. There will be no visible cosmetic imperfections when held at an arm’s length.
- This product will have a battery which exceeds 80% capacity relative to new.
- Accessories will not be original, but will be compatible and fully functional. Product may come in generic Box.
- This product is eligible for a replacement or refund within 90 days of receipt if you are not satisfied.
What is new in Apple Watch Series 10?
Apple introduced 42mm and 46mm sizes, a thinner case, a larger active display area, sleep apnea notifications, and water depth and temperature sensing. Apple describes the size and display differences as comparisons with earlier models; they are manufacturer claims.
How long does Apple Watch Series 10 battery last?
Apple’s stated all-day battery life is 18 hours under its specified test scenario, and its Low Power Mode rating is up to 36 hours under a separate test scenario. Actual results vary with use and other conditions.
Does Apple Watch Series 10 detect sleep apnea?
It can provide sleep apnea notifications intended to detect signs of moderate to severe sleep apnea in adults aged 18 or older who do not already have a diagnosis. It does not diagnose sleep apnea. Availability may depend on software and region.
Best Value
- STAY CLOSER TO YOUR HEART HEALTH—The most accurate heart rate sensing in a wearable,* Series 12 now measures HRV as often as every five minutes for insights on stress and recovery, and takes background heart rate readings every five seconds.
- A FULL-FEATURED HEALTH TRACKER—Better understand your body with invaluable health insights. View your overnight health metrics with the Vitals app and get a daily sleep score,* track your menstrual cycle,5 and take readings of your blood oxygen.*
- CHECK YOUR READINESS FOR THE DAY—Know when to rest or put yourself to the test. The readiness experience can help you determine your capacity to take on the day by analyzing your recent activity, vitals, and sleep.
- A POWERFUL FITNESS TRACKER—With advanced metrics and motivating features like Pacer, Heart Rate Zones, and Workout Buddy powered by Apple Intelligence from your nearby iPhone8—Series 12 helps you stay active, from running to hiking to strength training.
- KEEP HELP CLOSE AT HAND—A smartwatch that puts your safety first. Series 12 can detect a hard fall or severe car crash, automatically help connect you with emergency services, and notify your emergency contacts.*
Can I swim or dive with Apple Watch Series 10?
Apple rates it for 50-meter water resistance and describes shallow-water activities such as swimming and snorkeling. Apple warns against scuba diving, waterskiing and high-velocity or deeper submersion, so do not treat it as a dive watch.
Do old Apple Watch bands fit Series 10?
Apple says older 41mm bands work with the 42mm case and older 45mm bands work with the 46mm case.
Quick Recap
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