Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) vs Apple Watch SE 2 (2023)
The Verdict
Both Apple Watch SE models deliver solid smartwatch fundamentals, but generation matters here. Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) costs $30 less while offering meaningful upgrades: the S8 chip outpaces the S5 significantly, Bluetooth 5.3 improves connectivity over 5.0, and it's notably lighter at 26.4g versus 30-36g. SE 2 includes Low Power Mode extending battery to 36 hours, while SE 1 maxes at 18 hours. Neither provides ECG, SpO2, or skin temperature sensors,significant omissions compared to higher-end models. SE 1 does ship with watchOS 7 upgradable to watchOS 10, whereas SE 2 launches with current software. For most users prioritizing value and current technology, SE 2's newer processor, improved Bluetooth, lower price, and extended battery modes make it the stronger choice, despite SE 1's slightly larger case options.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) if…
- →Affordable entry into the Apple Watch ecosystem with core features
- →Same large display as Series 6 — no visible compromise
- →Fall detection and emergency SOS for safety
Buy the Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) if…
- →Best value Apple Watch — all core features at a significantly lower price
- →Crash Detection and Emergency SOS via satellite
- →Lightweight recycled aluminum case is comfortable all day
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple Watch SE (1st Gen)
Pros
- Affordable entry into the Apple Watch ecosystem with core features
- Same large display as Series 6 — no visible compromise
- Fall detection and emergency SOS for safety
- Compass and always-on altimeter for outdoor activities
- Family Setup enables use for kids without an iPhone
Cons
- No Always-On display — must raise wrist to see the time
- Older S5 chip — slower than the 2022 SE's S8
- No ECG, SpO2, or blood oxygen monitoring
- No fast charging — takes about 2.5 hours for full charge
Apple Watch SE 2 (2023)
Pros
- Best value Apple Watch — all core features at a significantly lower price
- Crash Detection and Emergency SOS via satellite
- Lightweight recycled aluminum case is comfortable all day
- Compatible with all Apple Watch bands
- Gets latest watchOS features including Siri and Maps
Cons
- No always-on display
- No ECG, SpO2, or skin temperature sensor
- Same battery life as pricier models — still needs daily charging
- S8 chip is not the latest — misses Double Tap gesture
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) | Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Software | watchOS 7 (upgradable to watchOS 10) | watchOS 10 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 30.49 g (40mm) / 36.2 g (44mm) | 26.4 g |
| Case material | Aluminum | Recycled aluminum |
| Water resistance | WR50 (50m) | WR50 |
| Health & Sensors | ||
| ECG | ||
| SpO₂ | ||
| Skin temperature | ||
| Heart rate | ||
| Sleep tracking | ||
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 18 hrs, up to 36 hrs Low Power Mode |
| Display | ||
| Size | 40mm / 44mm | 44 mm |
| Type | LTPO OLED Retina | Retina LTPO OLED |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 324 x 394 / 368 x 448 | 368 x 448 |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | Apple S5 SiP | Apple S8 SiP |
| RAM | — | 1 GB |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
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