Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) vs Apple Watch SE (2022)
The Verdict
Both Apple Watch SE models share nearly identical pricing at $249, but the 2023 version offers meaningful refinements. Key differences center on processor efficiency,the SE 2 (2023) features the newer Apple S8 SiP with optimized watchOS 10 integration, delivering snappier performance and better battery management versus the 2022's S8 SiP running watchOS 9. Display technology remains comparable with Retina LTPO OLED screens, though the 2023 model includes refined calibration. Build quality is virtually matched, with recycled aluminum in 2023 versus standard aluminum in 2022, both offering WR50 water resistance. Health tracking capabilities are identical,heart rate and sleep monitoring only, lacking ECG or SpO2. Battery life claims are 18 hours standard, with the 2023 adding Low Power Mode reaching 36 hours. For most buyers, the 2023 SE 2 justifies selection due to superior software optimization and future-proofing through watchOS 10, though the 2022 remains competitive if available at discount.
Who Should Buy
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
Buy the Apple Watch SE (2022) if…
- →Same S8 chip as Series 8 at $150 less — best value Apple Watch
- →Crash Detection included at this price point
- →Lightweight nylon-reinforced composite back is comfortable on the wrist
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
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
Apple Watch SE (2022)
Pros
- Same S8 chip as Series 8 at $150 less — best value Apple Watch
- Crash Detection included at this price point
- Lightweight nylon-reinforced composite back is comfortable on the wrist
- Family Setup lets kids use it without an iPhone
- Full access to the Apple Watch app ecosystem
Cons
- No Always-On display — screen goes dark when wrist is lowered
- No ECG, SpO2, or skin temperature sensors
- Thicker bezels than Series 8 make the screen feel smaller
- 18-hour battery still requires nightly charging
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) | Apple Watch SE (2022) |
|---|---|---|
| Software | watchOS 10 | watchOS 9 (upgradable to watchOS 11+) |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 26.4 g | 26.8 g (40mm) / 33 g (44mm) |
| Case material | Recycled aluminum | Aluminum |
| Water resistance | WR50 | WR50 (50m) |
| Health & Sensors | ||
| ECG | ||
| SpO₂ | ||
| Skin temperature | ||
| Heart rate | ||
| Sleep tracking | ||
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 18 hrs, up to 36 hrs Low Power Mode | Up to 18 hours |
| Display | ||
| Size | 44 mm | 40mm / 44mm |
| Type | Retina LTPO OLED | LTPO OLED Retina |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 368 x 448 | 324 x 394 / 368 x 448 |
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 1 GB | — |
| Chipset | Apple S8 SiP | Apple S8 SiP |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 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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