Tested: The Apple Watch I’ve always wanted is here, and it’s glorious

Price at Review

Starting at $399

Current Best Prices: Apple Watch Series 11

Although the Series 11 appears more as an enhancement of its predecessor rather than a revolutionary jump, there’s still much to appreciate about this smartwatch.

Apple faces an interesting challenge in positioning its wearable lineup for 2025. Following a significant processing upgrade with the Series 9 and a hardware overhaul for the sleek Series 10, it may seem like the Apple Watch has reached its peak, leading to expectations of merely iterative updates moving forward.

Having spent over a week with the Apple Watch Series 11, I found that Apple is less restrained with its updates compared to the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8, but the necessity of upgrading depends largely on your current smartwatch.

Some users might find no reason to switch, but those ready for an update will discover the best Apple Watch experience yet in the Series 11.

Design & Build

• Minimally larger than the Series 10
• More robust with Ion-X glass
• Comfortable fit for extended wear

The design remains consistent, a reasonable choice considering the substantial updates introduced with the Series 10.

Measuring 10% thinner than the Series 9, the Series 10 was notably more comfortable, making it ideal for prolonged use, particularly overnight.

The Series 11 continues this trend, ranking among the most comfortable watches I’ve worn.

The primary design enhancement of the Series 11 is unobtrusively brilliant.

While the Series 11 is very slightly larger and heavier than the Series 10 — my 46mm Cellular model weighs in at 36.9g compared to 35.3g of its predecessor — this difference is minimal but important for those contemplating an upgrade.

The most significant design update is the newly implemented Ion-X glass display, reportedly twice as scratch-resistant. Although testing such a feature proves challenging, my own experience has shown the watch withstand various bumps and knocks without marked damage.

As with previous models, the Series 11 is waterproof up to 50 meters, allowing for easy swimming and mitigating concerns from incidental exposures like splashes or rain.

Additionally, the introduction of Space Grey Aluminium adds a new color, though it closely resembles the existing Silver Aluminium, highlighting a desire for bolder color options reminiscent of the Series 7 and Series 6.

The Apple Watch was more appealing with its vibrant Green and Blue options, and I would love to see Apple revitalize this aspect in subsequent models.

Ultimately, while some may note a lack of new colors, the Apple Watch remains a top contender for aesthetics, prompting numerous imitators to adopt its signature style (just check out the Huawei Watch Fit 4 for validation).

Display & Audio

• Vivid brightness makes it easy to read outdoors
• Rich colors enhance visual appeal of icons and watch faces
• Best audio quality among smartwatches tested

Unlike the advancements in durability, the screen remains consistent with last year’s model, but this is a strategic move by Apple.

I prefer substantial innovations over changes for the sake of novelty, and the display on the Series 11 inspires confidence.

With peak brightness reaching 2000 nits (originally introduced with the Series 9), the display excels in outdoor visibility, and the always-on mode remains user-friendly.

Even under reduced color, the time is clearly visible, a contrast to my experience with the more budget-friendly CMF Watch 3 Pro.

Given its wider viewing angle and LTPO3 technology, the Series 11 provides an excellent visual experience, despite Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 8 boasting a higher peak brightness of 3000 nits; the visual quality still feels premium.

Apple’s display technology genuinely impresses

The OLED display’s vibrant color range only enhances the user experience, whether selecting from Apple’s collection of watch faces or browsing apps, there’s always eye-catching detail.

Last year, Apple promoted the music and podcast capabilities of the Series 10, and my initial reservations about listening through a smartwatch have been eased.

In enjoying the clarity and detail while playing CKY’s “96 Quite Bitter Beings,” I found the audio quality surprisingly favorable, even if the guitar tones lacked some depth.

Listening to the Kinda Funny Games Daily podcast was equally enjoyable, showcasing the watch’s audio capabilities and affirming my newfound acceptance of smartwatch audio.

Features & Software

• Now supports 5G
• Introduces new Exactograph and Flow watch faces
• Fluid performance

Moving on to the noteworthy features, it’s crucial to state that the performance remains unchanged with the same S10 chipset in use as with previous models.

As competition gains speed with Wear OS, featuring faster chipsets capable of running Google’s Gemini, I anticipated Apple to make a leap here; however, daily use remains consistently smooth.

Through days of utilizing Spotify offline, making NFC payments, and navigating in London, the Series 11 handled all tasks effortlessly with no signs of lag, proving itself a strong contender even against the more power-packed Apple Watch Ultra 3.

For those opting for the cellular model, 5G connectivity is now a feature, greatly enhancing utility when away from your iPhone.

Thus, when out for a stroll without my iPhone, making calls from the watch now offers a more reliable connection wherever coverage is available. This complements my desire to stay focused during outdoor activities.

New to Series 11 are the Flow and Exactograph watch faces, with the former showcasing a liquid glass aesthetic, lending a purposeful elegance, while the latter has proven more functional for my needs.

This feature has quickly become a staple for me

Much like GMT or Metropolitan faces, the Exactograph allows for four complications, displaying the seconds, minutes, and hours of the day. Tapping the center expands the dials, enriching user interaction in an engaging manner.

This addition complements an already impressive array of watch faces, with only Samsung rivaling Apple in overall offerings, highlighting the importance of appealing designs in user experience.

In addition, I’ve had the chance to explore the Apple Watch’s double-tap feature, enabling interaction with specific apps by pinching fingers together; I’ve found this surprisingly useful.

It has simplified tasks like timing cooking sessions and effortlessly navigating the Smart Stack. Along with the new wrist flick feature, these enhancements have significantly improved daily interactions with the Apple Watch.

Health & Fitness Tracking

• High blood pressure detection
• Enhanced sleep tracking metrics
• Workout Buddy provides tailored guidance

<pFitness tracking remains central to the Apple Watch's appeal, now further enhanced with new functionalities, including alerts for hypertension.

While I haven’t personally received any hypertension alerts, their inclusion signifies a commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles through awareness, which could encourage many to adopt healthier habits.

Though similar technology appeared first on Huawei’s Watch D, it’s commendable to see Apple integrating this vital health capability.

One area I wished had more advancement is sleep tracking. The Series 11 and other compatible models now offer a sleep score each morning, indicating overall rest quality.

This score, on a scale of 100, covers sleep duration, bedtime, and nightly disruptions, aiding users in understanding their sleep patterns.

While a nice touch, I wish Apple would take additional steps to personalize sleep advice based on individual patterns, as seen in the offerings from competitors like Huawei.

Although the Health app provides general sleep tips, a more personalized approach leveraging user data would be beneficial.

Relying on Series 11’s data provides insightful cardiovascular performance details

In terms of workout tracking, the Apple Watch remains a leader with extensive capabilities. Multiple workouts can be recorded, and the watch provides heart rate zone readings during exercises.

The Apple Watch’s accuracy gives users confidence, as seen during various workouts in conjunction with my Garmin HRM 600 heart rate monitor, which showed an impressive correlation in results.

GPS tracking also demonstrated fast and precise connectivity; my run through the local park showcased the Apple Watch’s ability to accurately map my route, allowing for a thorough post-run analysis.

Notably, dual-band GPS remains absent, being exclusive to the Ultra model.

For new runners, the introduction of Workout Buddy offers personalized encouragement through Siri-like prompts, which can enhance motivation during challenging stretches.

However, this feature only operates when paired with a connected iPhone, which may deter those preferring to exercise without their phone nearby— a limitation I hope can be addressed in future updates.

Battery Performance & Charging

• Longest-lasting battery in a standard Apple Watch
• Easily manages two days on a single charge
• Rapid charging—can fully charge in slightly over an hour

Previously, Apple’s steadfast commitment to an 18-hour battery life seemed ingrained in the Apple Watch, leading many (including myself) to doubt a potential upgrade with the Series 11, especially since it has long been a selling point for the pricier Apple Watch Ultra 3.

Consequently, when Apple revealed a boosted 24-hour battery life for the Series 11, it was surprising— a requested feature that many users have longed for.

While 24-hour longevity remains modest against competitors offering days of use, it signifies a substantial improvement for dedicated Apple Watch users.

The 24-hour estimate leans on the conservative side, and while using only notifications, I managed to extend usage from 10am one day to midnight the following with 7% remaining. This durability provides reassurance when forgetting a charger, and a low-power mode is always an option if needed.

Incorporating workouts and regular engagement, I found battery efficiency outstanding— managing to go from 10:35am to 9am the next day with 57% remaining, which far surpasses the charge cycles of previous models that often required preemptive charging.

Charging efficiency on the Series 11 is noteworthy; it achieved 74% charge in just 30 minutes from empty and required around 61 minutes to reach a full charge—a massive improvement when compared to other smartwatch charging times.

With extended battery life and rapid charging, the Series 11 serves as an excellent backup for your iPhone, especially in case of low battery notifications on your phone. It’s reassuring to know that I can manage payments and messages through my Apple Watch if needed.

Apple includes the standard round charger; although not Qi compatible, many third-party wireless chargers are also functional.

Cost & Availability

Launched in a climate of economic uncertainty, the Apple Watch Series 11 maintains a starting price of £369/$399, on par with its predecessor. However, there are variations based on specific models.

The 42mm Aluminium version matches this price, while the 46mm option increases it to £399/$429. For those seeking a Titanium finish, the 42mm and 46mm versions are priced at £649/$699 and £699/$749 respectively.

While the Titanium version includes cellular connectivity by default, choosing this feature for Aluminium models entails an extra £100/$100 charge, warranting careful consideration based on intended use.

Available in several color options, the Aluminium models come in Spacey Gray, Jet Black, Rose Gold, and Silver, with Titanium options available in Natural, Gold, and Slate, ready for purchase across major markets globally.

Buyers can find the Series 11 at Apple and other retailers including Amazon, John Lewis, Argos, and BestBuy in the US.

Despite cheaper alternatives like the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 and Pixel Watch 4 priced at £319/$329.99 and £349/$349.99 respectively, the Series 11’s main competitor is amusingly the Apple Watch SE 3.

Starting from just £219/$249 with an always-on display, the Apple Watch SE 3 makes a strong case for those who don’t need extensive health features.

Is the Apple Watch Series 11 Worth It?

Instead of drastically redesigning the Apple Watch Series 10, the Series 11 refines it with improvements like battery life and durability, which I find perfectly acceptable.

The extended battery life resolves a longstanding issue for future outings without worry. Even with discounts on the Series 10, the Series 11 is a clear choice for anyone considering an upgrade, as it offers an overall superior experience.

Of course, there’s room for enhancements— the Sleep Score feature’s lack of personalized insights leaves something to be desired, and I’d prefer an independent version of Workout Buddy without constant iPhone connectivity. However, these points do not overshadow the Series 11’s status as the most comprehensive and refined Apple Watch yet.

Specifications

• Available in 42mm and 46mm sizes
• 50m water-resistant
• OLED display technology
• 64GB of internal storage
• 2000 nits peak brightness
• Integrated speaker
• GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, BeiDou compatibility
• ECG functionality
• Blood pressure alerts available
• 24-hour battery lifespan