Apple Watch Series 10 Review: Enhanced Features and Faster Charging

The Apple Watch Series 10 has recently hit the market, marking a significant milestone as it celebrates its 10th anniversary. This latest iteration of Apple's popular smartwatch comes with several enhancements, including faster charging, a sleeker design, and improved display angles. However, many users are left wishing for more substantial upgrades that could truly revolutionize the experience.

Historically, the Apple Watch has been praised for its functionality but criticized for its battery life. Users often find themselves needing to charge the device at least once, and sometimes even twice, within a single day. The Series 10 continues this trend, with Apple claiming it offers "all-day battery life," which translates to about 18 hours of usage. In practical terms, the battery life of the Series 10 appears to be on par with its predecessor, the Series 9. Nevertheless, the charging speed has seen a significant boost, making it a compelling reason to consider purchasing this new model.

The starting price for the Apple Watch Series 10 is $399, which is for the GPS-only aluminum version in a 42mm size. If you prefer a larger 46mm model, the price increases to $429. Additionally, opting for cellular connectivity will add another $100 to your total. For those interested in the Titanium variant, it is priced at $699 and is available only in the 46mm size, complete with cellular capabilities.

Despite the various finishes available, the core specifications remain consistent across all models. The Series 10 is notably thinner and lighter than its predecessor, featuring a larger and improved display. Specifically, it is 1mm thinner and has a slightly larger display area, with the 46mm version measuring 46mm compared to the 45mm of the Series 9. The new design also boasts a more square display, enhancing the overall aesthetic. Weighing in at just 36.4 grams, the Series 10 is significantly lighter than the Series 9, which weighed 51.5 grams. This weight reduction is noticeable in everyday use, making the watch feel almost weightless on the wrist.

While the changes in design and display are welcome, they are not groundbreaking. The new wide-angle OLED technology does improve visibility from the side, which is beneficial for users who frequently glance at their watch. Some watch faces now feature a ticking seconds hand in always-on mode, although it remains to be seen if this will be extended to other watch faces and third-party applications.

Apple has made some incremental improvements to the Series 10, but it is essential to recognize that the Apple Watch is already a compact device. Making it significantly thinner could compromise battery life or other features, and increasing the display size could make it uncomfortable for some users. The enhancements made to the display are subtle and may only be noticeable to those actively seeking them out.

Interestingly, the Series 10 shares some similarities with the Apple Watch Ultra 2, particularly in terms of display area. The Series 10 offers a larger screen without the bulkiness of the Ultra model, making it an attractive option for those who want a lightweight device with advanced features. The Ultra model has not seen significant upgrades this year, making the Series 10 a more appealing choice for many consumers.

In terms of health and fitness features, the Series 10 introduces a depth gauge, a water temperature sensor, and support for new apps like Oceanic+ and Tides. While it is not a full-fledged diving computer, these features enhance its utility for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the watch includes a Translate app, sleep apnea detection, and a new Vitals app that tracks essential health metrics over time. However, it is important to note that the blood-oxygen measuring feature is absent in the U.S. due to ongoing legal issues.

One of the standout features of the Series 10 is its charging time. Apple claims that the watch can charge from 0 to 80 percent in just 30 minutes, a significant improvement over older models. This rapid charging capability is a game-changer for users who are always on the go and need their devices ready in a hurry.

While the Apple Watch Series 10 may not offer groundbreaking changes, it does provide several enhancements that improve the overall user experience. With faster charging, a lighter design, and new health features, it remains a strong contender in the smartwatch market. For those who value convenience and functionality, the Series 10 is certainly worth considering, especially for those who are looking to upgrade from older models.