Compare the Apple Watch: all differences

Written by Emme-Lotte

Edited on

10 September 2026

·

11:36

Compare the Apple Watch: all differences

The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is the most complete and largest smartwatch. The Apple Watch 12 has slightly fewer functions, but it's smaller and more stylish. The Watch SE (2025) is an older starter model, with the fewest options. We'll help you compare all the Apple Watch models and choose the right one.

Compare the Apple Watch Ultra 4, Series 12, and SE 3

Apple Watch Ultra 4Apple Watch Series 12Apple Watch SE 3
Size49mm42 and 46mm40 and 44mm
Battery life50 hours24 hours18 hours
MaterialTitaniumAluminum or titaniumAluminum
ProcessorS12 chipS12 chipS10 chip
Heart rate readingECG and opticalECG and opticalOnly optical
Satellite supportYesNoNo
ColorsBlack, naturalBlack, gray, gold, dark bronze, pearl white, and night blueMidnight, Starlight

Daily use

Ultra 4: large Watch with the longest battery life

Ultra 4: large Watch with the longest battery life

The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is the largest and sturdiest watch. On the large 49mm screen, you can see all details of your notifications and health information. The battery lasts twice as long as other Apple Watch models: 50 hours. Thanks to the new S11 processor, the Watch Ultra responds very fast. You can notice this when you open apps or view a workout, for example. Lastly, you get scratches less fast on the Watch Ultra 4, thanks to the shockproof titanium case and the scratch-resistant sapphire glass.

Series 12: stylish Watch with shorter battery life

Series 12: stylish Watch with shorter battery life

The Apple Watch Series 12 is less large and sturdy, but looks more stylish because of this. You can choose from the 46 or 42mm version. With 46mm, you have almost as much screen space as on the Watch Ultra 4, but the watch is more comfortable. The battery lasts about 24 hours, which is enough for an entire day. The Series 12 also has the fast S11 chip, so you can quickly check your notifications and use apps without slowdowns. Choose a light aluminum Watch Series 12, or a sturdy titanium or ceramic version.

Watch SE 3: small Watch with the shortest battery life

Watch SE 3: small Watch with the shortest battery life

The Apple Watch SE (2025) is the smallest model and has all basic functions. You can choose from a 44mm or even smaller 40mm display. This means you have less screen space than with the Series 12 or Ultra 4, but the watch stands out less. The battery lasts the least long of all Watch models: 18 hours. This means you have to charge daily. Due to the older chip, the SE 3 responds less fast and opening apps takes longer. The SE 3 is only available in aluminum, not in titanium.

Sports and health

Ultra 4: all the functions for the sports enthusiast

Ultra 4: all the functions for the sports enthusiast

With the robust Ultra 4 you can also do extreme sports like mountain climbing, trail running, and diving. The straps also reflect this. Choose the Ocean Band, for example. It's made for swimming and diving. You can see more data during your workout on the large screen. Thanks to the improved heart rate reading, you can keep track of your heart rate and HRV even more accurately. With the Watch Ultra 4, you can be reached anywhere and always send messages thanks to the satellite and cellular connections. This also works between tall buildings or in the mountains, so you never get lost.

Series 12: less robust, a lot more functions

Series 12: less robust, a lot more functions

In terms of sports and health functions, the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 don't differ much. All readings of your sleep and health are extra accurate thanks to the temperature sensor and the improved heart rate sensor. You can read your heart rate and HRV even more precisely and make cardiograms. With the ECG app, you can measure your heart rate more precisely and record cardiograms. This allows you to quickly discover whether you have an irregular heart rate and if you may need to see a doctor. The temperature sensor also helps you track your cycle. This way, you know when you're ovulating or when your cycle is irregular.

Watch SE 3: basic functions only

Watch SE 3: basic functions only

With the Apple Watch SE 3, you can measure all basic data. You can see your daily steps, how long you sleep, and what your heart rate is. You don't receive extensive heart rate readings, as with the Series 12 and Ultra 4. That way, you're less likely to notice if you have an irregular heart rate. You also can't measure your oxygen level with the Watch SE 3. This can be useful during your workouts or sleep. Choose the Series 12 or Ultra 4 for the most accurate health measurements.

Apple Watch size

Choose the right size

You can choose both the watch case size and the strap size. The size of your case is a matter of taste, but on a small wrist a small case often looks better. With the Apple Watch Ultra, you always have a large case. With the Series and SE, you can choose from a large and small model. After that, choose the right strap to make sure that your watch fits. Measure your wrist circumference and choose an S, M, or L strap. Or visit the store and try on different sizes.

Conclusion: all Apple Watch differences

Are you a sports enthusiast, or do you want the largest screen and the best battery life? Choose the Apple Watch Ultra 4. Do you want all the extensive functions, but a smaller and more stylish Apple Watch as well? Go for the Series 12. Are you looking for a starter model and don't mind having fewer functions and your Watch being slower? Choose the Apple Watch SE 3.

Interested in more comparisons?

On this page, you can only find the models that Apple still sells. You can still buy older or refurbished models like the Apple Watch Series 6 and Series 7 at Coolblue, but these models aren't included in this article. Still interested in a comparison with other models?

Was this page helpful?