Apple Watch SE (2022)

Multiple case size and colour options ; Same processor as the Apple Watch Series 8 ; By-yearly release cycle means it retains its value for longer ; Lighter than Apple Watch Series 8 ; Almost all features as mainline Apple Watches

No always-on-screen option ; No ECG or blood oxygen ; Slower charge speed ; Comparatively thick bezel ; Uses an older optical heart rate sensor

Overall, the changes and updates offered by the Apple Watch SE 2 might not feel significant, but there ARE some upgrades, both hardware and software, which make the second iteration of Apple's affordable wearable more appealing. It might not be as...

S8 chip is 20 percent faster ; It’s $150 cheaper than the Series 8 ; Gets the bulk of watchOS 9 features ; Excellent entry-level watch

The bezels are thick ; Smaller display isn’t good for elderly relatives ; No always-on display ; Fewer sensors

I got used to the SE’s smaller screen after a while, but I was happy to strap the Series 8 and Ultra back on my wrist for further testing. I will miss the lighter weight and the way it looks on my wrist, but not at the expense of my big, beautiful...

Colour-matched body ; Lightweight ; Upgraded processor ; Great features ; WatchOS 9 ; Good price

No Always-On Display ; No body temperature sensor ; No SpO2 sensor

The Apple Watch SE makes some decent upgrades over its predecessor, predominantly in terms of a step-up in processor, as well as a colour-matched casing that is kinder to the environment, and some extra features like the Car Crash Detection. It doesn't...

Superb performance, latest-gen chip ; All the core Apple Watch experience ; Better value than Series 8

Larger bezels than Series 8 ; Longer battery life next time please ; Limited choice of finishes

Watch SE lays down the gauntlet for its more expensive siblings, offering most of the same experience for a chunk of cash less.

Good value ; Solid feature set ; Great integration with iPhone

No always-on display ; So-so battery life

The second-gen Apple Watch SE does everything you need an Apple Watch to do with none of the extra features that makes other models much more expensive.

Premium build ; Water resistant ; Fast performance ; Great value for money

No always-on display ; Thicker bezels ; Slower charging ; Still no ECG and blood oxygen sensor

If you want the full-featured Apple Watch experience, the Apple Watch Series 8 is the better choice. But I think many average users will find everything they need in the new SE.