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The Apple Watch Series 11 is now available, and after using a review unit for a few days, I can confidently say that the upgrade offers significant benefits. However, whether it’s the right choice for you depends on your current smartwatch situation. Before the Series 11, I was using the first-generation Apple Watch SE. For my needs, it was sufficient, providing basic media playback, heart-rate tracking, and tap-to-pay functions. But the Series 11 has shown me that I could desire much more from my smartwatch experience.
One of the standout features of the Apple Watch Series 11 is its larger screen with an always-on display, which enhances usability. Additionally, the watch sports a thinner and lighter design, making it comfortable for all-day wear. While the Series 10 was Apple's thinnest and lightest model at its release, the Series 11 maintains that reputation. Both watches hardly feel noticeable on your wrist, a significant improvement over the first-generation SE, which often felt cumbersome due to its circular sensor bump.
The always-on display is another excellent feature. Starting from the Series 10, the display increased in size by 9%, providing a luxurious experience compared to the Series 9 and earlier models. The larger display allows for easier glancing, eliminating the need to raise your wrist to check the time or notifications. With a brightness of 2,000 nits, the display remains visible even in various lighting conditions, ensuring you can easily check your watch without any hassle.
My initial concern was that the Series 11, starting at 42mm, might feel too large compared to my first-gen SE, which is 40mm. However, the Series 11 turned out to be a more comfortable fit. The design improvements not only enhance aesthetics but also significantly contribute to overall comfort during extended wear.
If you're considering upgrading from an older model, the Apple Watch Series 11 provides access to a variety of advanced sensors. Although some features, like the dive computer functionality, may be excessive for everyday users, others are genuinely useful. The new watchOS 26 enables gestures like wrist flick and double tap, making it easier to manage notifications without needing to touch the screen. These gestures can streamline interactions, allowing you to keep your focus on other tasks.
In addition to user-friendly gestures, the Series 11 introduces valuable health features. While features like Sleep Score may not appeal to everyone, the new hypertension notifications can have a significant impact. These notifications help users track their blood pressure by monitoring how their blood vessels respond to heart rate changes, notifying them of any irregularities over a 30-day period. This feature was absent in my SE and is crucial for those concerned about their heart health.
The Apple Watch Series 11 isn’t the only model equipped with these new features. Similar advancements, such as the thin body and improved display, were introduced in the Series 10. If you already own a Series 10 or a more recent model, you might find that the upgrade to Series 11 isn’t necessary. The main selling points of the Series 11 include its 5G modem, improved Ion-X glass display, and longer battery life, which Apple claims can last up to 24 hours—significantly more than the Series 10.
In conclusion, the Apple Watch Series 11 is an excellent choice for those who have held onto older models, like the original SE. However, if you already own a Series 10, you may want to hold off on an upgrade. While the new features enhance usability and comfort, they may not be as appealing if you’re already satisfied with your current watch. As for me, once I return the review unit, I plan to invest in the Series 11 for its improved battery life and overall experience, despite the modest price increase.
