Best Apple Watch Deals for May: Discounts on Series 8, Ultra 2, More (2024)

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The Apple Watch is one of the best smartwatches around, and for good reason. But, because they are so sought after, it's often hard to find a great deal. Heck, sometimes they aren't on sale with any discount at all.

But, with a range of different models available, the best Apple Watches include the Apple Watch SE, Apple Watch Series 9, and Apple Watch Ultra 2, we've found some great deals to be had. So if you're looking to upgrade from an older model of Apple Watch, or you're ready to join the club, now's the time to do it.

Plus, you can always save more if you opt for an Apple Watch GPS-only model. If you feel like you can do without the Cellular features, and have your iPhone with you at all times, you can get a brand new Apple Watch for under $200.

Best Apple Watch Deals for May: Discounts on Series 8, Ultra 2, More (1)

Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen)

Apple's most affordable smartwatch with sleep tracking and crash detection

$189.00 at Amazon
$249.00 Save $60.00

The Apple Watch SE is Apple's most affordable Apple Watch, but that doesn't mean it scrimps on features. When our experts reviewed it, they called it, "an excellent budget-minded alternative to the Series 8". With an upgraded processor over the previous model, Apple's S8 chip showcases just how awesome this smartwatch is, without spending a fortune.

This smartwatch comes with advanced health and fitness features; you can monitor your workouts, train with others, and even pay for items with Apple Pay. If you like to swim and want to track your progress, the Apple Watch SE is swimproof up to 50m. If you're searching for a budget-friendly smartwatch that doesn't give off budget vibes, the Apple Watch SE is an absolute steal. It's also available in a multitude of colors, and you can change out the straps to customize to your liking.

With a faster processor, brighter display, and eco-friendly build, PCMag rated the Apple Watch Series 9 as "outstanding". Apple's S9 chip takes things to the next level, and right now you can get this extraordinary smartwatch for close to just $300. If you're serious about monitoring your health, the Series 9 allows you to take an ECG at any time, receiving notifications if it detects an irregular heart rhythm.

Using Apple's workout app, you can track your training across different workouts including running, cycling, and swimming. And if you're on the clumsy side, or have smaller children running around, you'll be pleased to know that the Apple Watch Series 9 is crack resistant, IP6X-certified dust resistant, and 50m water resistant.

Best Apple Watch Deals for May: Discounts on Series 8, Ultra 2, More (3)

Apple Watch Ultra 2

Apple's most premium smartwatch with extra-long battery life and a rugged titanium case

$799.00 at Amazon

Dubbed by our experts at PCMag as an "excellent adventure companion", the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the smartwatch you need if you want a bright display, powerful processor, and a ginormous battery life. The 3,000-nit display makes looking at your smartwatch in bright conditions a breeze, and with a whopping 55-hour battery life, you won't run out of juice when you need it the most.

For users traversing harsh terrains, the Ultra 2's rugged design comes with a MIL-STD 810H certification. That means it can take on extreme temperatures, high altitudes, vibration, shock, you name it. Whether you need an accurate GPS, in-depth maps, or a smartwatch you can dive in deep waters with, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 will serve you well.

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While it's not currently on sale, we're adding it to our watchlist so we can be the first to let you know when the price drops.

Apple Watch deals at Amazon

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FAQ

How much should a smartwatch cost?

How much a smartwatch costs really depends on what you're looking for in a smartwatch. Some come with Cellular functionality, and therefore can be more costly. Others come with more advanced features like tracking, fitness and health monitoring, oxygen sensors, and more.

Essentially, the more features you opt for, the more you're going to pay.

Which brand is best for smartwatch?

Apple is one of the most popular brands of smartwatch. If you're an iPhone user, you can't beat the Apple Watch in terms of compatibility and functionality. However, if you prefer to simply track your fitness, then a more affordable option could be a Fitbit.

Is it worth buying cheap smartwatches?

Depending on what you want from your smartwatch, you could get away with buying a cheap one. However, you will be limited to basic features and functionality. Similarly, there's not the reassurance that you get with a well-know brand.

If you want your smartwatch to be future-proof, it's worth investing a little more.

Which smartwatch is best for daily use?

The Apple Watch SE is a great smartwatch for daily use. It's one of the most affordable Apple Watches, comes with plenty of features, and looks stylish. Perfect for every day use.

How does PCMag test smartwatches?

PCMag thoroughly tests all of its products for review, including smartwatches. The process includes exhaustively testing every aspect of the device, including real-world tests, scripts, sensors, features, and functionality.

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Best Apple Watch Deals for May: Discounts on Series 8, Ultra 2, More (2024)

FAQs

Is the Apple Ultra 2 worth it? ›

It links to Apple Fitness+ too – and while this is a subscription feature, it's one that's worth considering if you've already forked out for this and are currently paying for a third-party fitness app, either for running or for fitness, as you might find that Apple's version could offer all of these bits in one place, ...

What is the best Apple Watch for the least amount of money? ›

Apple Watch SE (2022)

The 2022 Apple Watch SE shares many of the same features as the Apple Watch 8 but with a much more affordable price tag, with a starting cost of $249 /£259/ AU$399.

Which is better Apple Watch Series 8 or Ultra? ›

For workouts and active use cases, the Ultra is more durable than the Series 8. The flat display has more edge protection because of the shape of the casing and that helps protect from drops and scratches compared to the curved Series 8 display.

Will the Apple Watch 8 price drop when 9 comes out? ›

It's still fully supported by Apple, chock full of great features, and -- most importantly -- on sale for 25% off following the Apple Watch 9 release. The retailer has marked the Apple Watch 8 GPS (41mm) down to $299, reduced from $399, while the larger Apple Watch 8 GPS (45mm) is now $340.

Which is better, Ultra 2 or Series 9? ›

If what you need is a good ol' fashion Apple Watch, get a Series 9. If you want extra durability and battery life (and you're willing to pay a lot), go for the Ultra 2. Neither will let you down, just make sure you take your wallet's feelings into consideration at checkout.

Why is Ultra 2 so expensive? ›

Pure titanium (not titanium "coated") metal is considerably more expensive and is probably one of the main reasons why the Apple Watch Ultra is so much pricier. The size of the case is also larger at 49mm (compared to 41mm-45mm for the Series 8) so it looks more substantial on your wrist.

What Apple Watch is best for seniors? ›

Apple Watch models Series 8, Ultra, and SE (2nd generation) can also call emergency services and send an alert to emergency contacts when a severe car crash is detected.

What is the number 1 Apple Watch? ›

The Apple Watch Series 9 is the best smartwatch yet thanks to significant performance upgrades and the addition of a handy new double-tap gesture, making it the best Apple smartwatch for most people.

When did the Apple Watch 9 come out? ›

When was the Apple Watch Series 9 released, and how does its release date fit into the Apple Watch release order from previous years? The Apple Watch Series 9 was announced on September 12, 2023. General availability in stores started on September 22, 2023. So basically, you're able to purchase the timepiece now.

Can I shower with my Apple Watch 8 Ultra? ›

Apple's own support page on water resistance states that an Apple Watch Ultra or later should be ok for showering. From Apple's Support Article on the Watch's water resistance: What should I avoid while wearing my Apple Watch? Water resistance isn't a permanent condition and can diminish over time.

Should I upgrade from Apple Watch 8 to Ultra? ›

Buy the Apple Watch Ultra

The extra battery life, bigger display for better viewing of images and text, more durable design, and upgraded GPS will appeal to many of you who rely on your Apple Watch for valuable functions every day.

Is Apple Watch Ultra too big for female? ›

The Apple Watch Ultra is the complete opposite of that with its large and bulky 49mm size. I think that I, along with others, have been trained for too long to think that the Apple Watch Ultra is just too big for women to wear — but it really isn't.

What is the best Apple Watch right now? ›

Which Apple Watch Is Best Right Now?
  • Best for Most People. Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) Read more. $240 at Amazon.
  • The Best Apple Watch. Apple Watch Series 9. Read more. $390 at Amazon.
  • Best for Outdoor Sports. Apple Watch Ultra 2. Read more. $780 at Amazon.
  • If It's on Sale for Under $300. Apple Watch Series 8. Read more. $329 at Amazon.
Jan 6, 2024

Is Apple releasing a new watch in 2024? ›

Apple will likely update the Apple Watch in 2024 as it has done so every year. We expect to see a new Apple Watch Series 10, a new Apple Watch Ultra 3, and a third-generation Apple Watch SE. Apple has a pretty set release schedule when it comes to the Apple Watch range.

How often should I upgrade my Apple Watch? ›

If your Watch is at least four years old, an upgrade will likely deliver significant changes in screen size and quality, battery life, and features. Your screen is cracked or too small. Recent Watch models have bigger, brighter screens. If you appreciate that or your current screen is cracked, you may want to upgrade.

Is the Apple Watch Ultra 2 too big? ›

There's no ignoring that the Ultra 2 is a large watch. Coupled with the chunkier digital crown and flat display, it stands out a lot more than the Series 9. My wrist measures 152mm and even though the Ultra 2 looks hefty, it's surprisingly comfortable on a small wrist and I wear it all the time.

What is special about the Apple Watch Ultra 2? ›

The biggest and brightest Apple Watch display ever. Powered by the all-new S9 SiP, the Always‑On Retina display is 3000 nits at its peak, making it even more readable in harsh sunlight. In low-light situations, it dims to 1 nit. Night Mode now activates automatically in the dark.

Will there be Apple Watch Ultra 2 next year? ›

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 will be released on September 22, 2023. It was made available to pre-order from September 12, 2023, but the actual release is on the 22nd.

How accurate is the Apple Watch Ultra 2? ›

Accuracy
ProductAccuracy Rating
Best9.5
Average8.1
Apple Watch Ultra 28
Worst7.5

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