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How to Buy an Apple Watch as a Gift
Make sure you get the right model, size, and band
By Emily Price Emily Price Writer Harvard University The University of North Carolina at Greensboro Emily Price is a former freelance contributor to Lifewire and a freelance tech writer who focuses on emerging technology. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on February 19, 2021 Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Smart Watches & Wearables Eco Tech Electric Vehicles Working From Home Headphones & Ear Buds Smart Home Smart Watches & Wearables Travel Tech Connected Car Tech iPods & MP3 Players What to Know
There are three Apple Watch models: Series 6 (from $399, 40 or 44 mm); Series 3 (from $199, 42 or 38 mm); and SE ($279, 40 or 44 mm).All include an altimeter, accelerometer, gyroscope, water resistant casing, emergency SOS, and GPS/cellular for an extra $100.Series 6 adds retina display, ECG, larger hard drive, more powerful dual-core processor, compass, and fall detection. The Apple Watch can make an excellent gift. To purchase one, you need to choose a model, size, and watch band. If you’re thinking about getting an Apple Watch for a friend or loved one, here's what you'll need to consider. Pick a Model
Unless you go with a refurbished or second-hand purchase, you have three options to choose from: the Series 3, Series 6, and SE. Price is usually the biggest factor in choosing between different models. The Series 6 (starting at $399) costs roughly twice as much as the Series 3 (from $199), while the most affordable SE version is $279. Unlike the Series 3, the Series 6 has a retina display that is always on, an electrical heart sensor or ECG, a larger hard drive, a slightly more powerful dual-core processor, a compass, and a fall detection feature. The digital crown—the dial on the side of the watch—also has haptic feedback, whereas the Series 3 does not. All models, however, have a suite of features for active users, including an altimeter, accelerometer, gyroscope, water resistant casing, emergency SOS, and the option of GPS or cellular connectivity for an additional $100. You also have access to the Apple Watch app library, ApplePay, and GymKit as well. Pablo Cuadra/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images Pick a Size
The Apple Watch has two sizes for each Series, with the pricier Series 6 being a couple millimeters (mm) larger. With the Series 6 and SE you can select either a 40 mm or 44 mm case. The Series 3 comes in either 42 mm or 38 mm. While watch bands offer better control over how the Apple Watch fits on the wrist, the size of the watch head is still important for getting the right fit. Some people prefer slim designs while others like their watches to be big and showy. Pick a Watch Band
There are hundreds of bands to choose from, and not all are from Apple. While the first-party bands are, on average, pricier, the option to choose from third-party sellers means your recipient won't have to stick with the band you choose for them. So don't overthink it. Active users may prefer a colorful sport band. Minimalist owners might like the look and feel of a buckled leather band. Flashy recipients may prefer a metal link bracelet. Watch band styles and materials can range from $50 to $600. Keep Your Receipt
An Apple Watch is a personal (and pricey) gift. If you buy a watch or accessories as a gift, be sure to hang on to the receipt so that your recipient has the option to exchange it for a different model, size, or band. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire Apple Watch: Everything You Need to Know Apple Watch Ultra: Release Date, Specs, Price, and News What Is Crash Detection on iPhone and Apple Watch? Is an Apple Watch Worth It? Apple Watch Series 8: Release Date, Specs, Price, and News How to Change Your Apple Watch Band How to Reset Your Apple Watch Apple Watch Series 6 vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch3 Apple Watch Series 6 Review: A Modest Upgrade, But Still the Best The 9 Best Apple Watch Bands of 2022 How to Use Apple Watch How to Use Apple Watch With Siri The 9 Best Smartwatches for Women of 2022 How the Apple Watch Can Help Keep Seniors Safe Apple Watch SE Review: A More Affordable Apple Watch Apple Watch Series 7: Price, Release Date, News, and Specs Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies