The Apple Watch revolutionized the smartwatch market, but the original model quickly saw an upgrade with the Series 1. Both offer a classic Apple Watch experience, but subtle differences impact performance and features. This comparison dives deep to help you decide which is right for you.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 1 is the clear winner. Its dual-core processor provides a noticeable performance boost over the 1st generation, resulting in smoother navigation and faster app loading. While both offer wireless charging, the Series 1's improved speed makes it the better choice for most users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | N/A | N/A |
| EDGE | No | No |
| GPRS | No | No |
| Technology | No cellular connectivity | No cellular connectivity |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2014, September. Released 2015, April | 2016, September. Released 2016, December |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front (Sapphire crystal), ceramic/sapphire crystal back, stainless steel frame | Glass front, composite plastic back, aluminum frame |
| Dimensions | 42 x 35.9 x 10.5 mm (1.65 x 1.41 x 0.41 in) | 42.5 x 36.4 x 10.5 mm (1.67 x 1.43 x 0.41 in) |
| SIM | No | No |
| Weight | 50 g body (2.82 oz) | 30 g body (1.06 oz) |
| | IPX7 water resistant up to 1 meter and 30 minutes | IPX7 water resistant up to 1 meter and 30 minutes |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Sapphire crystal glass | Ion-X strengthened glass |
| Resolution | 390 x 312 pixels (~303 ppi density) | 390 x 312 pixels (~303 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.65 inches | 1.65 inches |
| Type | Retina OLED, 450 nits (peak) | Retina OLED, 450 nits (peak) |
| | 3D Touch display | 3D Touch display |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | 520 MHz Cortex-A7 | Dual-core 520 MHz Cortex-A7 |
| Chipset | Apple S1 (28 nm) | Apple S1P (28 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR SGX543 | PowerVR G6200 |
| OS | watchOS 1.0, upgradable to watchOS 4.3.2 | watchOS 3.0, upgradable to watchOS 6.2.8 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 8GB 512MB RAM | 8GB 512MB RAM |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, LE | 4.0, LE |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | No | No |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate |
| | Natural language commands and dictation | Natural language commands and dictation |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | Wireless | Wireless |
| Type | Li-Ion 250 mAh (0.94 Wh), non-removable | Li-Ion 250 mAh (0.94 Wh), non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Stainless Steel/Red, White, Brown/Black/Blue/Marine Blue Buckle, Blue/Stone/White/Storm Gray Leather Loop, Silver/Space Black Milanese Loop, Link Bracelet, Space Black Stainless Steel/Black, Black Link Bracelet, Pearl Woven Nylon | Case colors: silver, gold, rose gold, gray Band colors: brown, white, black, blue Band types: sport |
| Models | A1554 | A1803 |
| Price | About 700 EUR | About 300 EUR |
Apple Watch 42mm (1st gen)
- Classic Apple Watch Design
- Wireless Charging
- Affordable (used)
- Slower Performance
- Limited App Support (compared to newer models)
- Outdated Software
Apple Watch Series 1 Aluminum 42mm
- Improved Performance (Dual-Core Processor)
- Slightly Better App Support
- Wireless Charging
- More Responsive User Interface
- Still Relatively Outdated
- Limited App Support (compared to newer models)
- Battery Life Similar to 1st Gen
Display Comparison
Both devices feature a 42mm display with a resolution of 312 x 390 pixels. The display technology and overall visual quality are virtually identical between the two models. Brightness and viewing angles are comparable, offering a clear and readable experience in most lighting conditions.
Camera Comparison
Neither the 1st generation Apple Watch nor the Series 1 have a built-in camera. This was a feature not included in either model.
Performance
This is where the Series 1 shines. The dual-core S1P chip provides a significant performance advantage over the single-core S1 in the 1st generation. Expect noticeably faster app launches, smoother animations, and a more responsive user interface on the Series 1. The 1st gen can feel sluggish at times, especially when multitasking.
Battery Life
Battery life is roughly similar on both devices, typically lasting around 18 hours with moderate use. Charging times are also comparable, taking approximately 2.5 hours for a full charge using the included wireless charging puck.
Buying Guide
The Apple Watch 42mm (1st gen) might appeal to budget-conscious buyers seeking a basic smartwatch experience and nostalgic Apple Watch feel. The Apple Watch Series 1 Aluminum 42mm is ideal for anyone wanting a more responsive and fluid smartwatch experience without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Apple Watch Series 1 worth buying?
Yes, if you're looking for an affordable entry point into the Apple Watch ecosystem and don't need the latest features. The performance upgrade over the 1st gen is significant.
❓ What are the main differences between the Apple Watch 1st gen and Series 1?
The primary difference is the processor. The Series 1 has a dual-core processor, resulting in faster performance and a more responsive user experience. Both have similar battery life and display quality.
