Apple Watch Series 7 vs Series 6: A Detailed Comparison

The Apple Watch remains the gold standard for smartwatches, and the Series 7 and Series 6 are two of its most popular iterations. While both offer a premium experience, subtle differences can make a big impact on your decision. Let's dive into a comprehensive comparison to help you choose the right one for your needs.
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🏆 Quick Verdict

The Apple Watch Series 7 offers a noticeably larger, brighter display and significantly faster charging. However, the Series 6 remains a fantastic smartwatch, especially if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option. For most users, the Series 7's improvements justify the price, but the Series 6 is still a strong contender.

PHONES
Phone Names Apple Watch Series 7 Apple Watch Series 6
Network
2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bandsHSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 - InternationalHSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 - USA, LATAM, Canada
4G bands1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 39, 40, 41, 66 - International1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 25, 26, 39, 40, 41, 66 - USA, LATAM, Canada
SpeedHSPA, LTEHSPA, LTE
TechnologyGSM / HSPA / LTEGSM / HSPA / LTE
 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 25, 26, 39, 40, 41, 66 - USA, LATAM, Canada1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 39, 40, 41, 66 - Global
Launch
Announced2021, September 142020, September 15
StatusAvailable. Released 2021, October 15Available. Released 2020, September 18
Body
BuildSapphire crystal front, ceramic/sapphire crystal back, stainless steel frameGlass front (Sapphire crystal), ceramic/sapphire crystal back, stainless steel frame
Dimensions45 x 38 x 10.7 mm (1.77 x 1.50 x 0.42 in)44 x 38 x 10.7 mm (1.73 x 1.50 x 0.42 in)
SIMeSIMeSIM
Weight42.3 g (41mm), 51.5 g (45mm) (1.48 oz)47.1 g (1.66 oz)
 IP6X certified 50m water resistant ECG certified (region dependent SW application; HW available on all models)50m water resistant ECG certified (region dependent SW application; HW available on all models)
Display
ProtectionSapphire crystal glassSapphire crystal glass
Resolution484 x 396 pixels (~326 ppi density)448 x 368 pixels (~326 ppi density)
Size1.9 inches1.78 inches
TypeRetina LTPO OLED, 1000 nits (peak)Retina LTPO OLED, 1000 nits (peak)
 Always-on displayAlways-on display
Platform
CPUDual-coreDual-core
ChipsetApple S7Apple S6
GPUPowerVRPowerVR
OSwatchOS 8.0, upgradable to watchOS 26.1watchOS 7.0, upgradable to watchOS 26.1
Memory
Card slotNoNo
Internal32GB 1GB RAM32GB 1GB RAM
Sound
3.5mm jack NoNo
35mm jackNoNo
Loudspeaker YesYes
Comms
Bluetooth5.0, A2DP, LE5.0, A2DP, LE
NFCYesYes
PositioningGPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, QZSS, BDSGPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, QZSS
RadioNoNo
USBNoNo
WLANWi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, dual-bandWi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, dual-band
Features
SensorsAccelerometer, gyro, heart rate, barometer, always-on altimeter, compass, SpO2, VO2maxAccelerometer, gyro, heart rate, barometer, always-on altimeter, compass, SpO2, VO2max
 Natural language commands and dictation (talking mode) Ultra Wideband (UWB) supportNatural language commands and dictation (talking mode) Ultra Wideband (UWB) support
Battery
ChargingWireless, 0-80% in 45 minWireless
TypeLi-Ion 309 mAh (1.19 Wh)Li-Ion 303.8 mAh
Misc
ColorsGraphite, Gold, SilverSilver, Graphite (DLC), Gold (PVD)
ModelsA2475, A2476, A2477, A2478, watch6,8, watch6,9A2293, A2294, A2375, A2376
PriceAbout 310 EURAbout 710 EUR
SAR1.10 W/kg (head)-
SAR EU0.70 W/kg (head)     1.50 W/kg (body)-
Camera
 NoNo

Apple Watch Series 7

  • Larger, brighter display
  • Faster charging
  • Slightly improved performance
  • More modern design

  • Higher price

Apple Watch Series 6

  • More affordable
  • Excellent all-day battery life
  • Proven reliability
  • Still receives software updates

  • Smaller display
  • Slower charging
  • Older chipset

Display Comparison

The Series 7 boasts a 20% larger display than the Series 6, thanks to thinner borders. This makes a tangible difference in readability and interaction. The Series 7 also gets brighter, improving visibility in direct sunlight. While the Series 6's display is still excellent, the Series 7's is undeniably superior.

Camera Comparison

Neither the Series 7 nor the Series 6 have a dedicated camera. They rely on the iPhone for photography.

Performance

Both watches are powered by dual-core processors, but the Series 7's S7 chip offers a slight performance boost. Apps launch a bit faster, and overall responsiveness feels smoother. However, for most everyday tasks, the difference is minimal. Both watches handle fitness tracking and notifications flawlessly.

Battery Life

Both watches offer all-day battery life, typically lasting around 18 hours. However, the Series 7's faster charging (0-80% in 45 minutes) is a significant advantage, reducing downtime.

Buying Guide

The Apple Watch Series 7 is ideal for users who prioritize a larger display for easier readability and faster charging. It's also a good choice for those who want the latest features and a more modern design. The Apple Watch Series 6 is a great option for budget-conscious buyers who still want a premium smartwatch experience with all the core Apple Watch functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Is the Apple Watch Series 7 worth the upgrade from a Series 6?
If you value a larger, brighter display and faster charging, then yes. Otherwise, the Series 6 remains a capable smartwatch and a good value.
❓ How long does the battery last on each watch?
Both watches typically last around 18 hours with moderate use. The Series 7 charges significantly faster.
❓ Do both watches receive software updates?
Yes, both watches will continue to receive software updates for several years, ensuring they remain secure and functional.