The original Apple Watch revolutionized the smartwatch landscape. But with two sizes available at launch – the 42mm Sport and the 38mm – choosing the right one could be tricky. This comparison dives deep into the differences to help you decide which vintage Apple Watch is best for you.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The 42mm Sport offers a larger display and arguably a more rugged aesthetic, appealing to those prioritizing screen real estate and a sporty look. The 38mm is more compact and potentially more comfortable for smaller wrists. Ultimately, the choice hinges on personal preference regarding size and style, as performance is virtually identical.
| 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 | 2014, September. Released 2015, May |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, composite plastic back, aluminum frame | Glass front (Sapphire crystal), ceramic/sapphire crystal back, stainless steel frame |
| Dimensions | 42 x 35.9 x 10.5 mm (1.65 x 1.41 x 0.41 in) | 38.6 x 33.3 x 10.5 mm (1.52 x 1.31 x 0.41 in) |
| SIM | No | No |
| Weight | 30 g body (2.47 oz) | 40 g body (2.72 oz) |
| | IPX7 water resistant up to 1 meter and 30 minutes | IPX7 water resistant up to 1 meter and 30 minutes |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Ion-X strengthened glass | Sapphire crystal glass |
| Resolution | 390 x 312 pixels (~302 ppi density) | 340 x 272 pixels (~290 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.65 inches | 1.5 inches |
| Type | Retina OLED, 450 nits (peak) | Retina OLED, 450 nits (peak) |
| | 3D Touch display | 3D Touch display |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | 520 MHz Cortex-A7 | 520 MHz Cortex-A7 |
| Chipset | Apple S1 (28 nm) | Apple S1 (28 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR SGX543 | PowerVR SGX543 |
| OS | watchOS 1.0, upgradable to watchOS 4.3.2 | watchOS 1.0, upgradable to watchOS 4.3.2 |
| 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 205 mAh (0.78 Wh), non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Silver/White, Orange, Blue; Gray/Black; Rose Gold/Lavender, Stone; Gold/White, Blue, Yellow, Apricot, Royal Blue, Pink/Royal Blue/Gold&Red/Black Woven Nylon | Stainless Steel/Red, White, Brown/Black/Blue/Red/Marigold/Jay Buckle, Blue/Stone Leather Loop, Silver/Space Black Milanese Loop, Link Bracelet, Space Black Stainless Steel/Black, Black Link Bracelet, Pearl Woven Nylon |
| Models | A1554 | A1553 |
| Price | About 250 EUR | About 650 EUR |
Apple Watch Sport 42mm (1st gen)
- Larger display for better readability
- More masculine/sporty design
- Potentially more durable
- Slightly more immersive experience
- Larger size may be uncomfortable for smaller wrists
- Slightly heavier than the 38mm model
Apple Watch 38mm (1st gen)
- More comfortable for smaller wrists
- More discreet and elegant design
- Lighter weight
- Slightly higher pixel density
- Smaller display
- Less immersive experience
- May feel cramped for some users
Display Comparison
The most obvious difference is the screen size. The 42mm model boasts a 1.67-inch display compared to the 38mm's 1.57-inch screen. This translates to more information visible at a glance and a slightly more immersive experience. However, the resolution remains the same, so pixel density is slightly higher on the 38mm model, though the difference is minimal.
Camera Comparison
Neither the 42mm Sport nor the 38mm model included a camera. This was a deliberate design choice by Apple.
Performance
Both models share the same Apple S1 chip and 520 MHz Cortex-A7 processor. Performance is essentially identical across both devices. Expect smooth navigation, responsive apps, and generally snappy operation for the tasks they were designed for.
Battery Life
Battery life is similar on both models, typically lasting around 18 hours with moderate use. Heavy usage, such as constant GPS tracking or frequent app usage, will drain the battery faster on both devices.
Buying Guide
The 42mm Sport is ideal for users with larger wrists who want a bigger display for easier readability and a more masculine design. It's also a good choice for those who appreciate a more durable build. The 38mm is better suited for those with smaller wrists or who prefer a more discreet and elegant smartwatch. It's also a good option for those prioritizing comfort and a lighter feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are the Apple Watch 1st Gen models still usable today?
Yes, but with limitations. They no longer receive software updates from Apple, so functionality is limited to what was available at the time. They can still be used for basic notifications, fitness tracking, and some third-party apps, but compatibility with newer iPhones may be an issue.
❓ What is the difference between the Apple Watch Sport and the standard Apple Watch (1st gen)?
The Sport models featured an aluminum case and a silicone band (Sport Band), while the standard models had a stainless steel case and a leather or link bracelet. The Sport models were generally more affordable and targeted towards a more active lifestyle.
