The smartwatch market is largely dominated by Apple, but challengers are emerging. The Nothing CMF Watch Pro 2 aims to disrupt the space with a focus on value and design, directly competing with the established Apple Watch Series 9. This comparison dissects the key differences, analyzing whether Nothing can deliver a compelling alternative to Apple’s ecosystem and performance.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem, the Apple Watch Series 9 remains the superior choice due to its seamless integration and powerful S9 chip. However, users seeking a stylish, feature-rich smartwatch at a significantly lower price point will find the Nothing CMF Watch Pro 2 a compelling option.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | N/A | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | N/A | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 - International, China, HK |
| 4G bands | N/A | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 39, 40, 41, 66 - International, China, HK |
| EDGE | No | - |
| GPRS | No | - |
| Speed | - | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | No cellular connectivity | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, July 08 | 2023, September 12 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, July 08 | Available. Released 2023, September 22 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, aluminum frame | Sapphire crystal front, ceramic/sapphire crystal back, stainless steel frame |
| Dimensions | 45 x 45 x 13.6 mm (1.77 x 1.77 x 0.54 in) | 45 x 38 x 10.7 mm (1.77 x 1.50 x 0.42 in) |
| SIM | No | eSIM |
| Weight | 44.4 g (1.55 oz) | 42.3 g (41mm), 51.5 g (45mm) (1.48 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Sapphire crystal glass |
| Resolution | 466 x 466 pixels (~353 ppi density) | 484 x 396 pixels (~326 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.32 inches | 1.9 inches |
| Type | AMOLED, 2160Hz PWM, 620 nits (typ) | Retina LTPO OLED, 2000 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | - | Dual-core |
| Chipset | - | Apple S9 |
| GPU | - | PowerVR |
| OS | - | watchOS 10, upgradable to watchOS 26.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | - |
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | Unspecified | 64GB |
| Phonebook | No | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE | 5.3, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, QZSS, BDS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | No | No |
| WLAN | No | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Games | No | - |
| Java | No | - |
| Messaging | SMS(threaded view), Email, IM | - |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, SpO2 | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, barometer, always-on altimeter, compass, SpO2, VO2max, temperature (body) |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | Wireless, 0-80% in 45 min |
| Type | Li-Ion 305 mAh | Li-Ion 308 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dark Grey Curved, Dark Grey Flat, Ash Grey Curved, Ash Grey Flat | Graphite, Silver, Gold, Red |
| Models | - | A2982, A2984, A2983, A2985, Watch7,3, Watch7,4 |
| Price | $ 42.29 / € 58.97 | About 630 EUR |
| SAR | - | 1.02 W/kg (head) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.64 W/kg (head) |
Nothing CMF Watch Pro 2
- Potentially more affordable price point
- Unique and stylish design language (based on Nothing's brand)
- May offer broader OS compatibility (speculation)
- Likely less powerful processor
- Uncertain battery life and charging speed
- Limited app ecosystem compared to watchOS
Apple Watch Series 9
- Powerful Apple S9 chip for smooth performance
- Seamless integration with iPhones and Apple ecosystem
- Advanced health features (ECG, fall detection)
- Higher price point
- Limited compatibility with Android devices
- Battery life could be a concern for heavy users
Display Comparison
Given the lack of specific display details for the Nothing CMF Watch Pro 2, we can infer it will likely utilize an AMOLED panel to compete with the Apple Watch Series 9’s always-on Retina display. The Series 9’s display benefits from Apple’s advancements in brightness, potentially reaching up to 2000 nits for outdoor visibility. The Series 9 also leverages LTPO technology, dynamically adjusting the refresh rate to conserve battery life. While the CMF Watch Pro 2 may offer a visually appealing display, it’s unlikely to match the Series 9’s peak brightness or power efficiency without comparable LTPO implementation.
Camera Comparison
This comparison is not applicable. Neither the Nothing CMF Watch Pro 2 nor the Apple Watch Series 9 feature cameras.
Performance
The Apple Watch Series 9 is powered by the dual-core Apple S9 SiP, a significant upgrade over previous generations. This chipset enables faster processing speeds and improved efficiency, crucial for smooth animations and responsive app interactions. The Nothing CMF Watch Pro 2’s chipset remains unspecified, but given its price point, it will likely utilize a less powerful, more cost-effective solution. This difference translates to a noticeable performance gap, particularly when running demanding applications or utilizing advanced features like voice assistants. The S9’s neural engine also accelerates on-device machine learning tasks, enhancing features like fall detection and ECG readings.
Battery Life
The Apple Watch Series 9 offers up to 18 hours of battery life with typical use and supports 0-80% charging in just 45 minutes. The Nothing CMF Watch Pro 2’s battery capacity and charging speed are currently unknown. However, given the performance demands of the Apple S9 chip, the CMF Watch Pro 2 may need a larger battery capacity to achieve comparable battery life. The Series 9’s wireless charging convenience is a significant advantage, while the CMF Watch Pro 2’s charging method remains to be seen. The efficiency of the S9 chip, combined with LTPO display technology, contributes to the Series 9’s optimized power consumption.
Buying Guide
Buy the Nothing CMF Watch Pro 2 if you prioritize affordability, a unique design aesthetic, and aren't heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem. It's ideal for users wanting a capable smartwatch without the premium price tag. Buy the Apple Watch Series 9 if you demand the fastest performance, tight integration with iPhones, and access to Apple’s extensive health features and app library. It’s the choice for power users and those committed to the Apple experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ How will the lack of specific chipset details for the Nothing CMF Watch Pro 2 impact its performance compared to the Apple Watch Series 9?
Without knowing the CMF Watch Pro 2’s chipset, it’s safe to assume it won’t match the Apple S9’s processing power. The S9’s dual-core architecture and neural engine are optimized for demanding tasks and on-device machine learning. The CMF Watch Pro 2 will likely prioritize efficiency over raw performance, resulting in slower app loading times and less responsive animations.
❓ If I'm primarily interested in fitness tracking, does the Apple Watch Series 9's advanced health features justify the higher price compared to the Nothing CMF Watch Pro 2?
For serious fitness enthusiasts, the Apple Watch Series 9’s ECG, fall detection, and advanced workout metrics are compelling features. While the CMF Watch Pro 2 will likely offer standard fitness tracking capabilities, it won’t have the same level of medical-grade sensors or data analysis as the Series 9. If these advanced health features are crucial to your needs, the Series 9 is the better investment.
❓ How much does the Apple ecosystem lock-in affect the usability of the Apple Watch Series 9 for Android users?
The Apple Watch Series 9 is designed to work seamlessly within the Apple ecosystem. While basic functionality might be possible with an Android phone, you'll lose access to key features like iMessage notifications, Apple Pay, and tight integration with other Apple services. The CMF Watch Pro 2 is likely to offer broader compatibility, making it a more versatile option for Android users.
