MacDirectory Magazine

Rachel Gray

MacDirectory magazine is the premiere creative lifestyle magazine for Apple enthusiasts featuring interviews, in-depth tech reviews, Apple news, insights, latest Apple patents, apps, market analysis, entertainment and more.

Issue link: https://digital.macdirectory.com/i/1359241

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What About the Apple Watch Series 4 and 5? The Apple Watch Series 4 was discontinued soon after the Apple Watch Series 5 was introduced, and that’s because they’re pretty similar products. The main difference between them was the introduction of the Always-On Display on the Series 5 back in 2019. Still, the Apple Watch Series 4 is a solid option for most people. Even if Apple discontinued it, if you can find one for a really low price; at least lower than the ~$279 price of the Apple Watch SE. Basically, if you’re hoping to save money, the Apple Watch Series 4 is the oldest Apple Watch you should get (if you don’t mind not having the Always-On Display feature). The Apple Watch Series 5 suffered the same fate as the Series 4: Apple discontinued it, probably because it was too similar to the Apple Watch Series 6. The Series 5 and the Series 6 are extremely similar, and the Series 6 only offers a few extra features that most people won’t mind not having, like the blood oxygen monitor. The biggest reason why you should get a Series 5 over a Series 4 is because of the Always-on Display. If you’re someone who hates having to raise your hand every time to check the time, the Series 5 is a no-brainer. Likewise, you can rest assured you’ll have software update support for at least a few more years. Even if it means spending a bit more, you should try to get your hands on a Series 5 instead of a Series 4. Of course, only if you can find it at a great deal. What Do You Need the Apple Watch For? Before ordering any of these devices, you should ask yourself what you need the Apple Watch for, as well as who’s going to use it. If you want to give an Apple Watch to your kid or a grandparent, and you know they won’t use the Apple Watch to its fullest, nor will they need to have the last software update on it, you can go for a cheaper option like the Apple Watch Series 3. You don’t need a really fancy or expensive Apple Watch to set it up for a family member. On the other hand, if you’re using the Apple Watch for yourself, or it’s for someone who’s going to use it to its full capacity and could use the latest software updates, the Apple Watch Series 4 or Series 5 are the best (older) options. You’ll have watchOS support for a few more years, and you’ll enjoy the latest health features the Apple Watch has to offer. Waiting Is Also an Option Based on history, Apple is bound to release a new Apple Watch later this year. Even though the company might show off some great new features, not all of us are going to want them enough to spend $400+ right away. The good news is that all the previous Apple Watches are going to drop in price. Just like we’ve seen before, the Apple Watch Series 6 will drop in price, as well as older generations. Plus, the Apple Watch SE, which is a cheaper option, will probably see a price drop, making it a more affordable option close in price to the Series 3, but with more up-to-date features and watchOS support for the next few years. If you don’t really need an Apple Watch right now, or you can wait until the end of the year, you should consider buying one after Apple announces the upcoming Apple Watch Series 7. Not only will we see better deals for older generations, but you could instead get the latest model, as long as you’re willing to pay the premium.

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