[Apple Watch Series 6] Long-Term Review: Is it Still Worth Buying After [2 Years]?

The Apple Watch Series 6. It was a game-changer when it landed on wrists in 2020, boasting a brighter always-on display, blood oxygen monitoring, and a faster processor. But in the ever-evolving world of wearable technology, two years feels like an eternity. So, the burning question remains: Is the Apple Watch Series 6 still worth buying in [2022/2023]?

This in-depth, long-term review will delve into the Apple Watch Series 6's performance after two years of use, exploring its pros and cons, comparing it to newer models, and ultimately helping you decide if it's the right smartwatch for you in the current market.

Why This Review Matters:

• Price Sensitivity: With newer Apple Watch models on the market, the Series 6 can often be found at discounted prices, making it a potentially attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
• Feature Set Consideration: Do you really need the latest and greatest features, or will the Series 6 cover your needs adequately?
• Performance & Battery Life: How does the device hold up after daily wear and tear over an extended period?
• Sustainability: Buying a slightly older, but still capable device is a more sustainable choice than constantly upgrading to the latest model.

What We'll Cover:

• A Quick Recap: The Apple Watch Series 6 at Launch
• Design and Comfort: Holding Up Over Time?
• Performance: Still Snappy or Showing Its Age?
• Health and Fitness Tracking: Accurate and Reliable?
• Battery Life: How Many Hours Do You Really Get?
• Software Updates: Is it Keeping Up with the Times?
• Compared to the Apple Watch Series 7 & 8: What Are You Missing Out On?
• Pros and Cons: A Balanced Perspective
• Who Should (and Shouldn't) Buy the Apple Watch Series 6 in [2022/2023]?
• Conclusion: The Verdict – Is it Still Worth It?

A Quick Recap: The Apple Watch Series 6 at Launch

When the Apple Watch Series 6 debuted, it was hailed as a significant upgrade over its predecessor. Key features included:

• Blood Oxygen Sensor (SpO2): Measures your blood oxygen saturation levels.
• ECG App: Detects atrial fibrillation (AFib) for improved heart health monitoring.
• Always-On Retina Display: 2.5 times brighter than the Series 5 outdoors.
• S6 SiP: Up to 20% faster performance compared to the Series 5.
• New Case Colors: Including blue and (PRODUCT)RED.
• Improved Altimeter: Provides more accurate elevation readings.

These features, coupled with the established Apple Watch ecosystem, made the Series 6 a highly sought-after smartwatch at its original price point.

Design and Comfort: Holding Up Over Time?

The Apple Watch Series 6 retains the familiar Apple Watch design – a rectangular face with rounded corners and a comfortable fit. The aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium case options offered durability, and the vast array of band options allowed for personalization.

Two years later, the design still holds up well:

• Scratch Resistance: The Ion-X glass on the aluminum models is susceptible to scratches, while the stainless steel and sapphire crystal models offer better scratch resistance. Consider applying a screen protector to prolong the display's pristine look.
• Comfort: The Apple Watch design is generally considered comfortable for all-day wear, even during workouts and sleep.
• Band Compatibility: The Apple Watch Series 6 is compatible with all Apple Watch bands, offering a wide range of options for different styles and occasions.

Verdict: The Apple Watch Series 6's design remains aesthetically pleasing and functional. While the aluminum model may show signs of wear and tear, the overall design has aged gracefully.

Performance: Still Snappy or Showing Its Age?

The S6 SiP chip provided a noticeable performance boost when the Series 6 was released. But how does it perform today, with newer apps and software updates pushing its limits?

• App Launch Times: App launch times are generally still acceptable, though slightly slower compared to the Series 7 and 8.
• Navigation: Navigating the watchOS interface remains smooth and responsive.
• Multitasking: Switching between apps is generally seamless, although demanding apps may experience occasional lag.
• Siri Performance: Siri remains responsive and accurate on the Series 6.

Verdict: The Apple Watch Series 6 still delivers adequate performance for everyday tasks. While it might not be as blazing fast as newer models, it's more than capable of handling notifications, fitness tracking, and basic app usage.

Health and Fitness Tracking: Accurate and Reliable?

Health and fitness tracking are core strengths of the Apple Watch, and the Series 6 is no exception. It offers a comprehensive suite of features:

• Heart Rate Monitoring: Accurate and reliable heart rate tracking for workouts and resting heart rate.
• ECG App: Still functional and potentially life-saving for detecting AFib.
• Blood Oxygen Monitoring (SpO2): While the accuracy of SpO2 readings has been debated, it provides a general indication of blood oxygen saturation levels.
• Activity Tracking: Accurately tracks steps, calories burned, and active minutes.
• Workout Tracking: Comprehensive workout tracking for various activities, including running, cycling, swimming, and more.
• Sleep Tracking: Provides detailed sleep tracking data, including sleep stages.

Verdict: The Apple Watch Series 6 continues to provide accurate and reliable health and fitness tracking. While newer models offer more advanced sensors and features, the Series 6 provides a solid foundation for monitoring your health and fitness.

Battery Life: How Many Hours Do You Really Get?

Battery life is a common concern with smartwatches, and the Apple Watch Series 6 promised up to 18 hours of battery life. However, battery performance can degrade over time.

• Real-World Usage: After two years, expect to get closer to 12-16 hours of battery life with typical usage (notifications, workouts, and some app usage).
• Always-On Display: Using the always-on display significantly impacts battery life.
• Heavy Usage: GPS-intensive workouts and prolonged app usage will drain the battery faster.
• Battery Health: Check your battery health in the Settings app to assess the battery's maximum capacity. A significant drop in battery health may warrant a battery replacement.

Verdict: Battery life on the Apple Watch Series 6 is likely reduced after two years of use. While it may still last a full day for light users, heavy users may need to charge it more frequently.

Software Updates: Is it Keeping Up with the Times?

Apple provides regular software updates for its Apple Watch models, ensuring they receive the latest features and security patches.

• watchOS Compatibility: The Apple Watch Series 6 is currently compatible with the latest version of watchOS.
• Feature Parity: While some newer watchOS features may be exclusive to newer Apple Watch models, the Series 6 generally receives most of the core software updates.
• Future-Proofing: It's uncertain how much longer Apple will continue to support the Series 6 with software updates. However, it's likely to receive updates for at least another year or two.

Verdict: The Apple Watch Series 6 benefits from ongoing software updates, keeping it relevant and up-to-date with the latest features. However, its long-term software support is uncertain.

Compared to the Apple Watch Series 7 & 8: What Are You Missing Out On?

While the Apple Watch Series 6 remains a capable smartwatch, it's important to consider what you're missing out on compared to newer models:

• Apple Watch Series 7: Larger display with thinner borders, faster charging, more durable design.
• Apple Watch Series 8: Temperature sensing for ovulation tracking and cycle tracking, crash detection, improved sleep tracking.

Key Considerations:

• Display Size: The larger display on the Series 7 and 8 offers a more immersive and easier-to-read experience.
• Health Features: If you're interested in temperature sensing for fertility tracking or crash detection for safety, the Series 8 is the better choice.
• Charging Speed: The faster charging on the Series 7 and 8 can be a significant convenience.

Verdict: The Series 7 and 8 offer incremental improvements over the Series 6, but whether these improvements are worth the price difference depends on your individual needs and priorities.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced Perspective

Pros:

• Lower Price: Significantly cheaper than newer Apple Watch models.
• Comprehensive Health Tracking: Includes heart rate monitoring, ECG, and blood oxygen monitoring.
• Solid Performance: Still capable of handling everyday tasks and apps.
• Software Updates: Benefits from ongoing software updates.
• Familiar Design: Comfortable and compatible with all Apple Watch bands.

Cons:

• Shorter Battery Life: Battery life may be reduced after two years of use.
• Smaller Display: Smaller display compared to the Series 7 and 8.
• Missing Features: Lacks some of the newer health features like temperature sensing and crash detection.
• Uncertain Long-Term Software Support: Future software updates may be limited.

Who Should (and Shouldn't) Buy the Apple Watch Series 6 in [2022/2023]?

Who SHOULD buy the Apple Watch Series 6:

• Budget-conscious buyers: Looking for a feature-rich Apple Watch at a lower price point.
• First-time Apple Watch owners: Wanting to experience the Apple Watch ecosystem without breaking the bank.
• Users who prioritize health tracking: The Series 6 offers comprehensive health tracking features.
• Individuals who don't need the latest and greatest features: The Series 6 is still a capable smartwatch for everyday use.

Who SHOULDN'T buy the Apple Watch Series 6:

• Users who demand the best performance: The Series 7 and 8 offer faster performance.
• Individuals who want the latest health features: The Series 8 offers temperature sensing and crash detection.
• Users who prioritize battery life: The Series 7 and 8 offer better battery life.
• Those looking for maximum future-proofing: Long-term software support for the Series 6 is uncertain.

Conclusion: The Verdict – Is it Still Worth It?

The Apple Watch Series 6, even after two years, remains a viable option for many potential buyers. Its comprehensive health tracking features, solid performance, and ongoing software updates make it a worthwhile consideration, particularly for those on a budget or new to the Apple Watch ecosystem.

However, it's crucial to weigh the pros and cons carefully, considering your individual needs and priorities. If you demand the absolute best performance, the latest health features, or maximum battery life, the Apple Watch Series 7 or 8 might be a better investment.

Ultimately, the decision boils down to value for money. If you can find the Apple Watch Series 6 at a significantly discounted price, it represents a compelling option for a feature-rich and reliable smartwatch. Just be realistic about its battery life and potential limitations compared to newer models. So, yes, the Apple Watch Series 6 can still be worth buying in [2022/2023] – if the price is right and it meets your needs.

Happy smartwatch shopping!