If you have bought one of the great iPhones, there's no better smartwatch than the Apple Watch. Other manufacturers don't offer the same level of deep integration that the Cupertino firm provides between the Apple Watch and the iPhone. With so many versions having been released so far, however, it's easy to wonder if you should opt for the newest one and why the newer ones are the best options. That’ll require some explaining.

Our top picks for Apple Watch models in 2023

The Apple Watch Series 9 is only a minor improvement over the outgoing Series 8 model, but it's currently the best option to pick if you're in the market to buy a new smartwatch to pair with your iPhone. This updated model is powered by the company's new S9 chip, which has 60% more transistors than the S8 chip for better performance and power efficiency. It also has a more advanced neural engine that enables on-device processing for Siri.

Notably, the Apple Watch Series 9 also has a new ultra-wideband chip that allows it to do precision tracking to locate things like the iPhone, AirTags, and more. Another highlight of this particular watch is the support for Apple's new "Double Tap" feature. This feature, in case you don't know, allows you to quickly tap your thumb and index finger twice to trigger an action on the watch while wearing it. This feature is exclusive to the Apple Watch models with watchOS 10 and the new S9 chip, meaning you can't use it on the older watches.

Some other highlights of the new Apple Watch Series 9 include a brighter display, which now peaks at 2000 nits outdoors, and a new Pink color option that goes very well with the Pink iPhone 15 model. The rest of the features are identical to the Series 8, so it comes in the same 41mm and 45mm sizes and keeps the IP6X certification for dust resistance and swim-proof WR50 water resistance. You also get an always-on display on the Series 9 watch, and it supports heart-rate tracking, ECG and blood oxygen monitoring, and more.

The Apple Watch Series 8 is also a great option to consider if you don't want all the bells and whistles, but you may have a hard time finding them in stock.

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the updated version of the original rugged watch that came out last year. This new watch looks exactly the same as the outgoing model, but Apple has made some noteworthy improvements to the internals, making it a good option to consider. Just like the Apple Watch Series 9, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is also powered by the new S9 chip, which is expected to have better performance and power efficiency. We're yet to put this chip through its paces, but Apple is promising a solid performance improvement.

The Apple Ultra 2 also supports on-device processing for Siri, and you also get precision tracking for compatible products. The highlight of this watch, however, is its display that supports up to 3000 nits brightness, making it the brightest display Apple has ever designed. It'll ship with watchOS 10 out of the box, so you can expect to see all the new features, including the new and intuitive Double Tap gesture. The rest of the features are the same as the Apple Watch Ultra that came out last year, so you're looking at the same titanium case with a customizable Action button on the side.

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 can also track all your activities and vital metrics like blood oxygen levels, heart rate, and sleep stages, among other things. We'll update this space with a more measured take once we've had the chance to test it. But in the meantime, you can stop by our Apple Watch Ultra review to get a better understanding of the kind of experience you'd have with this watch. It only comes in a single color and a 49mm size, but you get to pick between three different official bands, each of which caters to a particular kind of extreme sport.

The $249 Apple Watch SE 2 is the best model available for those who don't want to spend a fortune on a wearable. Released along with the Series 8 and Ultra, this model packs most of the watchOS features you know and love. While it lacks some tempting features like AOD, it offers the same Apple Watch experience — for the most part, at least.

For starters, all the fundamental sensors and offerings are included. So you get to track your activity, use Apple Pay, text/call people, and more. You even get the S8 processor included in the Series 8. The biggest differences between the SE 2 and Series 8 include the screen size options, Always-On display support, and other health-related features.

The Apple Watch SE 2 is available in two sizes: 40mm and 44mm. It has thicker bezels and lacks Always-On display support, so the screen only lights up when you trigger it. It has a nylon composite back case versus the stronger ceramic back case of the Series 9 model. The triggers include a wrist tilt, a screen tap, and more. Additionally, this watch misses out on the body temperature monitor, ECG, and blood oxygen monitor. You'll have to decide if this is worth the savings.

So if you have worries or health conditions revolving around a certain missing sensor, you might want to refrain from buying the Apple Watch SE. But if you don't care about the thicker bezels, smaller screen, lack of AOD, and the aforementioned health sensors' absence, then this watch is the best model to go for. Even if you're not on a limited budget, if the listed perks aren't of interest to you, you can safely buy the SE 2 and enjoy most of what this wearable category has to offer.

The Apple Watch Series 8 is no longer available to purchase officially, but you should be able to find one for a relatively cheaper price. It's not as powerful or feature-packed as the Apple Watch Series 9, but it supports a lot of the new features and looks exactly the same as the newer model. Apple has also updated this watch to the watchOS 10 software, meaning you're not missing out on much.

You can already find this particular watch for as low as $310, which is an excellent price for what it brings to the table. It still costs a bit more than the Apple Watch SE 2, but it also brings a better display and tracks more health metrics. It also looks a lot more premium, so it's worth considering over the SE 2 if your budget allows for it.

Best Apple Watch models in 2023: The bottom line

Hopefully, this has helped you figure out the best watch model for you. As noted, we find the Apple Watch Series 9 to be the best option overall, offering good value for money and all the latest and greatest features. You aren't sacrificing features, and you'll have the newest option on your wrist. Those who are more invested in activities like diving, hiking, and other extreme sports should consider buying the Apple Watch Ultra 2 instead. Not only is it more durable, but it's also a lot more capable, offering a bigger and better display, better battery life, etc.

If, on the other hand, this is your first Apple Watch and you simply want to get a feel for how it works, then don't discount the Apple Watch SE 2. It's a solid option that will meet most peoples' needs. Lastly, since you’re buying one of these smartwatches, don’t forget to check out our picks for the best Apple Watch bands, in which we've highlighted some great picks.