How to Buy an Apple Watch as a Gift

Make sure you get the right model, size, and band

By
Emily Price
Emily Price
Writer
  • Harvard University
  • The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Emily Price is a former freelance contributor to Lifewire and a freelance tech writer who focuses on emerging technology.
lifewire's editorial guidelines
Updated on February 19, 2021

What to Know

  • There are three Apple Watch models: Series 6 (from $399, 40 or 44 mm); Series 3 (from $199, 42 or 38 mm); and SE ($279, 40 or 44 mm).
  • All include an altimeter, accelerometer, gyroscope, water resistant casing, emergency SOS, and GPS/cellular for an extra $100.
  • Series 6 adds retina display, ECG, larger hard drive, more powerful dual-core processor, compass, and fall detection.

The Apple Watch can make an excellent gift. To purchase one, you need to choose a model, size, and watch band. If you’re thinking about getting an Apple Watch for a friend or loved one, here's what you'll need to consider.

Pick a Model

Unless you go with a refurbished or second-hand purchase, you have three options to choose from: the Series 3, Series 6, and SE.

Price is usually the biggest factor in choosing between different models. The Series 6 (starting at $399) costs roughly twice as much as the Series 3 (from $199), while the most affordable SE version is $279. Unlike the Series 3, the Series 6 has a retina display that is always on, an electrical heart sensor or ECG, a larger hard drive, a slightly more powerful dual-core processor, a compass, and a fall detection feature. The digital crown—the dial on the side of the watch—also has haptic feedback, whereas the Series 3 does not.

All models, however, have a suite of features for active users, including an altimeter, accelerometer, gyroscope, water resistant casing, emergency SOS, and the option of GPS or cellular connectivity for an additional $100. You also have access to the Apple Watch app library, ApplePay, and GymKit as well.

Apple Watches
Pablo Cuadra/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Pick a Size

The Apple Watch has two sizes for each Series, with the pricier Series 6 being a couple millimeters (mm) larger. With the Series 6 and SE you can select either a 40 mm or 44 mm case. The Series 3 comes in either 42 mm or 38 mm. While watch bands offer better control over how the Apple Watch fits on the wrist, the size of the watch head is still important for getting the right fit. Some people prefer slim designs while others like their watches to be big and showy.

Pick a Watch Band

There are hundreds of bands to choose from, and not all are from Apple. While the first-party bands are, on average, pricier, the option to choose from third-party sellers means your recipient won't have to stick with the band you choose for them. So don't overthink it. Active users may prefer a colorful sport band. Minimalist owners might like the look and feel of a buckled leather band. Flashy recipients may prefer a metal link bracelet. Watch band styles and materials can range from $50 to $600.

Keep Your Receipt

An Apple Watch is a personal (and pricey) gift. If you buy a watch or accessories as a gift, be sure to hang on to the receipt so that your recipient has the option to exchange it for a different model, size, or band.

Was this page helpful?