Apple Watch Series 10: Before You Buy These 5 Things You Should Know
Two months ago, the Apple Watch Series 10 became my daily companion. It tracks my workouts, monitors my health vitals, handles notifications, and proudly sports a lovely Snoopy watch face; it’s become a necessity.
My initial impressions from September have stood up. This is one of the best smartwatches you can buy in 2024, but a couple of months of daily wear have given me a stronger picture. Of course, if you’re still on the fence about the Apple Watch Series 10, there are some things you need to know.
1. External Speaker is Not a Game Changer
When Apple announced that it was adding external speaker capabilities, I was stoked to use them for podcasts and music coming straight from the watch. Actually, I’ve barely used them.
Why? To the extent it’s convenient at all, my iPhone is still more convenient for audio playback. Their speakers are louder, clearer, and more versatile, and I still get to control playback via the Apple Watch’s media widget. The external speaker on Series 10 works OK enough, but it hasn’t gone on to be the highlight that I thought it might.
**Takeaway: # The external speaker is useful, but it’s definitely not the only reason to buy the iPad Air.
2. This Jet Black Finish Is Durable and Looks Beautiful
The Jet Black finish did spark excitement and concern. Doubts were raised about the scratch-prone Jet Black iPhone 7. Twenty-two months later, and after wearing it daily, sleeping on it, and traveling with it, I can confidently say that the finish has held up extremely well.
My favorite color for the Series 10 remains Jet Black. It’s sleek and sophisticated and easily lends itself to a casual or more formal look, especially when combined with a stylish watch band.
Takeaway: But if you’re considering Jet Black, go for it. It’s elegant and just as durable.
3. Really Stands Out as The Thin And Light Design
Apple was right to stress how thin and light the Series 10 is. Older Apple Watch models never felt bulky, but the slimmed-down Series 10 is an utter revelation.
10 ounces is very light for a wrist computer, and it’s quite thin, making it feel less like a “wrist computer” than a traditional watch. It refines comfort while making for more sophisticated aesthetics, and it’s a joy to wear every day.
**Takeaway:Call it marketing hype or not, but Apple’s design upgrades do contribute to a genuinely improved experience.
4. It is Manageable to Live Without SpO2 Tracking
The largest point of contention is that blood oxygen (SpO2) monitoring is not available in Series 10 in the U.S. because of legal disputes. It’s annoying that the hardware is there yet untouchable, but I’ve come to learn that in my everyday life, I don’t really miss it either.
If you don’t depend on SpO2 tracking, then this will not be a dealbreaker. As a health and fitness device, the Series 10 still does a great job of supplying strong features such as heart rate monitoring, a Vitals app, and more.
**Takeaway: This watch is not for SpO2 tracking, but it’s still a great option otherwise.
5. Funding a High-Quality Band Is Worth the Money
The default Sport Loop and Nomad Sport Bands are great for daily wear, workouts, etc., but I was looking for something a bit more stylish. Then, there is the Apple Leather Link band.
Better still, the Leather Link pairs nicely with the Jet Black Series 10 and gives the watch a style that makes it more than just a fitness tracker—it looks like a premium accessory. Whether you wear it to formalize or casually, the Series 10 comes with a worthy companion that will maneuver your wrists on either occasion.
**Takeaway: ** The power of a great watch band can’t be emphasized enough because it can completely change the way you see and interact with your smartwatch.
Final Thoughts: Is the Apple Watch Series 10 really worth it?
Now, months later, the Apple Watch Series 10 has exceeded my expectations. I use it constantly (it’s my go-to for workouts, travel, and notifications), and it’s held up beautifully.
If you’re looking to buy a smartwatch, the Apple Watch Series 10 is still my number one recommendation. Whether you’re buying this as a gift or just treating yourself, it’s something you won’t regret purchasing.
**Ready to take the plunge? This will help you make an informed decision! If you’re constantly using your Series 9, odds are you’ll want to join the Series 10 club, and you’ll find it’s worth every penny.
