Apple Watch 6 vs. Apple Watch SE specs, price comparisons: How the cheaper model compares to the flagship wearable device

The main star of Apple’s September event this year is not the new iPhone, but the latest lineup of Apple Watch. The biggest surprise, however, was that the Apple Watch Series 6 was not the only presented at the recent event. A cheaper version of the smartwatch, fittingly named Apple Watch SE, has also been launched.

Apple could be attempting to reach a wider market by introducing a cheaper Apple Watch SE considering how many wearable brands have popped up over recent years. It then begs the question if the lower price range of the Apple Watch SE means compromising some important features and specs that have made Apple Watches popular every year.

Apple Watch 6 vs. Apple Watch SE specs

It is not surprising that some key features on the Apple Watch 6 are not present in the Apple Watch SE in order to bring down the latter’s cost. But to Apple’s credit, it kept some of the core features that still make the Apple Watch SE a wearable device worth considering to purchase this fall.

A built-in GPS is standard for the Apple Watch SE, but there is also a variant that comes with its own cellular connection. Of course, the same applies to the Apple Watch 6. Both devices have 44mm and 40mm models as well, so for the SE version, it does not necessarily mean smaller this time around.

Most of the necessary features on the Apple Watch 6 can be found in the Apple Watch SE as well. These include the optical heart sensor for heart rate monitoring, emergency SOS calling, fall detection, built-in compass, always-on altimeter, and noise level monitoring. However, the key features that make Apple Watch flagships stand out such as an always-on display as well as the Blood Oxygen and ECG apps are exclusive to the Apple Watch 6.

The flagship Apple Watch of 2020 also features a new processor, the dual-core S6 SiP, while the Apple Watch SE sports a similar chip as the 2019 model Apple Watch 5. The Apple Watch 6 is also built to be more durable as its finishes include aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium while the SE is only designed with aluminum (still a very decent material).

Apple Watch 6 vs. Apple Watch SE price

The Apple Watch SE’s prices start at $279 for the GPS-only model and $329 for the GPS+cellular model. Apple Watch Series 6, on the other hand, will require at least $399 for the GPS-only variant and $499 for the one with both GPS and mobile network connections. Both wearable devices are now available for orders on the Apple online store.