The Apple Watch Series 6, released in September 2020, introduced groundbreaking features like the blood oxygen sensor and an always-on altimeter. Powered by the S6 chip, it offers 20% faster performance compared to its predecessor.
Series 6 maintains an always-on Retina display, providing 2.5 times more brightness outdoors. With advanced health monitoring, including ECG capabilities, and a variety of new case colors and finishes, the Apple Watch Series 6 combines innovation and style, solidifying its position as a leader in wearable technology.
Table of Contents
- Apple Watch Series 6 Key Specifications
- Release date and price
- Design and Build Quality
- Display: Brilliant and Always-On
- Performance and Processor
- Health and Fitness Features
- Battery Life
- Software and Features
- Connectivity: Enhanced Integration and Cellular Options
- Comparison: Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) vs Series 6 vs Series 7
- Conclusion: Is the Apple Watch Series 6 Still Worth It?
Apple Watch Series 6 Key Specifications
Release date and price
The Apple Watch Series 6 was released on September 18, 2020, bringing a host of new features to the market. At launch, the starting price for the 40mm GPS model was $399, while the 44mm GPS model was priced at $429. For those seeking cellular connectivity, the GPS + Cellular versions were available starting at $499 for the 40mm model and $529 for the 44mm model.
Series 6 also offered premium materials like titanium and ceramic, with prices starting at $799 and $1,299.
Design and Build Quality
The Apple Watch Series 6 offers a premium design with a sturdy stainless steel frame and a choice of finishes, including Silver, Graphite, and Gold. The device comes in two sizes: 40 mm and 44 mm, ensuring it fits comfortably on a variety of wrist sizes.
The front features durable sapphire crystal glass, known for its scratch resistance, while the back is made from ceramic and sapphire crystal, enhancing comfort and optimizing the performance of the sensors.
Weighing in at 47.1 grams (1.66 oz) for the 44mm version, the Apple Watch Series 6 strikes a balance between weight and sturdiness. It also features an eSIM for cellular connectivity, allowing users to stay connected without needing their phone nearby.
Display: Brilliant and Always-On
The Series 6 boasts a 1.78-inch Retina LTPO OLED display with a resolution of 448 x 368 pixels (~326 ppi density). The display is stunningly bright, reaching up to 1000 nits of peak brightness, making it easy to view under direct sunlight.
One of the best features is the Always-On Display, allowing users to check the time and glance at other important data without having to raise their wrist or tap the screen. The display is protected by sapphire crystal glass, ensuring it remains scratch-resistant and durable throughout daily use.
Performance and Processor
The Apple Watch Series 6 is powered by the S6 dual-core processor, which offers a significant performance boost over its predecessors. The S6 chip delivers faster app launches, smoother interactions, and improved overall performance.
Additionally, Series 6 includes the W3 wireless chip, which enhances Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, ensuring seamless communication with other Apple devices.
Health and Fitness Features
The Apple Watch Series 6 is a powerhouse when it comes to health and fitness tracking. It includes several advanced sensors, making it a great tool for both casual users and fitness enthusiasts alike. Key health sensors include:
- Accelerometer and Gyroscope: These track your movement and activity, providing insights into your workouts and daily habits.
- Heart Rate Sensor: Monitors your heart rate throughout the day, with alerts if it detects an irregular rhythm.
- Always-On Altimeter: Measures elevation in real-time, making it perfect for tracking hiking and climbing activities.
- SpO2 Sensor: Measures your blood oxygen levels, a feature that is especially useful for understanding your respiratory health.
- ECG: Available in select regions, this feature allows you to record an electrocardiogram to detect signs of irregular heart rhythms.
These health features are particularly useful for anyone looking to monitor their fitness or stay on top of their health metrics.
Battery Life
The Apple Watch Series 6 has a battery that lasts about 18 hours, which is the same as older versions. Even though it has a new feature that always shows the time and new sensors to check your health, the battery still lasts a long time. You can use the watch all day for different things.
It charges with a special cable that sticks to the back of the watch and fills up the battery very quickly, giving you 80% in about an hour.
Software and Features
The Series 6 ships with watchOS 7, which brings several new features and enhancements to the Apple Watch experience. watchOS 7 includes redesigned watch faces, customizable complications, and the ability to share watch faces with other users.
The Sleep app, introduced with watchOS 7, allows users to track their sleep patterns and set bedtime routines. The Series 6 also supports Apple Pay for contactless payments, Siri for voice commands, and a wide range of third-party apps, enhancing its functionality and versatility.
Connectivity: Enhanced Integration and Cellular Options
The Apple Watch Series 6 offers comprehensive connectivity options, ensuring seamless integration with the iPhone and other devices.
- Bluetooth: 0
- Wi-Fi:11b/g/n 2.4GHz and 5GHz
- GPS: Built-in
- Cellular: Available in select models, enabling phone-free usage
- NFC: Apple Pay support
The addition of 5GHz Wi-Fi support enhances wireless performance, providing faster data transfer and improved connectivity.
The optional cellular model allows users to make calls, send messages, and stream music directly from the watch without needing their iPhone nearby. Apple Pay is supported via NFC, enabling secure and convenient contactless payments.
Comparison: Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) vs Series 6 vs Series 7
Here’s a detailed comparison of the Apple Watch SE (1st generation), Apple Watch Series 6, and Apple Watch Series 7 based on the provided facts:
| Feature | Apple Watch SE (1st Generation) | Apple Watch Series 6 | Apple Watch Series 7 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Finish | Space Gray Aluminum, Silver Aluminum, Gold Aluminum | Space Gray Aluminum, Silver Aluminum, Gold Aluminum, Blue Aluminum, Product Red Aluminum | Midnight Aluminum, Starlight Aluminum, Green Aluminum, Blue Aluminum, Product Red Aluminum, Silver Stainless Steel, Graphite Stainless Steel, Gold Stainless Steel, Titanium, Space Black Titanium |
| Case Size | 44mm, 40mm | 44mm, 40mm (Aluminum, Stainless Steel) | 45mm, 41mm (Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Titanium) |
| Display | LTPO OLED Retina Display | LTPO OLED Always-on Retina Display | LTPO OLED Always-on Retina Display |
| Display Brightness | Up to 1000 nits | Up to 1000 nits | Up to 1000 nits |
| ECG App | Not Available | Available | Available |
| Blood Oxygen App | Not Available | Available | Available |
| Sleep Tracking | Available | Available | Available |
| Cycle Tracking | Available | Available | Available |
| Emergency SOS | Available | Available | Available |
| Fall Detection | Available | Available | Available |
| Water Resistance | 50m (Swimproof) | 50m (Swimproof) | 50m (Swimproof) |
| GPS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Chip | S5 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor | S6 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor | S7 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor |
| Storage | 32GB | 32GB | 32GB |
| Sensors | Optical heart sensor, Accelerometer, Altimeter | Electrical heart sensor, Optical heart sensor, Accelerometer, Altimeter | Third-generation optical heart sensor, Accelerometer, Altimeter, Gyroscope, Compass |
| Battery Life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 18 hours | Up to 18 hours |
| Fast Charging | Not Available | Not Available | Available (0-80% in 45 minutes) |
| Connectivity | GPS + Cellular (Optional) | GPS + Cellular (Optional) | GPS + Cellular (Optional) |
| Chipset | S5 SiP | S6 SiP | S7 SiP |
| U1 Chip | No | Yes | Yes |
| Altimeter | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Gyroscope | No | Yes | Yes |
| Compass | No | Yes | Yes |
| Health & Wellness | Heart Rate, Respiratory Rate, Vitals App | ECG App, Heart Rate, Respiratory Rate, Vitals App | ECG App, Heart Rate, Respiratory Rate, Vitals App |
| Battery Life (Low Power Mode) | Not Available | 36 hours | 36 hours |
| International Emergency Calling | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Chip for Connectivity | W3 Apple Wireless Chip | W3 Apple Wireless Chip | W3 Apple Wireless Chip |
| Wireless | Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 4 | Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 4 | Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 4 |
| Weight | 32.9g (44mm GPS) / 33g (44mm GPS + Cellular) | 36.5g (Aluminum 44mm) / 47.1g (Stainless Steel) | 38.8g (Aluminum 45mm) / 51.5g (Stainless Steel) |
| Environmental Features | Energy efficient, Arsenic-free display glass | Energy efficient, Arsenic-free display glass | Energy efficient, Arsenic-free display glass |
| IP Rating | IP6X Dust Resistance (Series 7 only) | IP6X Dust Resistance (Series 7 only) | IP6X Dust Resistance (Series 7 only) |
| Case Material | Aluminum | Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Titanium | Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Titanium |
| Key Features | Fall Detection, Emergency SOS, GPS, Cycle Tracking | ECG, Blood Oxygen, Sleep Tracking, Fall Detection | ECG, Blood Oxygen, Sleep Tracking, Fall Detection, Fast Charging |
When choosing between the Apple Watch SE (1st Generation), Series 6, and Series 7, it’s important to consider the key differences that affect performance, display, design, and features. The Apple Watch SE (1st Generation) provides an excellent balance of essential smartwatch functions with a more affordable price tag.
The Series 6 introduces advanced health monitoring features like the ECG app and blood oxygen sensor, while the Series 7 improves upon the design with a larger, more durable display and faster charging.
Each model caters to different needs: the SE is perfect for users looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on core functionality, the Series 6 is ideal for those wanting more advanced health tracking features, and the Series 7 offers a refined design and enhanced usability for those who prioritize larger screens and faster charging.
Conclusion: Is the Apple Watch Series 6 Still Worth It?
The Apple Watch Series 6 is one of the best smartwatches available, offering impressive health features. It combines great performance and a sleek design, making it a top choice for many. Its always-on Retina display enhances visibility, even in direct sunlight, while providing stunning color accuracy.
The watch also includes an extensive set of health sensors, such as blood oxygen and ECG monitoring. These sensors make it ideal for users who are seeking more than just a basic smartwatch. Whether for fitness tracking or health monitoring, it delivers impressive capabilities.
The powerful S6 chip and the latest watchOS updates ensure smooth performance and a fast user experience. The eSIM support in the GPS + Cellular models provides flexibility for users who want to stay connected without their phone. With its premium build, long-lasting battery, and advanced features, the Apple Watch Series 6 is perfect for anyone seeking to enhance their wearable tech experience.
FAQs: Apple Watch Series 6 Review: Health and Fitness Features
What Size is the Apple Watch 6?
The Apple Watch Series 6 is available in two sizes: 40mm and 44mm. The 40mm model is ideal for smaller wrists, while the 44mm version offers a larger display for better readability and interaction.
Is the Apple Watch 6 or 7 Better?
The Apple Watch Series 7 is an upgrade over the Series 6, featuring a larger and more durable display, faster charging, and improved dust resistance.
However, both models have similar health-tracking features, including ECG, blood oxygen monitoring, and heart rate tracking. If you want the latest design and faster charging, go for the Series 7. If you’re looking for great performance at a lower cost, the Series 6 is still an excellent choice.
Is the Apple Watch 6 Waterproof?
Yes, the Apple Watch Series 6 is water-resistant up to 50 meters. This means you can use it for swimming, washing hands, or in the rain, but it is not fully waterproof and should not be used for deep diving or high-pressure water activities.
Does the Apple Watch Series 6 Have a Camera?
No, the Apple Watch Series 6 does not have a built-in camera. However, you can use it as a remote control for your iPhone's camera, allowing you to take photos or videos from a distance.
Does the Apple Watch 6 Have ECG?
Yes, the Apple Watch Series 6 features an ECG (electrocardiogram) app, allowing users to take medical-grade heart readings. This feature helps detect irregular heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation (AFib) and provides valuable insights into heart health.
