Smartwatch · Crown & Cog
Apple Watch Series 9
The Apple Watch Series 9 refines an already excellent formula with a faster chip, brighter screen, and the genuinely useful Double Tap gesture.
Technical Specifications
- S9 SiP chip with 4-core Neural Engine
- Double Tap gesture control
- Always-On Retina display up to 2000 nits
- Blood oxygen and ECG monitoring
- Crash detection and fall detection
- Siri on-device processing
- Precision Finding for iPhone
- Water resistant to 50 meters
Pros
- ✓ Fast and responsive S9 chip performance
- ✓ Double Tap makes single-hand use seamless
- ✓ Bright display easily readable in sunlight
- ✓ Excellent health and fitness tracking suite
- ✓ Seamless integration with iPhone and iOS ecosystem
- ✓ Wide range of bands and case finishes
Cons
- ✕ Battery life still capped around 18 hours
- ✕ Requires iPhone to function fully
- ✕ No major design changes from Series 8
- ✕ Blood oxygen feature disabled in some regions due to litigation
- ✕ Premium pricing compared to competitors
The Apple Watch Series 9 represents a refined evolution of Apple's flagship wearable, built around the powerful new S9 SiP chip that delivers noticeably faster performance and enables genuinely useful on-device intelligence. This upgraded processor allows Siri requests to be handled locally, meaning health data queries and other commands are processed quickly without needing an internet connection, while also improving overall responsiveness across the interface. The standout new feature is the Double Tap gesture, which lets you control the watch simply by tapping your thumb and index finger together, making it effortless to answer calls, dismiss notifications, or pause music when your other hand is full or occupied. The display itself has also improved, reaching up to 2000 nits of peak brightness, which makes it easier to read the screen in direct sunlight than any previous model. Health and fitness tracking remain central to the Series 9 experience, with the watch offering comprehensive tools including blood oxygen monitoring, an ECG app, high and low heart rate notifications, and irregular rhythm alerts that can help users stay informed about their cardiovascular wellbeing. The temperature sensing feature introduced in the Series 8 continues here, providing helpful retrospective ovulation estimates for those tracking their cycles. Workout tracking is precise and versatile, covering everything from running and swimming to yoga and strength training, with the watch automatically detecting many activities and offering detailed metrics like heart rate zones, distance, and calories burned. The always-on Retina display keeps your stats visible at a glance without needing to raise your wrist, and crash detection along with fall detection add an extra layer of safety for peace of mind during daily activities or workouts. Beyond health and fitness, the Series 9 integrates seamlessly into everyday life through its durable design, available in aluminum and stainless steel cases paired with an extensive range of bands to suit any style or occasion. Apple has also made a notable environmental commitment, offering a carbon-neutral option when paired with certain bands and cases, reflecting a broader push toward sustainability. Compatibility with Apple Pay makes contactless purchases simple, while robust water resistance allows for swimming and other water-based activities without concern. With its combination of practical daily conveniences, serious health monitoring capabilities, and thoughtful design refinements, the Apple Watch Series 9 continues to solidify its position as one of the most complete and capable smartwatches available, appealing equally to fitness enthusiasts, busy professionals, and anyone seeking a reliable, feature-rich companion for their wrist.
Customer reviews
I was skeptical about the gesture control but it genuinely changes how I use the watch while cooking or holding my kid. The screen brightness upgrade is also very noticeable outdoors.
Performance and display are fantastic, health tracking is accurate and detailed. My only gripe is still charging every single night, which feels dated in 2024.
Coming from a Series 6, the speed difference is huge. Apps open instantly and Siri requests process on-device now, which feels much snappier.
It's a great watch overall, but if you already have a Series 8 there isn't a compelling reason to upgrade. New buyers will love it though.
