The Apple Watch Series 2 had the misfortune of being launched alongside the iPhone 7. The smartphone naturally claimed much of the thunder thereafter, leaving the wearable device trailing like an afterthought. This is not to say, however, that the lack of press attention makes it inferior because it is a mighty upgrade to its previous iteration.
When comparing the Apple Watch Series 2 versus the Series 1, the most important factors that need to be underscored are: 1) the numerous and glaring similarities; and, 2) the device performance.
First off, one should remember that in the latest Apple Watch, Apple is primarily upgrading the processor of the Series 1 device released last year. This was the first version to update the original Apple Watch through a new processor. Both smart watches are considered part of the second-generation Apple Watch. Each is merely considered a variant of this generation.
It is understandable, therefore, to find that the Series 1 and 2 closely resemble each other. They are both made from aluminum, although the Series 2 has a ceramic casing option. Both also have similar dimensions (1.65 x 1.41 x 0.41 inches), display resolutions (272 x 340; 390 x 312 pixels), Force Touch capability and battery. When outfitted with the same watchOS3, identifying one from the other becomes truly challenging.
Certainly, the Series 2 comes with more cutting-edge technology. It is packing the S2 chip, which features a dual core processor as opposed to the older 520 MHz chip in the S1. Apple claims that the improvement is translated into 50 percent faster performance and the ability to run 60 frames per second. The device also has a standalone GPS. Owners, therefore, will be able to enjoy better usability because of faster boot time, quicker response, greater graphics performance and smoother user interface.
Notable hardware changes also include the upgrade from the first-generation to second-generation OLED Retina display, which allows for up to two times more brightness. There is still no information whether this will affect battery life. The device is also waterproof, with a 50-meter water resistance rating.
The improved hardware features will come with a price. The Series 2 is slightly heavier. More importantly, it is also more expensive since the base model retails for $270, while the S2 costs $100 more.
Existing S1 owners or users who only want the watch as a status symbol will be quite happy with the Series 1. It could fool others into thinking that it is the latest and greatest Apple smartwatch. But for the demanding users who want more from their device, the Series 2 is the clear choice. It has better power, connectivity, among other extra features.
