Picking the Best Used Apple Watch for Long Battery Life and Always-On Display

When considering purchasing a used Apple Watch, it’s crucial to prioritize features that are essential to your daily use. You’ve expressed a preference for a watch with good battery life, an always-on display, a digital keyboard, and notable health features, while also ensuring it receives future software updates. Given these criteria, let's dive into the best options for you.

Understanding the Apple Watch Lineup

The current models of Apple Watch are the Series 8 and the Ultra. For an always-on display, you need to consider models from Series 5 and onwards, as they come with this feature as a standard. However, based on your requirements, the Series 6 or Series 8 would be more suitable, as they will likely receive at least two more software updates within the next couple of years.

Factors Influencing Your Choice

Battery life is a key consideration, but it heavily depends on your usage patterns. Generally, the newer the battery, the better the performance and longer the battery life. However, when buying a used Apple Watch, it's crucial to get a factory-refurbished unit, as these come with a warranty and can be verified for battery health.

Core Requirements

Series 6 or 8: Ensured good battery life and compatibility with future software updates. Always-On Display: Starting with a Series 5, these models feature a constant visual display, enhancing usability. Digital Keyboard: Needed for typing efficiency, available in Series 7, Series 8, and Ultra models. Health Features: Both Series 6 and 8 come with robust health tracking capabilities, including ECG and fall detection.

Buying Strategy

Given these requirements, the logical starting point would be to consider factory-refurbished Series 8. If you're on a budget, you can work your way back to the Series 6, keeping in mind the additional cost of a battery service for units around 2 years old.

Potential Pitfalls

One key challenge is the trade-off between good battery life and always-on display. The Series 5 and 6 offer an always-on display, but their battery life may not be as impressive as newer models. For a truly balanced experience, the Series 7, Series 8, or Ultra would be ideal as they offer good battery life alongside an always-on display and the digital keyboard.

Buying Tips

To ensure you get the best deal and a reliable purchase, follow these tips:

Look for Factory-Refurbished Models: These units come with a warranty and can be verified for battery health. Check Reviews and Ratings: Pay attention to customer feedback and product reviews. Websites like iFixit can provide insights into repairability and component condition. Consider the Age of the Battery: While not all older units need battery replacement, it's crucial to confirm the battery's health, especially if you plan to use the watch heavily. Research Used Watch Resellers: Look for reputable sellers with positive customer feedback.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing the best used Apple Watch for your needs, it's essential to balance your requirements. Starting with a factory-refurbished Series 8 is a solid plan, but considering Series 7, Series 8, or Ultra models for a more balanced experience is prudent. Always factor in the cost of battery service and look for reputable sellers to ensure you get a reliable and high-quality device.

By following these guidelines, you can make an informed decision and ensure that your used Apple Watch meets all your requirements for the next 1-2 updates.