How to Tell Which Series Your Apple Watch Is: A Simple Guide

How To Tell Which Series Apple Watch: Shopping for the latest Apple smartwatch but lost in the variety? Figuring out how to tell which series Apple watch you’re choosing is a common conundrum. In fact, 60% of consumers find it difficult to identify the different Apple Watch series according to a recent 2022 report by Statista. This can lead to quite a bit of confusion when selecting the perfect series for your requirements. Look no further, as this guide addresses your queries.

Identifying Your Apple Watch Series

Knowing your Apple Watch series is more important than you might think. It’s not just about bragging rights or knowing which shiny new features you have access to. It’s about compatibility with apps, watch bands, and even iPhone models. Plus, if you ever need technical support or repairs, the first thing you’ll be asked is, “What series is your Apple Watch?”

Now, you might be thinking, “They all look the same, how am I supposed to know?” Well, each series has subtle differences. For example, the Series 3 has a composite back, while the Series 4 and later have a ceramic and sapphire crystal back. The Series 5 introduced an always-on display, and the Series 6 brought blood oxygen monitoring into the mix. You can learn more about these differences in our article, How to know what Apple Watch series I have.

For more detailed information, you can also check out the official Apple Support page.

Using the Model Number

One of the easiest ways to identify your Apple Watch series is by using the model number. You can find this number in two places: on the device itself and in the Apple Watch app on your iPhone.

To find the model number on your watch, turn it over and look for the small text around the circular heart rate sensor. You’ll see ‘Model’ followed by ‘A’ and four digits. Now, this is where it gets a bit tricky. The model number on the device starts with ‘A’, but you’ll need the one that starts with ‘M’ or ‘N’ to identify the series.

Don’t worry, you don’t have to go on a wild goose chase. Just open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone, go to ‘My Watch’ tab, tap ‘General’, then ‘About’. Here you’ll find the model number that starts with ‘M’ or ‘N’. Tap on it, and it will change to a five-character SKU. The first character of the SKU indicates the series and material of your Apple Watch.

For a more detailed guide on using the model number to identify your Apple Watch, check out this iPhoneLife article.

Physical Differences Between Apple Watch Series

When it comes to the Apple Watch, it’s not just what’s on the inside that counts. The physical differences between each series can be just as telling.

For starters, the size of the watch has evolved over time. The original Apple Watch, Series 1, and Series 2 came in 38mm and 42mm sizes. From Series 4 onwards, Apple bumped up the sizes to 40mm and 44mm, giving users more screen real estate.

Then there’s the case material. The Series 1 was only available in an aluminum case, but later series introduced stainless steel, titanium, and even ceramic options. The color options have also expanded over time, from basic silver or space gray to a rainbow of choices including gold, blue, red, and more.

For a more detailed comparison of the materials used in different Apple Watch series, check out our article on Apple Watch Aluminum vs Stainless.

If you’re still having trouble identifying your Apple Watch series, Flipsy has a great guide that can help.

Features Unique to Each Series

Each Apple Watch series has introduced new features that set it apart from its predecessors.

For instance, the Series 1 brought a dual-core processor for faster performance. The Series 2 introduced built-in GPS and water resistance up to 50 meters. The Series 3 was the first to offer a cellular model, allowing users to make calls and send texts without their iPhone.

The Series 4 made a big leap with a larger display, ECG app, and fall detection. The Series 5 introduced an always-on display, so you can check the time without raising your wrist. The Series 6 brought a blood oxygen sensor and new color options.

And let’s not forget the latest Series 7, with its larger and more durable display, faster charging, and full keyboard option for text input. You can learn more about the Series 7 in our article, Apple Watch Series 7 Model Number.

For a step-by-step guide on how to identify your Apple Watch, check out this helpful article on WikiHow.

How To Tell Which Series Apple Watch You Have Using Its Software

If the physical attributes and unique features haven’t given it away, you can also use the software on your Apple Watch to identify its series.

First, open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone. Tap on ‘My Watch’ at the bottom of the screen, then tap ‘General’ and ‘About’. Here, you’ll find a wealth of information about your watch, including the model number, which you can cross-reference with Apple’s official list to identify your series.

The operating system and available apps can also provide clues. For instance, if your watch has the ECG app, it’s at least a Series 4. If it has the Blood Oxygen app, it’s a Series 6 or later.

For more tips on using your Apple Watch’s software, check out our guide on how to update Apple Watch Series 3 without pairing.

What to Do If You Still Can’t Identify Your Apple Watch Series

If you’ve tried everything and still can’t figure out which series your Apple Watch is, don’t worry. There are still a few options left.

One option is to contact Apple Support. They can use your watch’s serial number to identify its series. You can find the serial number in the same ‘About’ section of the Apple Watch app where you found the model number.

Another option is to visit an Apple Store or an authorized Apple retailer. The staff there are trained to help you identify your Apple Watch series and can provide additional assistance if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell which series Apple Watch I have?

Firstly, the Apple Watch model number is a surefire way to determine the series. You can find this by checking the ‘About’ section within the settings on the watch itself.

What is unique about each Apple Watch Series?

Every Apple Watch series comes with its unique features. For instance, the Series 6 introduced a blood oxygen monitor, while Series 5 first came with an always-on display.

Can the physical appearance help distinguish which series an Apple Watch is?

Absolutely, some physical differences like color availability, material, and thickness can help identify the Apple Watch series.

How can I find the serial number of my Apple Watch?

Go to the Apple Watch App on your iPhone, select My Watch, then General, and finally, About to find the serial number.

Is there a significant price difference between the different Apple Watch Series?

Yes, the pricing varies significantly across the different Apple Watch series, with the latest models generally being the most expensive.

Conclusion

Navigating the tech world can often feel challenging, especially when we try to figure out ‘how to tell which series Apple watch‘ best suits our needs. By understanding where to find the model number and noting unique features of each series, you’ll find it much easier. Get ready to enjoy your new Apple Watch!

About The Author

Michael Davidson

Michael is an experienced tech analyst and consultant with a passion for wearables and IoT. Before turning to journalism, he worked in several tech startups, developing a comprehensive understanding of the tech industry. His articles on apple-watches.com often delve into the future possibilities of wearable tech. Michael is a chess enthusiast and loves utilizing smartwatch apps for brain training in his free time.