Sign in with Facebook
Sign in with Google
Sign in with Apple
Best Apple Watch For 2026 — Find the Right One for You
Apple Watch is the best-selling smartwatch in Australia, and it is easy to see why. Every model, from the most affordable to the most premium, comes with GPS, ECG, heart rate monitoring, and crash detection as standard features you do not get at this price on any other smartwatch brand.
The lineup covers 8 models across a wide price range, from budget-friendly older generations to the performance-focused Ultra 2 and the exclusive Hermès collection. Whether you are buying your first smartwatch, upgrading an older model, or looking for a gift, this guide covers everything you need to make the right call.
8 Best Smartwatches 2026
- Apple Watch Ultra 2 — from A$729
- Apple Watch Series 10 — from A$429
- Apple Watch Series 9 — from A$319
- Apple Watch Hermès Collection — from A$499
- Apple Watch Series 8 — from A$299
- Apple Watch Series 7 — from A$249
- Apple Watch Series 6 Nike — from A$259
- Apple Watch Series 5 — from A$199
Related Products
ONLY 1 LEFT
ONLY 1 LEFT
ONLY 1 LEFT
ONLY 1 LEFT
ONLY 1 LEFT
ONLY 1 LEFT
ONLY 1 LEFT
Apple Watch Ultra 2
A$729 | 49mm Titanium | GPS + Cellular | watchOS 11
The Ultra 2 is the most powerful Apple Watch Apple makes. It is built for people who push their limits, long-distance runners, hikers, triathletes and anyone who needs a watch that keeps up with them for days, not hours.
The biggest difference between the Ultra 2 and every other Apple Watch is battery life and GPS accuracy. While standard models last around 18 hours, the Ultra 2 delivers up to 60 hours in Low Power Mode. Its dual-frequency GNSS locks on faster and tracks more accurately than single-band GPS, especially in areas with weak signals, such as dense cities or mountain trails.
The 49mm titanium case is large and built to handle impact, water and extreme temperatures. It is heavy-duty without feeling cheap.
Who it is for: Serious athletes, outdoor adventurers and men who want the most capable smartwatch available in Australia.
Key specs:
- Battery: up to 60 hours (Low Power Mode)
- GPS: dual-frequency GNSS
- Cellular: Yes
- ECG, crash detection, temperature, SpO2
- Case sizes: 49mm only
Apple Watch Series 10
From A$429 | GPS | watchOS 11
The Series 10 is Apple's latest mainstream watch and the best all-around choice for most iPhone users in Australia. It is the thinnest and lightest Apple Watch ever made with a larger, brighter always-on display compared to older models.
It comes in three variants — pick based on wrist size and whether you need cellular:
- 42mm Aluminum — A$429 — lighter, ideal for smaller wrists
- 46mm Titanium — A$429 — larger screen, premium material, same price
- 42mm Edition Titanium + Cellular — A$579 — adds cellular for phone-free use
All three carry the same internals: S10 chip, ECG, crash detection, temperature sensor, SpO2 and watchOS 11. The only differences are size, material and connectivity.
Who it is for: Anyone upgrading from Series 7 or older, men and women who want the latest generation at a fair price, and anyone who wants cellular freedom in the Edition model.
Key specs:
- Battery: up to 18 hours
- GPS: single-band
- ECG, crash detection, temperature, SpO2
- Double Tap gesture
- Case sizes: 42mm or 46mm
Apple Watch Series 9
A$319 | 41mm Aluminum | GPS | watchOS 11
The Series 9 is one generation behind the Series 10 but the performance difference in daily use is minimal. It runs the same core health sensors, ECG, crash detection, temperature and SpO2, at A$110 less than the Series 10.
The 41mm case makes it the most popular Apple Watch for women in Australia. It sits slim and light on the wrist without feeling oversized. It also supports cycle tracking with temperature-based insights, making it one of the most complete health watches for women at this price point.
Who it is for: Women looking for a modern, fully featured Apple Watch at the best value price. Also a strong choice for anyone who wants current-generation specs without paying Series 10 prices.
Key specs:
- Battery: up to 18 hours
- GPS: single-band
- ECG, crash detection, temperature, SpO2, cycle tracking
- Double Tap gesture
- Case sizes: 41mm only
Apple Watch Hermès Collection
From A$499 | Stainless Steel | GPS + Cellular | watchOS 11
The Hermès collection is where Apple Watch meets luxury fashion. Every model in the range uses the same Apple Watch hardware as the standard Series, the difference is entirely in the design. You get an exclusive stainless steel case, handcrafted Hermès leather and woven bands, and a set of Hermès-only watch faces unavailable on any other model.
Three models are available in Australia:
- Hermès Series 9 45mm — A$999 — newest hardware, full Series 9 specs, top of the range
- Hermès Series 8 45mm — A$499 — one generation older, same design exclusivity at half the price
- Hermès Series 7 41mm — A$599 — the only Hermès in 41mm, no crash detection or watchOS 11
If the Hermès design is what you are after, the Series 8 at A$499 is the best value — you get the exclusive bands and watch faces with almost no meaningful performance difference from the Series 9.
Who it is for: Women and fashion-conscious buyers who want a premium, design-led Apple Watch that stands apart from the standard lineup.
Key specs (Series 9 and Series 8):
- Battery: up to 18 hours
- GPS: single-band
- Cellular: Yes
- ECG, crash detection, temperature, SpO2
- Exclusive Hermès bands and watch faces
Apple Watch Series 8
A$299 | 45mm Aluminum | GPS | watchOS 11
The Series 8 is two generations old but it still holds up. At A$299, it is the most affordable Apple Watch in Australia that includes crash detection, a feature that automatically contacts emergency services if it detects a severe impact. It also supports watchOS 11, meaning you will continue to receive Apple's latest software features.
For anyone with a budget under A$300, the Series 8 is the one to buy. The health sensor suite, ECG, crash detection, temperature and SpO2, is the same as what you get on much more expensive models.
Who it is for: First-time Apple Watch buyers, anyone upgrading from Series 5 or older, and budget-conscious buyers who do not want to compromise on safety features.
Key specs:
- Battery: up to 18 hours
- GPS: single-band
- ECG, crash detection, temperature, SpO2
- Case sizes: 45mm only
Affordable Apple Watches
If budget is the main priority, these three models are still worth considering. They are older generation, so they miss some newer features, but they all include GPS, ECG and heart rate monitoring at prices that are hard to beat.
Apple Watch Series 7
A$249 | 41mm Aluminum | GPS + Cellular
The cheapest Apple Watch in Australia with cellular connectivity. Works independently from your iPhone once a carrier plan is set up. No crash detection and no watchOS 11, but GPS, ECG and an always-on display are all present.
Best for: Budget buyers who specifically need cellular.
Apple Watch Series 6 Nike
A$259 | 44mm Aluminum | GPS + Cellular
Built for runners. Includes exclusive Nike Sport Bands and deep integration with the Nike Run Club app, one of the best free running coaching platforms available. Same limitations as the Series 7, no crash detection, no watchOS 11.
Best for: Budget runners who train with Nike Run Club.
Apple Watch Series 5
A$199 | 44mm Aluminum | GPS only
The most affordable Apple Watch available in Australia. Includes GPS, ECG and the always-on display Apple introduced with this model. No cellular, no crash detection, no watchOS 11. The essentials, nothing more.
Best for: First-time buyers on the tightest budget.
How to Choose the Right Apple Watch
What is Your Budget?
Budget | Best pick |
Under A$250 | Series 5 (A$199) or Series 7 (A$249) |
A$250–A$350 | Series 8 (A$299) or Series 9 (A$319) |
A$350–A$600 | Series 10 (A$429–A$579) or Hermès Series 8 (A$499) |
A$600+ | Ultra 2 (A$729) or Hermès Series 9 (A$999) |
Do You Need Cellular?
Cellular models work independently from your iPhone, calls, messages and music without your phone nearby. You will need a carrier plan from Telstra, Optus or Vodafone, which costs around A$5–A$10 per month. If you train or travel without your phone, it is worth it. If your phone is always with you, GPS only is fine.
Which Case Size Suits Your Wrist?
- 41mm or 42mm — smaller wrists, lighter feel, popular with women
- 44mm or 45mm — medium to large wrists, more screen space
- 46mm or 49mm — large wrists, bold look, best for men
Which Material is Right for You?
- Aluminum — lightest and most affordable, suits everyday use
- Titanium — stronger than aluminum, lighter than steel, best for active use
- Stainless Steel — premium finish, heavier, exclusive to the Hermès range
Posted by Liam Harris
Liam Harris
I’m Liam Harris, a tech writer at Phonebot with a passion for technology. I provide trusted insights on refurbished phones, tablets, and accessories, focusing on quality, sustainability, and affordability. With a solid understanding of the refurbished market, I offer practical tips, product comparisons, and the latest tech updates to help you make informed decisions. My goal is to connect you with high-quality devices that fit your budget and lifestyle. Stay tuned for more on the best in refurbished tech here at Phonebot.
Google
Apple
Facebook