The Apple Watch Series 7 may not be the huge upgrade some were expecting, but it’s still a solid smartwatch that has a lot to offer.
When Apple first announced the Apple Watch Series 7, many were a little surprised. Rumors, from multiple different sources, stated that Apple would launch a completely revamped design, with a flat edge that matches the iPhone and recent iPad models. Ultimately, however, the company kept the overall design, instead giving the watch a display with thinner bezels. Not much else about the watch is new. It keeps the same processor and the same sensors. Ultimately, the experience of using the Apple Watch Series 7 is pretty much the same as using the Apple Watch Series 6. But that’s not a bad thing. Apple is so far ahead of the competition in the smartwatch game that maybe it’s earned a year off. Sure, you probably shouldn’t buy it if you have a Series 6 — but it’s still worth upgrading to if you have a Series 4 or older. And, it’s still easily the best smartwatch in the business. The Apple Watch Series 7 looks very similar to the Apple Watch Series 6. It has slightly more rounded corners, with a slightly larger footprint, but you’d be hard-pressed to notice the larger size without putting the two devices side-by-side. On the right edge, you’ll still find the Digital Crown and side button, and on the left a speaker grille. There’s only one opening for the speaker instead of two, though. Generally, the device looks great. The Apple Watch has always been relatively sleek and stylish, and the Apple Watch Series 7 is no exception to that rule. There is one larger difference between the Series 7 and Series 6 — the colors. None of the aluminum colors that were available on the Series 6 are available on the new device, though there are some similar options. We’re reviewing the Midnight model. It’s similar to Space Gray but has a slight blue tint that you can see in the right lighting. It looks great — though some might lament the lack of a neutral option like gray or black. The display on the Apple Watch Series 7 still has a variable refresh rate and a 1,000-nit maximum brightness. But Apple says that when you’re indoors, the always-on display will be up to 70% brighter, making it easier to see.
