Apple Watch Series 12 vs. Series 9: Is the Upgrade Worth It?

The Apple Watch Series 12 is now available, three years after the Series 9 launched. MacRumors compared the two models to help Series 9 owners decide whether to upgrade.

The Series 12 uses the thinner case design first seen in the Series 10. Its display is about 7 percent larger on the smaller size and 5 percent larger on the larger size compared to the corresponding Series 9 models. The aluminum Series 12 is slightly heavier than the aluminum Series 9, but moving from a stainless steel Series 9 to a titanium Series 12 means a bigger weight drop because of the material change.

Apple discontinued the Series 9 in 2024. The older watch still supports watchOS 27, so the software experience remains similar. The decision comes down to hardware gains.

For people who use their watch for training and recovery, MacRumors calls the Series 12 a meaningful cumulative upgrade. The watch takes more frequent heart rate and HRV readings, which feed features like Readiness, Recovery HRV, and daytime vitals. The depth gauge and water temperature sensor add useful data for swimmers and snorkelers.

For people who mainly use their watch for notifications, everyday activity tracking, and occasional workouts, the Series 12 improvements are less compelling. The Series 9 still has an always-on display, ECG, wrist temperature sensing, Double Tap, sleep apnea and hypertension notifications, and support for watchOS 27. Siri AI is also available on the Series 9 when paired with a compatible iPhone.

The Series 12 has a slightly larger battery and charges faster, but MacRumors says that alone probably isn't enough to justify an upgrade. The Series 12's Audio Intelligence features may strengthen the case for some users, especially Sound Recognition for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Live Rewind and Siri Recap will arrive in beta in late 2026.

For a new purchase, MacRumors recommends the Series 12. It costs the same $399 starting price as the Series 9 did when new, with three generations of accumulated improvements. The older model makes sense only at a substantial discount if you are satisfied with its existing health features.

A used or refurbished Series 9 can still be good value, but check its battery health, physical condition, and warranty before comparing prices. A worn battery could quickly erase the saving.

• Apple
• Apple Watch
• Series 12
• Series 9
• smartwatch
• upgrade guide