Apple Watch Series 10 review round-up: New ECG sensor, sleep apnea detection, and larger display stand out

The Apple Watch Series 10 has garnered positive reviews for its advancements in health monitoring, design, and performance. Reviewers have highlighted the device’s new features, including sleep apnea detection and larger display sizes, as well as its sensors’ improved accuracy and responsiveness. While not a complete overhaul, these enhancements position the Series 10 as a significant step forward in wearable health technology.

The Apple Watch Series 10 introduces many new features, including sleep apnea detection and larger display sizes. Reviewers have noted the accuracy and improved responsiveness of the updated sensors. While not a complete overhaul, the enhancements make the Series 10 a substantial step forward in wearable health technology. Forbes’ review highlighted the more comprehensive health monitoring capabilities, stating that the sleep apnea detection feature is a notable advancement for users needing more in-depth health insights.

This is a spectacularly good smartwatch, bringing everything that’s great about Apple Watch into sharper focus with its snazzy updated design and palpably thinner and lighter build.

Faster charging is a great benefit, especially because the new health feature — sleep apnea notifications — could be crucial.

In terms of design, the larger display sizes offer a more immersive and functional experience. The new edge-to-edge display allows for more information to be shown at a glance, enhancing usability during workouts or while using apps on the go. The Verge’s Victoria Song mentioned that the larger screen real estate makes it easier to interact with apps and notifications, providing a more intuitive user experience.

It made such a difference, I was apprehensive about making the switch to the 42mm Series 10’s slightly smaller display. (Only the 46mm Series 10 is bigger than the Ultra.) Turns out, I was worried for nothing.

The wide-angle OLED means it’s easier to view the display from all sorts of angles.
I haven’t missed the Ultra’s display at all. The Series 10 is about half the weight, and at 9.7mm thick, it’s about 30 percent thinner than the Ultra, too. It fits easily under jacket cuffs, doesn’t catch on the straps at my Pilates class, and doesn’t slide up and down my arm when I run. Plus, the onscreen buttons are slightly larger. When I have press-on nails, it’s not a total pain to enter my passcode or hit a complication!

Also unexpected: I love the wide-angle OLED. I can see the time from just about every angle. I, of course, would never suggest anyone peep a gossipy text from the wrist during an important meeting. But I can confirm it’s 100 percent easier to do so now. I only ask you to use this power for good.

The speaker on the Apple Watch Series 10 has received positive feedback for its improved sound quality and volume. CNET’s Celso Bulgatti has noted that the louder and clearer speaker enhances the user experience. The audio clarity is significantly better than previous models, making it easier to hear notifications and alarms in noisy environments.

My first thought when I heard you could play music on the Apple Watch Series 10 speaker was: Finally! There are so many times I’ve forgotten my headphones on a walk or a run and have to work out in silence. I’ve also found it nice to play back music while doing chores around the house.

My second thought was: I hope this won’t cause chaos on public transport. So I did my own highly unscientific test to see how annoying it would be to play a heavy rock track at full volume on the watch speaker. In a quiet indoor environment, my colleague Faith Chihil could hear the speaker from about 20 feet away. Outside with street noise, she had to be standing right next to me to hear anything. In short, it’s nowhere near as loud as the maximum volume from a phone speaker.

However, some reviewers have pointed out that the battery life remains a point of contention. Although the Series 10 offers similar battery life to its predecessors, it may still fall short for users seeking extended performance, especially with intensive usage. CNET’s Lexy Savvides noted that while the battery life is adequate for daily use, power users may need to top up during the day:

Ten years on, the Apple Watch does so much more than we could ever have imagined. It’s become a health and safety tool during the day, and a comprehensive sleep tracker at night. But having to charge the watch daily to make sure we don’t miss out on data is frustrating. It’s kind of astounding that a decade later, the Series 10 still has the same official 18-hour battery rating as the first Apple Watch.

Battery life is the next frontier step smartwatch makers need to solve so they can truly be on our wrists as much as possible.

Overall, the Apple Watch Series 10 has been well-received for its advancements in health monitoring and design. While it doesn’t radically change the game, the refinements and new features make it a compelling choice for those looking for a more capable and stylish smartwatch. Apple’s continued focus on health and wellness and thoughtful design upgrades have solidified the Series 10’s place in the market.

Check out some video reviews below: