The Series 2 Apple Watch offers solid performance and fitness features but lags behind newer models in speed, display, and battery life.
Understanding the Series 2 Apple Watch’s Place in Apple’s Lineup
Apple introduced the Series 2 Apple Watch in September 2016 as a significant upgrade over the original model. It brought several improvements, including built-in GPS, water resistance up to 50 meters, and a brighter display. At the time, these features made it a compelling choice for fitness enthusiasts and casual users alike.
However, technology moves fast. Since then, Apple has released multiple newer generations with faster processors, enhanced health sensors, and improved battery efficiency. This raises the question: Is A Series 2 Apple Watch Worth It? The answer depends on what you expect from a smartwatch and how much value you place on its core features.
Key Features That Defined the Series 2
The Series 2 was notable for several reasons:
- Built-in GPS: This allowed users to track runs or bike rides without carrying an iPhone.
- Water Resistance: Rated for swimming up to 50 meters, making it suitable for pool workouts.
- Brighter Display: The OLED screen was twice as bright as the original Apple Watch.
- Dual-Core Processor: Improved speed over the first generation for smoother app performance.
- watchOS Compatibility: Initially shipped with watchOS 3, supporting various apps and fitness tracking.
These features made it a strong contender in the smartwatch market of its time. Yet, looking at it now from a modern perspective reveals some limitations.
Performance and Usability: How Does It Hold Up?
Performance is often the first thing people consider when evaluating older tech. The Series 2’s S2 chip was a solid performer in 2016 but feels sluggish compared to newer Apple Watches equipped with S4, S5, or later chips.
Apps open noticeably slower on the Series 2. Animations can stutter, especially with more demanding apps or watch faces. For basic tasks like checking notifications or controlling music, it still works fine. However, if you want smooth multitasking or quick app launches, this watch may frustrate you.
Battery life is another crucial factor. The Series 2 offers roughly 18 hours of use per charge under typical conditions — similar to newer models but slightly less efficient due to aging hardware and battery wear over time. Heavy GPS usage drains it faster.
The user interface remains intuitive thanks to watchOS updates that supported this model until watchOS 6. However, Apple has since stopped providing updates for Series 2 watches. This means no access to new features or security patches beyond that point.
Display Quality Compared to Newer Models
The Series 2 display was twice as bright as its predecessor at around 1000 nits peak brightness. This made outdoor visibility much better back then. Still, compared to recent models like the Series 6 or SE with Retina LTPO OLED screens featuring always-on display technology and higher brightness levels (up to about 1300 nits), it feels dated.
The screen size remains small by today’s standards (38mm or 42mm options), which might feel cramped if you’re used to larger smartwatches or phones. Additionally, there’s no always-on display feature here; you have to raise your wrist or tap the screen to see information.
Fitness Tracking: Is It Still Reliable?
Fitness tracking remains one of the strongest points of any Apple Watch model. The Series 2 brought built-in GPS and water resistance that allowed swimmers and runners more accurate tracking without an iPhone nearby.
It supports heart rate monitoring via an optical sensor on the back of the watch. While not as advanced as newer models with ECG capabilities or blood oxygen sensors, it delivers reliable basic heart rate data during workouts and throughout daily wear.
The workout app supports numerous activities like running, cycling, swimming, hiking, and more. Data syncs seamlessly with Apple’s Health app on iPhones.
However:
- The heart rate sensor isn’t as precise as newer versions.
- No advanced health metrics like ECG or SpO₂ monitoring.
- Lack of fall detection or emergency SOS features found in later models.
If your fitness routine involves simple tracking—steps taken, calories burned, heart rate zones—the Series 2 still does a decent job.
Water Resistance: A Closer Look
With official water resistance up to 50 meters (WR50), the Series 2 can handle swimming pools without issues. This was a breakthrough at launch because it allowed swimmers to track laps accurately using GPS combined with motion sensors.
Still:
- Water resistance can degrade over time due to wear and tear.
- Avoid exposing it unnecessarily to soaps or saltwater without rinsing afterward.
For casual swimmers who want basic lap counting and distance tracking without investing heavily in specialized swim watches, this feature still holds value today.
Comparing Specs: Series 1 vs Series 2 vs Newer Models
To put things into perspective clearly, here’s a comparison table showing key specifications between the original Apple Watch (Series 1), Series 2 itself, and a recent model (Apple Watch SE):
| Feature | Series 1 | Series 2 | Apple Watch SE (2020) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | S1P Dual-Core | S2 Dual-Core | S5 Dual-Core (64-bit) |
| GPS | No | Built-in GPS | Built-in GPS + GLONASS |
| Water Resistance | Splash resistant only | 50m swim-proof (WR50) | 50m swim-proof (WR50) |
| Display Brightness (nits) | 450 nits approx. | 1000 nits approx. | 1000+ nits approx. |
| Heart Rate Sensor | Yes (basic) | Yes (optical) | Yes (optical + advanced) |
| ECG & SpO₂ Sensors | No | No | No ECG; SpO₂ only on latest SE variants* |
| wOS Support Latest Version* | No (stuck on watchOS4) | No (stuck on watchOS6) | Supports latest versions fully* |
*Note: Some later updates may vary depending on region and device variant.
This table highlights where the Series 2 fits—significantly better than original models but behind modern watches offering faster chips and new health sensors.
The Price Factor: Buying Used vs New Models Today
One major reason people consider older tech is cost savings. The Series 2 Apple Watch can be found used online for well under $100-$150 depending on condition and size variant. Newer models typically start around $250-$300 for entry-level options like the SE.
Here are some price-related considerations:
- Used Condition: Battery health may be degraded after years of use; replacement costs add up.
- Warranty & Support: No official warranty from Apple for used devices; repairs can be pricey.
- Software Updates: Limited future support means missing out on new features/security fixes.
If budget constraints are tight but you want basic smartwatch functionality with fitness tracking included—and don’t mind slower performance—the Series 2 might be worth considering despite these drawbacks.
On the other hand:
Spending slightly more gets you access to current-generation hardware that will last longer both in performance and software support terms.
The Ecosystem Impact – Compatibility Matters Too!
Apple’s ecosystem thrives on seamless integration between devices—iPhones, iPads, Macs—and their wearables play a big role here too. The Series 2 supports pairing with iPhones running iOS versions compatible up through iOS13/14 approximately; beyond that compatibility may break down gradually.
Also keep in mind:
- Some third-party apps may have dropped support for older watchOS versions.
- Features like Family Setup require newer watches.
If you’re invested heavily in Apple’s ecosystem but want smooth future-proofing along with timely feature rollouts—leaning toward newer watches makes sense.
User Experience Insights: Everyday Use Cases With A Series 2 Watch
Many users appreciate how lightweight and unobtrusive the Series 2 feels on their wrist during daily activities—from office work to workouts. Its notifications system keeps you connected without constantly pulling out your phone.
Still:
- Notifications occasionally lag behind real-time due to slower processor speeds.
- Siri responses are slower compared to recent models equipped with neural engines.
Battery life generally holds up well enough for daily use but expect nightly charges without fail if you’re using GPS workouts regularly or streaming music via Bluetooth headphones paired directly through your watch.
For casual users who mainly want notifications plus step/heart rate tracking—Series 2 does an adequate job even years after release.
The Design Factor: Classic But Aging Look?
The design language hasn’t changed drastically since launch—with rectangular cases available in aluminum or stainless steel finishes plus interchangeable bands offering customization options still relevant today visually speaking.
However:
Newer watches boast slimmer bezels allowing larger screens without increasing overall case size noticeably—a welcome improvement for readability that makes older designs feel somewhat dated now by comparison.
Still classic enough that many find its look timeless rather than obsolete outright!
The Verdict – Is A Series 2 Apple Watch Worth It?
After weighing all factors—performance limitations versus affordability; fitness tracking capabilities versus lack of advanced sensors; aging design versus classic appeal—the answer isn’t black-and-white but leans toward cautious optimism depending on your needs:
- If you want reliable basic fitness tracking plus smart notifications at low cost—and don’t mind slower speeds or missing latest features—the Series 2 remains worth considering.
- If you demand fast responsiveness; access to newest health functions like ECG; longer software support lifespan; then investing in newer models is smarter long-term.
In short: The value of a secondhand Series 2 depends heavily on your priorities around budget versus cutting-edge tech experience.
The key takeaway:
The Apple Watch Series 2 still delivers core smartwatch benefits years after release but falls short when compared head-to-head against current-generation devices offering faster chips and advanced health monitoring.
Choosing whether “Is A Series 2 Apple Watch Worth It?” hinges mostly on balancing price sensitivity against desire for modern convenience—making this vintage model perfect entry-level gear for some yet outdated tech relic for others seeking top-tier wearable performance today.
Key Takeaways: Is A Series 2 Apple Watch Worth It?
➤ Affordable option for basic smartwatch features.
➤ Limited app support compared to newer models.
➤ Water resistance suitable for swimming and workouts.
➤ Slower performance with outdated hardware.
➤ Good battery life for casual daily use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Series 2 Apple Watch worth it for fitness tracking?
The Series 2 Apple Watch offers built-in GPS and water resistance up to 50 meters, making it a solid choice for fitness enthusiasts who want basic tracking without carrying an iPhone. However, newer models provide more advanced health sensors and improved performance.
How does the performance of a Series 2 Apple Watch compare to newer models?
The Series 2’s dual-core processor was fast for its time but now feels sluggish. Apps open slower and animations can stutter, especially with demanding apps. For simple tasks, it still functions well but lacks the smoothness of recent Apple Watches.
Is the battery life of a Series 2 Apple Watch still reliable?
The Series 2 offers about 18 hours of battery life under typical use, similar to newer models. However, battery efficiency may decline over time due to aging hardware and wear, especially with heavy GPS use.
Can the Series 2 Apple Watch run the latest watchOS updates?
The Series 2 initially shipped with watchOS 3 and received several updates over time. However, it no longer supports the latest watchOS versions, limiting access to new features and security enhancements available on newer models.
Is a Series 2 Apple Watch worth buying in today’s market?
If you want an affordable smartwatch with basic fitness features and don’t mind slower performance or older software, the Series 2 can still be useful. For better speed, health tracking, and future-proofing, newer Apple Watches are recommended.