Apple Watch Series 11 Review: A Middle-of-the-Road Upgrade
▼ Summary
– The Apple Watch Series 11 is a capable but unremarkable smartwatch, positioned between the upgraded SE 3 and the feature-rich Ultra 3.
– It features modest hardware updates including a redesigned 5G antenna, a larger battery, and a more scratch-resistant display.
– Battery life is officially rated at 24 hours for the first time, though real-world improvements over previous models are only slight.
– The Series 11 is best suited for users prioritizing health tracking and comfort, with a lightweight design and comprehensive health sensors.
– Most of its key features, including new health notifications and watchOS 26 updates, are not exclusive to this model and are available on other Apple Watches.
The Apple Watch Series 11 delivers a solid, dependable smartwatch experience, though it lacks the standout features that might inspire passionate praise. Positioned between the more affordable SE 3 and the feature-packed Ultra 3, this model offers a familiar design with meaningful but modest improvements. It remains a strong choice for users prioritizing health tracking, comfort, and reliable daily performance.
Hardware updates are subtle but practical. The Series 11 features a redesigned dual antenna for improved 5G connectivity, a larger battery, and a more scratch-resistant display. While these enhancements may not be revolutionary, they contribute to a more polished and durable device. Most of the significant new capabilities arrive via watchOS 26, which is available across multiple Apple Watch models, not exclusively to the Series 11.
Battery life sees a noteworthy upgrade. For the first time, Apple officially estimates 24 hours of usage on a single charge, up from the longstanding 18-hour claim. Actual performance reflects a modest but consistent improvement. In testing, the watch comfortably lasted a full day and night, including sleep tracking, with power to spare. This reliability is especially valuable for users who depend on all-day health monitoring without frequent recharging.
Health remains a central focus. The Series 11 includes a full suite of sensors, supporting features like hypertension detection and the new Sleep Score. Neither feature is exclusive to this model, but the combination of advanced health tools and extended battery life makes the Series 11 a compelling option for wellness-focused users. The Sleep Score, in particular, offers actionable feedback by emphasizing factors within your control, such as sleep duration and consistency.
Design and comfort continue to be strong suits. The watch maintains the same slim profile as its predecessor, with thinner bezels and a larger display than the SE 3. It strikes a balance between screen size and wearability, making it ideal for those who find the Ultra 3 too bulky. The aluminum and titanium options provide lightweight durability, appealing to everyday users and those with smaller wrists.
watchOS 26 introduces several thoughtful software enhancements. The revamped Smart Stack now offers more intuitive widget suggestions, while new gestures like wrist-flick make one-handed operation smoother. Additional updates include a Notes app for the wrist, better integration with Apple Intelligence features, and improved workout customization via the Fitness app on iPhone.
Despite its qualities, the Series 11 occupies an awkward middle ground. Existing Series 9 or 10 owners will find few reasons to upgrade, while new buyers may gravitate toward the more affordable SE 3 or the fully-featured Ultra 3. That said, for users who value a balanced mix of health features, battery life, and everyday comfort, the Series 11 remains a trustworthy and capable choice.
(Source: The Verge)
