Which Apple Watch color should you buy?
- sep
- 21
Apple Watch is the first significant tech product to blur the lines with fashion, but this distinction comes with one of life's toughest questions: Which Apple Watch color should you get? That's because watches have never just been about telling time; they've been about making a statement with colors, materials, and of course, with the best Apple Watch bands. So if you are questioning which Apple Watch color should you get, here's a look at all of the different finishes available for the Series 6, SE, and Series 3.
Apple Watch Series 6
Our first true love
Apple Watch Series 6 Stainless Steel
Staff favorite
Call it iconic or perhaps boring, but the stainless steel Apple Watch model is the one we still like the best. Featuring a color that doesn't call a lot of attention to itself, it's the one that doesn't scream scuffs and scrapes. As a bonus, this version and the silver aluminum model are ones that come closest to matching most lugs on third-party bands.
From $699 at AppleFrom $699 at AmazonFrom $699 at Best Buy
Equally as iconic
Apple Watch Series 6 Silver Aluminum
Also iconic, the silver aluminum Apple Watch is impressive, durable, and traditional. It's the one you want if you're looking for something that's not flashy, goes with everything, and does a fairly good job at hiding scrapes and marks.
From $399 at AppleFrom $399 at AmazonFrom $399 at Best Buy
Brushed look
Apple Watch Series 6 Edition Titanium
The "plain" Apple Watch Series 6 Titanium model has a district brushed metal look that looks great with just about every color watch band around. Titanium is lightweight, yet still strong enough to prevent dings and dents. Its special coating protects the brushed finish and prevents stains, which keeps it looking sharp.
Lightweight and strong
Apple Watch Series 6 Edition Space Black Titanium
If you want a color that makes the Apple Watch look subtle (and will never be too bright or distracting) then say hello to this impressive Apple Watch Edition model. Titanium makes it lightweight, while still featuring a strong durable frame that even has a special coating that resists stains and fingerprints. Just make sure you can find lugs to match.
Dark stainless
Apple Watch Series 6 Graphite Stainless Steel
Even though the Graphite Series 6 has a darker look, it still features a premium, shiny mirror-like finish. This gives it a high-end look that doesn't call too much attention with its subtle color. The Graphite shade also makes the transition from the Apple's Watch screen to its casing much more seamless than other finishes.
From $699 at AppleFrom $699 at AmazonFrom $699 at Best Buy
Familiar look
Apple Watch Series 6 Space Gray Aluminum
Apple uses the Space Gray color on most of its products, including Macs, iPhones, and iPads. On the Apple Watch, the color adds a ruggedness perhaps missing on the other models. If you love space black but are on a budget, this is the one to get.
From $399 at AppleFrom $399 at AmazonFrom $399 at Best Buy
Stylish and elegant
Apple Watch Series 6 Gold Stainless Steel
If you like the luxury look and think watches should be more like jewelry, this is the one for you. For the stainless Series 6, Apple has gone back to the classic yellow-gold color. The updated gold stainless steel Apple Watch is like having a 24/7 dazzle on your wrist!
From $699 at AppleFrom $699 at AmazonFrom $699 at Best Buy
Beauty defined
Apple Watch Series 6 Gold Aluminum
No less impressive, the gold aluminum option is also breathtakingly beautiful. Unlike the stainless gold, the aluminum model features a slight pink tint, that makes it look like the rose gold of previous years. If you're looking for something different and aren't afraid to show off, then this is the one for you.
From $399 at AppleFrom $399 at AmazonFrom $399 at Best Buy
Make a statement
Apple Watch Series 6 (PRODUCT) RED Aluminum
Available for the first time starting with Series 6, this stunning red aluminum Apple Watch will make a statement when combined with the matching sport band. Plus, since it is a (PRODUCT) RED edition, a portion of your purchase will go toward the Global Fund to fight AIDS.
From $399 at AppleFrom $399 at AmazonFrom $399 at Best Buy
Beautiful blue
Apple Watch Series 6 Blue Aluminum
Also available for the first time with Series 6 is this dark blue aluminum model that is sure to be a hit. This watch pairs well with the included navy sport band, but it will also pop with contrasting colors. If you have always wanted a blue Apple Watch, then this is your year.
Apple Watch SE
Practical, yet stylish
Apple Watch SE Silver Aluminum
The classic silver aluminum Apple Watch SE will, no doubt, be the most popular color for the affordable line — and for good reason. The matte silver finish is the easiest to coordinate with watch bands of all styles and colors, which is great for planning what to wear for the day or for just expressing a little personality.
From $279 at AppleFrom $279 at AmazonFrom $279 at Best Buy
It just works
Apple Watch SE Space Gray Aluminum
The tried-and-true Space Gray Apple Watch is great for those who just want the connected capabilities without having to worry about mixing and matching band colors. The dark gray with the black sport band works well in pretty much all situations: from casual to classy—it just works.
From $279 at AppleFrom $279 at AmazonFrom $279 at Best Buy
Soft but stunning
Apple Watch SE Gold Aluminum
The gold aluminum Apple Watch SE is simply gorgeous with a softer look that incorporates both pink and copper tones. While it may look like it would only be suited for lighter color watch bands, this gold is surprisingly versatile as it looks all sorts of amazing when combined with the deep navy blue and the basic black sport bands.
Apple Watch Series 3
The best for most
Apple Watch Series 3 Silver Aluminum
The affordable, yet still plenty capable Apple Watch Series 3 is a great choice for those who want connected conveniences. The silver aluminum is our go-to pick when someone is in the market for their first watch. Apple's base silver model offers a level of flexibility that no other case color can match and it's incredibly easy to find a perfect companion band for any occasion.
From $199 at AppleFrom $169 at AmazonFrom $199 at Best Buy
Rugged and reliable
Apple Watch Series 3 Space Gray Aluminum
Space Gray is the perfect color choice for everyday adventures. Its rugged look hides imperfections well. We love how the gray tint is dark enough to blend into the background, yet it still has its own distinct shade when paired with the black sport band.
Stainless Steel, Titanium, and Silver
While the traditional Stainless Steel Series 6 Apple Watch is our absolute favorite, all of Apple's silver case options are versatile and work well with bands of any color. The Stainless Steel version does a decent job of hiding normal wear and tear, but after a while, you may notice some light scratches so it does require a little maintenance. Nothing too drastic though, just a little cleaning, buffing, and polishing now and then will make it look like new again.
The Apple Watch Series 6 Edition this year doesn't come in the bright white ceramic, rather, that distinction is reserved solely for the Titanium models. The silver, or "plain," Titanium Edition features a unique brushed metal look that gives it an industrial-vibe—and its neutral color pairs extremely well with a wide assortment of band colors. To keep the Edition protected, Apple applies a special coating that resists stains and even fingerprints.
Finally, the base Apple Watch for the Series 6, SE, and Series 3 models all offer the classic anodized silver color. Apple's anodization is top-notch as it manages to be tougher than most without looking cheap or plastic-like. That said, aluminum is subject to scratches and chips. After a few years, it may show signs of wear. Dressing up the silver similar to the titanium Edition is also quite easy thanks to its subtle finish, so you can create your own custom looks with the plethora of colors available.
Striking, and ever-lasting
Apple Watch Series 6 Stainless Steel
From $699 at AppleFrom $699 at AmazonFrom $699 at Best Buy
What's not to love?
If there's one Apple Watch version that will almost certainly never get replaced, it's this one: the remarkable silver Stainless Steel.
Brushed and beautiful
Apple Watch Series 6 Edition Titanium
One of a kind
The brushed Titanium Apple Watch Series 6 Edition has a unique industrial look, with a classic silver case. This lightweight watch has a special coating to keep it looking classy for years to come.
Less pricey, but awesome
Apple Watch Silver Aluminum
Series 6 From $399 at AppleSE From $279 at AppleSeries 3 From $199 at Apple
What band will you select?
You can't go wrong with this tried-and-true silver model. It won't turn as many heads, but there's no mistaking that this is an Apple Watch. Also available in Apple Watch Series 6, SE, and Series 3 variants.
Space Black, Space Gray, & Graphite
The durable Space Black Titanium Apple Watch Series 6 Edition is light but significantly stronger than the base aluminum models. The Space Black version sports a stylish brushed look, albeit in a darker, less-noticeable tone, and it includes a special surface coating that protects it from fingerprints and stains.
The Stainless Steel Graphite Series 6 Apple Watch, just like the Titanium model, has its own special DLC coating to keep it looking new. This watch has a clean, polished mirror finish that looks premium from all angles. Since it's a deep black, the display of the Apple Watch blends in well and makes it look like one continuous surface.
Available in Series 6, SE, and Series 3 models, the Space Gray aluminum Apple Watch continues to be one of the most popular case choices due to its rugged good looks and its ability to hide imperfections. When combined with a black Apple Watch Sport band, the Space Gray models look just like traditional watches preventing it from drawing too much attention, while still being full of connected capabilities.
Ready for its close-up
Apple Watch Series 6 Edition Space Black Titanium
Limited Edition
The Space Black Apple Watch Series 6 Edition offers lightweight elegance—with a subtle brushed look. Titanium materials make it lighter, but still plenty strong to handle everyday adventures.
Almost seamless
Apple Watch Series 6 Graphite Stainless Steel
Get your shine on
Apple's Graphite Stainless Steel Series 6 is as close as you can get to a truly seamless look between its case and display. A mirrored finish gives it a little flash, but it is still low-key.
Always a winner
Apple Watch Series 6 Space Gray Aluminum
Series 3 From $399 at AppleSE From $279 at AppleSeries 3 From $199 at Apple
A great selection
Apple's Space Gray aluminum watches are out of this world! It's cheaper than a lot of the other options and it holds up well to whatever life may throw at you. This finish is available in Series 6, SE, and Series 3 models.
Blue, and (PRODUCT) RED
We are thrilled that Apple decided to mix things up with the Series 6 release by finally bringing a pair of powerful colors to the line. Available in (PRODUCT) RED and blue, these anodized aluminum watches add a fun dynamic to the iconic smartwatch design. Together, they create even more possibilities when it comes to band combinations.
The (PRODUCT) RED's black accent colors found on its display and the Digital Crown, make the whole package pop so we can't wait to see how it looks with a black band. Plus, if just having a banging watch color isn't good enough, a portion of each purchase goes toward the Global Fund to fight AIDS.
The blue aluminum Series 6 Apple Watch, while more subtle than the (PRODUCT) RED, is still equally as beautiful and is sure to be a favorite. Apple's choice of a dark, navy blue color allows it to blend into the background if needed. When paired with a brighter band, this watch will really come to life. We can easily see this color coming back in future editions of the Apple Watch, and rightfully so. It's a dream come true for many.
Really red
Apple Watch Series 6 (PRODUCT) RED
From $399 at AppleFrom $399 at AmazonFrom $399 at Best Buy
Just fire
Apple's (PRODUCT) RED Apple Watch Series 6 is just absolute fire with its stunning shade and black accents. Plus, by purchasing this model, some of the proceeds go toward the Global Fund to fight AIDS.
Blue beauty
Apple Watch Series 6 Blue
From $399 at AppleFrom $399 at AmazonFrom $399 at Best Buy
It's deep
The blue anodized aluminum Series 6 Apple Watch is a dream come true for those looking for a little color in their lives. This deep blue beauty will undoubtedly be one of the most popular Series 6 models.
Gold and Golder
The gold Stainless Steel Apple Watch Series 6 is all about getting noticed. It's not gold material, but it has a gold PVD coating that will make heads turn. The golds we've tested over the years have all kept their colors well and stood up to daily wear and tear. Of all the Apple Watch Series 6 choices, this yellow-gold color is the one that's most unique for better or worse. Just keep in mind that finding bands with gold lugs could prove to be a little difficult.
For a softer look, Apple's aluminum gold finishes for the Series 6 and the SE, incorporate hues of pink and copper harkening back to the rose golds of the past. Although lighter colored watch bands are a perfect fit, the gold works well with some darker colors like black, navy blue, and even orange. Each of these brings out those underlying colors creating a truly unique look.
Get sophisticated
Apple Watch Series 6 Gold Stainless Steel
From $699 at AppleFrom $699 at Best BuyFrom $699 at B&H Photo
Go for the gold
For those looking to make a splash and get noticed no matter the occasion, the gold stainless steel Apple Watch is where it's at. This classic jewelry-like yellow gold may limit band options, but it will definitely catch everyone's attention.
Softer sophistication
Apple Watch Series 6 Gold Aluminum
From $399 at AppleFrom $399 at Best BuyFrom $399 at Walmart
Terrific, unique look
The gold aluminum Apple Watch is just as stunning as ever with its copper and pink tones. Available for the Series 6 and SE, the softer gold is surprisingly versatile making it pop when paired with darker color bands.