Apple has not one, but two smartwatches this year; our Apple Watch 6 review and Apple Watch SE review introduce both separately, and our Apple Watch 6 vs.

The Apple Watch SE is a mid-level alternative to the Apple Watch Series 5. However, while the Apple Watch 6 offers new features such as blood oxygen monitoring and a bright always-on display, the more affordable Apple Watch SE retains some key features but has lower price specifications. We have even introduced our readers to the SE for diabetes monitoring, which is a great option for those who are looking for a more affordable alternative to the Apple Watch SE.

But which Apple Watch is right for you? Let's compare the Apple Watch 6 and the Apple Watch SE to help you make the best decision.

The Apple Watch 6 starts at $399 for the GPS version, while the Apple Watch SE starts at $279.

If you want a watch with built-in LTE, the Apple Watch 6 starts at $499 and the Apple Watch SE at $329.

Both models are available in 40mm and 44mm case sizes.

Both new Apple Watches maintain the same rounded, square design as the other models, but the Apple Watch 6 will have a brighter display with an always-on feature. Apple says it is 2.5 times brighter, so it should be especially noticeable outdoors.

Additionally, the Series 6 will come in several new colors, including blue and red, and will be available in aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium, while the Apple Watch SE will be available only in aluminum.

Inside the Apple Watch 6 will be a processor that is up to 20% faster than the S5 chip found in the Apple Watch SE and Apple Watch 5. However, both devices will share an always-on altimeter, gyroscope, compass, and GPS.

The biggest difference between the Apple Watch 6 and SE in terms of health features is the SpO2 sensor, which measures the amount of oxygen in the blood. Low levels may be an indicator of problems such as sleep apnea and have also been linked to Covid-19. SpO2 sensors are already found in sports watches from Garmin and others, but have been used primarily for fitness-related functions. Its inclusion in the Apple Watch 6 means that Apple sees SpO2 as more of a health-related indicator.

The Apple Watch 6 also includes an ECG monitor, while the SE does not. Shared health and fitness features include fall detection, noise level detection, emergency SOS, and international emergency calling.

The battery life of the Apple Watch 6 and SE is 18 hours, similar to the Series 5. However, the Series 6 has a fast-charging feature that allows for a full charge in about 90 minutes. The premium model also offers 18 hours of constant light.

When choosing between the Apple Watch 6 and the Apple Watch SE, the final decision comes down to whether to spend the extra $120 for the brighter display with always-on option, ECG monitor, and SpO2 sensor.

Still, the Apple Watch SE feels like an odd compromise between the $399 Apple Watch Series 6 and the $199 Apple Watch 3. For a comparison between the latest Apple Watch and the Series 3, see Apple Watch SE vs. Apple Watch 3 vs. Apple Watch 6 vs. Apple Watch 3.