When the Apple Watch 7 became available for pre-order this past Friday, I didn't rush out to buy one. Instead, I bought a new Apple Watch accessory that can improve older models with one of the Series 7's standout upgrades.

For the first time, Apple is shipping a smartwatch with a magnetic USB-C charger instead of a magnetic USB-A charger. If memory serves, a similar switch was made for the best iPhones two years ago when the iPhone 11 series was equipped with a Lightning to USB-C charger. The result was shorter charging times and less time spent on the cord for the Apple devices we use on a daily basis.

While faster charging was touted as a key feature of the Apple Watch 7 at Apple's September event, it turns out that the new cord is more appreciated. In other words, the USB-C magnetic charger combined with the best past models of the Apple Watch will allow for faster charging.

Preserving the battery life of the Apple Watch 6 is a daily priority. I purchased this $10 charging accessory to ensure that no matter where I am, my Apple Watch battery never runs out and puts my activities at risk.

I had hoped that the Apple Watch 7 would finally raise the familiar 18-hour estimate on the product and not have to worry about keeping it charged. The latest Apple Watch gained a more curvaceous casing, a larger Apple Watch 7 size, and a larger display, but the rumored improvements in battery life did not materialize.

So if you're wondering whether you should buy the Apple Watch 7 to replace your current Apple Watch, you might want to remove faster charging as a deciding reason to upgrade. Indeed, if you are attracted to the redesigned display or want to use more of the health features that have been added in recent years, the Apple Watch 7 will probably be the best smartwatch for you.

But if the enhanced charging features stand out to you, know that you don't necessarily need to get a new Apple Watch to change your current charging method. Apple is selling a new charger for the Apple Watch 7 separately. And it doesn't appear to be facing shipping delays or stock shortages like the new watch itself.

It is important to note that the product description states that the fast charger via USB-C can only be used with the Apple Watch Series 7. The description seems to suggest that the Apple Watch 7 battery has elements adjusted to be most compatible with the new code. But I am optimistic that it will charge at least a little faster when used with the Apple Watch 6, just as the iPhone 11 charger helped the iPhone XR juice faster.

For best results, we recommend using a magnetic USB-C charger with one of Apple's adapters. If the new charger actually charges the older model faster, you can spend about $50 more for the updated experience than paying $399+ for a new Apple Watch.