Apple Watch Series 9: specs, who it fits and compatible phones
Apple Watch Series 9 is a smartwatch released in 2023 that works with iPhone. It lists Standard GPS, IP6X and Apple Pay.
Specifications
| Release year | 2023 · Archive |
|---|---|
| Case size | 41 / 45 mm |
| Display | OLED, Always-On |
| Brightness | 2000 nits |
| Battery as listed | Up to 18 hours (36 hours in low power mode) |
| Water rating | IP6X |
| Case material | Aluminum / stainless steel |
| GPS type | Standard GPS |
| Operating system | watchOS 10 (still updated) |
| Works with | iPhone |
| Connection | eSIM · LTE |
| Contactless wallet | Apple Pay |
| Plan needed | None |
| Health sensors | SpO2, HRV, Skin temperature, ECG |
| Safety features | SOS, Fall detection |
Archive label: released at least 30 months ago. This does not indicate current availability or support.
Who it fits
- Works with iPhone.
- Lists SOS or fall detection, see our guide for older adults.
How it compares
Closest models from Apple
| Model | Release year | Case size | Battery as listed | Water rating | GPS type | Works with |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Watch SE (2nd gen) | 2022 | 40 / 44 mm | Up to 18 hours | Not listed | Standard GPS | iOS only |
| Apple Watch Series 10 | 2024 | 42 / 46 mm | Up to 18 hours (36 hours in low power mode) | IP6X | Standard GPS | iOS only |
| Apple Watch SE 3 | 2025 | 40 / 44 mm | Up to 18 hours | 5ATM | Standard GPS | iOS only |
Compared with Apple Watch SE (2nd gen), Apple Watch Series 9 lists a newer release year (2023 against 2022), a brighter listed display (2000 nits against 1000) and Aluminum / stainless steel case material, where Apple Watch SE (2nd gen) lists Aluminum.
Compared with Apple Watch Series 10, Apple Watch Series 9 lists an older release year (2023 against 2024), Aluminum / stainless steel case material, where Apple Watch Series 10 lists Aluminum / titanium and case sizes of 41 / 45 mm against 42 / 46 mm.
Compared with Apple Watch SE 3, Apple Watch Series 9 lists an older release year (2023 against 2025), Aluminum / stainless steel case material, where Apple Watch SE 3 lists Aluminum and case sizes of 41 / 45 mm against 40 / 44 mm.
Only values listed exactly are compared.
Phone compatibility and plan
No plan is listed as needed. Has eSIM or LTE, so it can work without the phone if you add a carrier plan.
Sensors and features are listed as the maker names them and are not medical measurements.
Related guides and lists
- Battery life explained
- Phone compatibility
- Water resistance ratings
- Sensors explained
- Apple smartwatches
- All models
Last verified September 26, 2026
Features change with updates. Check the maker's current details. See our methodology