Is the Apple Watch Series 10 still worth your money in 2026?
The Apple Watch Series 10 can still be a worthwhile buy in 2026, especially at a substantial discount. It retains a bright display, broad health and fitness tracking, emergency features and the latest watchOS interface, so its age does not mean it is missing many of the newer model’s everyday capabilities.
The main concern is longevity: Apple watches have typically received four to six major software updates, and the Series 10, released in 2024, has already had three. The article expects around three more years of updates, though this is uncertain; it also reports that the watch can feel slower when opening apps or scrolling. Newer models have faster chips and more memory, which may help them perform smoothly for longer.
- Series 10 remains capable, with a bright screen and extensive health features.
- Its likely remaining software support is limited and uncertain.
- Buy it in 2026 only if the discount is compelling.
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Apple’s Watch is a wrist-worn device that works with an iPhone to show alerts and run apps, as well as track activity and some health measures. The Series 10 is a 2024 model in a product line that Apple updates regularly.
For buyers, the choice is between paying less for an older model and paying more for a newer one. The Series 10’s features may cover many everyday needs, while software support and speed affect how long it remains useful.
Apple provides software updates that can add features and keep watches compatible with its services, but the length of support is not guaranteed in advance. How long the Series 10 receives updates, and how smoothly it runs over time, may therefore matter alongside its price and features.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
At a substantial discount, the Series 10 still offers a bright display, extensive health and fitness tracking, emergency features and the current watchOS interface. If those everyday capabilities meet a buyer’s needs, its age alone may not justify paying more for a newer model.
The case against
A buyer paying for a watch in 2026 may reasonably prioritise how long it will remain supported and feel responsive. The Series 10 has already had three major software updates, its remaining support is uncertain, and reports of sluggishness alongside newer models’ faster chips and greater memory raise the risk that it will age less well.