Apple’s latest smartwatch, the Series 6, brings several notable improvements to its predecessor, but for runners, the changes might not feel like a huge leap. While it includes a new blood oxygen sensor and a faster chip, these updates don’t drastically alter the watch’s performance in terms of fitness tracking, especially for those already using the Series 5. Here’s a look at what’s new and what remains the same.
Design and Familiar Features
At first glance, the Apple Watch Series 6 looks very similar to the Series 5. It still offers the same size options—40mm and 44mm—and retains the expanded, easy-to-read display introduced in the Series 4. Runners will appreciate the always-on display, which allows you to see your pace without having to lift your wrist. This feature, first introduced in the Series 5, has been made brighter in the Series 6, improving visibility even in direct sunlight.
While the watch still offers the fall detection and EKG features, its battery life remains at 18 hours, which means you’ll need to charge it daily, despite the improved performance. The Apple Watch has yet to overcome this limitation, but it does charge faster than before, going from 0 to 100 percent in just 1.5 hours.
New Features: Blood Oxygen Sensor and S6 Chip
The biggest new feature on the Series 6 is the blood oxygen sensor. Apple promotes this as a way to help users better understand their overall fitness and wellness, although the company stresses that it’s not intended for medical purposes. For runners, this sensor could be useful if you’re traveling to higher altitudes, as it can help monitor how your body is adjusting to changes in elevation. However, it’s unlikely to be a game-changer for most runners, especially since other devices, such as those from Garmin and Fitbit, also include similar sensors.
One upgrade worth noting is the new S6 chip, which makes the watch 20 percent faster in app performance compared to the previous model. While the difference isn’t immediately noticeable, it does help apps launch more quickly and contributes to a smoother overall experience.
VO2 Max and Altimeter Updates
Another improvement, though not entirely new, is the ability to track VO2 Max. While this has been available since the Series 2, the Series 6 introduces a feature that detects lower VO2 Max scores. Additionally, the barometric altimeter, which tracks elevation, is now always on, providing more accurate and immediate elevation readings. Both of these updates are nice but don’t represent dramatic changes for most runners who are already accustomed to these features.
Performance and Battery
Despite the improved chip and faster charging, the Series 6 still offers only 18 hours of battery life, meaning you’ll need to charge it daily. However, with the new charging speed, it’s easy to top up your watch during your daily routine. Whether you’re showering or getting ready for the day, you can quickly charge it to ensure you’re ready for your next workout. The new S6 chip also gives the Series 6 an extra hour of GPS workout time, which is a much-needed improvement for runners who want to track longer efforts. While I haven’t yet tested the full marathon-distance capacity, early results have shown better battery management during shorter runs.
GPS Accuracy and Maps
In terms of GPS accuracy, the Series 6 performs similarly to the Series 5. During my runs, the watch has consistently provided reliable data on current pace and distance, much like Garmin and Suunto watches. After completing a run, the map tracking also appeared smoother than on some other devices, which can struggle in areas with tall buildings. This has been a consistent strength of the Apple Watch, and it remains a reliable choice for runners in urban environments.
Additional Features and Band Options
The Series 6 is available in a variety of colors, including red and blue aluminum cases, in addition to the traditional silver, gold, and space gray options. The new Solo Loop band, available in both silicone and braided polyester, offers a sleek, clasp-free design, though it requires you to measure your wrist to ensure a proper fit.
For those considering cellular connectivity, I recommend the cellular model. With it, you can stream music or podcasts, take calls, and send texts without needing your phone. This feature is particularly useful for runners who prefer to go without their phone during a workout.
Should You Upgrade?
If you already own the Apple Watch Series 5, upgrading to the Series 6 might not be worth the investment unless you’re specifically interested in the new blood oxygen sensor or the faster performance. For those using older models, however, the Series 6 provides a meaningful upgrade. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Apple Watch SE offers similar performance with fewer advanced features at a lower price point.
