Apple just rolled out its newest watches, but the smartest buys right now are the discounts landing on existing models. Retailers typically clear inventory right after a launch, and that’s when value-minded shoppers can score serious savings on the Apple Watch Series 10, Ultra 2, Series 9 (refurbished), and the budget-friendly Watch SE (2nd gen).
If you’re watching your wallet while still wanting premium features, this is the window to act. You’ll find price drops, certified-refurbished offers, and carrier promos that make last year’s hardware an easy yes—often with performance and health features that feel remarkably current.
Why last year’s models are the sweet spot
New announcements tend to trigger widespread markdowns within days. Historical pricing from major deal trackers shows that Apple Watch discounts of 10–20% are common, with deeper cuts on refurbished and open-box units depending on size and color. Big-box retailers often lead on cash discounts, while carriers offset prices via bill credits tied to service.
Crucially, Apple supports its watches with years of software updates. That means Series 10, Ultra 2, and even Series 9 benefit from the latest watchOS features, keeping them relevant well beyond the initial release cycle. According to Counterpoint Research, Apple consistently leads global smartwatch shipments, a reflection of long-term support and strong resale value that also makes buying refurbished less risky than with many rivals.
Our favorite Apple Watch deals right now
Apple Watch Series 10: The best all-around pick. Look for $50–$100 off the GPS versions in both case sizes, with deeper promos on specific finishes. Series 10 brings a modern design, fast performance, and a brighter display that’s easy to read outdoors. For most people upgrading from a Series 6–8 or a first-gen SE, this is the ideal balance of price and longevity.
Apple Watch Ultra 2: The adventure watch at a friendlier price. You’ll see the biggest absolute-dollar savings on renewed or certified-refurb units. The Ultra 2’s rugged case, long battery life, and extra-bright screen make it the top choice for hikers, divers, and endurance athletes. If you don’t need the latest Ultra, this is where premium meets practical.
Apple Watch Series 9 (refurbished): The sneaky value play. With trade-ins or certified-refurb deals, Series 9 often undercuts Series 10 by a meaningful margin while keeping core features like fast performance, accurate fitness tracking, and gesture controls such as double tap. Note that Blood Oxygen features have varied by region and sales batch due to legal constraints; check the product listing details if that metric matters to you.
Apple Watch SE (2nd gen): Lowest cost, highest compatibility. This is the easy recommendation for first-time smartwatch buyers, teens using Family Setup, or anyone who wants core safety and fitness features on a budget. You’ll routinely see $30–$80 off. The SE supports sleep tracking, crash detection, fall detection, Apple Pay, and notifications, but skips premium sensors like ECG and an always-on display.
Where to find the real discounts
Big retailers: Amazon, Walmart, and Target frequently rotate color-specific markdowns. Keep an eye on the larger case sizes and cellular models—these often see the steepest percentage cuts once inventory builds.
Certified refurbished: Apple’s own refurbished store provides a new battery and outer shell with a standard warranty, which is as close to new as it gets. Reputable marketplaces, including programs like Amazon Renewed Premium and specialist refurb sellers, typically offer at least a one-year guarantee and 30-day returns. Look for explicit battery health metrics and photos of the actual unit when possible.
Carrier promos: If you’re adding a line, carriers sometimes discount cellular models heavily through monthly bill credits. The headline price looks great, but read the fine print on contract length, line requirements, and activation fees to be sure the math works for you.
How to pick the right deal
Case size and fit: Smaller wrists usually prefer 40–41–42mm options, while 45–46–49mm cases improve readability and battery life. Try one on if possible; comfort is performance when you’re wearing the watch all day and night.
GPS vs. Cellular: GPS-only is the better value for most. Choose cellular if you want calls, streaming, and messages away from your iPhone or you’re setting up a watch for a child or older adult via Family Setup.
Battery and durability: Ultra 2 reliably outlasts the mainstream line and is built for impact, but it’s heavier. Runners, cyclists, and swimmers who prioritize battery and ruggedness will appreciate it; everyone else will be happy with a discounted Series 10 or refurbished Series 9.
A note on health features and updates
Apple’s ECG app and irregular rhythm notifications have long been cleared by the FDA, and watchOS updates continue to refine safety features like fall and crash detection. Availability of Blood Oxygen readings may vary by region and model batch; confirm the feature set in the listing or with the seller if it’s important to you.
Bottom line: With new models arriving, the value in existing Apple Watch tiers has rarely been better. If you want flagship features for less, target Series 10 or Ultra 2. If you want dependable essentials at the lowest price, the SE (2nd gen) and refurbished Series 9 are tough to beat. Shop patiently, verify the warranty, and let the post-launch price dip work in your favor.