Hands-on review: Apple Watch Series 10 smartwatch

Experiencing the Apple Watch Series 10 as my first smartwatch has been nothing short of remarkable. I've always been intrigued by wearable tech but hesitant to dive in, mostly out of concern that it would feel cumbersome on my wrist, and I didn't want constant notifications interrupting my life. Yet, from the moment I strapped the Series 10 onto my wrist, it became clear that Apple has perfected the art of blending sleek design, intuitive functionality, and powerful performance into a device that feels like a natural extension of myself.

Let's start with the design. Apple has clearly prioritised comfort, making this the thinnest Apple Watch ever at just 9.7 mm. This may not sound like much, but it's a significant difference when you're wearing something all day—and even more noticeable when you sleep with it on. For someone like me who's never worn a smartwatch before, the lightweight feel was a pleasant surprise. The aluminium version I'm using is up to 10% lighter than previous models, and the polished titanium cases, although I haven't tried them yet, are said to be nearly 20% lighter than the previous stainless-steel models. The comfort is such that I often forget I'm even wearing it.

One of the standout features for me is the display. It's stunning, not just in terms of its vibrant colours and clarity but also its usability. The screen is the largest Apple has ever put on a watch, with up to 30% more active screen area compared to earlier models. This makes all the difference when you're trying to read a message, glance at your workout stats, or navigate apps like Mail and Messages. I was sceptical about typing on a screen this size, but the larger buttons and extra space make it easier than I thought. Whether I'm pausing a workout or entering a passcode, the watch feels responsive and smooth. 

The innovation in display technology doesn't stop there. Apple has introduced its first wide-angle OLED screen in the Series 10, which optimises the way light is emitted at wider angles. I often glance at my watch when my arm is resting at my side or when I'm typing, and this new technology makes it significantly easier to see the display without having to adjust my wrist. The display is also up to 40% brighter than previous models when viewed from an angle, which is perfect for quick checks during a busy day. Even in the always-on mode, the display refreshes at a much faster rate, showing a ticking seconds hand for the first time on selected watch faces like Flux, which I've come to love for its bold design.

One of the biggest draws of the Apple Watch, for me, is its health and fitness capabilities, and Series 10 has truly impressed me. The sleep apnoea notification system is a brilliant addition. Sleep apnea is a condition I've heard about but never really considered in my own life. Now, knowing that my watch can monitor my breathing patterns while I sleep and notify me if it detects signs of apnoea makes it feel like I have a health guardian on my wrist. It monitors disruptions in breathing using the accelerometer, classifying them as either elevated or not. It's particularly reassuring to know that if the watch detects consistent signs of sleep apnoea, it can notify me and even provide data to share with a healthcare provider. The detailed information available in the Health app about my breathing disturbances over time adds a layer of insight into my nightly rest that I never had before.

Another feature that caught me by surprise is the depth and water temperature sensors. As someone who enjoys the occasional swim, these are game changers. Apple Watch Series 10 is swim-proof with a 50-metre water resistance rating, which is perfect for pool or ocean swims. The watch automatically detects when I'm in the water, measuring depth and temperature in real time. It's incredibly useful, especially when I'm doing open-water swims, as it even tracks my swim metrics in workout mode. What's even better is the new Tides app, which offers seven days of tidal forecasts for coastlines and surf spots around the world. This kind of granular detail, like tidal height and direction, makes planning beach days or coastal activities much easier.

Battery life is another area where Apple seems to have hit the sweet spot. The 18-hour battery life claim holds true for my daily use, which includes everything from checking notifications, responding to messages, tracking workouts, and monitoring my sleep. It charges faster than I expected, too. In about 30 minutes, the watch goes from empty to 80%, and even a quick 15-minute charge is enough to get me through a full day. This rapid charging is a lifesaver when you're in a rush and need just enough juice to track a workout or monitor sleep through the night.

Speaking of workouts, the Series 10 has made fitness tracking a seamless experience. The watch automatically detects when I've started a workout, whether it's a casual walk or a more intense run. One of the more advanced features is the new Training Load, which gives me an overview of how my workout intensity is impacting my body over time. It's become a vital tool for planning my fitness routine, helping me decide when to push harder and when to rest. Combined with the ability to customise activity goals and even pause them for days when I need a break or recovery, the fitness tracking feels both motivating and flexible. 

While I haven't tested the fall detection feature yet—thankfully!—knowing it's there gives me peace of mind. The watch can detect a hard fall and either prompt me to call for help or, if I'm unresponsive, do so automatically. The crash detection feature works similarly, using sensors like the accelerometer and gyroscope to detect severe impacts in car crashes. These safety features, while hopefully never needed, make the watch feel like more than just a fitness tracker; it's a tool that could genuinely make a difference in an emergency.

Audio playback through the built-in speakers is another small but welcome addition. I've used it to quickly listen to music and podcasts without needing my AirPods, which is especially handy for short sessions. The sound quality is surprisingly good for a device of this size. Additionally, the voice isolation feature for calls is remarkable. I made a call while walking down a busy street, and the person on the other end mentioned how clear I sounded, with no interference from the surrounding noise.

Finally, I can't talk about the Apple Watch Series 10 without mentioning its style. The model I have is in the new jet-black aluminium finish, which looks sleek and polished, a step up from the matte finishes of previous models. The rounded corners and the way the front crystal blends into the metal case give the watch a refined, almost jewellery-like appearance. It's stylish enough for professional settings yet rugged enough for workouts and outdoor activities. Apple's focus on making this watch lighter and thinner, yet more durable, truly shows in the way it feels both sophisticated and sturdy.

As a first-time Apple Watch user, the Series 10 has exceeded my expectations in every way. From its elegant design to its powerful health and fitness features, it's not just a watch—it's a daily companion that keeps me connected, healthy, and safe. The learning curve was minimal, thanks to Apple's thoughtful integration of hardware and software, and now I can't imagine my day-to-day life without it. Whether you're new to smartwatches or upgrading from an older model, the Series 10 is an absolute powerhouse that fits seamlessly into any lifestyle.