Apple Watch Series 7 review: bigger screen, faster charging, still the best

The Apple Watch gets a bigger, better screen, faster charging and a small price cut for 2021, which is enough to keep it at the top of the smartwatch market.

The Series 7 comes in 41 or 45mm case sizes, both 1mm taller than their predecessors and thinner bezels mean the screens are 20% larger.

None of these additions are revolutionary, but they are good refinements to the current Apple Watch formula.

Apple does not provide an expected lifespan for the battery in the Series 7. Batteries in similar devices typically last at least 500 full charge cycles while maintaining at least 80% of their original capacity. The battery can be replaced for ?82.44. Repairs cost between ?286.44 and ?462.44 depending on the model, while repair specialists iFixit awarded the Series 7 a repairability score of 6 out of 10.

It also adds better text entry including the ability to use combinations of dictation, scribble, emojis and a full qwerty keyboard. There is also a redesigned meditation app that melds breathing coaching with mindfulness.

WatchOS 8 is the best supported and most capable smartwatch operating system available, despite recent advances by Google with WearOS. You can expect at least five years or longer of software support, including feature and security updates, which is far longer than smartwatch rivals.

The Series 7 has the same comprehensive health-tracking features as the Series 6, including the ability to take ECG for heart rhythm, blood oxygen level monitoring and fitness tracking across a large range of workout types. Only dedicated multisport watches track more metrics across running, cycling and adventure sports.

The Apple Watch Series 7 comes in two sizes, three different materials and models with the option of 4G that requires an eSIM and compatible phone plan add-on.

The aluminium or Nike versions in 41mm size cost ?369 ($399/A$599) or ?399 ($429/A$649). 4G models cost an extra ?100 ($100/A$150). Stainless steel and titanium models cost more.

For comparison, the Apple Watch SE costs ?249, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 costs ?249, the Fitbit Sense costs ?279.99 and the Garmin Venu 2 costs ?299.

It is not worth upgrading from a recent Apple Watch. But for those with worn-out models or looking for their first smartwatch for the iPhone, the Apple Watch Series 7 is the best you can buy.