Introduction — The Return of a 2020 Classic
When the Apple Watch Series 6 launched in 2020, it set a new standard for what a smartwatch could do — introducing Blood Oxygen monitoring, a faster S6 processor, and a brighter Always-On Retina display. It was the first Apple Watch that truly bridged fitness tracking with advanced health insights, paving the way for models like the Series 7 and 8.
Fast forward to 2025, and the Series 6 continues to hold its ground remarkably well. With support for the latest watchOS 26, smooth performance, and a premium aluminum or stainless steel build, it remains an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers. According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished Apple Watch Series 6 models now start around $110+, making it one of the most affordable Apple Watches that still feels modern and fast.
For those seeking a more recent design with faster charging and a larger screen, the Certified Used or Refurbished Apple Watch Series 7—starting around $130+—is a great upgrade option. But in terms of price-to-performance, the Series 6 continues to deliver incredible value in 2025.
Apple Watch Series 6 Overview
The Apple Watch Series 6 builds on the solid foundation of previous generations with meaningful upgrades that make it both powerful and practical. It introduced the S6 SiP dual-core processor, which is up to 20% faster than the S5 chip used in the Series 5 and original SE. It also became the first Apple Watch to feature Blood Oxygen (SpO₂) monitoring, expanding its health-tracking capabilities beyond heart rate and ECG.
Design-wise, the Series 6 retained Apple’s familiar square aesthetic but improved it with a brighter Always-On Retina display that’s up to 2.5x brighter outdoors. Available in 40mm and 44mm sizes, it came in aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium finishes, offering users both sporty and premium options.
Even in 2025, it looks and feels like a modern smartwatch — capable, responsive, and elegant enough to compete with newer models for a fraction of the cost.
Key Features
- S6 Dual-Core Processor: Delivers fast, smooth performance for apps, notifications, and health tracking.
- Always-On Retina Display: Brighter than before for improved outdoor visibility.
- Blood Oxygen (SpO₂) Sensor: Monitors oxygen saturation to support wellness and fitness insights.
- ECG App: Allows users to take electrocardiograms directly from their wrist.
- watchOS 26 Compatibility: Fully supports Apple’s latest watchOS 26, ensuring ongoing updates and app support.
- Comprehensive Fitness Tracking: Tracks workouts, steps, calories, and heart rate with high accuracy.
- Sleep Tracking & Heart Health Monitoring: Provides in-depth sleep analysis and irregular rhythm notifications.
- Case Options: Available in aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium — with 40mm and 44mm sizes.
- Water Resistance (50m): Safe for swimming and everyday wear.
Price and Value in 2025
As of 2025, the Apple Watch Series 6 stands out as one of the best-value Apple Watches you can buy. It delivers nearly all the core functionality of newer models like the Series 7 and Series 8, but at a fraction of the cost.
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished Apple Watch Series 6 models now start around $110+, depending on size, material, and condition. That price makes it one of the most affordable watches that still supports watchOS 26, Apple’s latest smartwatch operating system.
Even though the Series 6 was released in 2020, it remains powerful enough for most users — thanks to the S6 chip, which still performs smoothly for daily use, notifications, fitness tracking, and third-party apps. It’s also compatible with all the latest watch faces, health features, and app integrations introduced in watchOS 26.
For shoppers who value premium build quality, a bright always-on display, and reliable health tracking, the Series 6 offers a remarkable balance of features and price.
If you’re willing to spend just a bit more, the Certified Used or Refurbished Apple Watch Series 7—starting at around $130+—adds fast charging and a larger, edge-to-edge display, making it a slightly more future-proof choice. But with such a narrow price gap, both watches offer great value depending on your priorities.
As the holiday sales season approaches, expect prices to drop even further. Checking UpTrade regularly can help you find the latest discounts on Certified Used and Refurbished Apple Watch models.
Software Support (watchOS 26)
The Apple Watch Series 6 continues to receive full support for watchOS 26, Apple’s latest operating system in 2025. This ensures that the Series 6 remains fully compatible with the newest features, improved battery optimization, and expanded health tracking functions introduced in the latest software updates.
Apple typically supports each watch model for around 5–7 years after release — and since the Series 6 launched in 2020, it’s expected to stay fully updated through 2026 or 2027, meaning at least another 1–2 years of software support. This longevity makes it a reliable choice for users who want a smartwatch that will stay secure and compatible for years to come.
Under watchOS 26, the Series 6 benefits from:
- Improved health insights and integration with iPhone’s Health app.
- New watch faces and widgets designed for larger screens.
- Better app performance and power management.
- Enhanced Siri functionality, now with faster on-device processing.
Despite being five years old, the Series 6 runs watchOS 26 smoothly — thanks to its capable S6 chip and 1GB RAM configuration. For users upgrading from older models like the Series 4 or Series 5, the difference in speed and responsiveness is immediately noticeable. More importantly, Series 4, 5, or other models don’t support the latest watchOS 26 and are reaching end of life.
Overall, strong software support is one of the biggest reasons the Certified Used or Refurbished Apple Watch Series 6 remains a smart buy in 2025. It combines affordability with ongoing Apple ecosystem compatibility, ensuring it stays relevant and secure.
Apple Watch Series 6 vs Series 7 — We Recommend Both
Both the Apple Watch Series 6 and Series 7 remain excellent choices in 2025. They share much of the same DNA — including strong performance, accurate health tracking, and support for the latest watchOS 26. The main differences lie in design refinements, charging speed, and usability. Given today’s prices, both models offer exceptional value, and which one you choose depends on your priorities.
Specs Comparison
| Feature |
Apple Watch Series 6 |
Apple Watch Series 7 |
| Launch Year |
2020 |
2021 |
| Processor |
S6 SiP dual-core |
S7 SiP dual-core |
| Display |
Always-On Retina OLED |
Always-On Retina OLED (Larger, Edge-to-Edge) |
| Display Size |
40mm / 44mm |
41mm / 45mm |
| Brightness |
Up to 1000 nits |
Up to 1000 nits |
| Case Materials |
Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Titanium |
Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Titanium |
| Health Sensors |
Heart Rate, ECG, Blood Oxygen |
Heart Rate, ECG, Blood Oxygen |
| Water Resistance |
50 meters |
50 meters |
| Charging |
Standard Magnetic Charging |
Fast Charging (0–80% in 45 minutes) |
| Battery Life |
Up to 18 hours |
Up to 18 hours |
| Software Support (2025) |
watchOS 26 |
watchOS 26 |
| Starting Price (Certified Used / Refurbished) |
$110+ |
$130+ |
Key Differences
1. Display and Design
The biggest visual upgrade comes from the Series 7’s edge-to-edge Always-On Retina display, which offers nearly 20% more screen area than the Series 6. The borders are slimmer, making text and icons easier to read. While the Series 6’s display is still bright and sharp, the Series 7’s expanded layout makes everyday interactions — from typing to checking notifications — noticeably more comfortable.
2. Charging Speed
The Series 7 adds fast charging, capable of reaching 80% battery in about 45 minutes, nearly twice as fast as the Series 6. This is particularly useful for users who wear their Apple Watch overnight for sleep tracking — a quick 10–15 minute charge in the morning keeps it ready all day. The Series 6 still charges at a normal pace, but the upgrade is noticeable if you’re used to fast devices.
3. Durability and Build Improvements
Apple reinforced the Series 7’s front crystal to be more crack-resistant, making it the most durable Apple Watch design yet. While both models offer water resistance up to 50 meters, the Series 7 is slightly better suited for daily wear and tear thanks to its tougher display glass and dust resistance improvements.
4. Performance and Longevity
Both models run the same watchOS 26 and deliver nearly identical performance, as the S7 chip is only a modest refinement of the S6. However, since the Series 7 launched a year later, it may receive one extra year of major watchOS updates, potentially lasting through 2027 or 2028. That gives it a slight edge for future-proofing.
5. Price-to-Value Ratio
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished Series 6 models start around $110+, while the Series 7 starts at $130+. With only a $20 difference, both are incredible values — the Series 6 for its affordability and strong performance, and the Series 7 for its faster charging and refined design.
In short, if you’re on a tighter budget, the Certified Used or Refurbished Apple Watch Series 6 remains one of the best smartwatch deals of 2025. But if you can spend just a little more, the Certified Used or Refurbished Apple Watch Series 7 offers a more modern experience that feels closer to Apple’s latest models.
Conclusion — Excellent Value in 2025
The Apple Watch Series 6 remains a fantastic buy in 2025 — combining premium materials, advanced health tracking, and strong performance at a price that’s hard to beat. With full support for watchOS 26, it continues to deliver a smooth experience and access to all the latest Apple Watch features.
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished Apple Watch Series 6 models start around $110+, making it one of the most affordable Apple Watches that still feels modern and responsive. For just about $20 more, the Certified Used or Refurbished Apple Watch Series 7 offers a larger edge-to-edge display, faster charging, and an extra year of software support — ideal for those who want something closer to Apple’s current lineup.
In short, both the Series 6 and Series 7 are great buys depending on your budget. The Series 6 delivers incredible value, while the Series 7 offers refinement and longer life for only a bit more. As the holiday season approaches, prices may drop even further — so check UpTrade regularly for the latest deals on Certified Used and Refurbished Apple Watches.
FAQ: Buying the Apple Watch Series 6 in 2025
1. How much does the Apple Watch Series 6 cost in 2025?
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished Apple Watch Series 6 models start around $110+, depending on size, case material, and condition. Prices may vary slightly between trusted sellers.
2. Is the Apple Watch Series 6 still supported by Apple in 2025?
Yes. The Series 6 fully supports watchOS 26, the latest version of Apple’s smartwatch operating system. It may receive one more major update and last for 2027.
3. How does the Series 6 compare to the Series 7?
The Series 7 adds a larger edge-to-edge display, faster charging, and slightly better durability, while performance remains similar. If budget allows, the Certified Used or Refurbished Apple Watch Series 7 is the better long-term investment, but the Series 6 still offers outstanding value for its price.
4. Does the Apple Watch Series 6 support Blood Oxygen and ECG features?
Yes. The Series 6 introduced both Blood Oxygen (SpO₂) monitoring and the ECG app, offering detailed health insights that were previously limited to Apple’s premium models.
5. Is the Apple Watch Series 6 still fast enough in 2025?
Absolutely. Powered by the S6 dual-core processor, the Series 6 runs apps, notifications, and workouts smoothly. Performance remains comparable to the Series 7 for everyday use, thanks to optimized software under watchOS 26.
6. Can the Apple Watch Series 6 use new bands and chargers?
Yes. The Series 6 uses the same band sizes and magnetic charging system as newer Apple Watch models. However, it does not support the fast-charging feature introduced with the Series 7.
7. Is the Apple Watch Series 6 waterproof?
Yes. It is water-resistant up to 50 meters, suitable for swimming and most daily activities. It is not, however, designed for scuba diving or high-velocity water sports.
8. How long will the Apple Watch Series 6 last?
With proper care, the Series 6 should last 5–7 years in total. Its continued watchOS support and strong build quality ensure it remains reliable and secure through 2026 or 2027.
9. Should I buy the Series 6 or spend more on the Series 7?
If you’re looking for the best value under $120, the Certified Used or Refurbished Apple Watch Series 6 is an outstanding choice. But for those who want faster charging and a bigger, more modern display, the Certified Used or Refurbished Apple Watch Series 7 is worth the small extra cost.
10. How old is the Apple Watch Series 6?
The Apple Watch Series 6 was released in September 2020, making it about five years old in 2025. Despite its age, it remains fully supported and continues to perform well under watchOS 26.
11. Will the Apple Watch 6 get watchOS 26?
Yes. The Series 6 supports watchOS 26 as of 2025 and benefits from all the latest features and security updates.
12. Is the iWatch Series 6 worth buying?
Apple names it as “Apple Watch” instead of “iWatch”. Yes — the Series 6 is one of the best-value Apple Watches to buy in 2025. It offers advanced health tracking (ECG and SpO₂), a bright always-on display, and solid performance at an affordable Certified Used or Refurbished price.
13. What is the lifespan of the Apple Watch Series 6?
Most Apple Watches remain functional for 5–7 years, depending on battery health and software updates. Since the Series 6 still supports watchOS 26, it should remain usable and secure until 2026 or 2027.
14. Is the Apple Watch 6 old?
While the Series 6 is five years old, it doesn’t feel outdated. Its performance, display quality, and health sensors still match the needs of most users in 2025 — especially given its low resale price.
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