42mm vs 46mm Apple Watch Series 10: Which Size Should You Get?
Choosing between the 42mm and 46mm Apple Watch Series 10 can feel overwhelming, but it really comes down to your wrist size and personal preferences. Let me break down the key differences to help you decide.
The Display Makes a Big Difference
The most noticeable difference is the screen size. The 42mm has a 1.7-inch display, while the 46mm boasts a 1.9-inch screen – that's 23% larger.
What does this mean for you? With the bigger display, you can see about 7-8 more words of text at a time. Reading messages, emails, and using apps feels much more comfortable. The on-screen keyboard is also easier to use if you like typing responses directly on your watch.
Size and Weight: What to Expect
Both watches are surprisingly thin at 9.7mm, but the dimensions vary:
- 42mm: 42 x 36mm (lighter and more discrete)
- 46mm: 46 x 39mm (about 6 grams heavier)
Honestly, the weight difference is barely noticeable day-to-day, but the visual presence on your wrist definitely varies.
Does Your Wrist Size Matter? Absolutely!
Here's a simple rule of thumb:
- Smaller wrists (under 18cm): Go with 42mm for the best fit and comfort
- Medium wrists (18-21cm): Either size could work, but consider what you prioritize
- Larger wrists (over 21cm): The 46mm will look more proportional and feel more balanced
If you're unsure about your wrist size, wrap a measuring tape (or string) around your wrist where you'd wear the watch.
Battery Life: A Small Advantage
The 46mm model gets slightly better battery life thanks to its larger internal battery. We're not talking about huge differences here – both will easily get you through the day – but it's worth knowing.
The Band Situation
Here's something important: 42mm bands only fit 42mm watches, and 46mm bands only fit 46mm watches. Keep this in mind if you plan to buy extra Apple Watch bands or already have Apple Watch accessories.
Price and Value
The 46mm typically costs -50 more than the 42mm across all models. If budget's a concern, the 42mm offers the same features for less money.
My Recommendation
Go with 42mm if:
- You have smaller wrists or prefer discrete devices
- You want to save some money
- You're active and worried about accidental button presses
Choose 46mm if:
- You have larger wrists or love big displays
- Reading text and using apps on your watch is important to you
- The extra cost isn't a concern
The good news? Both sizes offer the same incredible features and performance. You really can't go wrong either way!
Ready to buy? Compare Apple Watch Series 10 prices to find the best deals across all retailers.
