The Apple Watch Series 6 may not be the most recent generation, but it’s still one of the best smartwatches you can buy. A combination of premium hardware and excellent software make for a winning combination, especially if you update to watchOS 8.
It might have been replaced as Apple’s flagship wearable by the Series 7, but there are only a handful of differences between the two. Unless you value a slightly more durable build or a curved-edge display, the Series 6 will probably still provide everything you’re looking for.
It’s also where you’ll see most of the big discounts. If you’re considering buying the Apple Watch Series 6 and are based in the UK or US, here’s everything you need to know.
Best Apple Watch Series 6 deals & prices
Apple is no longer selling the Watch Series 6 on its website, but it’s still available via the following third-party retailers in the UK. There are some useful discounts, too. Compare the best prices across major retailers in your region using our price comparison tool below:
US retailers
UK retailers
Can you still buy the Apple Watch Series 6 on contract?
Yes, but stock from all the leading carriers is very limited these days. In fact, it’s only currently listed at the following retailers:
- O2 – 44mm / 40mm no longer available
- EE – 44mm in stock but no plans available
We haven’t found anywhere selling the Watch Series 6 on contract in the US, as of April 2022. The closest you’ll find are monthly payment plans at Verizon and T-Mobile.
Where to find refurbished Apple Watch 6 deals
Some might see ‘refurbished’ as another word for ‘second hand’, but in reality many of these devices have barely been used at all. You can find excellent savings on refurbished models if you know where to look.
First and foremost is the Apple Refurbished Store. Devices here go through a rigorous testing and replacement process by Apple itself, which means what you buy will be indistinguishable from new.
MusicMagpie is a great alternative to the Apple Refurbished, and typically has a greater range to choose from.
A newcomer to the refurbished scene is Back Market, where you can find savings on 40mm and 44mm sizes, including cellular variants.
Two other places that are worth checking for refurbished Apple Watch 6 deals are Amazon Warehouse, where ‘Renewed’ products go through a variety of tests to ensure an excellent working condition, and the eBay Refurbished Shop.
Remember, if a product has been used for demonstration purposes or returned as an unwanted gift, retailers must classify them as ‘refurbished’ despite looking and performing just like new. It’s true that there are situations where a fault has been fixed, so it’s worth checking the description for any device you’re considering buying.
See more in our guide to refurbished tech. Interested in more great offers? Check out our round-up of the best smartwatch deals right now.
How much did the Apple Watch Series 6 cost at launch?
At launch, the Apple Watch Series 6 started at £379 for GPS-only models, but how much you’ll pay depends on a combination of size, connectivity and watch strap. Here are the baseline prices:
- Apple Watch Series 6 (40mm): £379 / US$399 / AUD$599
- Apple Watch Series 6 (44mm): £409 / US$429 / AUD$649
The price jumps up an additional £100 if you’re interested in cellular connectivity. It’s worth noting that you’ll likely also have to pay an additional monthly cost for cellular connectivity, although just how much depends on the network provider you sign up to.
- Apple Watch Series 6 (40mm, cellular): £479 / US$499 / AUD$749
- Apple Watch Series 6 (44mm, cellular): £509 / US$529 / AUD$799
If you’re looking for something even more affordable, why not consider the mid-range Apple Watch SE or the entry-level Apple Watch Series 3? If you’re not heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem, there are plenty of great smartwatch deals available throughout the year.
Is the Apple Watch Series 6 still worth buying?
Definitely. It might have been replaced in Apple’s line-up by the Watch Series 7, but the Series 6 is still one of the best smartwatches you can buy. It offers everything most iOS users are looking for in a wearable, including an attractive display, great performance and a wide range of health-focused features.
The handful of upgrades on Apple’s latest flagship watch are unlikely to have a big effect on your experience. These include a brighter and larger display (thanks to smaller bezels), IP6X dust resistance and fast charging support. If you can live without these things, it’s worth saving some money.
Read our full
Apple Watch Series 6 review to learn more.