With the Apple Watch Series 2 Aluminum 38mm, Apple is clearly aiming at buyers who want a well-rounded phone without too many compromises. Here is our take on what it brings to the table. Announced in 2016, September. Released 2016, December, it arrives at a time when the competition is as tight as ever.
Design & Display
Up front there is a 1.5 inches screen, pushing a resolution of 340 x 272 pixels (~290 ppi density). Colours look punchy and text stays clean, so you will not have much to complain about here. The build feels well put together, and Apple has clearly paid attention to the in-hand feel. You can pick it up in a few finishes, including Case colors: silver.
Performance & Software
Powering the Apple Watch Series 2 Aluminum 38mm is the Apple S2 (16 nm). That combination should handle day-to-day multitasking and most games without breaking a sweat. It runs watchOS 3.0, upgradable to watchOS 6.2.8 out of the box, so the software experience feels current.
Camera
Photography is handled by a main shooter that should cover most situations, from daylight shots to the occasional low-light frame. Expect solid detail in good light, with the usual softness creeping in once the sun goes down.
Battery
Keeping the lights on is a Li-Ion 273 mAh (1.03 Wh), non-removable cell. With moderate use you can expect to end the day with charge to spare.
Our Opinion
So, what do we actually make of the Apple Watch Series 2 Aluminum 38mm? This is a phone that does not try to be the flashiest option on the shelf, and honestly that works in its favour. It gets the basics right, offering a crisp display, which is exactly what most buyers are really after. If your priority is a phone that just works, day in and day out, then this one deserves a spot on your shortlist. Is it perfect? No phone is, and you will always find a sharper camera or a faster chip somewhere else for a little more money. Overall though, the Apple Watch Series 2 Aluminum 38mm is easy to recommend to the right buyer. If you have used this device or are planning to pick one up, do let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
