For weeks, I’ve been wearing the Apple Watch Series 9 GPS 45mm in Midnight Aluminium with the Midnight Sport Loop (model numbers: MR9C3QA/A, MR9C3ZP/A, MR9C3LL/A, MR9C3LW/A). This review details my experiences, from daily use to its performance during workouts and its overall usability. The Series 9 boasts a refined design, promising improved performance and features – but does it deliver on these promises?

The Apple Watch Series 9 is packed with features. The S9 SiP is noticeably faster than its predecessor, resulting in smoother app transitions and quicker load times. The always-on display is bright and easily readable, even in direct sunlight. I found the double-tap gesture incredibly useful for accessing the watch face. The new Crash Detection and Fall Detection features provide welcome peace of mind, and International Emergency SOS is a significant addition for travelers.

The accuracy of the fitness tracking features, particularly during runs and cycling, is impressive. The heart rate monitor is reliable, and the sleep tracking provides detailed insights into my sleep patterns. While blood oxygen monitoring is no longer available, the temperature sensing feature is a nice addition. The fast charging is a lifesaver, ensuring the watch is always ready to go. Overall, the feature set feels comprehensive and well-executed, catering to both fitness enthusiasts and everyday users.

Battery life is a crucial aspect of any smartwatch, and the Series 9 largely delivers. I consistently achieved around 18 hours on a single charge with regular use, including workout tracking and notifications. Utilizing Low Power Mode extended the battery life significantly, offering a comfortable 36 hours. This improved battery life is noticeably better than prior models and a big plus for daily use.

The responsiveness of the interface is excellent. Navigating the watchOS is a breeze, and applications load quickly. The watch seamlessly integrates with my iPhone, providing quick access to notifications and allowing for convenient communication. The Precision Finding feature is surprisingly useful for locating my iPhone. The cellular features (on cellular models, not this one) would be nice but are not necessary for daily usage.

Pros:

• Improved performance with the S9 SiP
• Excellent battery life (up to 36 hours in Low Power Mode)
• Accurate fitness tracking
• Enhanced safety features (Crash Detection, Fall Detection, Emergency SOS)
• Fast charging
• Sleek and comfortable design

Cons:

• Blood oxygen monitoring removed
• Price point remains high
• Cellular connectivity requires a separate model

The Apple Watch Series 9 GPS 45mm Midnight Aluminium with Midnight Sport Loop (MR9C3QA/A, MR9C3ZP/A, MR9C3LL/A, MR9C3LW/A) is a significant upgrade. While the removal of blood oxygen monitoring is disappointing for some, the improved performance, longer battery life, and the addition of crucial safety features make it a compelling purchase. Its refined design and seamless integration with the iPhone ecosystem continue to make it a top contender in the smartwatch market. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a premium smartwatch experience.