40 vs. 44mm Apple Watch: What’s the Weight and Screen Size Difference?

The Apple Watch 40mm and 44mm are sizes found in Series 4, Series 5, SE, and Series 6 models. Both feature a rounded rectangular shape, which is a unique aspect considering that regular watches are circular. The dreamy features on these are so enticing. However, Apple threw a spanner in the works by producing two sizes with measurement differences that are very small. Which one should you buy between the 40 and 44mm Apple Watch?

While the same chip powers both watches, meaning equal functionality, differences start with the display. A 4mm difference may not seem like much, but you will notice it. The 40mm Apple Watch display is 1.6 inches, while the 44mm model has a 1.8-inch screen. We can add a statistic to help you understand the disparity in screen size. It is a 28.7% difference. What do you look for in a smartwatch? Let’s take you on a comparison journey.  

40 vs. 44mm Apple Watch: Side-by-Side Comparison

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Apple Watch SE GPS 40mm Smart Watch (Gen 1)

$129.00

• 40mm smartwatch with silver aluminum case and Abyss Blue sport band
• GPS
• Fitness and activity tracker
• Heart rate monitor
• Retina display
• Water-resistant

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10/02/2023 04:03 am GMT

40 vs. 44mm Apple Watch: What’s the Difference?

Weight

A comparison of the 40 and 44mm Apple Watch weight and screen size is an excellent starting point. If anything, these are the only significant differences. Regarding weight, the 40mm Apple Watch weighs approximately 30.5 grams (the GPS-only model), while the cellular model weighs around 30.7 grams. In contrast, the 44mm Apple Watch weighs about 36.4 grams. The heavier watch (44mm) would be burdensome on your wrist unless you seek to build some muscle. Meanwhile, the smaller Apple Watch (40mm) would be perfect for people who often use their wrists.

Screen Size

Apple measures the screen vertically, unlike its competitors, which the measure screen size horizontally. The standard applies to SE 1st generation, SE, and Series 4 to 6 models. Regarding screen display, the 40mm has a 1.57-inch screen. The display size is 25% smaller than the 44mm and has a screen resolution of 394 x 324 pixels. Conversely, the 44 mm screen measures 1.78 inches and displays 448 x 368 pixels. As a result, the larger 44mm Apple Watch display lets you scroll through more content. How is pixel difference an advantage? More pixels translate into bigger images and text. 

Wrist Size

Both watches look similar, but there are differences. The 40mm version is ideal for people with small wrists (130mm to 140mm) and physiques. On the other hand, the 44mm version sits perfectly on people with large wrists (140mm to 220mm) and physiques. It would look bulky and out of place if worn on a tiny wrist.

Width and Depth

Regarding width, the smaller Apple Watch measures 34mm wide, while the larger one measures 38mm. Unlike the differences in other measurements, the 40 and 44mm Apple Watch thickness is the same. Unlike other watches, Apple has designed its timepieces with a case that holds sensors, a battery, a chipset, and a Retina display. Therefore, you need not worry about which size will fit under your cuffs if worn with a shirt.  

Battery Life

Apple conducted battery life tests in August 2022 using the Apple Watch SE (2nd generation) models. According to Apple, an All-Day battery life is 18 hours. The timing includes workouts, app utilization, notifications, music playback, and time checks. Both watches have an 18-hour battery life. However, the 44mm has a larger battery, resulting in a longer battery life than the 40mm. Even though the battery life difference is not huge, you might need a wireless charger to keep the smaller watch running.

Retina Display

Apple developed the Retina Display technology for iPhones, Apple Watches, and iPads. A retina display has a pixel density of around 300pi, but Apple upped this to 401pi, as is evident in its iPhone 6. The technology yields high resolutions compared to other displays. The retina display is also highly legible in direct sunlight. While comparing the 40 and 44mm Apple Watch, we noticed that both have a retina display. 

Resolution

A phone’s resolution is the pixel count on its screen. High-resolution screens have more pixels, hence greater visual clarity. The resolution goes hand in hand with display size. Another critical thing to remember is that resolution is a function of screen size and pixels. A pixel refers to a group of blue, green, and red-colored dots. The 40 mm Apple Watch screen resolution is 394 x 324 pixels. If you opt for the 44 mm, you’ll enjoy 448 x 368 pixels.

Usage

The Apple Watch 40mm is most suited for things like tracking your workout routines. It also makes an excellent sleep tracker with less night intrusion owing to its small size. Conversely, the Apple Watch 44mm will serve you well for messaging. It has a large 1.78-inch screen to view messages and type your texts. Besides, the larger watch is a perfect temporary replacement for your iPhone when you cannot use it.

Material

The Apple Watch Series 6, available in 40 or 44-mm cases, features the manufacturer’s unique Ion-X glass display and aluminum case. You can also choose titanium or stainless steel cases. However, the titanium and stainless steel have a sapphire crystal display. The Apple Watch SE only has the Ion-X display across the two sizes. Apple Watch Series 5 timepieces feature ceramic cases in addition to the three materials mentioned earlier.

Capacity

A comparison of the 40 and 44mm Apple Watch memory capacities yielded no differences across the sizes. We checked for variations in the models and found that it was similar in some models but varied in others. Below is a summary of their capacities.

• Series 4: 16GB
• Series 5: 32GB
• Series 6: 32GB 
• SE: 32GB

Price

The prices of the two Apple Watch models vary depending on whether you buy a new or a second-hand timepiece. The Apple Watch SE is the only 40 and 44mm product for which Apple has shared the MSRP. Why is that so? You can buy it new from Apple. The GPS+Cellular model tarts from $299, while the GPS only model starts from $249.

Nonetheless, we can share approximate costs based on sites like Amazon. The entry-level price for the 40mm (GPS) is $309 compared to the 44 mm (GPS) price of $279. If you go cellular, you will start at $359 for the 40mm and $329 for the 44mm watch.

Large Wrist Capable

Apple Watch SE (Gen 1) [GPS 44mm]

• Features an activity and fitness tracker
• Screen 44mm
• Water resistant
• Customize your watch strap easily

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40 vs. 44mm Apple Watch: Must-Know Facts

• The Apple watch case size measurements are vertical. Other watch manufacturers use horizontal measurements.
• The 40mm Apple Watch model is lightweight and ideal for smaller wrists.
• Both have a retina display, a marketing term adopted by Apple to describe its technology for creating sharp images through high pixel densities.
• The 44mm Apple Watch has a bigger battery since its casing has more room than the 40mm timepiece.
• The 44mm models have a larger screen.
• Apple dropped the all-on display from these watches. You must raise your wrist each time you need to check the time, follow a map, or track your workout.

40 vs. 44mm Apple Watch: Which One Is Better? Which One Should You Use?

The 44mm Apple Watch has a larger display that helps you see more. You will also experience more straightforward navigation. Apple Watch users with large fingers should opt for the 44mm timepiece. The same case applies to users that struggle with tiny icons. 

The 44mm watch has a 1.78-inch screen, while the 40mm has a 1.57-inch display. 

For an Apple Watch with a large and clear screen, the 44mm is your best pick. It also goes hand in hand with vision challenges that call for more extensive graphics. On the other hand, if you have a small wrist, we suggest going along with the 40mm. It is a minimalist watch that feels comfortable on small wrists.

If you still need help to decide, locate an Apple Store near you and request to try both models and assess how they look. You can choose after that.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©DenPhotos/Shutterstock.com.