So, my third Apple Watch in about 5 years has died. Series 8 lasted a year, series 3 and 5 both lasted 2 years. I was smart and bought AppleCare for the 8 this time, luckily.
All 3 watches have failed at the side button. Series 3 and 5 the button started to act like it was possessed randomly pressing. This one my side button has popped off.
I work in construction, around drywall, concrete dust and metal shavings a lot. I also am not shy about taking it to the beach and the ocean.
Seems like on the 8 there was aluminum oxidation and fine dust build up behind the button causing it to be hard to press for a while, then whatever pin that holds it on broke, maybe from having to press hard to activate.
I’m curious what other construction workers who use Apple Watch daily in tough environments experiences have been?
Does the ultra have a better sealed button? I was considering upgrading if it is sealed better.
Maybe I should buy an SE for work and just kinda use and abuse them for a a couple years and change it out…
I’m betting the ultra will be exactly the same as your 8.
Something worth considering if you’re REALLY happy with the Apple ecosystem: buy a used Apple Watch of like series 5-7 for cheap off marketplace (or an SE2) and use it for work, when you get home, swap it for a nicer, non-shitkicked Apple Watch of whatever model. One will always be on your wrist and the other on the charger, and this way you will actually conveniently get sleep metrics as well.
Good idea with picking up a used beater for work. I’ll probably go that route.