What Apple Watch Is Compatible With iPhone 13? (Complete Guide)

The Apple Watch is one of the best smartwatches available, offering seamless integration with iPhones. And If you own an iPhone , you might be wondering: What Apple Watch is compatible with Apple device 13?
With frequent software updates and, at the same time, new device releases, understanding compatibility can, indeed, be quite confusing. Therefore, to make things easier, this guide will not only cover all Apple Watch models that work seamlessly with the iPhone 13 but also explain, step by step, how to check compatibility. Furthermore, it will provide valuable tips on selecting the best Apple Watch based on your specific needs.
Whether you’re buying a new Smart Watch or checking if your current one still works, this guide has everything you need to know!
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Key Takeaways
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Apple Watches That Work With iPhone 13
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Apple Watch Compatibility Chart
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How to Check Apple Watch Compatibility With iPhone 13
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Best Apple Watch for iPhone 13 Users
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Smart Watch Series 9 (Best Overall)
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Device Apple Watch Ultra 2 (Best for Athletes & Outdoor Enthusiasts)
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Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) (Best Budget Option)
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Smart Watches to Avoid
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FAQs About Apple Watch Compatibility With iPhone 13
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Final Thoughts: Should You Upgrade Your Apple Watch for iPhone 13?
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External Links to Include
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YouTube Videos to Include
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Summary
Key Takeaways
- Apple Watch Series 3 and newer are compatible with the iPhone 13.
- The latest Apple Watch models, like the 9 and Ultra 2, require iOS 17 or later.
- Some features, such as fast charging and Always-On Display, are only available on 5 and newer.
- Older models like the Apple Series 3 still work but will lose software support soon.
- And If you want the best performance, go for the Apple Watch 9 or Ultra 2.
Apple Watches That Work With iPhone 13

When you have an iPhone 13, you can use any Watch Series 3 or newer. However, some models offer better performance, longer battery life, and more advanced features.
Apple Compatibility Chart
Apple Watch Model | Compatible With iPhone 13? | Minimum iOS Requirement |
---|---|---|
Apple Watch Ultra 2 | Yes | iOS 17 |
Apple Watch Ultra | Yes | iOS 16 |
Apple Watch Series 9 | Yes | iOS 17 |
Apple Watch Series 8 | Yes | iOS 16 |
Apple Watch Series 7 | Yes | iOS 15 |
Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) | Yes | iOS 16 |
Apple SE (1st Gen) | Yes | iOS 14 |
Apple Watch Series 6 | Yes | iOS 14 |
Apple Watch Series 5 | Yes | iOS 13 |
Apple Watch Series 4 | Yes | iOS 12 |
Apple Watch Series 3 | Yes (Limited Support) | iOS 11 |
Apple Watch Series 2 & older | No | Not Supported |
Not sure which Apple Watch you have? Find out in this complete guide to identifying your model.
How to Check Watch Compatibility With iPhone 13

If you already own an Apple Watch, follow these steps to check if it’s compatible with your iPhone 13:
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Step 1: Check Your iOS Version
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Tap Universal> About.
- Make sure you are running iOS 17 or later for full compatibility.
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Step 2: Find Your Watch Model
- Unlock the Watch app on your iPhone.
- Tap General > About.
- Find the Model Number, then compare it with the compatibility chart above.
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Step 3: Check for Software Updates
- First, Activate the Watch app on your iPhone. Next, tap Standard and then go to Software Update. After that, check for an update is available. When there is one, make sure to install it right away. As a result, you’ll experience smoother functionality, better performance, and improved compatibility with your iPhone 13.
Best Apple Watch for iPhone 13 Users

And If you're looking to buy a new Smart Watch, here are the best options for iPhone 13 users:
Smart Apple Watch Series 9 (Best Overall)
Best for most users
- Fastest performance with the S9 chip
- Always-On Display for better visibility
- Double Tap Gesture for hands-free control
- Improved battery life
Check out the best bands for Series 9: 7 Best Apple Watch Series 9 Bands (2024).
Watch Ultra 2 (Best for Athletes & Outdoor Enthusiasts)
Best for extreme sports & adventures
- Biggest, most durable design
- Exclusive outdoor features
- 36-hour battery life
Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) (Best Budget Option)
Affordable with great features
- Fast processor but lacks Always-On Display
- No ECG or Blood Oxygen sensors
Watches to Avoid
- Version 3 and older (Limited support, slower performance)
- Series 4 & 5 (Still usable, but will lose updates soon)
Need help choosing? Read this comparison guide.
FAQs About Apple Watch Compatibility With Series13
1. Can I use an Apple Series 3 with iPhone 13?
Ofcourse, but with limited support.
2. Do we need iOS 17 for the latest Apple Watch?
Absolutely, Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 require iOS 17 or later.
3. Can I pair multiple Watches to iPhone 13?
Yes, but you can only use one at a time.
4. Does the iPhone 13 support fast charging for Apple Watch?
Yes, but only with Series 7 and newer.
Final Thoughts: Should You Upgrade Your Apple Watch for iPhone 13?

If you’re using an Apple Watch Series 3 or older, it’s time to upgrade. While these models still work, they lack newer features and will soon lose watchOS support.
For iPhone 13 users, without a doubt, the best Apple Watch choices are:
- Smart Apple Watch Series 9 – Moreover, it ensures a seamless experience with iOS 17.
- Device Apple Watch Ultra 2 – On the other hand, if you love outdoor adventures, then this is the ideal choice. Not only is it the most durable model, but it also comes with exclusive outdoor features and an impressive 36-hour battery life.
- Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) D– Meanwhile, for those who are looking for a more budget-friendly option, this one is perfect. Even though it lacks some advanced features, it still delivers great performance at a lower price.
Want to personalize your Apple Watch? Check out these stylish Apple Watch bands.
External Links to Include
These external links provide additional information, Apple’s official resources, and other relevant guides:
- Apple’s Official Compatibility List – https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT204507
- Latest Apple Watch Models & Features – https://www.apple.com/watch/
- How to Pair Your Apple Watch with iPhone – https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT204505
YouTube Videos to Include
These YouTube videos provide visual guides on Apple Watch compatibility, pairing, and choosing the best model:
- Which Apple Watch is Right for YOU? (2023 - 2024) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdtFxD-fVTY
- How to pair and set up your Apple Watch | Apple Support – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2AJa2iwEzo&t=4s
- Apple Watch Series 9 & Ultra 2 Review – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ek2nUYzlLlo

Summary
Apple Watch Series 3 and newer are compatible with the iPhone 13. However, if you want the latest features, the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 require iOS 17 or later. Additionally, premium features like fast charging and an Always-On Display are only available on Series 5 and newer.
Meanwhile, older models like the Series 3 and 4 are gradually losing software support, meaning they may not receive future watchOS updates. As a result, some apps and functionalities could become limited over time.
If you want the best Apple Watch experience, upgrading to a Series 9 or Ultra 2 is the smartest choice. These models ensure faster performance, longer battery life, and exclusive new features.
Lastly, don’t forget to personalize your Apple Watch with a stylish band!
Blog Author section.

Emily Johnson
Emily is a seasoned writer and technology enthusiast with a passion for digital watches and wearable tech. With over a decade of experience in the tech industry, she brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to her readers.
I just got a Series 3 and it pairs and automatically unpairs. What could be the problem?
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