Vratislav Holub Apple Watch has earned a solid reputation during its existence and is rightly called one of the best smart watches on the market. Apple has made significant progress with them since the release of the first version. Since then, we have seen, for example, water resistance suitable for swimming, ECG and blood oxygen saturation measurements, fall detection, larger displays, always-on displays, better resistance and a number of other positive changes.
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However, what hasn't changed at all since the so-called zero generation are the types of glasses used. In this regard, Apple relies on Ion-X, or sapphire, which can differ from each other in various ways and offer different benefits. But which one is actually more durable? At first glance, the clear winner is the Apple Watch with sapphire glass. The Cupertino giant bets on them only for more premium models labeled Edition and Hermès, or even for watches with a stainless steel case. However, a higher price does not necessarily indicate higher quality, i.e. better durability. Let's therefore look together at the pros and cons of each variant.
Differences between Ion-X and Sapphire Glass
In the case of Ion-X glasses, Apple relies on literally the same technology that appeared in the very first iPhone. It is therefore a curved glass, which is now known worldwide under the name Gorilla Glass. The production process plays a key role here. This is because it is based on so-called ion exchange, where all the sodium is extracted from the glass using a salt bath and subsequently replaced by larger potassium ions, which then take up more space in the glass structure and thus ensure better hardness and strength and greater density. In any case, it is still a relatively pliable (softer) material that can handle bending better. Thanks to this, watches with Ion-X glass may not break as easily, but they can be scratched more easily.
Apple Watch Hermès
On the other hand, here we have a sapphire. It is significantly harder than the mentioned Ion-X glasses and therefore offers generally greater resistance. But it also carries a minor disadvantage. Since this material is stronger and harder, it does not handle bending as well and can crack under certain impacts. Sapphire glasses are therefore used in the world of watches for first-class models, where they have a long tradition. They are simply durable and virtually scratch-resistant. On the contrary, it is not a very suitable option for athletes, and in this respect Ion-X glasses win.
The potential of Ion-X glasses
Of course, there is one important question at the end. What is the future for both types of glass and where can they go? Ion-X glass, which is now considered an "inferior" option, has high potential. In any case, manufacturers are intensively improving the production process and the technology itself, thanks to which this type rejoices in constant progress. As for sapphire, it is no longer so lucky, as it is severely limited in this respect. It will therefore be quite interesting to follow the overall development. It is possible that one day we will see the day when Ion-X glasses will surpass the just mentioned sapphire in all respects.
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