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How scratch resistant is the Apple Watch Sport?

Published Apr 22nd, 2015 12:28PM EDT
Apple Watch Sport
Image: Apple Inc.

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As the entry level model, the Apple Watch Sport collection lacks the exceedingly scratch resistant sapphire display that graces the Watch and Edition models. Instead, the Sport models feature an Ion-X glass display which, while durable, is not quite as scratch resistant as sapphire.

But just what, exactly, is the qualitative difference between Ion-X glass and sapphire?

To answer that question, Lewis Hilsenteger of Unbox Therapy uploaded a video where the Apple Watch Sport display is put through a series of rigorous scratch testing.

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When subjected to abrasive objects like keys, knives, and steel wool, the Apple Watch Sport display holds up well. But when Hilsenteger breaks out some sandpaper, the difference between the Ion-X glass and sapphire becomes apparent.

As a point of reference, remember that a scratch test video of the Apple Watch sapphire display surfaced last week. The sapphire display ably managed to survive any object put in its way, not surprising given that it’s the second hardest material on the planet.

All that said, the Apple Watch Sport should prove to be sufficiently durable and scratch resistant for almost all users in. Unless you’re deliberately trying to scuff up the display, you should be fine.

Yoni Heisler Contributing Writer

Yoni Heisler has been writing about Apple and the tech industry at large with over 15 years of experience. A life long expert Mac user and Apple expert, his writing has appeared in Edible Apple, Network World, MacLife, Macworld UK, and TUAW.

When not analyzing the latest happenings with Apple, Yoni enjoys catching Improv shows in Chicago, playing soccer, and cultivating new TV show addictions.