The Apple Watch SE 3 is the latest offering from Apple in the smartwatch market, and it has a lot to offer for its price point. With a focus on delivering core features efficiently, the SE 3 is a value-for-money option that competes well with its more expensive counterparts like the Series 11 and Ultra 3.
Design & Build
The design of the SE 3 remains consistent with previous Apple Watch models, featuring a square shape with a digital crown and button on the side. Available in 40mm and 44mm sizes, the SE 3 comes in two color options – Midnight and Starlight. The build quality is excellent, with the device being lightweight, comfortable, and waterproof up to 50m. The addition of Ion-X glass makes the screen more durable compared to its predecessor.
Screen & Speaker
The SE 3 now features an always-on display, a highly requested feature that enhances usability. The OLED panel delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks, although the thick bezels give the watch a slightly dated look. The speaker quality is decent, allowing users to take calls and listen to music directly from the watch.
Performance & Software
Powered by the S10 chip, the SE 3 offers smooth performance and responsiveness. Running on watchOS 26, the software experience is seamless and intuitive, with new features like Liquid Glass and Smart Stack enhancing usability. The addition of gestures like Wrist Flick adds a convenient touch to navigating the device.
Health & Fitness Tracking
The SE 3 offers solid core tracking features like heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and activity rings. While it misses out on advanced features like ECG and blood oxygen monitoring, it still provides valuable health insights and automatic workout tracking with GPS. The device also includes new features like wrist temperature tracking and sleep apnea notifications.
Battery Life & Charging
Despite maintaining the same battery life as its predecessor (18 hours), the SE 3 now supports fast charging, allowing users to reach up to 80% charge in 30 minutes. While the battery life may not be as long-lasting as some other smartwatches on the market, the fast charging capability makes up for it.
Price & Availability
The Apple Watch SE 3 is competitively priced, starting at £219/$249 for the 40mm size and £249/$279 for the 44mm size. The device is widely available from retailers like Apple, Amazon, Argos, Very, Currys, and John Lewis. With its budget-friendly price point and excellent value for money, the SE 3 is a compelling option for those looking for a reliable smartwatch.
Should you buy the Apple Watch SE 3?
The Apple Watch SE 3 is a solid choice for users looking for a budget-friendly smartwatch that delivers on core features and functionality. With improvements in design, performance, and health tracking, the SE 3 offers a compelling option in the Apple smartwatch lineup. Whether you’re a first-time smartwatch user or looking to upgrade from an older model, the SE 3 provides a reliable and feature-rich experience.
Overall, the Apple Watch SE 3 offers a good balance of features, performance, and affordability, making it a worthwhile investment for those in the market for a new smartwatch.
