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Introduction to the Apple Watch SE 3
What if I told you Apple has managed to trickle down nearly all the major features you’d expect from an Apple Watch into an entry-level model that doesn’t break the bank and still feels right at home in the lineup?
I discovered this firsthand after testing the brand-new Apple Watch SE 3 for nearly a week.
Design and Build Quality
The SE 3 doesn’t reinvent the wheel – it’s very much a classic Apple Watch. It comes in two sizes, 40mm and 44mm, and two colors. The Digital Crown remains, and it uses the same charger, giving it a familiar feel on the wrist.
Importantly, it resolves one of the biggest complaints regarding the SE line by incorporating an Always-On display. While the display doesn’t slope at the edges like the newer Series models, it retains the characteristic Apple Watch aesthetic with an aluminum build and tougher Ion-X glass. The device is practical and durable—a key factor for those considering it for children.
Although the bezels are a bit chunkier and brightness tops out at 1,000 nits, the display is practical for everyday use, making it a solid choice for many consumers.
Performance Insights
Performance is the area where the SE 3 shines brightest, equipped with the same S10 chip found in the Series 11 and Ultra 3. This allows watchOS 26 to run smoothly, ensuring apps open instantly and navigation is seamless. Features such as Double Tap and the new Wrist Flick add a layer of convenience.
While it lacks some advanced health features like ECG and Blood Oxygen monitoring, the essentials are well-covered: heart rate tracking, activity monitoring, and temperature sensing. Compared to the SE 2, the SE 3 is a significant step forward, offering faster performance and even supporting fast charging—a welcome addition.
The battery life remains rated at 18 hours but can be extended to roughly 32 hours with Low Power Mode, making it a practical companion throughout the day. The introduction of a 5G antenna in the LTE model is a significant upgrade, although real-world speeds feel similar to previous iterations.
Pricing and Value Proposition
At $249 / £219 / AU$399 for the 40mm version, the Apple Watch SE 3 is positioned as the most affordable option within Apple’s lineup. If you opt for the 44mm model, the price increases slightly. The added cost for cellular connectivity means $299 / £289 / AU$489 for the 40mm model, with additional fees for service activation.
Available in Starlight or Midnight, the Apple Watch SE 3 can be pre-ordered now, set to launch on September 19, 2025. Given its features and competitive pricing, it stands out as one of the best values in the Apple Watch lineup.
Technical Specifications
Component | Apple Watch SE 3 |
Price | From $249 / £219 / AU$399 |
Dimensions | 40 x 34 x 10.7mm (40mm), 44 x 38 x 10.7mm (44mm) |
Weight | 26g (40mm) or 32.9g (44mm) |
Case/Bezel | Aluminum |
Display | Always-On Retina LTPO display with OLED, Ion-X scratch-resistant. |
GPS | L1 GPS, GNSS, Galileo, and BeiDou |
Battery Life | 18 hours of battery life or 36 hours in Low Power mode |
Connection | Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, LTE 5G (Optional) |
Water Resistance | WR50 and IP7X |
Conclusion
In a saturated market where features and prices often battle for dominance, the Apple Watch SE 3 stands out as a remarkable entry-level smartwatch. While it may not have every premium feature, its performance, usability, and thoughtful design culminate into an exceptional value. Ideal for families and newcomers to the Apple ecosystem, the SE 3 solidifies its place as a must-consider option for anyone seeking a reliable smartwatch experience.
For further details on the Apple Watch SE 3, visit Here.
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