Apple’s latest product cycle brought the iPhone 17 Air and the rugged Apple Watch Ultra 3 to market, but the Apple Watch SE 3 has emerged as the most compelling device for the average consumer. Historically positioned as a budget option, the SE 3 now delivers flagship-level functionality at a remarkably accessible price point of $249.
Closing the Feature Gap
Previous SE models lacked key features found in higher-end Apple Watches, such as always-on displays or advanced health tracking. The SE 3 changes that. It now boasts the S10 chip (previously exclusive to the Series 11 and Ultra 3), 5G connectivity, an always-on display, temperature tracking, sleep apnea alerts, sleep score, and one-handed gesture control. Fast charging is also included, making it a truly competitive device. The addition of an always-on display is particularly significant; it was previously the most noticeable drawback of the SE line.
The inclusion of these features isn’t just about parity; it’s about redefining value. For many users, the extra sensors and capabilities of the more expensive models simply don’t justify the cost premium. The SE 3 strikes a balance between affordability and functionality that makes it the smart choice for everyday use.
Performance and Battery Life
The SE 3 retains the 18-hour battery life of its predecessors, which is less than the 24 hours offered by the Series 11 and 42 hours on the Ultra 3. However, charging time has dramatically improved. Leveraging the ultra-fast charging technology first introduced with the Series 10, the SE 3 can gain up to 8 hours of use from just a 15-minute charge.
The device comes in 40mm and 44mm sizes, slightly smaller than the Series 11 (42mm and 44mm) and Ultra 3 (49mm). While the SE 3 has slightly wider bezels around the screen, the overall experience remains high-quality.
Tradeoffs Worth Considering
The SE 3 still lacks a few advanced health features found in the Series 11 and Ultra 3, such as hypertension notifications and ECG functionality. It also does not have the same level of durability: the Series 11 has a two-times more glass-resistant cover glass than previous models.
Despite these differences, the SE 3’s improvements make it a standout product. It represents a major shift in Apple’s strategy, delivering premium features to a broader audience.
The Apple Watch SE 3 isn’t just an affordable option; it’s the most sensible choice for most users who want a powerful, reliable smartwatch without breaking the bank.
