When choosing an Apple Watch, two models often come into consideration: the Apple Watch Series 3 and the Apple Watch SE. Both devices offer an incredible array of features, but they cater to different needs, preferences, and budgets. If you’re in the market for an Apple Watch and unsure whether the Series 3 or the SE model is right for you, this comprehensive guide will walk you through a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.
In this article, we will look at key factors such as design, performance, health features, battery life, and price, among others, to help you determine which Apple Watch is best suited for your lifestyle.
Apple Watch Series 3: The Classic Entry-Level Model
Launched in 2017, the Apple Watch Series 3 has remained a popular option for users seeking an entry-level Apple Watch. With a more budget-friendly price point, it offers many essential smartwatch features, making it a great choice for those who want a simpler yet reliable device.
Design and Display of Apple Watch Series 3
- Display Size and Resolution: The Series 3 comes with a 38mm or 42mm case size. Its screen features a 1.65-inch OLED display with a 272 x 340 resolution (38mm) and a 1.78-inch display with a 312 x 390 resolution (42mm). While the display isn’t as large or sharp as that of newer models, it still offers clear readability.
- Build: The Series 3 is available in aluminum or stainless steel cases, offering a sleek yet lightweight design that fits well for most wrist sizes. While it’s no longer the most modern design in the Apple Watch lineup, its durable and compact form still appeals to many users.
Performance and Speed
- Chipset: Powered by the Apple S3 dual-core processor, the Series 3 provides decent performance, but it may not run as smoothly or quickly as more recent Apple Watches. However, it can still handle most apps and tasks like fitness tracking, notifications, and messaging.
- Operating System: The Series 3 supports watchOS updates, although it may not support all features available on newer models due to hardware limitations. Still, it’s capable of running most essential apps.
Health and Fitness Features
- Fitness Tracking: The Series 3 comes with all the essential fitness tracking features, including heart rate monitoring, step counting, calorie tracking, and workout tracking. It also includes the GPS function for outdoor activities like running, walking, and cycling.
- Limited Sensors: While it supports basic health monitoring, it lacks some advanced sensors present in the more recent models, such as blood oxygen monitoring, ECG, and the always-on altimeter.
Battery Life
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Battery Longevity: The Apple Watch Series 3 offers up to 18 hours of battery life with typical usage. While this is the same as other Apple Watches, including the newer SE model, the Series 3 may require more frequent charging during heavy usage due to its slightly older battery technology.
Price and Value for Money
- Affordability: The biggest selling point of the Series 3 is its lower price compared to other models. If you’re on a budget but still want to experience the core features of the Apple Watch ecosystem, the Series 3 is a great choice.
- Overall Value: While it may not have all the modern features, the Apple Watch Series 3 remains a solid option for those who want a no-frills, dependable smartwatch at a budget price.
Apple Watch SE: The Balanced Upgrade
The Apple Watch SE, released in 2020, is a more modern offering designed to provide a balanced mix of features at a more affordable price than the higher-end models like the Series 6 or Series 7. It is intended for users who want a more advanced smartwatch experience than the Series 3 but at a competitive price.
Design and Display of Apple Watch SE
- Display Size and Resolution: The Apple Watch SE boasts a larger and brighter display than the Series 3. It features a 40mm or 44mm case size, with a Retina OLED display and a 324 x 394 resolution (40mm) and a 368 x 448 resolution (44mm). The larger screen provides better readability and an overall more modern look.
- Build: The SE model features an aluminum body, available in several colors like silver, space gray, and gold. It’s stylish, lightweight, and slightly more premium than the Series 3, though it doesn’t feature the stainless steel case option of more expensive models.
Performance and Speed
- Chipset: The Apple Watch SE is powered by the S5 dual-core chip, which is significantly faster and more capable than the S3 chip found in the Series 3. This results in a smoother and more responsive experience when running apps, receiving notifications, and switching between tasks.
- Operating System: The SE model supports the latest versions of watchOS, ensuring access to all the latest software features and improvements. The SE also includes the always-on altimeter, which tracks elevation during outdoor activities.
Health and Fitness Features
- Fitness and Health Monitoring: The SE model comes with many of the same health and fitness features as the Series 3, including step tracking, calorie counting, heart rate monitoring, and GPS. However, it also adds some more advanced features, such as fall detection, which can alert emergency services if you take a hard fall.
- Sensors: The Apple Watch SE lacks some of the advanced sensors found in the Series 6 or Series 7, such as ECG and blood oxygen monitoring. However, for the price, it offers excellent health monitoring, making it a great option for everyday use.
Battery Life
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Battery Longevity: The Apple Watch SE offers up to 18 hours of battery life, similar to the Series 3. However, thanks to more efficient hardware and software, the SE model tends to hold up a bit better with moderate usage.
Price and Value for Money
- Cost: The Apple Watch SE is priced higher than the Series 3 but still significantly more affordable than the more premium models like the Series 6, Series 7, or Series 8. It strikes a great balance between price and features, offering a more modern Apple Watch experience at an attractive price point.
- Overall Value: With its modern design, faster performance, and additional features like fall detection and a larger display, the SE model provides excellent value for money.
Apple Watch Series 3 vs. SE: A Detailed Comparison to Choose the Best
When comparing the Apple Watch Series 3 and the Apple Watch SE, the differences in design, performance, features, and price become quite apparent. Below is a breakdown of the main factors to consider:
Design and Display
- Series 3: Smaller screen, older design, lower resolution, smaller case size options (38mm and 42mm).
- SE: Larger screen, more modern design, higher resolution, larger case size options (40mm and 44mm).
- Performance
- Series 3: Powered by the older S3 dual-core processor, which may feel slower and less responsive with more demanding tasks.
- SE: Powered by the newer S5 dual-core processor, offering faster performance and better responsiveness.
Health and Fitness Features
- Series 3: Basic fitness and health features, including heart rate monitoring and GPS, but lacks fall detection and some advanced sensors.
- SE: Offers fall detection, better workout tracking, and more advanced sensors, though it lacks ECG and blood oxygen monitoring.
Battery Life
- Series 3: Up to 18 hours of battery life.
- SE: Up to 18 hours of battery life, but more efficient performance for longer lasting usage under typical circumstances.
Price
- Series 3: More affordable, suitable for budget-conscious buyers who don’t need the latest features.
- SE: Higher price point, but still affordable compared to the premium models. Provides more features and better performance for the price.
Which Apple Watch Is Right for You?
The decision between the Apple Watch Series 3 and Apple Watch SE ultimately depends on your personal needs, preferences, and budget. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
- Choose the Apple Watch Series 3 if you are on a budget and need a basic, reliable smartwatch with essential fitness tracking and notifications.
- Choose the Apple Watch SE if you want a more modern device with a larger display, faster performance, better fitness tracking, and additional safety features like fall detection.
Conclusion
Both the Apple Watch Series 3 and the Apple Watch SE offer a solid user experience, but they cater to different types of buyers. The Series 3 remains an excellent choice for those who want an affordable, entry-level smartwatch, while the SE is better for those seeking a more modern, feature-rich experience at a reasonable price. Consider your needs, lifestyle, and budget to choose the Apple Watch that fits you best.
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