While the upgrade from the Apple Watch Series 10 to the Series 11 is fairly minor, the same goes for the Ultra 2 to Ultra 3; the jump from the Apple Watch SE of 2022 to the latest Apple Watch SE 3 is much more massive.
Apple overhauled just about every aspect of the entry-level smartwatch, with one notable exception: the design. However, that doesn't bother me; I'll get into why below.
Cost
Like its predecessor, the Apple Watch SE 3 starts at $249 for the smaller model without 5G connectivity. That's pretty darn reasonable. However, as of writing, you can get the latest SE model on your wrist for only $199.
By comparison, the cheapest Apple Watch Series 11 model starts at $399, or nearly twice the cost of the SE 3. That said, like the entry-level model, the Series 11 is also discounted right now. Snag one for just $299.
When it comes to the Ultra series, you could score three Apple Watch SE 3 40mm GPS models and still have $50 left over, versus plunking down $799 for the latest Apple Watch Ultra 3.
Processor
What surprised me most about the SE 3's debut is its processor. Apple gave the entry-level model the same exact S10 chip that's found in the Series 11 and Ultra 3. This speedy, yet efficient processor unlocks all sorts of cool things, like the device's always-on display, a new wrist flick gesture control for dismissing annoying notifications, and access to Siri sans internet connection.
When paired with an Apple Intelligence-capable iPhone, the SE 3 can even translate messages in real time, or create personalized fitness routines via the new Workout Buddy feature.
Case size
As noted above, Apple kept the design of the Apple Watch SE 3 consistent with the prior generation. As a result, there is both a 40mm and a 44mm option. For folks with smaller wrists, or those who simply prefer a more petite smartwatch design, the 40mm is the way to go.
By comparison, the smallest Series 11 model is 42mm, and even though the higher-end model features a thinner case, it's not that much thinner. I'm talking 1mm. The SE 3 is also notably lighter than the Series 11. All this adds up to a comfortable smartwatch that isn't too in your face, unlike, say, the enormous Apple Watch Ultra 3.
Sleep and health tracking
The Apple Watch SE 3 has nearly all the same health-tracking features of its pricier siblings, with only a handful of exceptions. For example, the SE 3 doesn't have an ECG sensor, so it can't detect atrial fibrillation like the Series 11 and Ultra 3 can. It also doesn't support hypertension detection.
What it does have is detailed nightly sleep insights with a daily sleep score, FDA-approved sleep apnea detection, comprehensive heart rate tracking, and, thanks to a new temperature sensor, improved women's health tracking (compared to the SE 2022).
Like the other Apple Watch models in the lineup, the SE 3 presents all your health data in one consolidated place, the Vitals app. Here you'll find insights into your heart and respiratory rate, wrist temperature, and sleep quality.
5G connectivity
As of writing, the Apple Watch SE 3 is the cheapest 5G-capable smartwatch you can buy. The current generation of Samsung Galaxy watches and Pixel Watches are still stuck with 4G-LTE, but Apple went ahead and gave every single smartwatch in the lineup optional 5G.
For those who desire an internet-connected smartwatch without the need to carry their phone, 5G offers faster speeds, lower latency, and more efficient battery consumption compared to 4G-LTE.
Ultimately, if money is no option, the Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3 are two of the best smartwatch models around, but I still prefer the SE 3 thanks to its affordable price, use of the same ultra-fast processor, comfortable design, comprehensive wellness insights, and zippy 5G connectivity.
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