Apple Watch SE 3 Review: Specifications, And Comparison With Older Versions
Apple Watch is known for its style, features, and premium look and feel of watches. It comes with a slight difference every year; this year Apple Watch SE 3 was launched on 9 September 2025. Comes with 5G cellular connectivity, SE 3 stands out from other models for sure. Today, we will provide you with an Apple Watch SE 3 review. Everything you need to know about this new Apple Watch.
TL;DR
- Apple Watch SE 3 is a newly-launched wrist watch, in 9 September 2025. Available in Asian and European regions, it falls under the affordable category.
- Features like Always-On display, double-tap response, GPS, 5G connectivity make it users’ first choice in the affordable watch segment.
- The crash-resistance display makes it more durable; it can be used in rough and tough situations.
Apple Watch SE 3 Specifications
We have used the product and decided to review for better clarity and experience. Those who love the Apple Watch SE series should know the real thing about its latest launch. This review guide is going to be authentic and based on real-time usage. We’ll cover every aspect in detail, so read on.
Here’s a quick recap of the specifications:
| Category | Detail |
| Processor | Apple S10 (64-bit Dual-Core) |
| OS | watchOS 26 |
| Storage | 64GB Internal Memory |
| Case Material | Recyclable Aluminum |
| Case Sizes | 40 mm and 44 mm (Square Shape) |
| Weight | 40 mm: 26.3g (GPS) / 26.4g (GPS + Cellular) 44 mm: 32.9g (GPS) / 33.0g (GPS + Cellular) |
| Display Type | Always-On Retina LTPO OLED |
| Brightness | Up to 1000 nits |
| Resolution | 40 mm: 324 x 394 pixels 44 mm: 368 x 448 pixels |
| Durability | 4× Stronger Crack Resistance |
| Battery Life | Up to 18 hours (Standard Use) |
| Charging | Rapid Charging: 0-80% in 45 minutes |
| Key Sensors | 2nd-gen Optical Heart Sensor, Temperature Sensor, High-G Accelerometer, Always-on Altimeter, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Ambient Light Sensor |
| Health Tracking | Heart Rate Monitoring, Sleep Tracking & Score, Retrospective Ovulation Tracking, Fall Detection, Crash Detection, Fitness Rings, Automatic Workout Detection |
Display:
This time, users get the best display. It comes with an Always-On retina LTPO OLED display that is 1000 nits bright. It comes with two screen sizes: one is 40 mm (324 x 394), and the second one is 44 mm (368 x 448). Along with it, Apple provides 4× stronger crack resistance this time, making your watch stronger.
Apple Watch SE 3 Performance:
Performing on the latest chipset (Apple S10), it’s a 64-bit dual-core processor that makes it a fast and efficient watch. Moreover, it has a 64GB internal memory, which is more than enough for a watch like this. The Apple Watch SE 3 works on watchOS 26 operating system, which is power-efficient and helpful for users.
Apple Watch SE 3 sensors:
Comes with various sensors, the SE series is a standout for many. The first sensor is a 2nd-gen optical heart sensor. It measures the heart rate and provides other essential information to alert you when something goes wrong. Alongside, it also displays the current heart health status.
The second one is a temperature sensor (a sensor that helps measure the temperature of the body and notifies you to take care of your health).
The other sensors include a high-G accelerometer, an Always-on altimeter, a Compass, a gyroscope, a barometer, and an ambient light sensor. These are health tracking sensors that help you stay fit and always be aware of your health through real-time analysis.
Health & Fitness Tracking
As mentioned, numerous sensors measure your health status on the Apple Watch SE 3. These sensors are highly accurate and measure the status of your health like really well. For instance, heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking and score, retrospective ovulation tracking, fall detection & crash detection, and fitness rings & automatic workout detection, all of these are your health indicators.
Hardware Review of Apple Watch SE 3
The watch comes with a size range of 40mm and 44mm for both models. It weighs around 26.3g and 32.9g, making it absolutely light to wear full day. Moreover, the watch is usually made up of recyclable aluminium. The screen shape is square.
As a new feature, Apple has released the always-on retina OLED display to attract users. This display is 1000 nits bright, making it easier to view the screen even in the direct sun. Overall, it’s the best product in the market considering the price.
Coming to the battery department, the device gives you up to 18 hours of backup, maintaining standard expectations from this series. The watch also has rapid charging, which charges 0-80% in 45 minutes. That’s an upgrade from the previous models of this series.
Apple Watch SE 3 Price and Availability
This segment is dedicated to Price and availability of this watch. After its launched in September 9, 2025, it is available at Apple Stores across the world. Users can find this at registered stores as well. It’s an affordable category of watches, therefore, the price remains slightly at the lower side.
Users may expect a discount on the Apple Watch SE 3 depending on the location or occasion. Here’s the price categorisation of the watch at different locations:
| Location/Region | Model | Price |
| USA | 40mm GPS | $249 |
| 44mm GPS | $279 | |
| Cellular Versions | Starting above $349 | |
| India | 40mm GPS | ₹25,900 |
| 44mm GPS | Approx. ₹30,900+ | |
| UK | 40mm GPS | £219 |
| 44mm GPS | £249 | |
| Australia | 40mm GPS | AUD 399 |
| 44mm GPS | AUD 449 | |
| Europe (general) | 40mm GPS | €259.99 |
| 44mm GPS | Slightly higher |
Comparison: Apple Watch SE 3 vs SE 2 vs Series 9
Here is the clear comparison of popular Apple watches. These are popular watches of a similar range. Check how one is different from others and why. Have a look:
| Feature | Apple Watch SE 3 (2025) | Apple Watch SE 2 (2022) | Apple Watch Series 9 (2025) |
| Processor | S10 dual-core chip | S8 dual-core chip | S10 dual-core chip |
| Display | Always-On Retina OLED (40/44mm) | Retina OLED (no Always-On) | Always-On Retina OLED LTPO |
| Sizes | 40mm, 44mm | 40mm, 44mm | 41mm, 45mm |
| Storage | 64GB | 32GB | 64GB |
| Health Sensors | Optical heart sensor (2nd gen), wrist temperature, advanced sleep tracking | Optical heart sensor (2nd gen) | Optical heart sensor, ECG, Blood Oxygen, Temperature, Advanced Sleep tracking |
| Safety Features | Fall detection, crash detection | Fall detection | Fall detection, crash detection, and new safety features |
| Battery Life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 18 hours | Up to 18 hours |
| Charging | Fast charging (80% in 45 mins) | Standard charging | Fast charging |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 5.3, 5G cellular (optional) | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 5.0, Cellular optional | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, 5G cellular |
| Other Features | Double Tap gesture, Wrist Flick, Digital Crown with haptic feedback | Digital Crown | Double Tap gesture, Wrist Flick, Touch ID on Digital Crown |
| Price Range (Base GPS) | ₹25,900 (India) | ₹20,000-22,000 (India approx.) | ₹45,000+ (India approx.) |
| Build Material | Aluminum, Ion-X glass | Aluminum, Ion-X glass | Aluminum and Stainless Steel options |
Pros and Cons Of Apple Watch SE 3:
Every watch has advantages and disadvantages as per the user, so does the Watch SE 3. Some users may appreciate the feature it comes with, while others may find something lacking. Let’s check the two sides of a coin: the good and bad parts of the Apple Watch SE 3.
Pros:
- Comes with Apple S10 chip, the latest one offering smooth operation.
- Always-On display feature, which is bright enough even in direct sunlight.
- Improved battery: takes up to 45 minutes to charge 80%.
- Enhanced safety: notifies track and fall detection, crash detection and emergency SOS.
- Affordable price for the feature it offers and the brand it comes with.
- Made durable with 4× enhanced crack resistance; easy to wear in rough conditions.
Cons:
- Sensors missing: Sensors like ECG, Blood Oxygen measurement tool are not available in Apple Watch SE 3.
- Some may prefer aluminium-built, while others find it not-so-ok, as they prefer steel.
- Lacks an action button that controls a lot in digital watches.
- Battery run-time is up to 18 hours, which most users find less, as it requires daily charging.
- Limited color options that don’t attract users to buy it.
Apple SE 3 Watch After Use Share My Personal Experience
As personal experience, the Apple SE 3 Watch is by far the best in its competition. The watch has really good upgraded features, that makes it users’ first choice in 2025. As a user, i have tested the watch thoroughly and found something interesting that i’m sharing below. Here’s the explanation for each of its features, giving you a new perspective about the watch.
- Display Segment: Always-on retina display is truly an effortless feature, making users see the watch without moving hands in a particular way. It’s always on. The display also has 1000 nits peak brightness, which makes it easy to view even at the direct-light situations. Truly helpful upgrade.
- Battery Segment: In the battery department, they have this fast charging facility that charges your device as quicker as 80% in 45 minutes, as they mention. In a world where everybody is so busy, this quick charging helps in many ways. So, that’s one of the features i genuinely liked.
- Software upgrade & Better Connectivity: Earlier they have 4G connection in the SE series, but from SE 3 Watch Apple, they are now rolling out in 5G cellular connection; fast and efficient. Also, the latest software, S10 Chip with 4 Core neural engine, helps manage task easier, as it’s really fast.
Final Words
Apple SE 3 Watch is an affordable wearable. The product gives you a satisfying experience with its new features, like always-on display and double-tap feature. Moreover, this watch is 4x better crash resistant, and in fact comes with fast charging, 80% in 45 minutes. With newer features, it surpasses the older versions, making it users’ first choice. Apple Watch is known for its durability, advanced features, and sleek style. And this series is affordable as well, so users should go for it.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
How old is the Apple Watch SE series 3?
The SE series 3 was launched in September 2025. So, it’s about 1 month old, as of writing this post.
What is the difference between the SE 2 and the SE 3?
There are significant differences that can be seen in the SE 3 Apple Watch over the SE 2. The features like GPS, double-tap option, and always-on display are some prominent features that come in the latest SE 3 watch.
What are the cons of an Apple Watch SE?
The lesser battery, missing features like ECG, Oxygen measurement, and limited colour options, are some of the Cons of the Watch SE.
Is Apple discontinuing the Apple Watch SE?
The previous SE watch versions, like SE 2 or previous versions, are discontinued now. Apple is moving ahead with new and updated devices, like the SE 3. You will find the SE 3 watch in the market at the Apple store and the registered resellers.
Does the Apple Watch SE 3 have GPS?
Yes, the Apple Watch SE 3 has GPS integrated. It works on a 5G network and has GPS and cellular GPS integration.
What is the battery life of the Apple Watch SE 3?
As per the usage and users’ review, the battery of Apple SE 3 sustains for the whole day in a normal usage. However, it can increase up to 32 hours, when the power saving mode is turned on.
Source:
https://www.apple.com/apple-watch-se-3/
https://www.tomsguide.com/wellness/smartwatches/apple-watch-se-3-review