Apple Watch SE 3 Review (2025) — Smart, Affordable, and Faster Than Ever
The Apple Watch SE 3, launched on September 9, 2025, alongside the Series 11 and Ultra 3, continues Apple’s mission to bring premium smartwatch performance to a wider audience. It doesn’t have all the high-end sensors of the Ultra or Series models, but with the new S10 SiP, improved safety tools, and Apple Intelligence features, it’s easily the best-value Apple Watch to date.
Key Specifications
- Display: Retina LTPO OLED (1000 nits brightness, non–Always-On)
- Chip: Apple S10 SiP with Neural Engine
- Battery Life: Up to 18 hours (32 hours in Low Power Mode)
- Case Sizes: 40mm and 44mm
- Build: Aluminum case, Ion-X glass, water-resistant up to 50m
- OS: watchOS 12 with Apple Intelligence
- Connectivity: GPS or GPS + Cellular (LTE), Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
- Sensors: Second-generation optical Heart Rate sensor, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Compass, Fall Detection, Crash Detection
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Design & Display
The Apple Watch SE 3 keeps the minimalist look of its predecessors, but with a lighter frame and slightly thinner bezels. The Retina LTPO OLED display remains bright and crisp, reaching up to 1000 nits, offering excellent visibility both indoors and outdoors. While it lacks the Always-On feature found in the Series 11 and Ultra 3, it’s responsive and power-efficient.
You can check out review for these here:
Apple Watch Series 11 Review (2025) — Smarter Health and Everyday Intelligence
Apple Watch Ultra 3 Review (2025) — Peak Endurance Meets Apple Intelligence
Apple offers the SE 3 in Midnight, Starlight, and Silver, with new sport band color options that complement its clean, youthful design. For many users, it’s indistinguishable from the more expensive models at a glance.
Performance & Battery
The SE 3 benefits hugely from the new S10 chip, making it nearly as fast as the Series 11. Apps open instantly, Siri responses are smoother, and AI-driven suggestions arrive without delay. This chip upgrade alone gives the SE 3 far more longevity than the SE 2.
Battery life is rated at 18 hours, but most users will comfortably see a full day of moderate use, and up to 32 hours in Low Power Mode. It charges via the same magnetic fast charger and supports all previous Apple Watch bands.
Health & Fitness Tracking
Apple trimmed a few advanced features (like Blood Oxygen, ECG, and temperature sensing), but the SE 3 still delivers reliable core health tracking. The second-generation optical heart sensor provides accurate readings for workouts and resting heart rate.
With watchOS 12, Apple introduced sleep apnea notifications, leveraging movement and heart rate patterns to alert users of potential breathing irregularities during sleep. However, features like cycle tracking based on temperature data remain exclusive to higher-end models.
Combined with Fall Detection, Crash Detection, and Emergency SOS, the SE 3 remains a dependable fitness and safety companion for everyday users.
Smart Features & Apple Intelligence
The addition of Apple Intelligence is a game-changer for the SE lineup. It brings features previously exclusive to higher-end models:
- On-device Siri responses for privacy and speed.
- Notification summaries and message drafting suggestions.
- AI-based workout reminders and motivational nudges.
watchOS 12 also enables better integration with iPhone Focus Modes and the new Journal app, making the SE 3 feel more like a personal assistant than ever.
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Pros & Cons
Pros
- Fast S10 chip brings flagship-level performance
- Excellent value for everyday users
- Lightweight and durable design
- Apple Intelligence integration
- Sleep apnea notifications via watchOS 12
Cons
- No Always-On Display
- Lacks ECG, Blood Oxygen, and temperature sensors
- Modest battery life compared to rivals
Verdict
The Apple Watch SE 3 nails the essentials — speed, safety, and smart functionality — all at a price that makes sense for most users. It’s not built for divers or elite athletes, but it’s perfect for students, casual fitness users, and anyone who wants the Apple ecosystem experience without spending a fortune.
With the power of the S10 chip and Apple Intelligence now standard, the SE 3 feels less like a compromise and more like a brilliant entry point into Apple’s smartwatch world.
