Apple has officially introduced the Apple Watch SE 3, announced on September 9, 2025, and set to release on September 19. Positioned as the entry-level model in Apple’s smartwatch lineup, the SE 3 combines the essentials of Apple’s premium watch technology with a more accessible price point. Lightweight, stylish, and packed with practical features, it offers a great balance of performance, design, and affordability for those who want the Apple Watch experience without the premium cost of the Series or Ultra models.
The Apple Watch SE 3 retains Apple’s clean and modern look with a 44 x 38 x 10.7 mm body and weighing just 26.4g to 33g, depending on the model. It uses a glass front, plastic/sapphire crystal back, and aluminum frame, making it both lightweight and durable. The watch is also 50m water resistant, ensuring it’s safe for workouts, swimming, and everyday wear. Available in Midnight and Starlight finishes, the SE 3 feels premium despite its budget positioning.
The SE 3 comes with a 1.78-inch Retina LTPO OLED display, boasting a resolution of 448 x 368 pixels and ~326ppi density. With a 1000-nit peak brightness, it provides excellent clarity outdoors. The screen is protected by Ion-X strengthened glass (2025 gen), ensuring durability against scratches and everyday bumps.
Powered by the Apple S10 chipset with a dual-core CPU and PowerVR GPU, the Apple Watch SE 3 delivers smooth performance, snappy app loading, and efficient multitasking. Running on watchOS 26, it offers the latest features, fitness tracking tools, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. The device also includes 64GB internal storage for apps, media, and offline music playback.
The SE 3 may not have all the advanced sensors of the Series 11 or Ultra 3, but it still provides a strong suite of health tools, including:
These make it an excellent companion for fitness enthusiasts and casual health monitoring.
With support for GSM, HSPA, LTE, and 5G networks through eSIM, the SE 3 ensures reliable connectivity even without an iPhone nearby. Additional features include:
Media playback is also supported, making it a well-rounded device for everyday use.
The Apple Watch SE 3 is equipped with a Li-Ion battery that supports wireless fast charging, reaching 80% in just 45 minutes. This makes it highly convenient for quick top-ups throughout the day.
The Apple Watch SE 3 starts at just $249, making it the most affordable entry in Apple’s 2025 smartwatch lineup. It’s available in Midnight and Starlight finishes, giving users stylish choices at a budget-friendly price.
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The Apple Watch SE 3 strikes a smart balance between affordability and functionality. While it doesn’t carry the extreme durability of the Ultra 3 or the high-end display brightness of the Series 11, it provides more than enough for the average user. The Retina OLED display is sharp and bright enough for daily use, and the S10 chip ensures smooth performance across apps and fitness tracking.
Health monitoring is reliable, with the second-generation heart rate sensor and body temperature tracking providing accurate results. For fitness enthusiasts, the built-in GPS and altimeter make it a dependable workout companion. The lightweight build makes it comfortable for all-day wear, and its water resistance ensures peace of mind during swimming or outdoor activities.
While it lacks advanced features like ECG, SpO2, and satellite SOS found in higher-end models, the SE 3 offers outstanding value for its price. It is the perfect choice for first-time smartwatch users or those who want a capable Apple Watch without overspending.
If you’re looking for an affordable Apple Watch that covers the essentials, the SE 3 is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for students, casual users, and anyone new to the Apple Watch ecosystem. However, if you need advanced health features, extreme durability, or cutting-edge display tech, you may want to consider the Series 11 or Ultra 3 instead.
The Apple Watch SE 3 proves that great smartwatches don’t have to come with a premium price tag. With a sleek design, bright OLED display, S10 performance, and reliable fitness tracking, it delivers all the essentials at a fraction of the cost of higher-end models. For $249, it’s one of the best entry-level smartwatches in 2025 and a fantastic gateway into Apple’s wearable ecosystem.
Q1: When is the Apple Watch SE 3 releasing?
The Apple Watch SE 3 was announced on September 9, 2025, and is set to release on September 19, 2025.
Q2: How much does the Apple Watch SE 3 cost in the US?
The Apple Watch SE 3 starts at $249, making it Apple’s most affordable smartwatch of 2025.
Q3: What are the key features of the Apple Watch SE 3?
It includes a 1.78-inch Retina OLED display, Apple S10 chip, 64GB storage, 2nd gen heart rate sensor, GPS, and fast wireless charging.
Q4: Does the Apple Watch SE 3 support advanced health features?
The SE 3 supports heart rate and body temperature tracking but does not include ECG or SpO2 monitoring like the Series 11 or Ultra 3.
Q5: Who should buy the Apple Watch SE 3?
It’s ideal for students, first-time smartwatch buyers, and anyone wanting an affordable Apple Watch with core features and reliable performance.
Image Credits: Apple Watch SE 3
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