Hi there! With the wide range of Apple Watch models available today, deciding between affordable options like the Apple Watch SE versus the aging Series 3 can feel overwhelming. Don‘t worry – I‘ll clearly compare the key capabilities of these two smartwatch models to help determine the right fit based on your needs and budget.
First, let‘s quickly recap Apple‘s Watch lineup…The SE originally debuted in 2020 as Apple‘s lower cost smartwatch alternative to that year‘s flagship Series 6. The Series 3 similarly filled the entry-level pricing role back in 2017. With both now discontinued by Apple, you‘ll have to look at independent resellers to find available inventory.
Let‘s dig into the how they actually compare head-to-head:
Display Technology
While the display sizes differ only slightly between the two models, the SE uses a Retina OLED panel with updated LTPO technology and higher pixel density for sharper images compared to the Series 3‘s Retina OLED display. Specifically:
| Apple Watch SE | Apple Watch Series 3 | |
| Sizes | 40mm, 44mm | 38mm, 42mm |
| Display Type | Retina LTPO OLED | Retina OLED |
| Resolution | 324 x 394 (40mm) 368 x 448 (44mm) | 272 x 340 (38mm) 312 x 390 (42mm) |
| Brightness | 1000 nits | 1000 nits |
So while peak brightness remains the same excellent 1000 nit standard on both, the SE‘s displays are able to render sharper images and text.
Performance & Storage
Powering these experiences are markedly different processors…The Series 3 utilizes Apple‘s older dual-core S3 chip while the SE contains the more modern S5 processor. Performance benchmarks show up to 2x faster operation with the SE thanks to its 64-bit architecture. Everything just feels far snappier and responsive.
Similarly, storage gets a significant boost moving from the Series 3‘s 8GB or 16GB capacities up to 32GB standard on the SE. This allows you to store many more apps, music and images locally on your watch.
Health Sensors & Safety Features
When it comes to tracking your health, fitness and safety throughout your day, the SE again outperforms the dated Series 3 in several respects:
- Upgraded optical heart rate sensor for improved accuracy
- Next-gen accelerometer that enables fall detection
- Always-On altimeter for precise realtime elevation metrics
- Emergency SOS and international calling provides peace of mind if you ever need assistance
Both watches still cover the basics like step counting, calories burned and workout types. But the SE‘s modernized sensors give it the edge for more precise health metrics.
Apple Support & Software Updates
Software support is an important criteria for any smart device‘s longevity. The Apple Watch Series 3 launched all the way back with watchOS 4 and capped out at watchOS 8 updates before Apple ceased supporting it. Without future updates, dated security and missing features are a concern over time.
By comparison, the SE runs the latest watchOS 9 release today. And you can expect it to continue receiving Apple‘s newest smartwatch software features and optimizations for years to come. Future-proofing!
Finding the Best Deal
With Apple no longer manufacturing either model, eBay and Amazon offer some of the best remaining inventory of the SE and Series 3. I found refurbished Series 3 models in the $120 range. Comparatively, retail prices for the SE average between $200-$250 for 40mm GPS versions.
As you can see, the Series 3 remains an incredible bargain smartwatch given it‘s age. But by spending up for the SE, you‘re getting vastly improved performance, displays and sensors wrapped up in a sleek modern design – all for under $250. Pretty outstanding if it fits your budget!
Let me know if this breakdown gives you a clearer perspective on how the SE and Series 3 compare. Happy to chat more or provide any other details that would help make your buying decision easier!
