Apple Watch SE 3 Brings Premium Features to the $250 Budget Segment
Key Points
- S10 processor brings watchOS 26 features to the SE 3.
- Always‑on display with 1,000‑nit brightness.
- Fast charging: eight hours of use after 15 minutes.
- Health tools include heart‑rate monitoring, sleep score, and temperature sensor.
- Aluminum alloy case matches Series 11 durability.
- Priced at $250, offering premium features at a budget price.
Apple's latest Watch SE iteration upgrades the entry‑level smartwatch with the same S10 processor found in the Series 11, enabling watchOS 26 features such as Workout Buddy, Live Translation, double‑tap gestures and on‑board Siri. It adds an always‑on display at 1000 nits, faster charging that delivers eight hours of use after just 15 minutes, and health tools like heart‑rate monitoring, sleep scoring and a temperature sensor. Built from an aluminum alloy case and priced at $250, the Watch SE 3 offers a strong value proposition for budget‑conscious consumers.
Performance and Software Enhancements
The Apple Watch SE 3 is equipped with the S10 chip, the same processor powering the Series 11. This upgrade allows the budget watch to run watchOS 26 features including Workout Buddy, Live Translation, and new gesture controls such as double‑tap and wrist flick to dismiss notifications. On‑board processing also enables Siri requests without needing a nearby iPhone.
Display and Battery Improvements
An always‑on display, previously optional, now arrives on the SE 3 with a maximum brightness of 1,000 nits, sufficient for bright sunlight. Charging speed sees a major boost: the watch can provide eight hours of runtime after just 15 minutes on the charger, a stark contrast to the over‑two‑hour charge time of the previous generation.
Health and Wellness Features
The device continues to track heart rate during workouts and now offers a sleep score. A temperature sensor adds ovulation‑related insights, though the SE 3 does not include ECG or hypertension detection found on higher‑end models.
Design, Materials, and Pricing
Constructed from an aluminum alloy, the SE 3 matches the durability of the Series 11 base model. Priced at $250, the watch delivers a blend of premium functionality and affordability, positioning it as a compelling choice in the budget smartwatch market.