Apple watch SE 3: price, release date & all new features

Apple has unveiled the Watch SE 3, and it’s no longer just the starter model in the lineup. This time, it borrows big-ticket features from its pricier siblings. It features an Always-On Retina display, the new S10 chip, faster charging, and deeper health tracking, all while maintaining its familiar SE price tag. For anyone who has been holding out for a smartwatch that feels modern without emptying their bank account, the SE 3 makes a convincing case.

In this guide, you will learn;

• The SE 3’s price, pre-order details, and official release date.
• Which hardware and health upgrades matter most (and what’s still missing).
• Real-world battery life, fast-charging gains, and durability trade-offs.
• Which buyer the SE 3 is for, and when to consider Series 11 or Ultra alternatives. 

Quick-Glance: Apple Watch SE 3 Overview

Pricing and Availability

The Apple Watch SE 3 is now available for pre-order and will officially release on September 19, 2025. It is priced at $249 in the United States, maintaining the same starting price as its predecessor, the SE 2. 

Customers can purchase the SE 3 directly from Apple through their official website, as well as from major retailers such as Best Buy and Verizon. These platforms offer various configurations, including GPS-only and GPS + Cellular models, in two sizes: 40mm and 44mm, and two color options: Starlight and Midnight.

In India, Apple has partnered with Ingram Micro to distribute the Apple Watch SE 3 through the IndiaIstore platform, making it accessible to consumers across the country starting September 19, 2025.

For those looking to save, Apple offers trade-in options that can reduce the cost of the SE 3 by up to $335, depending on the model and condition of the device being traded in. 

The SE 3 keeps Apple’s entry-level pricing strategy.

• 40mm GPS model: Starting at $249
• 44mm GPS model: Slightly higher, depending on region
• GPS + Cellular versions: Priced above the GPS-only options, adding mobile connectivity and 5G support

International prices vary depending on taxes and import duties.

Colors and Design

The Apple Watch SE 3 retains the same rounded aluminum case design but introduces several refinements.

• Case sizes: 40mm and 44mm
• Finishes: Available in Midnight and Starlight
• Display: Always-On Retina, a first for the SE line
• Durability: Upgraded Ion-X front glass for better scratch and crack resistance
• Water resistance: Rated to 50m, safe for swimming and everyday wear

The look is unmistakably Apple Watch. It is lightweight, minimalist, and designed for all-day comfort.

Performance and Software

Apple didn’t hold back on the SE 3’s internals. This time, it runs on the same chip as the premium Series 10, meaning users get flagship performance at a friendlier price. Paired with watchOS 26, the SE 3 feels faster, wiser, and more capable than ever. Here’s what stands out:

• S10 Dual-Core Chip

The Apple Watch SE 3 is powered by the same processor as the Series 10, bringing flagship-level speed to the entry model. Apps open instantly, scrolling feels smoother, and switching between functions is lag-free.

• Improved Efficiency

The new chip isn’t just faster — it’s smarter in terms of power usage. Combined with Low Power Mode, it extends the battery life by up to 50%, making it reliable for extended periods.

• watchOS 26

The SE 3 ships with Apple’s latest watch software, ensuring users get the newest features and updates right out of the box. It also means longer support years ahead.

• Double-Tap Gestures

Quick hand movements can now control the watch,  from answering calls to scrolling notifications, without needing your other hand.

• On-Device Siri

Siri requests are handled directly on the watch, so you get faster answers and can perform tasks even without a connected iPhone or Wi-Fi.

• Voice Isolation for Calls

Taking calls in noisy places is easier, as the watch filters out background sounds so your voice comes through clearly.

Health and Fitness Features

Health tracking has always been a core part of the Apple Watch, and the SE 3 brings some of Apple’s more advanced tools into its more affordable lineup. With new sensors and software updates, it’s designed to give users deeper insights into their well-being while keeping the basics polished.

• Blood oxygen monitoring

For the first time, the SE lineup now includes blood oxygen monitoring. This feature uses built-in sensors to measure your blood oxygen saturation, a key indicator of overall respiratory and circulatory health. It’s especially helpful for athletes training at high altitudes or anyone who wants to track wellness trends over time.

• Ecg capability

The SE 3 can now take single-lead electrocardiograms directly from your wrist. By placing your finger on the Digital Crown, the watch records your heart’s electrical signals in just 30 seconds. Results are saved in the Health app and can be shared with a doctor, giving you an accessible heart health check anytime.

• Irregular rhythm notifications

Using advanced algorithms, the SE 3 can monitor your heart rate patterns and alert you if it detects signs of atrial fibrillation (AFib). These irregular rhythm notifications don’t replace a medical diagnosis, but they can help users seek medical advice earlier than they otherwise might.

• Sleep stage tracking

Sleep tracking has been upgraded to include detailed stages: REM, Core, and Deep sleep. By analyzing your movements and heart rate, the SE 3 offers a clearer breakdown of how much restorative rest you’re getting. These insights can help you adjust bedtime habits and improve sleep quality over time.

• Menstrual cycle tracking

Apple has expanded its reproductive health features with better cycle tracking tools. Users can log symptoms, track ovulation windows, and receive predictive notifications for upcoming cycles. The SE 3 also uses health data to provide more personalized insights, making it useful for family planning or simply understanding body rhythms better.

• Existing core features

The SE 3 retains key health staples like 24/7 heart rate monitoring, high and low heart rate alerts, fall detection, and Emergency SOS. These features combine everyday safety with wellness monitoring, ensuring the watch serves as both a guardian and a fitness coach.

Battery and charging

Battery life is one of the most important factors for anyone considering a smartwatch, and Apple has made some thoughtful improvements with the SE 3. While the overall runtime is similar to the previous generation, new features like fast charging and Low Power Mode make it more convenient for daily use.

• Standard Battery Life

Apple rates the SE 3 for up to 18 hours of typical use, covering notifications, workouts, calls, and apps. This means you can comfortably wear it throughout the day without needing to recharge, though heavy GPS or cellular use may reduce actual time slightly.

• Fast Charging

The SE 3 supports faster charging than its predecessor. Fifteen minutes on the charger provides about 8 hours of usage, while roughly 45 minutes will bring the battery up to 80%. This is ideal for users who need a quick boost before heading out or starting a workout.

• Low Power Mode

A new Low Power Mode helps extend battery life up to 32 hours by limiting background activity and display updates. It’s ideal for long trips, multi-day events, or when you want to maximize the power of a single charge.

• Charging Convenience

The SE 3 uses Apple’s standard magnetic charging cable, compatible with other Apple Watch models, so there’s no need for new accessories. The combination of faster charging and Low Power Mode ensures the watch can keep up with even busy schedules.

Connectivity and smart features

The Apple Watch SE 3 keeps users connected with both basic and advanced features, making it more than just a fitness tracker. Whether you’re at home, on the go, or working out, these connectivity options ensure the watch stays fully functional and integrated with your digital life.

• GPS and GPS + Cellular Options

The SE 3 is available in GPS-only and GPS + Cellular models. GPS models handle location tracking for workouts and navigation when paired with an iPhone. Cellular models let you make calls, send texts, and stream music without your iPhone nearby, thanks to 5G support in regions that allow it.

• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity

The watch connects seamlessly to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth networks, enabling syncing with your iPhone and accessories like AirPods. This ensures notifications, messages, and media playback are delivered without interruptions.

• On-Device Siri

Siri processes many requests directly on the watch. This reduces lag and allows quick access to voice commands even when your iPhone isn’t nearby. You can ask for directions, set reminders, or check the weather instantly.

• Voice Isolation for Calls

Calls made on the SE 3 use voice isolation technology, which minimizes background noise. This ensures that your voice comes through clearly in busy environments like offices, gyms, or streets.

• App Ecosystem Integration

The SE 3 supports a wide range of Apple Watch apps, including fitness, productivity, travel, and health apps. With watchOS 26, app updates are faster, and features like notifications, widgets, and complications work smoothly on the Always-On display.

Comparison with Apple Watch SE 2

The SE 3 builds on the foundation of the SE 2, but Apple has added meaningful upgrades that close the gap between this affordable option and the premium Series line.

• Display: SE 3 now has an Always-On Retina display, while the SE 2 required wrist-raising to see the screen.
• Performance: Powered by the S10 chip (same as Series 10), SE 3 is faster and more efficient than SE 2’s S8 chip.
• Health Features: Blood Oxygen Monitoring and ECG arrive for the first time in the SE lineup — both missing on SE 2.
• Charging: SE 3 supports fast charging, while SE 2 does not.
• Software: Both run watchOS 26, but SE 3’s faster hardware makes the experience smoother.
• Price: SE 3 starts slightly higher than SE 2’s launch price, reflecting the added features.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Always-On display for quick glances
• S10 chip delivers flagship performance
• Advanced health features (ECG, Blood Oxygen) added
• Faster charging with Low Power Mode extends life
• On-device Siri and voice isolation improve usability
• More affordable than the Series 10 while offering many of the same tools

Cons

• Battery life is still capped at 18 hours in normal use
• No temperature sensor or advanced health features found on Series models
• Limited to an aluminum case, no stainless steel option
• Slightly higher entry price compared to SE 2
  

Final takeaways

• The Apple Watch SE 3 delivers core Apple Watch functionality with meaningful upgrades like an Always-On display, S10 chip, and enhanced health features, all at an accessible price.
• It is ideal for first-time buyers, students, parents, and budget-conscious users looking for reliable performance and essential wellness tracking.
• While it doesn’t include every premium feature, it offers excellent value and integration within the Apple ecosystem, making it a solid choice for anyone considering a smartwatch in 2025.

Conclusion

The Apple Watch SE 3 is Apple’s most capable SE model yet, striking a balance between performance, design, and essential health features at an accessible price point. With its Always-On display, faster S10 chip, enhanced sleep and heart monitoring, and reliable connectivity options, it offers most of the experience of a premium Apple Watch without the premium cost. For first-time buyers, students, or those upgrading from older SE models, it’s a wise, well-rounded choice. Those needing advanced health metrics or extended battery life may want to explore higher-end alternatives, but for everyday use, the SE 3 delivers impressive value.