Apple Watch SE 3 is just days away from its official launch. Leaks suggest it could be the most affordable Apple smartwatch yet. For students and budget-conscious buyers, this might be the perfect smartwatch in 2025. Let’s explore why the Watch SE 3 deserves your attention.
Overview
Unlike the Apple Watch Series 11, the Watch SE 3 will skip premium features. It also won’t carry the rugged build of the Watch Ultra 3. Instead, Apple is focusing on value, price, and performance for everyday users.
The first Apple Watch SE debuted in 2020 and gained instant popularity. In 2022, Apple followed up with the Watch SE 2, which again received positive feedback from everyone. Now in 2025, Apple is ready to launch the long-awaited Watch SE 3.
New Design & Build
The Watch SE 3 will introduce a refreshed design. Buyers can choose between larger 41 mm and 45 mm screen options. Apple is switching to a plastic frame for affordability and lighter weight. Worth mentioning, the plastic build will not look cheap in any way. This change also means more vibrant color options will be available.
Watch SE 3 Performance
Apple’s flagship Series 11 and Ultra 3 will feature the new S11 chip. The Watch SE 3, however, will run on the proven S10 chip. Performance will still be smooth, with minimal differences in daily use.
You also get watchOS 26, ensuring updated features and software stability. Battery life is expected to improve, thanks to software optimizations. In short, the Watch SE 3 will deliver reliable performance at a lower price.
AI Features on Watch SE 3
All Apple Watch models in 2025 will embrace AI integration. The Watch SE 3 will include features like live message translation and Workout Buddy. You’ll also find Fitness Coach and the new AI-powered Notes app on your wrist.
Siri support will be smarter, faster, and more context-aware. These AI tools will make daily tasks more efficient for students and professionals.
Release Date & Price
Leaks suggest the Watch SE 3 will cost around $200. This is an incredible deal for an Apple Watch in 2025. Even if supply chain and tariff issues can affect pricing, it will remain budget-friendly. The release date is September 9, 2025, at the upcoming Apple Event.
What You Might Miss on Watch SE 3?
Some premium features will stay exclusive to the Series 11 and Ultra 3. These include the S11 chip, 5G connectivity, and possible blood pressure monitoring. ECG functionality is also uncertain for the Watch SE 3 model.
Still, the Apple Watch SE 3 includes sleep apnea detection, which is a valuable health feature. For most users, the missing sensors won’t be a dealbreaker. Let’s see a different table between the Watch Ultra 3, Watch Series 11, and Watch SE 3.
| Watch Ultra 3 | Watch Series 11 | Watch SE 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Same Design | Same Design | New Design |
| Larger Display | ❌ | Larger Display |
| Wide-angle OLED Panel | ❌ | ❌ |
| S11 Chip | S11 Chip | S10 Chip |
| 5G Connectivity | 5G Connectivity | ❌ |
| Sleep Apnea Detection | Sleep Apnea Detection | Sleep Apnea Detection |
| BP Monitoring | BP Monitoring | ❌ |
Is the Apple Watch SE 3 Right for You?
If you are new to Apple Watch, the Watch SE 3 is a perfect start. It balances affordability with essential features, without unnecessary extras. The world is still adjusting to advanced health tracking, like blood pressure monitoring or ECG. Apple continues refining these technologies before rolling them out widely. Meanwhile, the Watch SE 3 offers dependable features at a student-friendly price.
Wrapping Up
The Apple Watch SE 3 is shaping up as the best budget smartwatch in 2025. For around $200, you’ll enjoy premium Apple Watch features. It’s affordable, reliable, and designed with students and everyday users in mind. The Watch SE 3 proves that you don’t need to spend big for an excellent smartwatch.
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*** This story is developing and will be updated every now and then ***
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