Been using my 44mm SE3 Cellular for a few days. Haven’t used cellular yet as my MVNO doesn’t have it yet. I use my S3 at night so haven’t completely tested the battery but when I’m done with it before bed it has a solid 45% left. I’ve been on the yearly upgrade train since S0, the best thing about SE3 is haven’t noticed any worse function than previous non-SE watches. Overall I’m happy so far, my plan going forward is being on the SE upgrade train. Answer from aj03020 on reddit.com
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The Guardian
theguardian.com › technology › 2025 › nov › 04 › apple-watch-se-3-review-bargain-smartwatch-iphone-screen-watchos-26
Apple Watch SE 3 review: the bargain smartwatch for iPhone | Apple Watch | The Guardian
November 4, 2025 - The Watch SE line is updated only every few years and has been good value but was missing some crucial things that make Apple’s other watches great. The Watch SE 3’s biggest upgrade is an always-on display, which brings it up to par with the Series line, allowing you to see the time and notifications at a glance without having to twist your wrist to turn the screen on.
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Pickr
pickr.com.au › home › news and articles › apple watch se 3 reviewed: fantastic
Apple Watch SE 3 review (2025) – Pickr
September 22, 2025 - Frankly, they still probably would whether they ended up on the more expensive Series 11 or this one. But if what you’re looking for is a smartwatch for iPhone owners that doesn’t mess around, this is it. It’s one of the best value wearables around, and the Apple Watch for most people. Fantastic value, fantastic experience. Recommended. ... Leigh :) Stark is an award winning technology journalist with over 16 years of experience, having appeared at the Financial Review, Popular Science, GadgetGuy, and on TV, radio, print, and web.
Discussions

The Apple Watch SE 3 is the one to buy | Apple gave the people what they wanted, resulting in the most compelling update to the Apple Watch lineup this year.
after having a series 5 for over 5 years now, this is the next watch I’d buy if I were to buy one but I gotta be honest i don’t know if I will ever buy another Apple Watch. The only thing I use it for anymore is to track workouts 🤷🏻‍♂️ More on reddit.com
🌐 r/apple
289
660
September 16, 2025
Apple Watch SE 3 review: Good enough for most people
I don’t use any of the “premium” features on my series 5 when this thing finally dies I’m getting an SE, idk wtf I was thinking sending $400 on this shit More on reddit.com
🌐 r/gadgets
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November 11, 2025
How’s everyone’s experience with the Apple Watch SE 3 so far?
Been using my 44mm SE3 Cellular for a few days. Haven’t used cellular yet as my MVNO doesn’t have it yet. I use my S3 at night so haven’t completely tested the battery but when I’m done with it before bed it has a solid 45% left. I’ve been on the yearly upgrade train since S0, the best thing about SE3 is haven’t noticed any worse function than previous non-SE watches. Overall I’m happy so far, my plan going forward is being on the SE upgrade train. More on reddit.com
🌐 r/AppleWatch
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25
September 25, 2025
What's Next for the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Apple Watch SE 3
Save a click... The article discusses potential features and updates for the upcoming Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Apple Watch SE 3, expected in September 2025. Apple Watch Ultra 3: May include 5G and satellite connectivity, a brighter display with faster refresh rates, and a redesigned metal back. Blood pressure monitoring is possible, but could be delayed. The watchOS 12 update should bring design changes and new features powered by Apple Intelligence. Apple Watch SE: Due for a refresh after three years, it may feature a faster chip, a larger display with slimmed-down bezels, and potentially an always-on display. New health features like sleep apnea detection are also possible. More on reddit.com
🌐 r/apple
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April 26, 2025
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Reddit
reddit.com › r/applewatch › how’s everyone’s experience with the apple watch se 3 so far?
r/AppleWatch on Reddit: How’s everyone’s experience with the Apple Watch SE 3 so far?
September 25, 2025 -

Hey everyone!

I’m curious to hear from people using the Apple Watch SE 3—both GPS and GPS + Cellular versions. How has your experience been so far?

  • Any standout pros or cons?

  • Battery life, reliability, and performance?

  • Any surprises, good or bad, since you started using it?

Just trying to get a sense of real-world use before diving in. Would love to hear your thoughts!

Top answer
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Been using my 44mm SE3 Cellular for a few days. Haven’t used cellular yet as my MVNO doesn’t have it yet. I use my S3 at night so haven’t completely tested the battery but when I’m done with it before bed it has a solid 45% left. I’ve been on the yearly upgrade train since S0, the best thing about SE3 is haven’t noticed any worse function than previous non-SE watches. Overall I’m happy so far, my plan going forward is being on the SE upgrade train.
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I came into the Apple Watch world through the ultra 1 three years ago. I previously used Garmins as that was the only reason I needed a smartwatch, for runs. I’ve read from Redditors that the battery was unbelievable on an ultra but, because I’ve used Garmins, I had no other Apple Watch to compare. This weekend I bought an SE 3 as a daily wear. Here it is, 11:01 AM and my SE 3’s battery is at 51% my ultra would have been at somewhere around 80ish. I’ve meditated, walked three miles, checked some notifications and the SE 3 is half done for the day. I’m not complaining about the SE 3, I really like it! I’m just appreciating why everyone was so excited about the ultra’s battery life. I had no idea that battery life was this harsh on standard (non ultra) watches. I’ve switched my new SE 3 to low power mode and turned off the “always on” feature. Again, I really like it, just realizing that I can’t see how the see how the SE 3 is a useful fitness tracker for longer runs and hikes.
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AppleInsider
appleinsider.com › articles › 25 › 09 › 29 › apple-watch-se-3-review-boring-but-the-one-to-buy
Apple Watch SE 3 review: Cost, performance, specifications
Apple Watch SE 3
In a mostly unremarkable update year for the flagship Apple Watches, the Apple Watch SE 3 stands out as the most improved since the last generation, and is the model to buy for most. In a mostly unremarkable update year for the flagship Apple Watches, the Apple Watch SE 3 stands out as the most improved since the last generation, and is the model to buy for most. Apple Watch SE 3 review: The go-to among Apple's wearables for 2025 In 2025, users have a lot of choices when it comes to Apple Watch. There is the Apple Watch SE 3, Apple Watch Series 11, and Apple Watch Ultra 3. Some of t
Rating: 4.5 ​
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Apple
apple.com › ca › apple-watch-se-3
Apple Watch SE 3 - Apple (CA)
Apple Watch SE 3 is packed with powerful health, fitness, connectivity and safety features. Available in two great finishes. All for a great value.
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PCMAG
pcmag.com › home › best products › wearables › smartwatches
The Best Apple Watch We've Tested for 2026 | PCMag
2 weeks ago - Read Our Editorial Mission Statement and Testing Methodologies. The Apple Watch SE 3 delivers two-day battery life, a top-of-the-line processor, an always-on display, and upgraded sensors and software for the same price as its predecessor.
Find elsewhere
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Wareable
wareable.com › home › apple watch se 3 review: still the best choice for most
Apple Watch SE 3 review: Still the best choice for most - Wareable
Apple Watch SE 3 review: Still the best choice for most
Following real-world testing, this is our thorough review of the Apple Watch SE 3—including analysis of battery life, design, and features. It's been three long years since we last saw the Apple Watch SE, a smartwatch that has quietly become one of Apple's most important products across its entire spectrum. The SE line has always had to perform a tricky balancing act: it needs to be compelling enough to be the default Apple Watch for the masses, yet not so good that it cannibalizes its more expensive sibling—in this case, the Series 11. With the Apple Watch SE 3, the company has just abo
Rating: 4.5 ​
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CNET
cnet.com › tech › mobile › smartwatches › i tested the apple watch se 3 and didn't feel any fomo
I Tested the Apple Watch SE 3 and Didn't Feel Any FOMO - CNET
Apple Watch SE 3
CNET’s expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise. ... Editors' Note: The Apple Watch SE 3 proves you don't need to spend top dollar to get a great Apple Watch. At $250, it's the best-value smartwatch ...
Rating: 9/10 ​
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Reddit
reddit.com › r/apple › the apple watch se 3 is the one to buy | apple gave the people what they wanted, resulting in the most compelling update to the apple watch lineup this year.
r/apple on Reddit: The Apple Watch SE 3 is the one to buy | Apple gave the people what they wanted, resulting in the most compelling update to the Apple Watch lineup this year.
September 16, 2025 - It’s stuck on watchOS 10.6.1, it’s 2nd battery depleting, and I don’t really care to upgrade it. It’s lowest on my list of Apple devices to replace. The SE 3 is a compelling upgrade but since I work from home it just doesn’t seem worth it.
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PhoneArena
phonearena.com › home › reviews
Apple Watch SE 3 review: looks outdated, but it's the best upgrade this year - PhoneArena
October 9, 2025 - Additionally, the Watch SE 3 features the same S10 chip as on the Watch Series 11 and gets some of its more advanced features — like wrist-flick and finger pinch to control the Watch without even touching it. However, it's not all roses and sunshine. The Apple Watch SE 3's design is stuck in the same casing that the Watch Series 6 had five years ago.
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MacRumors
macrumors.com › 2025 › 09 › 23 › apple-watch-se-3-review
Apple Watch SE 3 Review: Premium Features Without the Premium Price - MacRumors
September 23, 2025 - Temperature sensing, Sleep Apnea detection, and Sleep Score are all ‌Apple Watch SE 3‌ functions that weren't available on the prior-generation version. Temperature tracking is used for women's health features and monitoring vitals, while Sleep Apnea detection detects potential breathing issues at night.
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NYTimes
nytimes.com › electronics › smartphones › the apple watch is the best smartwatch for iphone owners
The Apple Watch Is the Best Smartwatch for iPhone Owners | Reviews by Wirecutter
September 16, 2025 - Apple’s third-generation Apple Watch SE now has an always-on display, which makes it much more useful for telling time and viewing notifications without raising your wrist. It comes in 40 mm and 44 mm case sizes, which makes it smaller than the flagship Series 11 and easier to wear for folks with small wrists. And it runs on the same S10 chip that powers the Series 11 and Ultra 3.
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PCMAG
pcmag.com › home › reviews › wearables › smartwatches
Apple Watch SE 3 Review: Major Upgrades, Stellar Battery ...
Apple Watch SE 3
The Apple Watch SE 3 delivers two-day battery life, a top-of-the-line processor, an always-on display, and upgraded sensors and software for the same price as its predecessor. It's a strong, budget-friendly alternative to the Series 11.
Rating: 4 ​
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Gadget Hacks
apple.gadgethacks.com › news › apple-watch-se-3-steals-spotlight-from-series-11
Apple Watch SE 3 Steals Spotlight From Series 11 << Apple :: Gadget Hacks
September 16, 2025 - With reviews calling the SE 3 "the star of this year's lineup" and PCMag noting it delivers "two-day battery life, a top-of-the-line processor, an always-on display, and upgraded sensors," we are seeing something rare in Apple land, a budget ...
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TechCrunch
techcrunch.com › home › is the apple watch se 3 a good deal?
Is the Apple Watch SE 3 a good deal? | TechCrunch
September 26, 2025 - Despite its lower price tag, the Apple Watch SE 3 comes with much of the same software as the Series 11.
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Consumer Reports
consumerreports.org › electronics & computers › phones & mobile devices › smartwatches & fitness trackers › the $250 apple watch se 3 is the most capable se ever
Apple Watch SE 3, Series 11, and Ultra 3 Reviews - Consumer Reports
November 4, 2025 - Apple upgraded its least pricey smartwatch, so the Watch SE 3 no longer feels like a budget buy. Also see reviews of the Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3.
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HardwareZone
hardwarezone.com.sg › home › mobile › wearables › apple watch se 3 review: it nails the basics
Apple Watch SE 3 review: It nails the basics | HardwareZone Singapore
November 15, 2025 - In my hands-on of the Apple Watch SE 3, I called it the watch that most people should get because it offers most of the features and capabilities of the pricier Series 11 watch for a lot less.
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CNET
cnet.com › tech › mobile › smartwatches › i wasn't expecting to root for the underdog, but the apple watch se 3 stole the show
I Wasn't Expecting to Root for the Underdog, But the Apple Watch SE 3 Stole the Show - CNET
3 weeks ago - Commentary: The Apple Watch SE 3 is a budget-friendly watch, but you'd never guess by how well it keeps up with the pricier models. ... Vanessa is a lead writer at CNET, reviewing and writing about the latest smartwatches and fitness trackers.
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Amazon
amazon.com › Apple-Smartwatch-Midnight-Aluminum-Always › dp › B0FQFW7M9H
Amazon.com: Apple Watch SE 3 [GPS 40mm] Smartwatch with Midnight Aluminum Case with Midnight Sport Band - S/M. Fitness and Sleep Trackers, Heart Rate Monitor, Always-On Display, Water Resistant : Electronics
A GREAT FITNESS PARTNER — SE 3 gives you a healthy number of ways to track your workouts. With real-time metrics and Workout Buddy powered by Apple Intelligence from your nearby iPhone,* you’ll hit your goals like never before.