The Apple Watch SE brings together the best parts of Series 4 and 5, making it an affordable option that will appeal to most users. This is the ideal middle-ground for users who don’t care about the S7 model’s high-end health sensors or the extra expense.
For
- Affordable price
- Use it quickly
- Apple Pay
- Heart rate sensor
- Adjustable straps
Against
- No always-on display
- Some sensors are missing from the Series 6 model
In 2020, Apple introduced two Apple Watch models. This split the range into what many could consider a “pro” offering (now in the Apple Watch Series 7) and a more affordable offering (the Apple Watch SE).
In order to offer a more affordable price, the SE sacrifices some premium features and more advanced functions in favour of providing a more budget-friendly option. Is Apple sacrificing quality to appeal? Or has the smartwatch maker found the right balance?
What features are missing in SE.
- Similar design to the S6.
- Lacks always-on display
- ECG or blood oxygen sensors are not available
When compared side-by-side the aluminium models look very similar. They are available in sizes 40mm and 44mm to fit your wrists, have similar screens (although Series 7 can use more surface area due to its new display), as well as multiple strap options to match your style.
They both use WatchOS 8 and, more importantly, they have the same software experience. The only difference is the built-in tech.
The Watch SE does not have an always-on display, has larger bezels, and doesn’t include the ECG functionality or the blood oxygen sensor. The Apple U1 chip, which is eventually used to open cars and find other Apple devices, is also unavailable on the Watch SE.
- Design by SE
- Finishes: Space Grey, Space Grey, and Silver
- Always-on altimeter & compass
- Larger screen than Watch S3
- Charge time of 5 hours
- Battery life all-day
The Watch SE is more affordable than the S7. It has the same processor from the Series 5 in 2019, plus a heart rate sensor, waterproof design, and an always-on altimeter.
The SE would likely be somewhere between the Series 4 and Series 5 models, if it were to be compared against the other Apple Watch models.
The SE is sleek and stylish and comes in three colours: Space Grey, Silver and Gold. There are many options for swappable bands. The new “loop”, which can be adapted to your wrist, comes in nine sizes.
You can control everything using a combination of the touchscreen, digital crown, or side button. You have access to all the information you need by combining them.
The box contains a puck that allows wireless charging. However, you will need to bring your own power charger. The Apple Watch SE can charge in two and a quarter hours. This is an hour and a tenth slower than the S7 but still quite fast.
The Watch SE is waterproof so it’s great for swimming or when you forget to take it off in the shower.
You won’t likely have used the Apple Watch always-on-display. If you don’t already own an Apple Watch Series 5, this watch is not aimed at you. The Apple Watch Series 5 is a great accessory, but the S6 and S7 models are better options if you really want it.
What sensors does the Watch SE use?
- Altimeter and compass always-on
- Heart rate sensor
The S7 model has some more advanced sensors than the S4, but that doesn’t mean you won’t have the same sensor features. We haven’t used the ECG feature of our Apple Watch for two years (Series 4 and Series 5). It’s something we only use to show off.
We expect the same to be true for the Series 6’s blood oxygen sensor. This is a great addition to Apple Watch but it’s not something that most people will need. What does it mean to have a 98% score? And how can you improve it? Yeah, we don’t either.
The only sensors you get are the heart-rate monitor, which is great for measuring fitness in a meaningful manner. Also included is a compass and an altimeter that is always on.
The heart-rate monitor is the best option if you plan to use the Watch SE to track your exercise and keep fit – which, let us face it, is why you are considering getting one. Although the compass is not as reliable, the altimeter will indicate your epic run or hike results when GPS isn’t working.
Verdict
Watch Series 3 is still very popular, even though it’s three years old. This is largely due to its price. The Watch SE is a major upgrade to the Series 3 model. This entry-level model is sensibly priced, and “SE” does not mean “super expensive”.
The Watch SE combines many of Apple’s best parts from Series 4 and 5, helping to divide the range into an even more unique entry-level and pro-spec approach.
While the SE is a different watch than the Series 7 model, there are some differences. However, we have found that these differences are not going to be a deal-breaker for casual users.
Apple Watch SE is the ideal middle-ground for users who don’t care about multiple health sensors or the extra cost of luxury materials like stainless steel and titanium.
The Apple Watch SE is a great wearable if you are interested in fitness or want to unlock your Mac without typing a password or paying for items with Apple Pay at the shops.
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