Utilizing a smartwatch daily is akin to having a discreet assistant attached to your wrist. It encourages movement, monitors exercise sessions, prompts relaxation, and at times aids in reducing screen time. The recently launched Apple Watch SE 3 has seamlessly fulfilled this role for me in recent weeks.
While Apple’s higher-tier Watch Series 11 and robust Watch Ultra 3 may steal the limelight with their advanced health monitoring capabilities, the Watch SE 3 is not lacking in features. Despite being the most budget-friendly option in the lineup, priced at Rs 25,900 in India, the list of enhancements is substantial. This leads us to confidently suggest that the Watch SE 3 is the ideal Apple Watch for the majority of users in 2025.
Design and Construction
The Apple Watch SE 3 maintains Apple’s signature design aesthetics, which is perfectly acceptable. The familiar square face, sleek frame, and lightweight aluminum build strike a harmonious balance between comfort and sturdiness. It rests comfortably on the wrist throughout the day without causing any discomfort. Available in either 40mm or 44mm sizes, the larger variant, which we reviewed, offers a more practical feel (although it’s commendable that Apple caters to individuals with smaller wrists even at an affordable price point).
With the increased screen size, notifications, workout tracking, and widgets feel spacious. While the bezels on the SE model are slightly thicker compared to the newer Series 11, the black watch faces blend seamlessly with the borders, reducing their prominence. Apple provides a variety of appealing watch faces via its Watch app, some of which are customizable.
The crown on the right side protrudes slightly, adding character without being obtrusive. Navigating menus via the crown offers a satisfying experience, thanks to precise haptic feedback and subtle vibration feedback with each turn. The crown also serves as a back button, playing a central role in user interface navigation. Adjacent to it is a flush button that grants quick access to settings like Wi-Fi and flashlight. Both controls are tactile and responsive. A potential improvement for future models could be expanding haptic feedback functionality beyond scrolling. For example, incorporating a subtle vibration when opening apps would enhance user interactions.
Durability has not been compromised. The Watch SE 3’s aluminum case is complemented by IonX glass, touted by Apple as four times more scratch-resistant than the SE 2’s glass. During testing, the screen remained unscathed, although a protective cover is advised for those prone to scratches. The watch is water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for splashes, showers, and frequent handwashing, although it was not tested in a pool setting.
The Watch SE 3 benefits from Apple’s versatile strap compatibility, allowing seamless integration with the full Apple Watch band ecosystem, including Watch Ultra bands, facilitating quick style changes. Swapping bands is effortless, requiring a simple slide-out mechanism from the case. The review unit included blue silicone straps, comfortable for daily wear but prone to dust accumulation and slippery when sweaty. For intense workouts, nylon straps offer better grip.
Display Quality
The display represents one of the significant upgrades on the Watch SE 3. The LTPO OLED panel delivers sharp visuals, vibrant colors,