TL;DR
Apple refreshed its smartwatch range with the Apple Watch SE 3, Series 11 and Ultra 3. The SE 3 keeps the entry price while adding key features like Always‑On display and fast charging, while the Series 11 brings a larger, brighter screen and additional health sensors for under $400 (currently available with a $100 discount).
What happened
Apple updated its full Apple Watch lineup this year, shipping three new models: the entry-level Apple Watch SE 3, the mid-tier Apple Watch Series 11, and the higher-end Apple Watch Ultra 3. The SE 3 received a notable refresh that keeps its original price but adds an Always‑On display, temperature sensing, sleep apnea notifications, new wrist gestures and the same S10 processor used in the Series 11. It offers 40mm and 44mm aluminum cases, up to 18 hours of normal battery life and roughly 32 hours in Low Power Mode, plus faster charging to reach about 80% in 45 minutes. The Series 11 comes in 42mm and 46mm sizes, features a larger, brighter panel, longer battery runtimes (up to 24 hours and up to 38 hours in Low Power Mode) and includes ECG, blood‑oxygen and hypertension notifications along with water and depth sensors. Amazon listings show temporary price cuts on both models.
Why it matters
- New features on the SE 3 narrow the gap to higher-end models while preserving the lower starting price.
- Series 11 adds clinical-style sensors and a brighter display for users who want more health data and longer battery life.
- Battery and charging improvements affect daily use and how often users need to charge during multi-day activities.
- Current retail discounts can change the value proposition between the two models for buyers on a budget.
Key facts
- Both the Apple Watch SE 3 and Series 11 use Apple’s S10 chip.
- SE 3 sizes: 40mm and 44mm (aluminum). Series 11 sizes: 42mm and 46mm (aluminum and titanium options listed).
- Display: SE 3 up to ~1000 nits; Series 11 up to ~2000 nits; Series 11 offers larger display area.
- Health features: Series 11 supports hypertension notifications, ECG and blood‑oxygen app; SE 3 does not include those apps.
- SE 3 adds Always‑On display, temperature sensing, sleep apnea notifications, wrist flick and double‑tap gestures.
- Battery: SE 3 up to 18 hours (about 32 hours in Low Power Mode); Series 11 up to 24 hours (about 38 hours in Low Power Mode).
- Charging: SE 3 supports faster charging (0–80% in ~45 minutes) unlike its predecessor.
- Pricing in Apple’s normal range: SE 3 starts from $249; Series 11 starts from $399. Amazon listings in the source show temporary lower prices (SE 3 from $219/$229; Series 11 aluminum from $299/$329).
- Series 11 adds water temperature sensing and a depth gauge; SE 3 lacks those sensors.
What to watch next
- Apple Watch Activity Challenge running Jan 7–31: earn an award by closing all three Activity rings seven days in a row (confirmed in the source).
- Current promotional prices: the Series 11 is listed with a $100 discount at some retailers at the time of the report (confirmed in the source).
- Future software updates or additional features and discounts are not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- Always‑On display: A screen mode that keeps key watch information visible continuously at lower brightness and refresh rates so users can glance at time and complications without waking the device.
- ECG: Electrocardiogram — a sensor and app combination that records the heart’s electrical activity to detect certain irregular rhythms.
- Blood oxygen (SpO2) app: A sensor and software feature that estimates the percentage of oxygen carried in the blood, often used as one metric of respiratory and cardiovascular health.
- Low Power Mode: A power‑saving state that reduces background activity and sensor usage to extend battery life at the cost of some features.
- S10 chip: Apple’s system-on-chip used in recent Watch models; it handles processing, graphics and sensor data for watchOS and watch apps.
Reader FAQ
Which watch is the better pick for most people?
According to the source, the SE 3 is positioned as the best choice for most buyers because it adds key display and health features while keeping a lower starting price.
Does the SE 3 include ECG and blood‑oxygen apps?
No — the source states ECG and blood‑oxygen apps are included only on the Series 11.
How do battery lives compare between the two models?
The SE 3 is rated up to about 18 hours normally and roughly 32 hours in Low Power Mode; Series 11 is rated up to about 24 hours normally and up to 38 hours in Low Power Mode (figures from the source).
Are there current discounts on the Series 11?
Yes — the source notes a $100 savings on the Series 11 at the time of the report.
iOS 26 has three new iPhone features I’ve been really loving Ryan Christoffel Dec 29 2025 APPLE WATCH APPLE WATCH SERIES 11 APPLE WATCH SE 3 Apple Watch Series 11…
Sources
- Apple Watch Series 11 vs Apple Watch SE 3: Which should you buy for your New Year’s resolutions?
- Apple Watch Series 11 vs Apple Watch SE 3
- Apple Watch Series 11 vs. Ultra 3 and SE 3
- Apple Watch Series 11 and SE 3 Review: Adjusting My …
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