The Apple Watch SE 3, launched in September 2025 alongside the Series 11 and Ultra 3, costs $150 less than the Series 11 because of a handful of design, material and feature trade-offs. Understanding these differences matters for anyone weighing whether to buy the cheaper SE model or spend more on the standard lineup, particularly those upgrading from an older Apple Watch or deciding between the two current models.

Compared with the Series 11, the SE 3 is slightly smaller (44mm/40mm versus 46mm/42mm), has a dimmer and less durable display, and comes only in recycled aluminium rather than offering a titanium option. It also lacks an ECG app, blood oxygen sensor, depth gauge, water temperature sensor and Precision Finding for iPhone. Battery life is shorter too, at up to 18 hours (32 hours in low power mode) versus up to 24 hours (38 hours in low power mode) on the Series 11, meaning the SE 3 is more likely to need charging before bedtime.