The Apple Watch has dominated the smartwatch market for years, and that's for good reason. This smart watch can do many functions of a smartphone. Without a doubt, Apple's werable is one of the best fitness trackers out there, and it helps its users to keep their vital signs under control. But which Apple Watch is more worth buying in 2021: The Series 3 or the SE?
First of all, it should be noted that there is no bad choice when it comes to buying an Apple Watch. Both the SE and Series 3 models will provide most of the features you need in a smartwatch. But to clear your doubts, here is a review of smartwatches to help you narrow them down.
Which Apple Watch is more worth buying in 2021: The Series 3 or the SE?
Apple Watch Series 3: The Most Affordable Option
If you want a new Apple Watch for just over R$1.600, the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm GPS version is the best option for you. Not only is it still sold by Apple, but the company continues to make software updates. It is compatible with the latest version of watchOS 7 software.
Also, the watch face is almost the same as the newer models. The Series 3 is one of the best smartwatches in its price range, allowing you to make calls, send text messages, receive notifications and listen to music.
It offers many of the same fitness and heart health monitoring features that are present in the Series 5 and 6, making it a great choice.
It's capable of automatically detecting over 12 different workouts, including swimming and cycling, and gives you access to Apple's new Fitness Plus service, allowing you to stream guided workouts from home.
It's still important to remember that the Series 3 has basic sleep tracking, cycle tracking. And thanks to the built-in GPS, you can track your route even when you don't have your iPhone, also monitor your heart rate and send you a notification if it detects an irregular heart rhythm.
Series 3 negatives: No LTE (GPS + Cellular) and no software update coming soon
Despite its attractions, there is a risk that this watch will have a shorter lifespan. It is currently the oldest model to receive WatchOS updates, and it only offers 8GB of storage, which would preclude any major updates in the future.
That doesn't mean it will suddenly stop working, but if and when it's left out of the WatchOS update cycle, you won't have access to the latest features and iPhone integration.
Also, Apple only offers a GPS version on the Series 3. Finally, what might be lacking in the Series 3 is the absence of the built-in ECG health features, blood oxygen or SpO2 tracking, noise alerts, and fall detection. .
Apple Watch SE: The best Apple smartwatch for up to R$2.500
The Apple Watch SE is a hybrid of the Apple Watch Series 5 (which has been discontinued) and the Apple Watch Series 3. The smartwatch doesn't have all the features of the Series 6, but it still stands out for its fast chip and security features. It also offers a GPS + Cellular option, which makes it a good choice for those who want to get out and exercise without carrying their iPhone.
The Apple Watch SE strikes a balance between price and features. It costs more than the Series 3, but if you can afford the price difference, it might be worth it for the faster processor (S5 vs. S3 chip), a bigger, brighter screen, louder speaker, drop and longer battery life. The latter is critical if you are using your watch to track your sleep. The SE is also the cheapest option if you need a GPS + Cellular model.
Apple Watch SE negatives: More expensive and no extra health features
Although more expensive than the Series 3, the Apple Watch SE also lacks the advanced health sensors found in the Series 6: the ECG and blood oxygen monitor. These features are found on the Series 6, which costs about R$500 more, and should be looked into if you need extra health features.
How to choose the best Apple Watch for you
Choosing the best Apple Watch for you doesn't have to be a difficult decision. In most cases it will be the newest Apple Watch SE. We recommend getting the SE if you have around R$2500 to spend.
If you're torn between the Apple Watch SE and the Apple Watch 3, the question will be whether you want to have a smartwatch that will be compatible with updates for years to come. Despite that, the Series 3's low price might be appealing if you're looking for a smartwatch that integrates with your iPhone.
Whichever you choose, you'll benefit from the watchOS 7 software update, which means the two watches will have a number of features in common.
Where to buy?
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R$ 2.207,00
New Apple Watch SE - GPS, 40 mm - Space Gray Aluminum Case with Black Sport Strap View offer
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R$ 2.362,15
Apple Watch se gps, 40mm Gold aluminum case Estelar sports bracelet View offer
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R$ 2.399,00
Apple Watch SE (GPS, 40mm) Space Gray Aluminum Case Midnight Bracelet View offer
Should You Buy an Apple Watch GPS + Cell Phone?
The Apple Watch Series SE has models that support the LTE service. The GPS + Cellular models will be found for more than R$ 3.000, which must be honestly evaluated, considering that it is a significant extra value. However, if you always carry your iPhone with you, you won't miss LTE.
To learn more, read our article:
Differences between a cellular-only Apple Watch and GPS
