Introduction
The smartWatch apple Serie 3 may not be the newest smartwatch on the market, but it remains one of the most reliable and affordable options for those entering the Apple ecosystem. Since its launch in 2017, the Series 3 has proven to be a solid choice for fitness tracking, communication, and convenience on the go. Even years after its release, it’s still widely used and continues to receive software updates, which makes it a compelling option for first-time buyers or users who want a budget-friendly Apple Watch without sacrificing essential features. In this article, we’ll explore the key aspects of the Apple Watch Series 3—its design, performance, features, battery life, and whether it still makes sense to buy one today.
Design and Build Quality
The Apple Watch Series 3 sports a clean, minimalistic design that has become iconic in the world of smartwatches. Available in two case sizes—38mm and 42mm—it fits comfortably on the wrist and caters to a wide range of users. The aluminum case is lightweight yet durable, and the build quality is what you would expect from Apple—premium and long-lasting. The watch is water-resistant up to 50 meters, which means you can swim or shower with it without worrying about damage. Although the display is not edge-to-edge like newer models, it still offers a bright and clear Retina display that performs well in both indoor and outdoor lighting. The interchangeable bands also give users the freedom to personalize their watch, making it suitable for both casual and formal settings.
Performance and Software Experience
Powered by the dual-core S3 processor, the Apple Watch Series 3 delivers smooth and responsive performance for everyday tasks. While it may not be as fast as the newer Series 6, 7, or 9, it handles most apps and functions with ease. From checking messages and making phone calls to tracking workouts and using Siri, the watch rarely lags or stutters. Perhaps one of its most impressive strengths is its ability to run the latest watchOS updates (up to watchOS 8 at the time of writing), which means users can still enjoy new features and security updates. The user interface is intuitive and well-integrated with iPhones, allowing seamless syncing and interaction between devices. While some newer apps and features are limited due to hardware constraints, the core experience remains smooth and reliable.
Fitness and Health Tracking Capabilities
The Apple Watch Series 3 excels as a fitness companion, especially for users who are just getting started with wearable fitness tracking. It comes equipped with an optical heart sensor that tracks heart rate throughout the day and during workouts. The built-in GPS enables accurate tracking of outdoor activities such as running, cycling, and walking, without needing to carry your phone. The watch also records elevation with its barometric altimeter, giving you more detailed insights into your workouts. The Activity Rings are a fun and motivating way to stay active, encouraging users to move, exercise, and stand every day. While it doesn’t include features like ECG or blood oxygen monitoring (found in newer models), it covers the essentials well and provides valuable health data over time.
Battery Life and Daily Usage
One of the standout features of the smartWatch apple Serie 3 is its reliable battery life. On a full charge, it typically lasts up to 18 hours with regular use, including notifications, workout tracking, music playback, and more. Many users find that it comfortably gets them through the day and even into the next morning before needing a recharge. The magnetic charging cable makes it easy to dock overnight, and the watch recharges fairly quickly. For those who use the GPS frequently or stream music via Bluetooth, the battery may drain a bit faster, but overall it offers a dependable experience. Apple’s power optimization in watchOS also helps extend the battery life, even on older hardware.
Is It Still Worth Buying in 2025?
Despite being an older model, the Apple Watch Series 3 still offers a lot of value—especially for users on a budget or those who don’t need the latest and greatest features. It’s ideal for first-time smartwatch users, children, or older adults who want to stay connected and monitor their health without spending several hundred dollars. That said, potential buyers should keep in mind that support for the Series 3 may phase out soon, which could limit future updates and app compatibility. But if you’re someone who values future-proofing, faster performance, and advanced health sensors, it might be worth considering the newer models instead.
