New reports suggest that the Apple Watch SE 3 is still in 'active development', and will feature a new casing.

According to Mark Gurman's 'Power On' newsletter at Bloomberg, a "new Apple Watch SE with plastic shell remains in development", with the company intending to bring down the price of the wearable with this more affordable material. Gurman also anticipates this new SE will come equipped with a new chip, but didn't say whether it would be the S10 chip, currently found in the Apple Watch Series 10, which is set to be made available on Friday (September 20).

There had been rumors that an Apple Watch SE 3 would be announced at Apple's 'It's Glowtime' event on September 9, but that didn't come to pass. Instead, Apple unveiled the Apple Watch Series 10 and introduced a new Satin Black finish for the existing Apple Watch Ultra 2. 

The current SE model has been available since 2022, but doesn't have an ECG to help measure your heart's electrical activity, nor does it have an always-on screen. A plastic casing could lower the SE's price while introducing features like ECG at a more affordable price.  

Still, the current Apple Watch SE remains a great purchase, especially as a Christmas gift for anyone new to Apple's wearables.

How much could the price drop for the Apple Watch SE 3?

Apple Watch SE has always been positioned as the cheaper model in the entire Watch line. It's the entry point for anyone looking to explore the benefits of an Apple Watch for the first time, especially to see if it can help with their health and fitness. At $249 / £219, it's a good price, but the SE faces fierce competition from wearables such as Fitbit's Versa 4, which includes ECG heart rate and sleep tracking for $199. 

Switching the material from aluminum to plastic could be a key move to help drive the price down of the Apple Watch SE 3, potentially below $199 — perhaps even toward $149. If Apple manages to incorporate ECG and sleep tracking in this new model, these efforts could make the Apple Watch SE 3 a very enticing buy for someone on a budget.

More from iMore

• Forget the X - Apple Watch Series 10 unveiled
• Apple Watch Ultra 2 now comes in 'gorgeous' Satin Black
• watchOS 11: Every new feature

There aren't many accessories better than an Apple Watch if you’re an iPhone user — although you usually have to pay a hefty sum to get one on your wrist. Thankfully, you can save on an Apple Watch if you head over to Amazon at the moment, where you’ll find some great prices on some of the most popular models. While the Amazon  Prime Day Apple deals won't actually kick off until July 16, these early Prime Day Apple Watch savings are some of the best we've seen so far. 

First off there’s $60 off the Apple Watch SE, which brings it down excruciatingly close to its lowest price ever. Then there’s the best Apple Watch, the Apple Watch Ultra 2, which is reduced by $80 for its lowest price ever.

Massive Apple Watch savings

• Apple Watch deals: Amazon | B&H Photo | Best Buy | Walmart 

You know, I didn’t get the hype about Apple Watches — until, that was, I strapped an Ultra 2 to my wrist. Now, the only time it comes off is when I shower and when it needs a charge, so it's fairly safe to say that it's become an important part of my everyday life.

Perhaps you’re like me and you’ve never used one, or you’re looking to upgrade an old one — either way, these deals just made it a whole lot cheaper to get an Apple Watch in your life.

We love an Apple Watch here at iMore, and the Apple Watch SE with its budget sensibilities is one of our favorites. Its low cost does everything you need, and comes in some great colors — and still works with all the straps you can find at the Apple Store. It is, in essence, the Apple Watch for everyone.

And now you can get one for a great discounted price at Amazon. With $60 off full price, you can get a 40mm Apple Watch SE for $189. That’s not quite its lowest price ever, but you’ll likely have to wait for the likes of Black Friday before that comes back.

Apple Watch SE savings

• Apple Watch deals: Amazon | B&H Photo | Best Buy | Walmart

The Apple Watch SE is the best Apple Watch for teens, according to, well us, but there are some key reasons why your youngling doesn’t need something more fully featured or expensive. It’s cheap, for one, so it matters less if it gets smashed in a freak skatepark accident. It’s also got all the features you actually need — a heart rate monitor, Bluetooth connection for a pair of AirPods 2, and a screen to tell you the time.

Sure, you could buy them a Series 9, but then you’ve got almost $400 worth of smartwatch on the wrist of perhaps the most accident-prone people in the country, so expect cracked screens and loads of Apple Care+ quotes. The SE still has everything your teen needs — and, now it’s even more affordable.

The iPhone SE, Apple Watch SE and iPad (2021) all have one thing in common – they act as the cheapest, entry-level models in Apple’s many beloved product ranges, from smartphones and smartwatches to tablets and laptops (and many other Apple devices we won’t get into here).

But if you’re buying one of these Apple models for the first time, you may not be sure whether the cheapest option is necessarily the best one for you. It’s easy to worry about missing out on key features, or feel pressured to push for a model that’s actually a little out of your budget.

We’re here to tell you that the cheaper Apple models do exist for a reason – to offer a distilled product experience at a more reasonable cost, even if the luxury Apple brand adds something of a price premium across the board.

So if you’re eyeing up the iPhone SE, the iPad (2021), or the Apple Watch SE, here’s what you need to consider before making a final purchase.

iPhone SE: the pocket-sized smartphone

Smartphones are bigger than ever, thanks to increasingly bezel-free screens, improved display technology, and the pressure to both capture and witness high-quality video in the social media age. But for those who are content with a smaller phone, one that actually fits in a pocket comfortably and can be easily navigated with a single hand, the iPhone SE (‘Special Edition’) is a great alternative.

2022's 3rd-generation model comes with a 4.7-inch display, which is about a 20% size reduction compared to the new 6.1-inch iPhone 15. The SE has the same aluminum construction and glass back as that model, just without the screen-strengthening Ceramic Shield that most iPhones have had since the iPhone 12. The A15 Bionic chipset is still pretty capable (the iPhone 15 is only using the A16, after all), though you won’t get Face ID or even the USB-C connections of more recent handsets (Lightning cable it is.)

That size reduction does have a big impact on camera quality, mind. Due to the smaller build of the smartphone, it’s harder to fit in multiple lenses – and the iPhone SE makes do with a single 12MP camera and 1x optical zoom instead of the 48MP Ultra Wide versions and 0.5-5x zoom found in newer Apple smartphones. Limited space for a battery means the SE also has a projected 15-hour battery life for constant video playback, whereas the iPhone 15 Pro Max offers double that amount.

A few trade-offs, then, but for media-light Apple consumers after a more convenient size and shape, the iPhone SE has plenty to recommend it.

• iPhone SE review

iPad (2021): the entry-level tablet

The ninth-generation iPad released in 2021 – and while it's not technically the smallest iPad available, it is the cheapest model available right now.

This is the default iPad choice for most. With a 10.2-inch screen, companion stylus, and $329 price tag, it offers the basic Apple tablet experience for those after it. This 2021 model comes with 64GB and 256GB storage options, an 8MP rear camera with 1080p video, and an A13 Bionic chipset that's getting a little long in the tooth these days.

The issue is that there's a newer 10th-generation iPad (2022), one that packs in an A14 processor, an improved neural engine, a 10.9-inch screen, and a jump to 4K video on its 12MP rear camera. It also comes with a USB-C port instead of the Lightning input of the ninth-generation model. Notably, you'll need the newer iPad to get 5G cellular instead of 4G, too.

You're paying a little more at $449 for the base model, mind, but the ninth-generation iPad has fallen behind on a few metrics, from its cable standards and cellular connectivity to video quality and more. It's still a good buy for those after a simpler experience, but likely won't be on the market in another year or two.

As a side note, the compact 8.3-inch iPad mini is actually pricier than both of these models, starting at $499 – despite its smaller size, it largely matches the specification of the 10th-generation iPad, but with a speedier A15 Bionic processor, improved P3 color range, and support for the Apple Pencil 2, it should feel a little more luxurious.

The iPad Pro (2022) or iPad Air 5 models ship with Apple’s newer M-class processors and offer more complex CPU and GPU setups, so you should know you’re not getting top-class performance in the 2021 iPad, which won’t be quite as equipped at complex computing tasks, or anything related to gaming (say, on Apple Arcade).

However, all of these models are notably cheaper than the $599 iPad Air or the $1,099 iPad Pro 12.9-inch, and that may be enough to sway someone after a starter iPad.

• iPad (2021) review

Apple Watch SE: the simplest Apple smartwatch

We’re now on the second iteration of the Apple Watch SE (or ‘Special Edition’). As with the iPhone SE, those two letters point to a distilled product experience in a slightly cheaper package, with the Apple Watch SE 2 starting at $249 instead of the $399 price tag of the Apple Watch Series 9 or the $799 RRP of the Apple Watch Ultra 2.

The Apple Watch SE offers broadly the same experience as its pricier siblings, with the same WatchOS interface experience, 99% of the same apps, and similar sizing options to the Series 9 (albeit 40mm/44mm rather than 41mm/45mm). Like the others, it should be a joy for those who like sleek Apple hardware, and want a smartwatch that syncs with an iPhone, allows for hands-free calls, offers contactless Apple Pay, and much much more.

However, $250 is notably cheaper than the standard model, and that means it comes with some predictable downgrades. The display has a peak brightness of 1,000 nits, which is half the luminance of the Series 9, and lacks the latter’s ‘always on’ feature. Additionally, you have to make do without double tap gestures, the precise iPhone finding feature, or the speedy on-device Siri processing found on higher-end models.

You may feel a little intimidated by the health tech packed into most Apple smartwatches, and worry about missing out on important sensors. But even the SE model comes with a heart rate tracker, and notifications that point to irregular rhythms or ‘low cardio fitness’ (we get it, we’ve been sitting at a desk all day). 

You have to make do without a Blood Oxygen sensor – or the ECG (electrocardiogram) app that can spot signs of Atrial Fibrillation, also known as ‘arrhythmia’, which can lead to “blood clots, stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications” (American Heart Association). But these are quite specialist functions and not a necessity for casual consumers. 

For all but the most committed (or most health conscious) Apple die-hards, the Apple Watch SE should suffice – until we get a truly minimalist Apple smartwatch, at least.

• Apple Watch SE review

watchOS 10 is the latest software update for the Apple Watch and was released alongside iOS 17 on September 18.

The new software is a significant update that redesigns your favorite Apple Watch apps, including Activity and Heart Rate. watchOS 10 also adds new features, including the Smart Stack, which adds widgets to your Apple Watch by simply swiping up on your watch face or scrolling up on the Digital Crown. watchOS 10 is available on the Apple Watch Series 4 and newer, but you'll need one of the newer Apple Watches to use the brand new Double Tap feature, now available in watchOS 10.1

Here's everything you need to know about watchOS 10, a redefining software update for your favorite smartwatch.

watchOS 10: Latest Version

watchOS 10.2

The latest version of watchOS 10 is watchOS 10.2, released December 11. It features significant upgrades to a couple of important features. Users can now access and log Health app data with Siri, as long as they're rocking an Apple Watch Series 9 or Apple Watch Ultra 2. Apple Watch Series 6 and Apple Watch Ultra or later will now automatically view Now Playing when in proximity of a HomePod 2 or HomePod mini, and you can once again swipe to change a watch face.

watchOS 10: New features

watchOS 10 brings a significant overhaul to many of the Apple Watch's day-to-day apps. This includes Weather, Stocks, Home, Maps, Messages, World Clock, and others. They all now use up more screen real estate so that you can see useful information more clearly.

Apple has taken a new approach to the design of watchOS, with a new focus on what it is calling 'Smart Stack'. The feature is accessible with the Digital Crown and provides more glanceable information when you look at your wrist. The 'Smart Stack' is comprised of small, rectangular versions of your apps and widgets, with small versions of apps like News, Weather, and Health. A quick tap takes you to the app itself where there are more new design elements.

The idea is to make these elements give you more information using more of the screen, rather than the smaller complications that Apple Watch has relied on before. Apple says that "a new Smart Stack contains widgets that display timely information that adapts to the user’s context and can be revealed with a simple turn of the Digital Crown from any watch face."

The widgets in the Smart Stack provide information that's live and useful, with Apple stating that the new Smart Stack "enables users to enjoy a beautiful watch face, like Portraits, while still offering a way to quickly access information they care about."

Developers will also be able to use the new feature, allowing for third-party apps in the Smart Stack.

As part of the new design, Control Center has moved to the side button, so it's easier to open it when needed. Double-clicking the Digital Crown reopens any apps used recently.

New Watch Faces

Two new faces are now available for the Apple Watch in watchOS 10. The first is the Palette face, which shifts and changes using three layers as time changes.

The second new face is the iconic dog Snoopy. The Peanuts characters, Snoopy and Woodstock, feature on a new watch face with interactive elements. The characters play with the hands of the watch and also react to weather conditions in your area.

Workouts

watchOS brings an update to the cycling app with Apple adding power zone tracking and FTP calculations. Short for Functional Threshold Performance, FTP is a vital stat for cyclists and sure to be a welcome addition. The Apple Watch will also new connect automatically to cycling accessories, "such as power meters, speed sensors, and cadence sensors."

Hikers also see a useful update with the ability to save Apple Maps for offline use for when you're off the grid. There's also an 'in case of emergencies' call function called "Last Emergency Call Waypoint" that estimates where on a route your device last had a connection. It can then find the best place to call an emergency contact.

Also new for fitness enthusiasts is Apple Fitness Plus offers the ability to create a custom plan for your workouts.

If you have a goal in mind, you can choose your weekly schedule, including how long you want to workout per day, as well as how many weeks you want to pursue your goal. Add on the activity types you want to enjoy, and Apple Fitness Plus creates a personal plan for you to follow. 

Each day, you'll receive suggestions of what to do with your workout time.

Mindfulness

There are Mental Health updates as well to help with your mental well-being. The new Mindfulness app allows you to log your moods, as well as what's making you feel that way. It ties in with the Health app so you can see a complete picture of both your physical and mental well-being.

NameDrop

There's also NameDrop, one of the title features of iOS 17. It lets you transfer your contact panel between watches and phones. You'll also be able to take FaceTime calls while viewing on the watch screen.

Offline maps

Offline Maps are coming to iPhone. This allows you to use turn-by-turn navigation on a map you've saved without depending on cellular services or Wi-Fi. When paired with an Apple Watch, you'll be able to see turn-by-turn directions. 

watchOS 10: Compatibility

Apple watchOS 10 runs on all the same watches as watchOS 9. That means it runs on the following devices:

• Apple Watch SE
• Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation)
• Apple Watch Series 4
• Apple Watch Series 5
• Apple Watch Series 6
• Apple Watch Series 7
• Apple Watch Series 8
• Apple Watch Series 9
• Apple Watch Ultra
• Apple Watch Ultra 2

watchOS 10: Questions and Answers

The Apple Watch SE has dropped back down to a deal price we’ve seen a few times, with a $30 discount over at Amazon. It’s a great deal, and you can get both the 40mm and the 44mm with a discount. But with the iPhone 15 launch potentially bringing with it some extra Apple Watch models, is it worth going for this deal?

Apple Watch discounted at Amazon

• Apple Watch deals: Amazon | B&H Photo | Best Buy | Walmart

The Apple Watch SE might not have the titanium frame of the Apple Watch Ultra, or the stainless steel luster of the Series 8, but it does give you value in spades. It’s a fully featured smartwatch, with a clear, crisp screen, and a heart rate monitor, plus it connects to your iPhone super simply. You can even store music on it, and then leave your phone at home when you’re going for a run.

The Apple Watch SE is a great entry-level smartwatch but brings with it loads of useful features for those who want to spend a little less. It’s perfect, in fact, for those who like to go running or who go to the gym a lot — It’s not as expensive, so you won’t worry as much if it gets dented, scratched, or even cracked.

This current price is one we’ve seen a few times on this model, and it’s well worth considering it when you’re looking for a new watch. It’s unlikely that we’ll see a lower price any time soon.

Should you buy the Apple Watch SE?

In short, yes. The Apple Watch SE, as we said up top, is a super solid smartwatch for those looking to not spend as much money as you might on one of Apple's more feature-heavy models. This price makes the watch even more tempting of course, and it should be right at the top of your list.

Having said that, you do miss out on a couple of features from the other models that you might want to consider before sticking it in your basket. The Apple Watch Series 8, for example, will set you back around $100 more, but you’ll get a bigger screen, a temperature sensor, and a faster processor. The Apple Watch Ultra is around $500 more, but if you like having the best watch on your wrist, then it’s the way to go.

You also need to decide if you want a GPS watch or a cellular watch. If you just want to go on short runs and you know that for the most part, your iPhone is going to be in your pocket, save some money and go for the GPS watch. If, however, you want to leave your phone at home a little more, then you might want to consider the Cellular version of the Apple Watch SE. There is still a deal on this version, but you’ll still end up paying around $60 more for the privilege.

Finally, there’s a big Apple event coming up in September; the rumored iPhone 15 launch event. Thankfully, however, it looks like there’s only going to be the rumored Series 9 and the new Apple Watch Ultra 2  — so there’s not going to be any replacement for the Apple Watch SE. If you buy now, you can rest assured that there likely won’t be a new one coming any time soon.

Fans of the Apple Watch SE are going to have to look elsewhere for their budget wearable this year, it seems. A new report suggests that Apple will only update its best Apple Watches, leaving the Apple Watch SE 3 to wait until 2024.

If true, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Apple Watch Series 9 will be the only new wearables Apple announces this September. This would also mean that the Apple Watch SE is falling into a two-year update cycle having last been refreshed in September 2022.

It isn’t yet clear what this will mean for the current Apple Watch SE, however, and it’s possible that it will hang around at the current $249 price point.

Apple’s most affordable wearable 

The Apple Watch SE is the most affordable wearable that Apple sells right now, but that cheaper price comes at the cost of some big features. The Apple Watch SE doesn’t have an always-on display, for example, nor does it support taking an ECG from your wrist. Alongside the Apple Watch Series 8, it also looks dated thanks to thicker bezels than its more costly cousin, although it does support watchOS 10 when it launches soon.

But writing in the weekly Power On newsletter, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman claims that “there isn’t a new Apple Watch SE coming this year, which makes sense as that model is on a two-year upgrade cycle and was refreshed in 2022.”

All eyes will now be on 2024 to see what Apple does with the Apple Watch SE. We can surely expect it to get some new features and thinner bezels at that point, otherwise, it’ll look even more out of place in a lineup full of high-end wearables.

The SE news follows reports from Gurman that Apple Watch Ultra 2 could come in an all-new black finish, meanwhile, both that and the Apple Watch Series 9 are set to benefit from Apple Watch's first major chip upgrade since the Series 6. 

Looking to make your wrist a bit smarter, without breaking the bank? There’s a great Prime Day deal on an Apple Watch SE — the latest 2nd-gen model, in fact — that saves you a pretty penny on Apple's smartwatch line up.

Amazon is slashing the price of the Apple Watch SE GPS to just $199 — a $50 saving over its usual price. That bags you a great entry-point into Apple's smart watch line up, with deep integration to iPhone, loads of fitness tracking options, and loads of handy app and messaging integrations.

Apple Watch SE savings

• Apple Watch deals: Amazon | B&H Photo | Best Buy | Walmart

The Apple Watch SE may be the entry-level model, but you'd be surprised at how close the feature sets between this and the higher-end Series 8 models is. If you're looking to track fitness metrics in particular, they're almost identical.

Looking for iPads, AirPods or MacBooks? Check out our up-to-the-minute Apple Prime Day deals page for all the latest offers on other Apple items.

We'll be digging out all the best offers from Amazon in the coming days, so keep an eye on iMore for more great deals.

Not in the US? Find the best Apple Watch SE deal near you

As Mother’s Day rounds the corner and closes in on us, you might be wondering what you can get your Mom. Verizon has just the thing here, with an absolute corker of a deal that nets you an iPhone 14, an Apple Watch SE, and an iPad, leaving you with only the price of the data plan to pay. Just bare in mind that you're going to have to trade in an old iPhone or another smartphone to get the iPhone 14 for free – although even older and broken iPhones are getting good prices with this deal.

This time, it’s not even a specific iPad that you have to choose – it’s $459 off. That means that you can get an iPad 9th gen for free, or you can choose to get a very good discount on a more powerful model, leaving you to pay way less than you might have before. This is also the case for the Apple Watch in the deal.

An iPhone, an Apple Watch, AND an iPad?

This deal is super easy to use, but we’ll quickly talk you through it. First, head on over to the Verizon iPhone 14 product page, and add the ‘trade in’ deal box. Add the phone to your basket, and then on to the next step.

You’ll be taken to a page that lets you choose what extra devices you want to add to your plan - select your devices, and then continue on to the next stage of the process. You’ll need to choose your data plans, and at the end of the process, you’ll find the checkout, with all your deals added in.

The iPhone 14 remains a very solid option if you’re looking for a new iPhone, and the Apple SE is a very good smartwatch. The iPad 9th gen may now be getting a little long in the tooth, but it’s still an iPad that does everything you might need it to.

The Apple Watch SE is the cheapest of the Apple Watch family, but getting one for free makes it an even better deal. This deal over at Verizon nets you an Apple Watch SE for nothing when you buy one of the iPhone 14 family of devices, such as the iPhone 14 Pro Max.

Bear in mind that you’ll still have to pay for your device data plan, although plans for Apple Watches tend to be super low cost so it's not going to be that much extra. If you were already thinking of getting an Apple Watch, then this is one of the best deals as yet – given that you pay nothing for the Watch itself.

How to get a free Apple Watch SE

First, you’re going to want to go to the product page of the iPhone that you want to buy, like the iPhone 14 Pro Max or the iPhone 14. Choose the color of the iPhone that you want, and then head on down to the deals tab of the product page.

Add the deal that says ‘Select tablets and smartwatches on us’ and then press continue. Here, you’ll be taken to a page that lets you choose your Apple Watch model, as well as a free iPad. Again, you’ll need to pay the data cost, so keep that in mind before you slip an iPad in your basket – the data plan will be more than your shiny new Apple Watches. Once you’re done there, choose the data plan for your iPhone. You’ll need to choose one of the unlimited options, otherwise, you won’t get the full amount off your new Apple Watch. Once you’ve chosen that, you’ll need to choose the data plan for the Apple Watch; and then, you’re all done.

The Apple Watch SE isn’t the most impressive Apple Watch in the range, but it does everything you need a smartwatch to do. It’s easily the best Apple Watch for everyone, especially if you don’t need the otherworldly construction and massive screen of the Apple Watch Ultra.

The Apple Watch has become an essential part of the Apple ecosystem, connecting with your iPhone to help improve your health, your time, and your style.

Continuing on with Amazon UK's fantastic Spring Sale, there's a range of Apple Watches available with discounts of up to 38% off. While the Series 7, Series 6, and SE are older models they are still some of the best Apple Watches available, especially when purchased at a discount.

So if you're in the market for an Apple Watch and want to look beyond the Apple Watch Ultra and Series 8, now's a good time to buy.

Save big on Apple Watch Series 7

Apple Watch Series 6 for less

Apple Watch SE at a discounted price

There are plenty of Apple Watches to choose from, depending on your budget. The great thing about the Amazon Spring Sale is the price drop guarantee. Any product purchased with the Spring Sale badge will automatically receive a refund of the difference in price if the price drops further before April 5. So now's the time to get a brilliant deal on the best smartwatches.

The Apple Watch SE is a fantastic device to buy someone as a gift. It's useful, small, and now half price. This deal is perfect if you're looking for a last minute gift, or if you and a family member are both looking for Apple Watches. This is only on the Apple Watch SE model, but the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Apple Watch Ultra are both available with other deals on the Verizon website.

This deal is only on a contract device, so you'll be paying monthly for the pair of watches. It is on any plan though, so you can save money there too.

Buy one Apple Watch SE and get a second for $150 off

• Apple Watch deals: Amazon | B&H Photo | Walmart

The Apple Watch SE may be the cheapest brand-new Apple Watch, but it's filled with enough features that you'll not notice you don't have the big, snazzy Series 8. It'll still measure all the useful biometric data for exercise, and you'll still receive notifications on your wrist. It is, after all, still an Apple Watch.

This deal is on the GPS + Cellular variant because you're buying it with a data contract. What's the difference? Take a look at our GPS VS Cellular Apple Watch comparison to find out the difference, and what would be best for you. 

Fancy one of the other Apple Watch models? Make sure you save money with the best Apple Watch deals.

Apple has announced an updated Apple Watch SE 2 at its ‘Far Out’ September event. Though it’s not as huge of an upgrade as the Apple Watch Series 8 or Apple Watch Ultra, there are still some nice improvements to the Apple Watch SE 2 over the previous iteration.

This also continues to be Apple’s best Apple Watch for those on a budget, as it is the most affordable. Here are all of the details of the new Apple Watch SE 2.

Apple Watch SE 2: Design

With Apple announcing the Apple Watch Ultra, designed for rugged outdoor use, the design hasn't changed much on the new SE. It again comes in the silver, Starlight, and Midnight options; this time, the back of the case now matches whichever color you choose. It also brings a 30% larger display than the Apple Watch Series 3 and plenty of new watch faces.

As for the materials used, it's made out of 100% recycled aluminum, while the back is made out of nylon composite materials. While many would argue that the best Apple Watch material is stainless steel, that's simply out of scope for a budget Apple Watch like this.

Apple Watch SE 2: Processor

Apple has bumped up the processor for the Apple Watch SE 2. It now has an updated S8 SiP processor, so it’s 20% faster than its predecessor. The S8 is the same chip that is in the new Apple Watch Series 8.

Apple Watch SE 2: Features

The Apple Watch SE 2 does not add new features that weren’t already available in the first generation. For example, you will not have ECG or blood oxygen, but the SE 2 still retains the heart rate sensor, which has proven helpful in detecting health conditions.

However, the Apple Watch SE 2 will also have the new Crash Detection feature, which is debuting on the Apple Watch Series 8. With Crash Detection, the Apple Watch can use its sensors to detect if you are involved in a crash while on the road. Crash Detection works in pretty much any vehicle, including family sedans.

Apple Watch SE 2 still supports Family Setup and will be able to handle watchOS 9 when it comes out next week. watchOS 9 will also bring the Compass app to the Apple Watch SE 2, including other improvements to fitness and wellness features, excluding the ones that require specific sensors only found on higher-end Apple Watch models.

Apple Watch SE 2: Price and availability

The Apple Watch SE 2 starts at $249 for the GPS-only version and $299 for Cellular + GPS. You can now order and receive the Apple Watch SE 2.

Can I use the bands from other Apple Watch models?

Yes. Since its inception, the Apple Watch has come in two sizes, a smaller size and larger size. The original Apple Watch sizes were 38mm for the smaller watch and 42mm for the larger one. Over the years, the displays have gotten larger. The Apple Watch Series 8 sports 41mm and 45mm displays on the smaller and larger models, respectively. Yet any bands that fit the original smaller Apple Watch (38mm) will be interchangeable with any smaller model Apple Watch, including the Series 8, SE, and SE 2. Any of the best Apple Watch bands that fit the original larger Apple Watch (42mm) will fit any larger model Apple Watch, including the Series 8, SE, SE 2, and even the Apple Watch Ultra (49mm.)

Can I switch bands between the Apple Watch SE 2 40mm and 44mm sizes?

No, you cannot. The smaller and larger Apple Watches require different size bands. This is true for any generation Apple Watch.

How does the Apple Watch SE 2 differ from the original Apple Watch SE?

The original Apple Watch SE and the Apple Watch SE 2 share quite a lot of features: 1000-nit ion-X glass Retina display, W3 wireless chip, optical heart sensor, high and low heart rate notifications, irregular rhythm notifications, emergency calling and SOS, fall detection, 50-meter water resistance, GPS, compass, 32GB capacity, and more. The only feature difference is that the Apple Watch SE 2 also offers Crash Detection, a new feature making use of the wearable's sensors that will notify emergency services should the device detect movement in line with car crash data. The color options vary as well: the original Apple Watch SE came in gold, silver, and space gray while the Apple Watch SE 2 comes in starlight (champagne gold), midnight (blackened navy), and silver.

Is the Apple Watch SE 2 the same physically as the original?

If you already have an Apple Watch SE, you may have noticed that the Apple Watch SE 2 models look incredibly familiar — because they are almost identical to the previous SE. The 40mm version of the SE 2 sports the same dimensions as before: 40mm height, 34mm width, and 10.7mm depth, while the 44mm model comes in at 44mm height, 38mm width, and 10.7mm depth.

The SE 2 also shares the same Digital Crown and Side Button placement as the previous generation watch. Both buttons are still on the right-hand side of the watch, and the microphone and speaker placement appear to be in the same spots as well.

So are there any physical differences at all?

As previously mentioned, the Apple Watch SE 2 is, for all intents and purposes, identical to the previous Apple Watch SE. The only physical differences you may notice when upgrading is the weight and the feel of the new color-matched nylon composite back.

Thanks to the new back material, the SE 2 bucks the recent trend of Apple Watches growing bigger and heavier with every new generation and are lighter this time around. The 40mm Wi-Fi-only GPS Apple Watch SE 2 weighs in at just 26.4g — down from 30.49g on the previous model, while the cellular variant weighs 27.8g which, again, is down from 30.68g.

The larger 44mm GPS Wi-Fi only SE 2 is also lighter than before at 32.9g compared to 36.20g, and the cellular model comes in at 33g versus 36.20 previously. While a few grams may not seem like much, the reduced weight can be a big deal regarding overall comfort, especially with the watch being strapped to your wrist all day.

What about watch bands?

Like with cases, the new Apple Watch SE 2 will work as expected with all of your current favorite Apple watch SE bands. The SE 2 utilizes the same tried-and-true sliding band — so as long as your band is for the correct size watch, you will be good to go.

Have any case suggestions to make the SE 2 look fresh?

Unlike the iPhone 14 and the new Apple Watch Ultra, you don't have to wait for new cases to hit the market if you decide to upgrade to an SE 2. All of your current best Apple Watch cases will work just fine  — even those for Apple Watch models like the Series 4, 5, and 6, which are also compatible with the SE 2.

After months of waiting and rumors, Apple has now officially announced a refreshed Apple Watch SE and it's the new Apple Watch for people who want to save a little money.

Like the previous Apple Watch SE, the new 2022 model takes the features that people know and love and puts them into a package that doesn't quite have the same features as the more premium Apple Watch Series 8, but also doesn't cost anywhere near as much.

A bargain Apple Watch

Starting at $249 for the GPS model and $299 for the cellular, this is one affordable Apple Watch. Buyers can choose from three different colors, too; Silver, Midnight, and Starlight

Unlike the Apple Watch Series 8, the Apple Watch SE doesn't have the same level of sensors and whatnot, however. There's no ECG app and no blood oxygen sensor, but you'll still benefit from the heart rate sensor that's already been proven to help save lives time and time again. And you can of course tell the time on this thing just fine, too! You do get to benefit from the new car crash detection that the Apple Watch Series 8 just gained, though.

The new watch runs the latest watchOS 9 update, also being made available for older Apple Watches, and is still capable of tracking all of your workouts and helping keep you fit along the way. Activity fiends, this is a great way to get started with an Apple Watch without diving in at the high end.

The new Apple Watch SE is available for pre-order today, and you'll be able to pick yours up come September 16. Looking for the very best of the best, though? You're going to want the new Apple Watch Ultra for that.

This Apple Watch SE deal is pretty hefty, bringing it down to its lowest ever price just a day before new Apple Watches might be announced. The entire line of Apple Watch SEs has been reduced by up to $100, although you'll find the best deal on the GPS + Cellular model, which is now only $20 more than its GPS-only counterpart. if you've been thinking about grabbing an Apple Watch, this could be your best opportunity - we may not see a price like this again for some time. 

Looking over the spec sheet of the more expensive Apple Watches can be a lot of fun, seeing all the shiny gadgets that come tucked away in its shell. When you sit down to buy an Apple watch, however, you may find yourself wondering, 'what do I actually need in a smartwatch?'.

It's an important question because it can save you a lot of money. Yes, the ECG generator is extremely cool, but it has a relatively limited use case. The always-on screen is a pretty feature, but is it something you need? Probably not. The Apple Watch SE may not have these more premium features, but it has all the features you need.

The screen is still excellent, even though it doesn't remain on when you're not looking at it. The sensors in the glass panel in the bottom of the watch are handy for exercise tracking, even if they won't tell you every little detail about the health of your heart. Where the Apple Watch Series 7 is the Apple Watch you want, the SE is the Apple Watch you need.

If you're still interested in other Apple Watches in the range, we've got the best Apple Watch deals and sales gathered together for your perusal. While you're at it, check out our coverage of the iPhone launch event - we're already getting started with our iPhone 14 event live blog.

Apple's Far Out event is scheduled for September 7, and Mark Gurman has spilled the beans on the new releases at the event. In his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman says that in addition to the iPhone 14 series of phones, we will see Apple launch the Apple AirPods Pro 2, the new Apple Watch Pro, as well as the Apple Watch SE 2. This is in addition to the regularly-scheduled Apple Watch Series 8.

Gurman had previously said that the new AirPods Pro would arrive in 2022 and seems to now have confirmation that they're coming at the iPhone 14 launch event. Ming-Chi Kuo had also said that the AirPods Pro refresh would arrive in 2022, and with Gurman's confirmation, it seems highly likely that they will arrive alongside the iPhone on September 7.

On the features side of things, we can expect a tweaked design, better audio quality, noise cancellation improvements, USB-C charging, an upgraded case, and more, if rumors are to be believed. We can expect the new AirPods Pro to be priced around the same $249 mark.

Three Apple Watch models this time around: Pro, SE 2, and Series 8

Gurman is also saying that there will be three Apple Watch models coming at the September 7 event. The much talked-about Apple Watch Pro is going to be the debut offering, Apple will also refresh the core Apple Watch lineup with the Series 8, and the SE lineup with the Apple Watch SE (2022).

Gurman also says that the Watch Pro will be designed to compete with Garmin's high-end rugged models, which are made for professional athletes involved in heavy-duty sports. Garmin currently leads the market for smartwatches that cost upward of $500, and Gurman thinks Apple is gunning for the top spot there now. 

With the Apple Watch SE, Apple is expected to keep the old design — something it often does with its SE products. The internals are getting a bump, though, and the new Watch SE will apparently feature an S8 chip. The Watch Series 8 seems like it will be an iterative update as the main Watch lineup usually is.

Gurman also said that Apple may announce an iPhone subscription service tied to Apple One at this event, which will make the company's best iPhones available on a subscription basis. What we won't see, apparently, is Apple's AR/VR plans discussed. It seems that the Reality announcement is a little way down the road.

There are hushed whispers about a new Apple Watch being teased at the Apple iPhone event on the 7th September, but it may be worth picking up a bargain now. The entire Apple Watch range, from the Series 3 to the Series 7, has been reduced by up to $100 at Amazon. This brings the SE down to its lowest price ever and makes the Series 3 one of the cheapest high-quality smartwatches out there. If you've been looking for an Apple Watch, now could be the time - even if the 'Far Out' event brings news of new watches.

Apple Watch SE lowest price ever

Do you always need the most expensive Apple Watch? No. In fact, the Apple Watch SE has everything you could want in a smartwatch, from a high-quality aluminum shell to a bright and useable retina display. The sensors onboard deliver everything you could need to track your health and fitness whilst keeping those costs down. At its lowest price now, the Apple Watch SE is a very tempting buy.

The Series 7 is also at a compelling price now - $100 less than full price. This is slightly more than recently when it went all the way down to $140 off, but this deal is a great price on one of the best smartwatches on the market.

Of course, if you're looking for the best Apple Watch sales and deals elsewhere, we have you covered. Although it's unlikely they'll get better than this.

The size difference in Apple's various Apple Watch models is subtle, but not so much that you shouldn't think very carefully about making a decision.

So what's the difference? Broadly speaking, the watches are identical save for their horizontal (and vertical size), but that larger chassis does yield some benefits. A slightly bigger watch means a bigger battery, so more battery life. There's also a larger screen which makes reading and typing on your watch face that much easier. However, a larger chassis is going to be heavier and more intrusive on your wrist. For those with skinnier, more slender wrists and forearms, a larger watch might look out of place. If you have larger forearms, a small watch will look comically small. 

Here's everything you need to know about 40mm vs 44mm Apple Watch models.

Apple Watch 40mm vs. 44mm: Time to compare

Unlike traditional watches, which measure case size horizontally, Apple measures the Apple Watch vertically. The two models in question here measure 40mm and 44mm in height and are 34mm and 38mm wide respectively. 

The size differences between the Apple Watch SE, Apple Watch Series 4, Apple Watch Series 5, and Apple Watch Series 6 models might not sound like very much — but the extra 4mm in case size nets you a 28% larger screen. 

The rounded rectangular shape of the Apple Watch makes it hard to compare directly with your average round watch. Still, neither of the Apple Watches would be considered overly wide or high in the traditional watch world. Big watches are typically closer to 45mm wide.

Even if you think you want to go small, you can still consider both sizes — neither is enormous — though those with smaller wrists may find the 40mm fits more comfortably.

The Apple Watch SE, Apple Watch Series 4, Apple Watch Series 5, and Apple Watch Series 6's two case sizes also translate to two different display sizes. Both are Retina-quality, which means the pixels are invisible to the naked eye at normal viewing distance. The bigger Apple Watch simply has more of those pixels:

• The 40mm Apple Watch has a display size of 394x324 pixels
• The 44mm Apple Watch has a display size of 448x368 pixels

When it comes to picking pixel density with Apple Watch 40mm vs. 44mm, watchOS will fill whatever size display you choose, and for many people, it won't make any difference. That said, if you want more pixels, which translates into bigger text and images, it's worth considering the larger option

Apple Watch 40mm vs 44mm: Depth 

Unlike the Watch's two height options and two display densities, there's no difference when it comes to the thickness (or thinness) of the Apple Watch 40mm vs. 44mm, both measure 10.7mm. 

That's because, unlike traditional mechanical or digital watches, the Apple Watch case has to hold a Retina display, the system-in-a-package (chipset), a battery, and sensors. If you're trying to figure out which Apple Watch will best fit under the tight cuffs of your shirt, they're both about the same.

Apple Watch 40mm vs. 44mm: His and hers?

Because there are two sizes, and because some of Apple's bands are unique to one size or another, some have tried to simplify the size discussion down to "hers" and "his."

People come in all shapes and sizes, though, and so do tastes. Some women will want the bigger Apple Watch, and some men, the smaller one. Some people with small wrists will want the bigger watch and vice versa.

All this to say — get the size you prefer. Try both on, and see which one better fits your wrist, style, and personality. That's why Apple has sizes, after all, and why both sizes come with identical features.

Apple Watch 40mm vs. 44mm: Band Bias

Nearly all Apple Watch bands fit their respective Apple Watch sizes. For example, a "small" Apple Watch band that works with an older 38mm watch will also fit a "small" variant of the larger-sized models, the 40mm and the 41mm models now available. Likewise, a band from an old "large" model, the 42mm, model, will fit a 44mm or a 45mm model. You can't use a "small" band with a "large" watch and vice versa, however, otherwise, there is no difference in which bands you can use based on choosing the 40mm or 44mm Apple Watch. Apple boasts a broad array of sport loops and bands, Nike and Hermès, stainless steel, and more in both. 

Apple Watch 40mm vs. 44mm: Battery life

The 44mm Apple Watch SE, Apple Watch Series 4, Apple Watch Series 5, and Apple Watch Series 6 have a slightly bigger battery than the 40mm watch due to more room in the casing. If battery life is most important to you, this is something to consider.

Apple Watch 40mm vs 44mm: Weight 

Naturally, being different sizes, the 40mm and 44mm Apple Watch cases are different weights. The 40mm GPS and GPS + Cellular versions weigh 26.4g and 27.8g respectively, while the 44mm versions are 32.9 and 33g respectively, that's a difference of more than 10%!

Apple Watch 40mm vs. 44mm: Which should you buy?

So while there are some advantages and disadvantages between the 40mm and 44mm Apple Watch models, they are largely negligible and the decision between the two should really come down to personal taste. While the larger one has a clearer screen and slightly better battery life, the smaller version is a bit lighter and also cheaper. In the end, the biggest factor will be which feels better and more comfortable on your wrist. 

The Apple Watch SE is fast approaching its second birthday and by the sounds of things the end of its life. 

Debuted in September alongside the Apple Watch Series 6, the Apple Watch SE was and is one of the best Apple Watch models the company has created, offering many of the great features that make the Apple Watch great without the premium price tag of its latest and greatest models. 

Even today the Apple Watch SE looks like an enticing pick in the lineup thanks to its favorable price tag and the fact that it is considerably better than the aging Apple Watch Series 3. But if you're currently lining up an Apple Watch SE purchase, then you should stop, because a refresh to the whole lineup is almost certainly on the way. 

Apple Watch 2022: what's in the pipeline?

This year could be one of the biggest overhauls to the Apple Watch lineup in the product's life span, according to the rumors and leaks we've seen so far. That's because Apple reportedly has not one, not two, but three new models planned including the all-new Apple Watch SE 2 to replace the current budget option. 

Rumor has it that the Apple Watch Series 8 could mark a design change over the previous Apple Watch Series 7 model – but the polish of the design makes it more likely it will retain the same design with some internal feature changes instead. Upgrades rumored include a new display size and possibly a new satellite communication feature for SOS. Another big focus will reportedly be health with temperature sensing among others. 

A new Rugged Apple Watch 'Explorer' model and a new Apple Watch SE are also reportedly on the way. WatchOS 9 also ends support for Apple Watch Series 3, which will likely be taken off sale when the new ones arrive. 

As to when all of this will take place, it is likely that Apple Watch will be unveiled alongside the iPhone 14 in September of this year, purely based on what historically happens. That means that in just a few weeks Apple is probably going to rearrange the entire (watch) face of its Apple Watch lineup, meaning if you can afford to hold off even a little longer then it's definitely worth doing so. 

Why wait to buy an Apple Watch?

Firstly, there will likely be three brand new models for you to choose from when you come to pick your Apple Watch. Even if you don't want any of the new models we expect to arrive later this year, then all of the current models in the lineup should get some sort of price cut, and while they might not be available to purchase directly from Apple, shopping third-party at places like Amazon could yield you savings you might have missed buying in the summer. 

As noted, the new Apple Watch SE might offer better and improved features for roughly a similar price as the current model. However, at the very least it will see the price of the current SE model fall in value. The same is true of the Apple Watch Series 7, which you might be able to pick up for the price of an SE once Series 8 has been announced. 

Even if you don't want the latest and greatest that Apple has to offer, it is always worth skipping the summer months of July and August to wait and see what Apple has in store for the fall. If you do, hopefully, you'll be presently surprised, either by getting more for your money, or the same Apple Watch for less. 

What you need to know

• Apple is still expected to debut a new rugged Apple Watch this year.
• A refreshed Apple Watch SE is also expected to be announced later this year.
• The big attraction will be the main Apple Watch Series 8.

Apple has again been rumored to be working on its first Apple Watch designed specifically for extreme sports, with a launch expected to take place as soon as the end of this year. A newly updated Apple Watch SE is also thought to be part of a lineup that will include the new Apple Watch Series 8.

While Apple Watch Series 8 will be the main attraction, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has again said that a rugged Apple Watch is in the cards for this year. Such a wearable is thought to be aimed at those who enjoy extreme sports — where a traditional Apple Watch may not be up to withstanding the pressures placed upon it. It's expected that the new wearable will be the best Apple Watch for people who enjoy the more extreme sports.

Writing in his weekly Power On newsletter, Gurman also said that a new Apple Watch SE is coming this year.

Little is known about either the new rugged Apple Watch or the updated SE, although Gurman does suggest that the new Apple Watch SE will not benefit from the larger screen that debuted as part of the Apple Watch Series 7 unveiling last year. It could, however, use the same recycled chip as the new Apple Watch Series 8.

If all goes according to previous years we can expect Apple to announce the new lineup of wearables in or around October, after September is given over to the new iPhone 14 lineup.

The Apple Watch SE has always been a tempting option for those looking for a smartwatch to pair with their iPhone, and the $279 price may well have been, while cheaper than the Series 7, the stopper in the bottle. With Amazon's latest deal, you'll find discounts on all the options of the Apple Watch SE, with $50 off the 44mm models, and up to $40 on the 40mm variants. This brings the Apple Watch SE to its lowest price in the last six months - so maybe it's time to take the plunge!

Why is the Apple Watch SE worth the price? Well, for one you're getting all the most useful Apple Watch features for less than the range-topping Series 7 - with this latest deal, almost $100 less. While it doesn't stay on like on the Series 7, the SE's retina display is still very clear and colorful, and you'll still get access to all the same exercise sensors that you really need. You might not get as much, but you're also not paying as much.

But which SE should you go for? Well, we can't tell you which color to go for, but we can tell you about the key differences between the two versions of the smartwatch; the GPS and the GPS with Cellular. For a more detailed analysis of the two versions, check out our comparison between Apple Watch Cellular Vs. GPS.

To put it simply, if you don't want your Apple watch always connected to your iPhone, then the Cellular model is the option to go for. It's particularly good for runners, cyclists, and the like who don't want a bulky phone in their pocket but would like all the exercise features the Apple Watch can provide. It connects up to the mobile network, so it can send and receive texts, make calls, and stream Apple Music without an iPhone around. The GPS-only model is for everyone else, who has their iPhone with them at all times. It can still make calls and receive texts, but they are sent over by a connected iPhone.

If you want to see more Apple Watch deals, have a look at our Apple Watch Prime Day deals page - there could be something just for you - and don't forget to have a look at what kind of case you'll use to protect your apple watch! Here are some of the best Apple Watch cases.

Apple Watch SE and Fitbit Charge 5 are two of the best fitness trackers available on the market today. They both do a great job when it comes to all-day activity and sleep tracking, and both host some unique features that set them apart. Deciding which is for you comes down to budget, operating system, and the features you prioritize.

Apple Watch SE vs. Fitbit Charge 5: Features and specs

Apple Watch SE is more expensive than Fitbit Charge 5, but it's the only one of the two that hosts smart technology. On the other hand, if you're looking for a fitness tracker that's a great value, Fitbit Charge 5 is tough to beat. It offers a lot when it comes to comprehensive health and fitness monitoring, especially when considering the price point. Let's break down the specs to see how these two best fitness trackers match up.

Both fitness wearables have you covered when it comes to all-day activity and sleep tracking. However, you're only going to get smart features like Siri, internal storage, music, customizable apps, advanced navigation, and safety tracking with Apple Watch SE.

If you're an Android user, Fitbit Charge 5 is your obvious choice because of its compatibility. Plus, it hosts a variety of advanced features like EDA, ECG, Readiness Scores, and an always-on watch face. The fact that it's significantly less expensive than Apple Watch SE, with high-tech features and impressive battery life, makes it an excellent value. But let's break things down even further.

Apple Watch SE vs. Fitbit Charge 5: Perks of a smartwatch

There are obvious perks to owning a smartwatch. For starters, Apple Watch SE gives you the option of a built-in cellular system. That means you'll stay connected anytime, anywhere with just your watch; no phone required. You can make calls, answer emails, and send texts on top of a mountain, or while you're surfing the waves.

Apple Watch SE offers an advanced navigation system that can pinpoint your location worldwide. It features a built-in compass, always-on altimeter, and A-GPS/GLONASS/GALILEO/QZSS. You'll have Maps right on your wrist to give turn-by-turn directions with a gentle buzz. The always-on altimeter lets you see your elevation changes in real-time as you climb up or down.

Are you someone who loves adventuring? Apple Watch SE features safety tracking and fall detection. With its built-in accelerometer and gyroscope, this smartwatch can detect if you've taken a hard fall and connect you with local emergency services if you're immobile. You can also get immediate help in an emergency, even while traveling internationally, by pressing and holding the side button.

Unlike Fitbit Charge 5, you can download, stream, and play your favorite tunes, audiobooks, and podcasts with Apple Watch SE. Connect via Bluetooth with some of the best true wireless earbuds to fuel your workouts and motivate your day. Apple Watch SE also hosts convenient voice commands via Siri — your smart assistant. Ask Siri about the weather, news, to schedule calendar events, and even set alarms.

Apple Watch SE vs. Fitbit Charge 5: Fitbit Charge 5 is supercharged

Fitbit Charge 5 boasts the most advanced features of any Fitbit tracker yet. It offers EDA scans to help with detecting and managing stress. EDA scans detect electrodermal activity or tiny changes in your skin's sweat level, which depicts how your body physically responds to stress. It delivers a daily stress management score so you can see how your workouts, activity, sleep, and mindfulness affect stress over time.

A key difference between Apple Watch SE and Fitbit Charge 5 is ECG monitoring. This is a major upgrade from Charge 5's predecessor, Fitbit Charge 4. This feature lets you keep track of your heart health with a compatible ECG app that assesses your heart for any rhythm irregularities. It will alert you if it finds any so you can share the results with your doctor.

Unlike Apple Watch SE, Fitbit Charge 5 offers Sp02 monitoring. You can track the oxygen level in your blood to help you learn when there may be an indication of important changes in your overall wellness.

Your Daily Readiness Score is another noteworthy feature on Fitbit Charge 5. This score shows whether you're ready for a strenuous workout, need to take it easy, or when it's time for recovery. It's a personalized score based on your exercise, sleep, and heart rate variability. This feature does require a Fitbit premium membership, but your Charge 5 purchase comes with six months of Premium, so you can test it out.

Apple Watch SE vs. Fitbit Charge 5: Customization, battery, compatibility

A huge factor in choosing between these two is compatibility. Fitbit Charge 5 is the only choice for Android as it's compatible with both iOS and Android. Apple Watch SE is only compatible with iOS. When it comes to battery, Fitbit Charge 5 beats Apple Watch SE by a long shot, delivering up to seven days of battery life compared to SE's 18 hours. Keep in mind that battery life is dependent on how you use your wearable. If you operate yours in GPS mode, Wi-Fi, or music mode a lot, you'll drain the battery much quicker than you would in basic watch mode.

When it comes to customization, Apple Watch SE reigns supreme. There are tons of colors, bands, and casing options, so you can really make it your own. You can customize the watch faces of both, and both also offer interchangeable bands. However, you'll only get customizable apps with Apple Watch SE, as it's the only one that hosts smart tech aside from smart pay.

Apple Watch SE vs. Fitbit Charge 5: Which should you buy?

This is a tough one. Both fitness wearables host features unique to the device. Apple Watch SE is your best bet if you need smart capabilities like music, built-in cellular, advanced navigation, safety tracking, and Siri. It's more expensive than Fitbit Charge 5 but comes in at a competitive price for an Apple smartwatch. Plus, it hosts many of the features we've come to know and love via Apple.

If you want a high-tech fitness tracker, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better value than Fitbit Charge 5. It's loaded with features like ECG, EDA, Daily Readiness Scores, and Sp02 monitoring on top of additional perks like Active Zone Minutes, workout intensity maps, and built-in GPS. It's less expensive, works with both iOS and Android, and offers a much longer battery life.

Bottom line: These are two of the best fitness wearables available. The choice boils down to your budget, operating system, and the features you want most.

What you need to know

• Apple is said to be set to refresh the Apple Watch SE next year.
• Alongside Apple Watch Series 8, a new rugged model is thought to also be in the works.

While it's expected that Apple Watch Series 7 will get a refresh with the launch of a new Series 8 next year, it now appears that Apple Watch SE could also get some love. What's more, the oft-rumored rugged Apple Watch is once again being spoken about.

According to Mark Gurman, via his Bloomberg Power On newsletter, Apple is ready to give the Apple Watch SE its first refresh since its introduction in 2020. It isn't immediately clear what that will entail, but it should help cement the product's label as perhaps the best Apple Watch for most people. A new Apple Watch Series 8 would likely be the best watch overall, but with a considerably higher asking price.

Apple is again rumored to have a rugged Apple Watch set for launch. We heard rumors of a rugged design earlier this year but nothing has shipped so far. It's possible that will happen next year, however.

Here's what Gurman said back in March:

Apple has already improved the ruggedness of its Apple Watch Series 7, but it's nowhere near as protected as a specifically-designed wearable could be. The idea of an Apple Watch that looks like a G-Shock isn't the worst idea in the world and we might see such a thing launch at some point in 2022 if Gurman is on the money.

What you need to know

• The Apple Watch SE now ships with a USB-C charging cable.
• It is the same charging cable that will ship with the Apple Watch Series 7.
• The SE will not take advantage of faster charging speeds, however.

If you buy the Apple Watch SE now, you might be surprised by the charging cable that comes inside of it.

As reported by MacRumors, the Apple Watch SE now comes with a USB-C charging cable instead of the USB-A cable that has been shipping with the Apple Watch since it originally launched.

Specifically, Apple is including the 1m Magnetic Charger to USB-C Cable with the Apple Watch SE now instead of the previous 1-meter USB-A charging cable.

When Apple announced the Apple Watch Series 7 at its "California Streaming" event on Tuesday, it revealed that it had upgraded the charging architecture within the watch to allow for 33% faster charging speeds. The company said that users can go from 0% to 80% battery life in about 45 minutes now. In addition, 8 minutes of charge will net users 8 hours of sleep tracking time.

In order to support the new charging speeds, Apple will be including a USB-C charging cable with the Series 7 instead of the traditional USB-A cable that has shipped with the Apple Watch since its original release.

It looks like Apple has decided to bring the cable to the Apple Watch SE as well, even though it can't take advantage of the faster charging speeds. Customers will need to remember to also purchase a USB-C wall charger along with their new watch unless they have one already as Apple no longer includes the charging brick in the box.

It is currently unknown when the Apple Watch Series 7 will go on sale. Apple says that it is coming "later this fall."

Apple looks set to take the wraps off the Apple Watch Series 7 next week and retailers are already making way for the new model by offering soon-to-be previous-gen devices at a discount. That's great news for those that don't need the latest and greatest as great Apple Watch deals are plentiful right now including this near-$40 discount on the entry-level Apple Watch SE.

With the price falling to just $239.99 at Amazon, you don't have to spend a fortune to strap one of Apple's latest smartwatches to your wrist. It's unclear what's going to happen to the SE line following next week's Apple event, so this might be your last chance to snag one at a discount.

The Apple Watch SE is designed to be an entry-level model that includes a bunch of the same features as the Apple Watch Series 6, save for a few key aspects, at a lower price. Its display is 30% larger than that of the Series 3, though it's not always-on like the Series 6, and it's powered by the dual-core S5 chipset from the previous-gen Series 5 meaning it will be future-proofed for many years of software updates.

The Apple Watch SE provides high and low heart rate notifications, irregular heart rhythm notifications, emergency SOS, and fall detection. It also includes a compass and always-on altimeter, as well as water resistance up to 50m so you can track your swimming workouts or simply rest assured knowing it won't get damaged while washing your hands.

It's worth bearing in mind that the SE can't take an ECG or read your blood oxygen like the flagship Apple Watch Series 6. Check out our guide to the other key Apple Watch SE and Series 6 differences if you need help deciding which is right for your wrist.

If the Series 6 is for you, it is also discounted at Amazon right now with prices from $319.

When the Apple Watch SE was announced last fall, I was super excited to get my hands on it. Finally, Apple had introduced a mid-tier option into its Apple Watch lineup. Not only does the Apple Watch SE bring down the price, making the life-saving device more affordable, but when you compare the Apple Watch SE to the Apple Watch Series 6, it's not even missing that many features.

With September fast approaching and very few solid rumors on any Apple Watch announcements, I have been wondering what the fate of the Apple Watch SE will be. Luckily, we can look to the iPhone SE for some answers.

Will there be a new Apple Watch SE this year?

While anything is certainly possible, I would say no. There will not be a new Apple Watch SE this year. That doesn't mean the Apple Watch SE will be discontinued. I'm positive it will be sold as Apple's low-cost option in the lineup. The Apple Watch Series 3 is likely to be put out to pasture (and if it isn't, it really should be), and the new Apple Watch lineup will likely consist of the current Apple Watch SE, the upcoming Apple Watch Series 7, and perhaps the base Apple Watch Series 6 as the mid-tier option. That's assuming Apple decides to keep the three different price points, which I think it might do. If you look at what the company has been doing with its device lineups recently, I think they are trying to hit as many price points as possible so that everyone can get their hands on the best Apple Watch for them.

That's my prediction, and if you look at how Apple seems to be handling the iPhone SE, I think it's a pretty good one.

The iPhone SE story

Even though there were four years between the iPhone SE (2020) and the original model from 2016, rumors and leaks seem to be hinting at another iPhone SE launching sometime in 2022. This would put the iPhone SE on a two-year timeline and show that Apple is serious about serving a lower-cost market, something Apple has been accused of ignoring in the past.

Apple Watch SE (2022)?

Apple launched both the new iPhone SE and the Apple Watch SE in 2020, and I think a two-year refresh cycle would be perfect for the SE lineup. This gives the chances for people to jump aboard with a new device that has a lot of flagship features and will last them a good four or five years should they choose not to upgrade right away — many people don't.

So don't get discouraged if a new Apple Watch SE doesn't get launched this fall. I suspect the Apple Watch SE has a bright future ahead of itself.

We've seen a lot of great Apple Watch deals recently and, even though it's Christmas Eve, the deals aren't over yet. Right now at Amazon, the affordable Apple Watch SE has dropped to just $250 in both 40mm and 44mm sizes, the larger model representing the best saving at $59 off.

You won't get your new watch in time for Christmas, obviously, but you can lock in this low price today and have a shiny new watch for your New Year fitness goals.

$899.99 $1299.00 Save $399 1623157769

Having now been replaced by the 24-inch M1 iMac, Apple's 21.5-inch iMac has been discontinued. That means big savings at third-party retailers including at Amazon where it's discounted by $399.

Prices Vary 1622214797

This sale includes iPhone models, the Apple Watch, iMac and iPad devices, Beats headphones, Apple services, and more. The deals vary by product, so be sure to check them all out now.

$103.99 $129.99 Save $26 1621604395

Change how you use your iPad with the Apple Pencil. This stylus lets you use your iPad as a notepad, a canvas, or a drawing board for all of your ideas. Today's deal saves you 20% instantly at Verizon.

$599.99 $699.00 Save $99 1621519150

Updated in late 2020, the Mac Mini has Apple's M1 chip that combines CPU, GPU, and machine learning for faster performance, better graphics, and an all around streamlined device. This version has 8GB RAM and a 256GB solid state drive.

From $329 1621244196

Apple Watch Series 6 models are available for some of their best prices ever right now. The lowest price is on the red 40mm version which is $70 off with 44mm and cellular models seeing discounts of up to $91.

The new Apple Watch SE is designed to be an entry-level model that includes a bunch of the same features as the Apple Watch Series 6, save for a few key aspects, at a lower price. Its display is 30% larger than that of the Series 3, though it's not always-on like the Series 6, and it's powered by the dual-core S5 chipset from the previous-gen Series 5 meaning it will be future-proofed for many years of software updates.

The Apple Watch SE provides high and low heart rate notifications, irregular heart rhythm notifications, emergency SOS, and fall detection. It also includes a compass and always-on altimeter, as well as water-resistance up to 50m so you can track your swimming workouts or simply rest assured knowing it won't get damaged while washing your hands.

It's worth bearing in mind that the SE can't take an ECG or read your blood oxygen like the flagship Apple Watch Series 6. Check out our guide to the other key Apple Watch SE and Series 6 differences if you need help deciding which is right for your wrist.

If the Series 6 is for you, it is also discounted at Amazon right now with prices from $339. The Apple Watch Series 5 is on sale with $80 off there, too.

What you need to know

• Some Apple Watch SE models are overheating.
• It is causing a yellow mark to appear on the upper right of the display.
• The issue seems to be isolated to South Korea.

Reported by MacRumors, some Apple Watch owners in South Korea are reporting overheating issues with their new Apple Watch SE. According to the reports, the watch would overheat within a few hours of use and a yellow spot would appear on the upper right corner of the display.

According to a post on Reddit, one owner woke up to find that the watch got so hot overnight that it left a red mark on their wrist.

According to the report, the issue seems to be isolated to South Korea so far, as no other countries have reported the issue. It is unclear what is causing the issue, and Apple has yet to address it publicly.

Fitness trackers have been around for years now, and most smartwatches come with some sort of fitness tracking abilities. Companies like Fitbit, Withings, Apple, Samsung, and more have all jumped into the fitness tracking deep end, offering plenty of ways to track various metrics that give you a better picture of your overall health. Recently, Amazon released the Amazon Halo. If Android Central's Review of the Amazon Halo is any indication, it seems like a tough device to strap on your wrist if you're struggling with fitness for any reason.

My personal experience with fitness trackers

As someone who deals with anxiety and depression, losing weight, and being healthy is something I struggle with a lot. I used to use a Fitbit as my primary fitness tracker years ago, and it quickly became a source dread every morning when I would put it on. I tried trackers from Garmin and Withings, and the same feeling of being shackled to a device that would point out my every flaw would wash over me. It was awful.

I stopped wearing any sort of fitness tracker at all for a while, at the suggestion of my therapist, and I did seem to be a happier individual; however, when I started writing for iMore, I started wearing an Apple Watch (for obvious reasons), and I was worried I would fall down the same rabbit hole of despair. I didn't.

The Apple Watch seemed to have a unique way of presenting fitness data that felt good for me, and now that I just got a brand new Apple Watch SE, I'm still amazed at how Apple's method of tracking fitness is so approachable.

Apple Watch approaches fitness in a positive way

When it comes to fitness tracking, the best Apple Watch is the one you have on your wrist, since tracking fitness on the Apple Watch has mostly stayed the same over the years. The three activity rings — Move, Exercise, and Stand — have been at the center of Apple's fitness philosophy. Closing these rings is supposed to be your goal every day, but even when you don't do it, it doesn't feel like you've failed at anything, and Apple makes sure you know that.

The reminder that you didn't close your rings one day — like the one in the picture to the right — or the encouraging reminders late in the day that you are close to closing one of your rings is so positive and fun that it never feels like my Apple Watch is judging me. It's not just the positive notifications that make me thrilled to wear my Apple Watch though; after all, Fitbit and other fitness trackers have those too its, but its the fact that everything I do counts, and it isn't ranked.

Amazon Halo ranked fitness feels bad

When you wear an Apple Watch, if you're moving, you're closing your rings — specifically your Move ring — to some degree. It doesn't matter what you are doing; laundry, walking, grocery shopping, as long as you're moving, you're making progress. As pointed out by my friend, Jeramy Johnson, in his review of the Amazon Halo, moving isn't enough for the Amazon Halo:

What is this? Black Mirror? Obviously, the calories you burn will be different whether you're walking, jogging, or running, but why put a point system that penalizes you for not moving? It's this sort of punishment system that makes my look at the Amazon Halo look like it's designed to make you feel bad.

On top of that, Amazon added some super creepy features with voice tone recognition, which lets the Amazon Halo detect if you're irritated and other things by how you say things, and entire body scans that give you a body fat percentage. I'm not going to say that those metrics aren't useful at all, but they offer way more info than is actually needed for most people, and that info can be damaging to someone's mental health.

Different strokes for different folks

Obviously, when it comes to fitness and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, different methods and types of encouragement will work for different people. I'm not a doctor or medical professional in any way, but from personal experience, I can tell you that a gentler approach to fitness is what makes me happy to strap on the Apple Watch every day.

If you're looking for a fitness tracker/smartwatch for the first time, I would be hard-pressed to suggest the Amazon Halo to anyone. It's too easy to feel bad about yourself these days without having something strapped to your wrist that seemingly goes out of its way to make you feel bad.

In the end, fitness is a journey. If you do a little better today than you did yesterday, that's amazing, and you should congratulate yourself. If you do a little worse today than you did yesterday, it's no big deal; that just means tomorrow is another chance.

While the new "SE" moniker attached to the Apple Watch SE has no official designation, I'd like to think it stands for "surprise edition" because that's what the Apple Watch SE is — a pleasant surprise. It takes so much of the life-saving ability that the Apple Watch is known for and couples it with internals that make using the device feel as speedy and snappy as you'd expect. With only a few compromises on features and $120 less than the Apple Watch Series 6, is the Apple Watch SE worth it?

I decided to test it and find out for myself, using a space gray aluminum Apple Watch Series SE running watchOS 7; I have been wearing it non-stop since I got it up here in the Great White North.

Apple Watch SE: In Brief

• A cheaper Apple Watch
• Fall detection and emergency SOS
• Compass, health, and fitness tracking
• Noise monitoring and Always-on altimeter
• Optional LTE connectivity
• All-day battery life

• Always-on display
• ECG and Blood Oxygen apps
• Stainless steel or titanium finish
• U1 chip

The biggest hurdle that the Apple Watch SE has to overcome is likely the lack of an always-on display, a feature that was first introduced in last year's Apple Watch Series 5, and now, is only found on the Apple Watch Series 6. When it comes to the always-on display missing from the Apple Watch SE, you may or may not care — but I suspect the audience that Apple is targeting likely won't care.

The Apple Watch SE isn't designed for people looking to upgrade from the Apple Watch Series 5; after all, most of the internals of the Apple Watch SE are the same as the Series 5. Instead, Apple has created the perfect mid-level Apple Watch that is meant to entice first-time buyers and upgraders from older models — like the Series 4 and older —which already are used to not having an always-on display.

Of course, Apple also has an entry-level (so to speak) Apple Watch in the Apple Watch Series 3, but if you compare the Apple Watch SE to the Apple Watch Series 3, you'll quickly see just how much the Apple Watch SE has to offer.

When you strap on an Apple Watch SE, you get to take advantage of some of the best life-saving and health features that Apple has to offer. There are countless stories of fall detection and emergency SOS helping real people out of real life-or-death situations. Plus, features like irregular heart rate notifications and alerts when your heart rate is too low or too high have immense health benefits to users, especially users who already have heart conditions.

You've seen that all before, just like you've seen the same accelerometer and gyroscope that makes activity tracking so darn efficient and useful. Still, the Apple Watch SE also includes an always-on altimeter, tracking your elevation all-day long. Hikers, cyclists, and other fitness junkies will love being able to get better elevation data as they make their treks into the wilderness.

Of course, there are a few final compromises to wrap your head around. The Apple Watch SE is missing the ability to use the ECG app (which has been around since the Series 4) and the new Blood Oxygen app. Plus, it also only comes in an aluminum finish — likely to keep the price solidly in the middle of the pack — so you can't take advantage of the more premium materials offered on the Apple Watch Series 6.

If you're a relatively healthy person and on the younger side of the age spectrum, these features likely won't matter to you too much. Being a 29-year-old, I only found myself using the ECG app on my Apple Watch Series 4 mostly as a novelty. Perhaps that's the ignorance that youth affords me talking, but it is the truth. Of course, the ECG app and Blood Oxygen app can be super useful tools to help you get a better snapshot of your overall health, and for the people that really want or need those features, the Apple Watch SE will fall short.

Lastly, it seems prudent to mention that the Apple Watch SE doesn't come Apple's U1 (Ultra Wideband) chip, but the Apple Watch Series 6 does. Right now, this pretty much means nothing, as the chip doesn't allow the Apple Watch Series 6 to do anything special that separates it from the Apple Watch SE; however, it could in the future. The U1 chip is rumored to be necessary to take advantage of the upcoming Bluetooth trackers from Apple, known as AirTags, but that's just a future "promise", and doesn't affect how the Apple Watch SE functions.

All in all, the Apple Watch SE is the best Apple Watch when it comes to value. The $279 starting price point makes it much easier for first-time buyers to get on board while getting about 95% of the features that the more expensive Apple Watch Series 6 has to offer. While the Apple Watch SE isn't a suitable upgrade for an Apple Watch Series 5 owner, it's a fantastic upgrade for those looking to upgrade from older Apple Watch models, and that's how I'll be approaching this review.

Apple Watch SE Review: The brain of the operation — watchOS 7

Apple Watch has always been an incredible piece of hardware, but it's also only as good as the software that powers it. The Apple Watch SE ships with the brand-new watchOS 7 and can take advantage of all of its main features right out of the box.

Sleep tracking is finally here, and the Apple Watch SE makes a perfect bed companion. If you can mentally get past wearing your watch to bed, the Sleep app will not only give you some basic sleep tracking abilities but focuses on getting you into a proper sleep schedule. With features like Wind Down, which will automatically put your iPhone and Apple Watch in Do Not Disturb mode for a set amount of time before your scheduled bedtime, allowing you to ignore those pesky notifications as you get ready to sleep.

On top of that, all the new watch faces and new features for complications make the Apple Watch SE just as customizable as an Apple Watch has ever been. The new Chronograph Pro, Typograph, Memoji, GMT, Count Up, Stripes, and Artist watch faces look stunning on the Apple Watch SE, but the big news in watchOS 7 is the updates to complications. Most importantly, apps can now offer multiple complications on a single watch face, and developers can create different versions of the same type of complication. As watchOS 7 — and future iterations — ages, and developers have time to make some cool complications, I think it's safe to say that the possibilities of customizing your watch face on the Apple Watch SE are just about endless.

Lastly, I have been delighted to see just how snappy and speedy watchOS 7 runs on the Apple Watch SE since it does sport the S5 processor that the Apple Watch Series 5 had, but not the new faster S6 processor that the Apple Watch Series 6 carries. Still, even comparing it to my Apple Watch Series 4, it's noticeable quicker to launch apps, scroll through menus, and generally use the Apple Watch SE. I don't think you'll miss much performance by going with Apple's slightly older processor — you'll just save money.

I won't dive into all the nitty-gritty details of watchOS 7, but I highly suggest reading Joe Keller's full watchOS 7 review. In short, I think the Apple Watch SE and watchOS 7 pair perfectly together to offer an Apple Watch experience that rivals the best we've seen in previous iterations.

Apple Watch SE Review: Design and watch bands

There isn't really anything new in terms of design with the Apple Watch SE. it comes in the same 40mm and 44 mm case sizes that have been around since the Apple Watch Series 4. Plus, it's compatible with all the same Apple Watch bands as any previous model, and Apple did launch some fancy new bands for customers to get excited about.

The Solo Loop is the cheapest one, not raising the price when you buy the Apple Watch SE, while the new Solo Braided Loop costs a little more. These new bands need to be measured to fit your wrist correctly, and there have been some problems early on with the bands not fitting people properly, which is why I decided to stick with a classic Sport Loop.

The only real noticeable design differences on the Apple Watch SE is on the Digital Crown and the sensors on the bottom. As mentioned before, the Apple Watch SE doesn't have the ability to use the Blood Oxygen and ECG apps, meaning it lacks those sensors. All this means is the Digital Crown doesn't have the red circle on it that we've seen since the Apple Watch Series 4, and the bottom sensor array looks slightly different — not that anyone ever sees that while you're wearing it.

Finally, if you're a swimmer, like taking runs in the rain, or often get your Apple Watch wet, you don't have to worry about the Apple Watch SE. Apple didn't skimp on the water-resistant, and it's still rated swim-proof for a depth of 50 meters (164 feet).

Apple Watch SE Review: Let's talk about health and fitness

Likely one of the main reasons anyone buys an Apple Watch is for fitness tracking, and the Apple Watch SE does everything you would expect. You can track so many different workouts through the Workout app. Running, cycling, yoga, tennis, strength training, HIIT, hiking, swimming, and too many more to name — all available on Apple Watch SE. Plus, automatic detection for workouts is still on board, meaning if you forget to start the Outdoor Walk workout on your morning stroll, your Apple Watch SE will only take a couple of minutes to detect your walking and prompt you to start the workout if you want.

Every iteration of watchOS seems to bring more and more workouts to the Workout app, allowing you a ton of ways to close your activity rings — a pastime that has become a (healthy) obsession for many folks. Even I'll admit, the new Fitness app widget you can throw on your iOS 14 Home screen makes an excellent motivational tool.

Pretty much all the other good health and fitness features you've come to know and love are included with the Apple Watch SE. When you're in an environment that's too loud, the Noise app will tell you. If you take a nasty fall, the Apple Watch SE will ask if you are okay or you need assistance, and if it detects that you're not moving, it will call emergency services for you. Plus, it monitors your heart rate continuously, so if your heart rate is too high or too low, your Apple Watch SE will tell you.

As mentioned before, you don't have access to the ECG app or Blood Oxygen apps offered on the Apple Watch Series 6, but that's all it's missing in terms of health and fitness features. Most people will be happy that the Apple Watch SE has their favorite workouts and life-saving features included that you can't get on the Apple Watch Series 3.

Apple Watch SE Review: Don't worry; it's still a smartwatch

It's no secret that Apple Watch has long been a health and fitness device, even more so than it is a smartwatch, but you can relax, the Apple Watch SE is a perfect companion to any iPhone. It offers the same excellent smartwatch features we all know and love that have made the Apple Watch the best and most versatile smartwatch on the market for years.

When it comes to integrating into your daily life, the Apple Watch SE doesn't miss a beat. New message? Check your wrist. Music controls? Check your wrist. Apple Pay? Tap your wrist. It's just as easy to use your Apple Watch SE to fit into your work life and daily life as it has ever been. As always, the app selection for the Apple Watch SE is top-notch, with thousands of apps available through the App Store. Games, social media, productivity, any genre of app you can imagine exists on the Apple Watch. Those apps can be as active or inactive as you want; if you prefer keeping the haptic feedback notifications on your wrist to a minimum, you can.

You can get an LTE version of the Apple Watch SE as well, meaning if you want to stream music, make calls, or otherwise not have to rely on your iPhone's data connection, you have that option. Plus, the Apple Watch SE has the same storage capacity as the Apple Watch Series 6 — 32GB — meaning you have more room than the Apple Watch Series 3 to load up with music, podcasts, apps, and more.

Apple Watch SE Review: Charge up that battery

Every year, I secretly hope Apple will announce an Apple Watch with a significantly upgraded battery life, but the Apple Watch SE battery performs virtually the same as previous iterations.

Even though it lacks an always-on display, Apple still cites the Apple Watch SE as having an 18-hour battery life, but in practice, you're likely going to get more than that. On average, I'm getting anywhere from 24 to 34 hours of usage on a full charge — usually with at least one solid 30-minute workout that uses GPS. Your mileage may vary depending on how you use your Apple Watch, and if you intend on using the Sleep tracking feature in watchOS 7, you'll need a charging routine.

I've been using the sleep tracking features of the Apple Watch SE every night since I got it, meaning I haven't been able to charge my Apple Watch SE overnight like I used to. Instead, I found the perfect little sliver of time in the morning to charge my Apple Watch SE, which doesn't require me to miss having my Apple Watch for any activity I do throughout the day. If you want to use the sleep tracking features, you'll need to find the perfect window of time that you can charge your Apple Watch SE in you schedule, as you'll need to charge the watch every single day.

Apple Watch SE Review: The Bottom Line

While the Apple Watch SE isn't anything drastically different than we are used to seeing from Apple, it does offer a unique price point that we haven't seen in the Apple Watch lineup, maybe ever. It seems like this is the first time we've had the luxury of three options to choose from when it comes to the Apple Watch. With the Apple Watch Series 3 sticking around at a $199 base price, the Apple Watch SE starting at $279, and the premium Apple Watch Series 6 costing at least $399, its a great time to shop for an Apple Watch.

For me, the Apple Watch SE comes down to value, and I happen to think it has that in spades. When you compare it to the older Apple Watch Series 3, it blows it out of the water, all the while only costing $80 more. In contrast, when you compare the Apple Watch SE to its big brother — the Apple Watch Series 6 — it manages to stand only slightly below its sibling. Yet, it costs an entire $120 less — that's value anyway you look at it.

The critical thing to keep in mind is the Apple Watch SE isn't aimed at Apple Watch Series 5 owners. Hell, it's probably not even aimed at people who have an Apple Watch Series 4, but rather its aimed at first-time buyers and, more importantly, the upgraders.

If you have an Apple Watch Series 1, Series 2, or Series 3 and are considering upgrading, the Apple Watch SE is the clear winner for most people. Sure, it doesn't have an always-on display, and you can't use the ECG and Blood Oxygen apps, but that won't matter to you if you're upgrading from an Apple Watch Series 2 that doesn't have those features anyway. You don't miss what you never had; that's the play for the Apple Watch SE — and it's a damn good one.

Apple announced a range of brand new Apple Watch models and two new iPads at its September events last week.

Today, it officially opened its online store to the public in India, which means you can now pick up all of Apple's products, including its latest Apple Watch and iPads directly from Apple. Here's our guide to the prices

Apple Watch Series 6 price in India

The Apple Watch Series 6 comes with a new design and larger screen that's up to 2.5 times brighter in outdoor use. It also picks up the ability to measure blood oxygen levels — an important addition during this pandemic — and has an always-on altimeter.

The Apple Watch Series 6 also comes with updated hardware in the form of the S6 chipset, which is based on the A13 Bionic, and you get a wide assortment of bands and color options to choose from. The Apple Watch Series 6 is now on sale in India in both GPS and GPS + Cellular options, and here's how much it costs:

• Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS): ₹40,900
• Apple Watch Series 6 (GPS + Cellular): ₹49,900

Apple Watch SE price in India

The Apple Watch SE offers the same design with the large screen and always-on altimeter, but at a much more affordable price. The smartwatch is powered by the S5 dual-core processor, has fall detection and emergency SOS baked in, and is available in GPS and GPS + Cellular variants.

The Apple Watch SE is 30% faster than the Apple Watch Series 3, and the curved screen along with the fact that it is also getting the same set of bands as the Apple Watch Series 6 makes it an enticing option, particularly in India. With the iPhone SE now available for ₹35,999 ($490 and the Apple Watch SE now available, there's an easy path into the Apple ecosystem without spending too much money.

Here's how much the Apple Watch SE costs in India:

• Apple Watch SE (GPS): ₹29,900
• Apple Watch SE (GPS + Cellular): ₹33,900

Apple iPad 2020 price in India

The iPad 2020 retains a similar design as its predecessor, but it offers decent hardware upgrades in the form of the A12 Bionic chipset. It is available in 32GB and 128GB storage configurations, and you're better off picking up the latter just to be sure you won't run out of storage a few months down the line.

The iPad has a USB-C connector for the wall plug, but it charges over the Lightning port. Here's how much the iPad 2020 costs in India:

• iPad 2020 (32 GB Wi-Fi): ₹29,900
• iPad 2020 (32 GB Wi-Fi + Cellular): ₹41,900

Apple iPad Air 4 price in India

The iPad Air 4 has a gorgeous design with thin bezels and exciting color options, and the design is identical to the iPad Pro. The highlight is that the iPad Air is powered by the A14 Bionic, the first mobile chipset built on the 5nm node. The A14 Bionic is 60% faster than the A12 Bionic in the last-gen iPad Air, and 30% better at gaming.

The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina screen has a resolution of 2360 x 1640, and it has Touch ID built into the power button. The iPad Air 4 also has Wi-Fi 6, stereo sound, and charges over USB-C. There's a 12MP camera at the back, 7MP camera up front, and it is available in 64GB and 256GB storage variants in both Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Cellular configurations. Here's how much the iPad Air 4 costs in India:

• iPad Air 4 (64GB Wi-Fi): ₹54,900
• iPad Air 4 (64GB Wi-Fi + Cellular): ₹66,900

Apple One price in India

Apple One is a new subscription bundle that gives you access to all of your favorite Apple services at one price. The Apple One bundle includes Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple Arcade, and 50GB iCloud storage for just ₹195 a month ($2.65), and you'll end up saving ₹177 a month by subscribing to Apple One instead of the individual services.

But it's the family plan that's particularly noteworthy. The family plan includes the same services and increases iCloud storage to 200GB, and it costs just ₹365 a month ($5). That's savings of ₹201 a month, and the best part is that you can share it with five other people, making it a fantastic deal.

We should know more about availability of all the new products shortly, so stay tuned. In the meantime, let me know what devices you're interested in picking up. I've been on the lookout for an iPad for most of the year now, and the iPad Air is ideal for my use case.

The Apple Watch SE is entirely new to the Apple Watch lineup. It's clear that Apple is trying to position the Apple Watch SE as a mid-level option while keeping the Apple Watch Series 3 going to attract new users and budget-conscious people to the platform.

How they stack up

The Apple Watch Series three was launched back in 2017, and while Apple has kept selling them at a discount during the reign of the Apple Watch Series 4 and then Series 5 after that, it now the cheapest its been since its launch. Starting at only $199, it's easy to think that this may lure some new people to the platform; however, the watch is starting to show its age and is missing out on some major features.

Meanwhile, the Apple Watch SE has a ton to offer and it can do almost everything the brand new Apple Watch Series 6, but it is missing the Blood Oxygen app and the ECG app. When you compare the Apple Watch SE to the Appel Watch Series 3, you'll find that pretty important features — like Fall Detection — are only available if you go with the Apple Watch SE.

You may not be able to tell from the spec sheet, but when you compare the models side-by-side, you'll how much bigger and better quality the screen is — even when comparing the old 42mm case size to the newer 40mm case size. The slightly more rounded design and thinner bezels of the Apple Watch SE make the watch look and feel sleeker.

They do both have the same 50-meter water resistance, so you can jump into the pool and swim laps with either model, but health features like noise monitoring, fall detection, and international emergency calling are only available on the Apple Watch SE.

Which should you buy?

At this point, if you're upgrading from an old and no longer supported Apple Watch — like the Series 2 — the Apple Watch SE is likely the better bet. With the aging hardware of the Apple Watch Series 3, we're not sure how much longer Apple will choose to support the device. The Apple Watch SE will likely be supported for at least a few years after launch, making it a safer bet.

If you're looking to buy an Apple Watch for the very first time, there maybe is a case to buy the Apple Watch Series 3. If you really don't care about the health features that much, and you're just looking for a good way to track your activity, get your notifications on your wrist, and take advantage of the usefulness of a smartwatch, maybe the Apple Watch Series 3 is a good place to start.

I think it's pretty safe to say that The Apple Watch SE is the best Apple Watch for most people, as it packs the most features of the Apple Watch Series 6, while still remaining relatively affordable.

What you need to know

• Apple has announced the Apple Watch SE.
• It features a lot of the same tech as the Apple Watch Series 6 at a more affordable price.
• It starts at $279 and preorders go live today.

After talking about the Apple Watch Series 6, Jeff Williams went ahead and announced Apple's low-cost Apple Watch, Apple Watch SE.

The Apple Watch SE uses the same display as the Apple Watch Series 6, a big upgrade from the older Series 3 screen. In addition, the new watch uses the S5 chip, originally launched in the Apple Watch Series 5, for two times faster performance than Series 3.

The Apple Watch SE will come in both GPS and Cellular configurations. It also will sport the same accelerometer, compass, gyroscope, and altimeter that the Apple Watch Series 6 will receive.

It will also feature fall detection to help bring peace of mind to even more people. It is also swim-proof, so feel free to jump in the pool with it.

The Apple Watch SE will start at $279, with Apple Card financing as low as $12 per month. It is available for preorder today and releases on Friday.

For all of the details about the new Apple Watch SE, check out our full guide.

If you're looking to trade in your current Apple Watch for credit towards a new one, you can always trade your current watch in to the Apple Recycling Program. Currently, Apple offers up to $175 for Apple Watches through the Series 2 (Series 3 watches are not yet eligible for the recycling program).

Just as the program does with iPhones and iPads, trading in your Apple Watch, either in-store or online, will net you an Apple Store gift card that you can then spend on a new Apple Watch or any other product in Apple's physical or online stores.

How much can I get for my Apple Watch?

While the amount your specific Apple Watch nets you might vary, these are the maximum prices you can expect to get for each generation of watch:

• Apple Watch (First Generation): $75
• Apple Watch Series 1: $75
• Apple Watch Series 2: $175

The condition of your watch and its material (aluminum or stainless steel, edition watches aren't eligible) will determine the trade-in value of your watch. One thing that will not impact it, however, is the size. Both 38mm and 42mm Apple Watches made of the same material and in the same condition will fetch the same price from Apple.

How to trade in your Apple Watch online through Apple's Recycling Program

1. Head to https://www.apple.com/watch/trade-up/ in your browser of choice.
2. Click Trade in your Apple Watch online or See what yours is worth.

3. Select the model of Apple Watch you're looking to trade in.
4. Select the size of your Apple Watch casing, either 38mm or 42mm. You can find that somewhere in the text around the heart rate monitor of the back of the watch if you don't already know.

5. Answer the questions about the condition of your watch by clicking "Yes" or "No".
6. Click Get my Evaluation.

7. Click Continue.
8. Enter the serial number of your Apple Watch.
   • How to check your Apple Watch's generation and serial number

9. Click Validate. You'll need to have Find My Apple Watch disabled, which means your watch will already need to be un-paried from your iPhone.
10. Fill out your contact and delivery information.

11. Choose how you want to send in your Apple Watch: either using your own packaging, or Brightstar's free return packaging which they will ship to you within about five days.
12. Click the checkboxes for the final checks for quality, data removal, and battery charge.

13. Click Continue.
14. Click Accept.

Note that the only thing you need to send to Brightstar is the Apple Watch body. You can keep any bands or chargers that you have, even if they came with the watch that you're trading in.

Questions?

If you've got any questions about trading in your Apple Watch through the Apple Recycling Program, let us know in the comments.

You've taken the plunge and upgraded to a new Apple Watch Series 3. Now what are you going to do with your old Apple Watch? You could sell it, but you won't get much for it in resale value. You could, instead keep it and make something useful out of it for your daily life. If you're planning on keeping your old Apple Watch, for sentimental or other reasons, here are a few ideas.

Keeping tabs on others

You may have a family member who could use your old Apple Watch ... and you think it would be a great idea that they use it, both for their benefit and yours. Maybe you have a teenage son or daughter you'd like to be able to contact without having to endure the, "Oh, my phone was on mute," comeback (if you know what we mean and we think you do). The Apple Watch can also be used as a timer for kids that have trouble focusing and work better with incremental tasks. It's so easy to use (it even has a watch face complication) that your little might be able to set and reset timers without needing your help. Ditto on alarms attached to reminders. In all of these cases, a tap on the wrist from the Apple Watch's Taptic Engine is a great attention-getter.

Leave the gun. Take the cannoli.

Actually, meant to say leave the watch, take the band, but I just love that line from The Godfather, so I had to get it in here somehow. This approach works if you know you're going to buy a new watch, but haven't pulled the trigger yet. If you like your band—especially if it was an expensive one, such as the stainless steel Milanese loop—buy the new Apple Watch with the least expensive band. When the new watch arrives, swap in your favored band, and use the old Watch with or without the new band for a different purpose.

Day Watch, Night Watch

There's an old saying that someone with one watch always knows what time it is, but someone with two watches is never sure. Fortunately, since every Apple Watch uses precision Sratum One-level Network Time Servers, someone with two Apple Watches always knows what time it is.

Though your Series 3 won't have nearly as much battery life problems, even the latest and greatest Apple Watch can struggle to make it through the day on a single charge, particularly if the day includes a workout (or two). If you have two Apple Watch devices, you've always got a backup. Thankfully, Apple added the ability in iOS 9.3 to pair multiple Apple Watches with one iPhone and automatically switch between them. Suppose you want to do sleep tracking on an on-going basis. Wear your night watch while your day watch charges. Want to have a lightweight aluminum watch for workouts, but a heavier stainless steel one for more formal occasions? Two watches solves that problem.

Kitchen Timer

An Apple Watch can set a timer for you, but what if you need two? Use your old Watch to time the cinnamon rolls and your new one to keep five-minute eggs from turning into hard-boiled eggs. Yum!

Nightstand

Repurpose your old Apple Watch as a permanent nightstand clock by connecting it to power and turning it on its side, digital crown facing up.

From the wrist to the arm

Drop your old Apple Watch into an Actionsleeve, a product which promises improved heart rate tracking through a band that wraps around your upper arm. It also keeps your Apple Watch out of harm's way during sports like kickboxing.

Safety blinker

watchOS 4 includes a flashlight feature. If you run at night, strap an Apple Watch on each arm, turn on the flashlight on each (perhaps either the flashing white or red variety) to help alert motorists to your presence.

Mount it on your bike

Attach your old Apple Watch to your bike's handlebars and use its GPS to track your route (if it's a Series 2) or store music to listen to while you ride. You can also strap a flashing Apple Watch (see the safety blinker idea above) to the front or rear of your bike.

Wear it a different way

Thanks to accessories from Bucardo, you can attach your old Apple Watch to a chain necklace, dangle a charm from the other end, and turn on a Photos or Motion watch face to create a new fashion accessory. Add a cover to create a locket or pocket watch.

What did you do?

Have you repurposed your old Apple Watch in an interesting way? Tell us in the comments below.

Target is currently offering $70 off the Apple Watch Series 1, dropping the starting price down to just $199.99. There are a variety of different color configurations available in both the 38mm and 42mm sizes, and right now you can take advantage of the free expedited shipping to have it at your door quickly. If you are in the market for a Series 2 Apple Watch, Best Buy is offering the same $70 discount on them, which brings starting prices down to $299 for the 38mm.

These are both the latest versions of Apple Watch, but offer a few differences. Both have upgraded processors over the Series 0, but only the Series 2 watch is swim-proof and comes with the direct fire speaker. With the money you're saving on the watch itself, you may want to pick up a few extra bands with it. You can pick up some great looking Sports band, Milanese and even leather bands for just a fraction of what Apple charges.

It's not every day that we see these sorts of discounts, so be sure to act quickly if you are interested.

For more great deals on tech, gadgets, home and lifestyle goods, be sure to check out Thrifter now!