The Apple Watch SE (2024) is the latest version in the SE line, designed to offer a premium smartwatch experience at a more accessible price. Positioned as a budget-friendly alternative to the Series 9 and Ultra 2, the Watch SE combines the essential features of the Apple Watch with a modern and stylish design. Targeted at users who want to enjoy the key benefits of the Apple ecosystem without spending too much, the Watch SE is ideal for young users, smartwatch beginners, and anyone seeking a reliable and versatile device for daily use.
Full Analysis of the Apple Watch SE
Design and Build
The Apple Watch SE retains the classic design that defines the line, with a lightweight and durable aluminum case available in three colors: Midnight, Starlight, and Silver. The matte finish gives it a sophisticated appearance, while the reinforced nylon composite back keeps the device's weight low without sacrificing durability. With water resistance up to 50 meters (WR50), the Watch SE is suitable for activities like swimming, though it lacks the advanced durability certifications of the more expensive models. The familiar design, with curved edges and a minimalist interface, ensures the Watch SE fits seamlessly into any user’s style.
Display and Interface
The Watch SE features a 1.78-inch Retina LTPO OLED display, offering a resolution of 368 x 448 pixels for the 44mm version, and 324 x 394 pixels for the 40mm version. While it does not have the always-on display feature found in higher-end models, the SE’s screen remains vibrant and clear, with excellent visibility in various lighting conditions. The watchOS 10 interface is intuitive and smooth, making the most of the screen space for easy and accessible navigation. Even without the advanced customization options of the Series 9, the Watch SE provides a rich and efficient user experience.
Features and Functionality
The Apple Watch SE offers a well-balanced selection of features, including activity tracking, sleep monitoring, fall detection, high and low heart rate notifications, and emergency call support. The new S8 SiP chip, the same used in the Series 8, ensures agile performance, even without all the advanced health sensors found in top-of-the-line models. The SE does not include the ECG sensor or blood oxygen monitor but provides everything most users need to monitor their daily health and well-being, along with full support for Apple Pay, Siri, and a wide range of watchOS apps.
Performance and Connectivity
With the S8 processor, the Apple Watch SE delivers performance very close to the Series 8, making navigation, app use, and command responses quick and lag-free. Connectivity includes Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, and cellular options (GPS + Cellular), allowing users to stay connected even without their iPhone nearby. Integration with the Apple ecosystem is excellent, offering instant synchronization with iPhones, access to music and podcasts, and control of smart home devices with the ease expected from an Apple product.
Battery Life
The Apple Watch SE’s battery life is consistent with Apple’s standard, offering up to 18 hours of use on a single charge. While this is sufficient for a typical day of use, users may need to recharge the device overnight if using sleep tracking or engaging heavily with its features. The Watch SE also supports fast charging, allowing up to 80% battery recovery in about 45 minutes, which is ideal for users on the go who need a quick recharge before heading out.
Special Features
The Apple Watch SE (2024) includes the "Family Setup" feature, allowing parents to set up the device for children or elderly relatives without needing an iPhone, making it an interesting option for families. Another important feature is "Emergency SOS," which can be easily activated in emergency situations to contact emergency services or send your location to trusted contacts. These features add an extra layer of safety and connectivity, especially useful for younger or older users.
Comparison with Rivals
When compared with rivals like the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Lite and Fitbit Versa 4, the Apple Watch SE stands out for its deep integration with the Apple ecosystem and superior build quality. The Galaxy Watch 6 Lite offers good value for Android users but lacks the same level of app support and exclusive features of watchOS. The Fitbit Versa 4, on the other hand, is an excellent option for fitness tracking but falls short in terms of connectivity, app integration, and overall versatility.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great value for money with premium design and solid construction.
- Fast and efficient performance with the S8 chip.
- Seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem.
- Essential health and fitness features with good coverage.
Cons:
- Lack of advanced health features like ECG and blood oxygen monitor.
- No always-on display feature.
- Battery life could be better, especially for more intensive users.
Final Thoughts
The Apple Watch SE (2024) is an exceptional choice for those wanting an Apple smartwatch without the premium price tag. It offers an excellent combination of performance, features, and design at a more affordable price, making it an attractive option for both new users and those looking to upgrade from an older model. While it lacks some advanced features found in higher-end models, the SE still delivers a rich and complete experience that meets most daily needs. If you're looking to enter the Apple smartwatch world without compromising on quality, the Watch SE is a great option.