With the new generation of the Apple Watch, Apple is launching three models: the Series 11, the Ultra 3, and the SE 3. Initial reviews have already appeared, even before the devices officially hit the shelves. They show that the differences are significant depending on the model – and that the most expensive model doesn't necessarily represent the greatest advancement.
For years, the Apple Watch has been one of the most popular smartwatches worldwide. With each new generation, Apple emphasizes more fitness features, deeper health functions, and stronger integration into the overall Apple ecosystem. However, in recent years, there has been criticism of insufficient innovations and ever-increasing prices. The new Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3 models aim to change this. But the question remains: Which model actually offers the most value?
Apple Watch Series 11: More battery, little new
The Apple Watch Series 11 is a relatively minor update compared to the Series 10. Apple claims a battery life of up to 24 hours—a six-hour increase over its predecessor. However, this improvement is also due to Apple's adjustment of its testing conditions and now including six hours of sleep tracking by default.
However, according to CNET 's Vanessa Hand Orellana, these figures are realistic. In tests with active notifications, daily outdoor training, continuous sleep tracking, and occasional use of the flashlight, the Series 11 reliably lasted between 27 and 32 hours. Jacob Krol of TechRadar also confirmed a noticeable improvement: the battery capacity increased by 11 percent in the 46mm model and by 9 percent in the 42mm model. In practice, half a charge lasted for around 17 hours of use. Under normal conditions, this makes a battery life of one and a half days realistic.
Additionally, Apple promises that the aluminum models will have twice the scratch resistance of the cover glass. Titanium models were already equipped with sapphire glass in the Series 10. Cellular configurations now support 5G. However, there are no exclusive health features: Both the new "Hypertension Notifications" and the "Sleep Score" are also available on older models. Overall, the Series 11 is considered one of the smallest upgrades Apple has ever released for an Apple Watch.
Apple Watch Ultra 3: Longer endurance and satellite SOS
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is aimed at outdoor enthusiasts and offers a longer battery life of 42 hours. The display has been slightly enlarged, and this model now also supports 5G in the cellular versions. The most striking new feature is the emergency SOS via satellite. Zac Hall of 9to5Mac describes the function as reliable as long as there is a clear view of the sky. The connection doesn't work indoors, and trees can also block reception. Nevertheless, it's notable that the Ultra 3 now enables emergency calls via satellite directly from the wrist—without the need for an iPhone. Compared to the Ultra 2, the third generation is a moderate, but not revolutionary, upgrade.
Apple Watch SE 3: The real winner
The most exciting model of the new generation is the Apple Watch SE 3. It receives its first major update in three years and brings numerous features previously reserved for the more expensive models. These include an always-on display, support for the new double-tap gestures, a wrist temperature sensor for retrospective ovulation estimation, sleep apnea detection, fast charging, 5G in cellular variants, and Siri directly on the device. At its heart is the new S10 chip, which makes the SE 3 noticeably more powerful. The Sleep Score feature is also available. Despite all these innovations, the price in Germany remains at €269, making the SE 3 clearly aimed at a broad audience. Victoria Song of The Verge emphasizes that the differences between the SE 3 and the Series 11 are barely noticeable for many users. For her, the SE 3 is the model to buy. Observers also suspect that Apple's upgrade to the SE series is a targeted response to the recently weakening sales figures.
Series 11, Ultra 3 & SE 3: Which Apple Watch model is most worthwhile?
The three new Apple Watch models differ significantly in their usefulness. While the Series 11 offers better battery life and more scratch-resistant glass, it remains a very minor upgrade. The Ultra 3 scores with longer battery life and satellite SOS, but doesn't deliver any real breakthroughs. The SE 3, on the other hand, offers the biggest advancements: new features, modern hardware, and an attractive price. For many users, the Apple Watch SE 3 is the most interesting choice of the new generation. (Image: Apple)
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