Which Apple Watch Should You Buy in 2026?
• Key Takeaways:
• Apple now sells three main models: Watch SE 3 ($249), Series 11 ($399) and Ultra 3 ($799); SE 3 narrows the gap on core features. • Both SE 3 and Series 11 share the S10 chip, always-on display, wrist-temperature sensing and fast-charge support. • Series 11 adds more health sensors (ECG, blood oxygen, hypertension notifications), brighter display (up to 2000 nits) and longer day-to-day battery. • Choose SE 3 for value and essential smartwatch features; pick Series 11 for advanced health tracking, battery life and a larger, brighter screen.
Quick comparison: price, positioning and purpose
The lineup covers three use cases. The Apple Watch SE 3 is the best budget pick, starting at $249. The Series 11 sits in the mainstream spot at $399 with more health and display features. The Ultra 3, at $799, targets endurance athletes and pros who need ruggedness and extended capabilities.
What both the SE 3 and Series 11 get right
Shared core hardware and software
Both watches run on Apple’s S10 chip, so everyday performance and app responsiveness are largely identical. They also support always-on Retina faces and the same watchOS features like sleep tracking, cycle tracking and crash/fall detection.
Health, safety and convenience features
Each model includes heart-rate alerts, irregular rhythm notifications, sleep score and wrist-temperature sensing for overnight trends and retrospective ovulation estimates. Emergency SOS, Find My iPhone (with Series 11 offering precision finding) and gesture controls such as double tap and wrist flick are supported on both models.
Key differences to weigh
Battery and charging
Series 11 delivers roughly a 24-hour regular battery (up to 28 hours in low-power mode). SE 3 is rated around 18 hours (up to 32 in low-power mode). Charging speeds differ: Series 11 can hit about 80% faster (~30 minutes) while SE 3 takes longer (~45 minutes); both provide roughly eight hours of use from a 15-minute top-up.
Sensors and display
Series 11 adds advanced health sensors — ECG, blood oxygen app and hypertension detection — plus a wide-angle OLED that can reach 2000 nits. SE 3 brings many of the same software features but with a simpler OLED capped near 1000 nits. Series 11 also includes depth and water-temperature sensors and IP6X dust resistance.
Size and materials
Series 11 is offered in 46mm and 44mm with aluminum or titanium cases and is slightly thinner. SE 3 comes in 44mm and 40mm aluminum only and introduces an always-on display to the budget line.
Which model should you buy?
Buy the SE 3 if...
You want a modern, capable smartwatch at a lower price. The SE 3 is ideal for first-time buyers, teenagers and anyone who values core fitness, sleep and safety features without premium sensors.
Buy the Series 11 if...
You prioritize advanced health monitoring, a brighter, larger display and better battery life. The Series 11 is the better pick for users who want ECG, blood oxygen readings and slightly more durable hardware.
Final note
If you need extreme battery life or specialized outdoor features, consider the Ultra 3. For most shoppers, the SE 3 or Series 11 will cover the essential choices—pick based on whether sensors and battery matter more than price.
