Apple has once again revolutionized the smartwatch landscape with the release of its 2025 Apple Watch models, including the Apple Watch Series 11, SE 3, and Ultra 3. Announced during the annual iPhone hardware event, these latest smartwatches boast faster performance and enhanced features that set them apart from previous generations. However, it's essential to analyze these upgrades to determine if they're worth the investment for consumers.
The 2025 Apple Watch Series 11 starts at an MSRP of $399 for the 42mm GPS version and goes up to $499 for the 5G model. While the design remains similar to the Series 10, significant enhancements have been made in battery life and health monitoring features. Apple claims that the Series 11 can last up to 24 hours on a single charge, with features like hypertension notifications awaiting FDA clearance.
In contrast, the Apple Watch SE 3 is the most affordable option at $249 and shares the same S10 chipset found in its pricier counterparts. This model now includes an always-on display, temperature sensors for ovulation tracking, and enhanced audio capabilities through its built-in speaker. The SE 3 is available in both 40mm and 44mm sizes, with an additional $50 for models featuring 5G connectivity.
Meanwhile, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 introduces a groundbreaking satellite messaging feature, allowing users to send messages when off the grid. This model also features a larger screen, thanks to reduced bezels, while maintaining the same overall watch size. The Ultra 3 is built for adventure, with increased battery life and robust water resistance capabilities.
To help potential buyers make informed decisions, let's delve into the specifications of each model compared to their predecessors:
Model Starting MSRP Sizes Battery Life Water Resistance Apple Watch Series 11 $399 (GPS) / $499 (5G) 42mm / 46mm Up to 24 hours; 38 hours in low-power mode Up to 50 meters Apple Watch Series 10 $399 (GPS) / $499 (LTE) 42mm / 46mm Up to 18 hours; 36 hours in low-power mode Up to 50 meters Apple Watch Ultra 3 $799 49mm Up to 42 hours; 72 hours in low-power mode Up to 100 meters Apple Watch Ultra 2 $799 49mm Up to 36 hours; 72 hours in low-power mode Up to 100 meters Apple Watch SE 3 $249 (GPS) / $299 (5G) 40mm / 44mm Up to 18 hours; up to 36 hours in low-power mode Up to 50 meters Apple Watch SE (2022) $249 (GPS) / $299 (LTE) 40mm / 44mm Up to 18 hours; up to 36 hours in low-power mode Up to 50 metersWith the release of these new 2025 Apple Watch models, Apple continues to push the boundaries of smartwatch technology. While the designs may be iterative, the added features and improved performance could make these watches a compelling upgrade for many users. Whether you opt for the budget-friendly SE 3 or the feature-rich Ultra 3, there's no doubt that these smartwatches are equipped with the latest technology for health tracking and connectivity.
As we await more in-depth reviews and user feedback, the early indications suggest that the Apple Watch Series 11, SE 3, and Ultra 3 have the potential to enhance the user experience significantly, making them worthy contenders in the ever-growing smartwatch market.
