Apple Watch Series 3 38mm: Still Worth It?
Hey tech enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm, a smartwatch that, despite its age, still pops up in conversations. Is this old-timer still kicking, or is it time to let it fade into the sunset? We'll explore its features, performance, and whether it's a worthwhile buy in today's market. So, buckle up, and let's get into this Apple Watch Series 3 38mm review!
Design and Build: A Familiar Face
When the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm was released, it sported a design that has become synonymous with the Apple Watch. The rectangular watch face, the rounded corners, and the digital crown are all there. Even today, it's a sleek and stylish design, available in a variety of finishes, from aluminum to stainless steel. You'll find it comfortable to wear, and the lightweight aluminum version won't weigh you down. The 38mm size is perfect for those with smaller wrists, offering a more compact and less obtrusive feel. This size also means that it can accommodate a wide variety of bands, letting you personalize the watch to match your style. You can easily switch between sporty bands for workouts, leather bands for a more sophisticated look, or even metal bands for a touch of elegance. The build quality is as you'd expect from Apple. It feels solid and well-made, capable of withstanding the rigors of daily use. While the screen size is smaller compared to the newer models, it is still perfectly readable. The display is bright and clear, making it easy to see notifications, check the time, and navigate the interface. The touchscreen is responsive and accurate, so interacting with the watch is a breeze. The Apple Watch Series 3 38mm has a timeless design that continues to appeal to many, proving that classic aesthetics can endure. Even though it's an older model, its design is not outdated, allowing it to blend into any environment easily. This design legacy is a testament to Apple's design philosophy, where functionality and aesthetics go hand in hand. The use of premium materials also ensures that the watch feels like a premium product, and the overall build quality is exceptional.
Durability and Water Resistance
As with all Apple Watch models, the Series 3 38mm offers a good level of durability. The screen is protected by Ion-X glass, which provides a decent level of scratch resistance. The watch is also water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming and other water activities. That means you can wear it in the shower, the pool, or the ocean without worry (though it is not designed for diving). It's great to know that the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is designed to withstand everyday wear and tear. You don't have to be overly precious with it. It's built to last, making it a great option for those who live an active lifestyle. This durability factor makes it a reliable companion for various activities, from workouts to outdoor adventures. The water resistance is a significant advantage, allowing you to track your swimming workouts and monitor your activity even in wet conditions. The water resistance also adds to its practicality, giving you peace of mind during your daily routines.
Performance: Still Holding Its Own?
Inside, the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm runs on an older S3 chip. While it's not the fastest watch on the market compared to newer models, it still handles everyday tasks pretty well. Navigating the interface is smooth, apps launch quickly enough, and you won't experience significant lag unless you're pushing it with demanding apps. The performance is generally sufficient for tasks such as checking notifications, tracking workouts, and using basic apps. One of the main downsides to consider is the limited storage capacity. This can be a constraint if you plan to store music or download many apps. Nevertheless, for those who primarily use it for essential functions like activity tracking, notifications, and basic communication, the storage limitation might not be a major issue. The S3 chip continues to provide a satisfactory user experience, especially if you aren't a power user. The performance is adequate for most common needs, allowing the user to experience the core functionalities of the smartwatch without major hiccups.
Watch OS Experience
The Apple Watch Series 3 38mm supports the latest version of WatchOS. You'll have access to a wide array of features, including health and fitness tracking, notifications, and the ability to run apps. The user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate. Apple has consistently updated the WatchOS software. The interface is optimized to work well even on the older hardware. This means you will benefit from the latest features, security enhancements, and improvements to the overall user experience. The WatchOS experience on the Series 3 is still solid. The software is well-designed. The interface is intuitive, making it easy to get around and access the features you need. The user-friendly interface is a significant advantage, particularly for those new to smartwatches. The consistent software support and optimization ensure the Series 3 remains functional and valuable, even years after its release.
Health and Fitness Features: Keeping You Moving
Even though it's an older model, the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm packs a punch when it comes to health and fitness features. It tracks your activity throughout the day, including steps taken, calories burned, and active minutes. You can also monitor your heart rate, get reminders to stand up, and participate in challenges. The Apple Watch Series 3 38mm includes built-in GPS, which allows you to track your outdoor workouts accurately. Whether you're running, cycling, or walking, the watch will record your route and other relevant data. You also have access to various workout modes for different types of activities, allowing you to customize your tracking experience. For example, you can track your swimming, yoga, or HIIT workouts. The health and fitness features are quite comprehensive, giving you plenty of data to understand your activity levels and make healthier choices. You can set goals, track your progress, and get insights to motivate yourself to stay active. The integration with the Apple Health app on your iPhone is seamless, allowing you to view all your health data in one place. The watch also provides helpful features such as fall detection. If it detects a hard fall, it can automatically alert emergency services and your emergency contacts. This function provides an additional layer of safety and peace of mind. Overall, the health and fitness features are a strong selling point for the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm. It's a great tool to help you stay active, monitor your health, and achieve your fitness goals.
Heart Rate Monitoring and GPS
The Apple Watch Series 3 38mm features a built-in heart rate sensor that continuously monitors your heart rate throughout the day. This data helps you to understand your resting heart rate, your activity levels, and how your heart responds to exercise. The GPS allows you to track outdoor activities. Whether you are running, walking, or cycling, the watch records your route, distance, and pace. This information is valuable for tracking progress and improving your fitness. Even though it is an older model, the health tracking features remain impressive. You can still use the watch to monitor your heart rate, track your workouts, and get insights to help you make healthy choices. The built-in GPS ensures accurate tracking for outdoor activities, while the heart rate monitoring provides valuable health data. These features, combined with the comprehensive health app, make the Series 3 a solid option for those looking to stay active and monitor their health.
Battery Life: How Long Does It Last?
Battery life on the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is a mixed bag. In general, you can expect to get a full day of use with typical usage. This means you can track your activity, receive notifications, and use some apps without worrying about running out of power. If you are a heavy user, which includes lots of GPS usage or extended workout sessions, you may need to charge the watch before the end of the day. The battery life is not as good as the newer models, which can often last for two days or more. However, for many users, the Series 3's battery life is adequate. It's also important to note that the battery life can degrade over time. The watch might not last as long as it did when it was brand new. Keeping the battery healthy is essential. Make sure that you are not overcharging or discharging the battery. The battery life is a compromise. While it won't give you the multi-day battery life of some other smartwatches, it is usually enough for a full day of use. This makes it a great option for everyday use. Charging the watch overnight is a standard practice, making it ready for the next day. The battery life is decent, but if you have a very active lifestyle, you might need to recharge the watch during the day. Overall, you can expect a full day of use, but the heavy use will drain the battery faster.
Value for Money: Is It Worth Buying Today?
This is the million-dollar question: Is the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm still a good buy? If you're looking for an affordable Apple Watch, it could be. You can often find them at a lower price than the newer models, making it a budget-friendly option. However, there are some factors to consider. The older S3 chip is not as fast as the newer chips. You might notice some lag when running demanding apps. The battery life is also shorter compared to the latest models. Before buying, compare the cost against the features that you need and compare it to newer models. If you only need the basic functions, then the Series 3 might be a good value for the money. However, if you are looking for advanced health features or if you want the latest performance and battery life, then you might want to consider the newer models. The value proposition depends on what you're looking for in a smartwatch. If you're new to the Apple Watch ecosystem and want to try it out, the Series 3 might be a good starting point. You can get a taste of the experience without spending too much money. But, if you want all the latest features, the newer models would provide a better long-term investment. Consider your needs and budget when making your decision. Consider buying a used or refurbished model to increase the value.
Pros and Cons: A Quick Overview
To give you a clearer idea, here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm:
Pros: Affordable, compact design, health and fitness features (heart rate monitoring, GPS), water-resistant, access to WatchOS.
Cons: Slower processor, shorter battery life, smaller display than newer models, limited storage capacity. The Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is a great entry point into the world of smartwatches. But, it is essential to consider the pros and cons to make the best decision.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?
So, after all of that, what's the final verdict? The Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is still a decent smartwatch, especially if you're on a budget. It offers the core Apple Watch experience, with health and fitness tracking, notifications, and app support. However, it's important to recognize its limitations. The older processor and shorter battery life might be a deal-breaker for some. If you want the latest features and performance, then you'd be better off with a newer model. But if you're looking for an affordable, compact, and functional smartwatch, the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm could still be a viable option. For anyone looking for a cheap Apple Watch, the Series 3 is still a decent option, especially if you're not planning to load it up with apps. If you're on a tight budget and don't need the latest and greatest features, it's worth considering. Just keep in mind that you're sacrificing some of the performance and battery life of the newer models. It's a good choice for those who are new to smartwatches. You will experience the core features of the Apple Watch at a lower price point. Before making a decision, consider your needs, budget, and priorities. If you value features, performance, and battery life, you might want to look at the newer models. Overall, the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is a good smartwatch. It provides a good balance between features and affordability.