Series 3 downsides: No LTE and it's the older modelĭespite its draws, there's the risk that this watch may have a shorter shelf life. The health features it misses out on include the built-in ECG, blood oxygen or SpO2 tracking, noise alerts and fall detection.

It has a lot of the same health features as the SE and the Series 6 including basic sleep tracking cycle tracking and measuring high, low and irregular heart rate alerts. The Apple Watch Series 3 will also keep track of your cardio fitness levels. And thanks to its built-in GPS, you can track your route even when you don't have your phone in tow. Like the more expensive Apple Watches, the Series 3 automatically detects over 12 different workouts, including swimming and cycling, and it gives you access to Apple's new Fitness Plus service, allowing you to stream guided workouts from home. It's an extension of your smartphone that lets you make calls, send texts, get notifications and listen to music, as well as a fitness tracker that pushes you to improve your activity levels with a ring-based system. Starting at $200 the square watch face looks almost exactly the same as the more expensive models and packs in all the core fitness and smart features you need. If you're still unsure about making the leap from analogue wrist watch to smartwatch, or if you're on a budget, the Apple Watch Series 3 may just be your ticket. Apple Watch Series 3: The most affordable option with a few trade-offs Here's a breakdown of Apple's smartwatches to help you narrow it down. Everything beyond that is a 'nice to have' that will mostly depend on your budget. (See the chart below for a full specs breakdown, including international prices.)Įven the Series 3, which still has its shortcomings (like battery life), will give you most of the features you need in a smartwatch.

So trust me when I tell you there's no bad choice when it comes to buying an Apple Watch.

I also over-research every purchase in my life. I've spent a lot of time wearing the latest Series 6 ($399), the $279 SE and $199 Series 3. It can do almost as much as your smartphone, it's one of the best fitness trackers out there and it even keeps your vitals in check. There's a reason why the Apple Watch ( $199 at Best Buy) continues to dominate smartwatch sales.

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