Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) vs Fitbit Versa 3
The Verdict
Apple Watch SE 1st Gen and Fitbit Versa 3 target different smartwatch priorities. The Apple Watch runs watchOS with access to thousands of apps, superior performance via the S5 chip, and seamless iPhone integration through Siri and notifications. Its 40mm and 44mm options provide choice, though the 18-hour battery requires daily charging. The Versa 3 prioritizes battery life with 6+ days between charges, features an always-on AMOLED display, and includes SpO2 monitoring that the Apple Watch lacks. However, Fitbit OS is more limited for app ecosystems and lacks cellular connectivity. Both offer GPS, NFC, and solid health tracking with heart rate and sleep monitoring. The Apple Watch costs $50 more but delivers faster performance and deeper smartphone integration; the Versa 3 wins on endurance and costs less if you value extended wear time. Choose the Apple Watch if you're invested in iOS and want app variety and cellular independence. Pick the Versa 3 if you prioritize battery longevity and prefer fitness-focused simplicity over third-party app ecosystems.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) if…
- →Affordable entry into the Apple Watch ecosystem with core features
- →Same large display as Series 6 — no visible compromise
- →Fall detection and emergency SOS for safety
Buy the Fitbit Versa 3 if…
- →Built-in GPS is a major upgrade over Versa 2
- →6+ day battery easily lasts a full week for most users
- →AMOLED display is bright and crisp
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple Watch SE (1st Gen)
Pros
- Affordable entry into the Apple Watch ecosystem with core features
- Same large display as Series 6 — no visible compromise
- Fall detection and emergency SOS for safety
- Compass and always-on altimeter for outdoor activities
- Family Setup enables use for kids without an iPhone
Cons
- No Always-On display — must raise wrist to see the time
- Older S5 chip — slower than the 2022 SE's S8
- No ECG, SpO2, or blood oxygen monitoring
- No fast charging — takes about 2.5 hours for full charge
Fitbit Versa 3
Pros
- Built-in GPS is a major upgrade over Versa 2
- 6+ day battery easily lasts a full week for most users
- AMOLED display is bright and crisp
- Google Assistant and Alexa voice assistant support
- Lightweight at 40 g — comfortable for sleep tracking
Cons
- Capacitive side button is imprecise and frustrating
- No ECG or EDA stress sensor — need Sense for those
- Fitbit OS has a very limited app store
- SpO2 tracking requires a specific watch face to display
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) | Fitbit Versa 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | watchOS 7 (upgradable to watchOS 10) | Fitbit OS |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 30.49 g (40mm) / 36.2 g (44mm) | 40 g |
| Case material | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Water resistance | WR50 (50m) | 5ATM |
| Health & Sensors | ||
| ECG | ||
| SpO₂ | ||
| Skin temperature | ||
| Heart rate | ||
| Sleep tracking | ||
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 6+ days |
| Display | ||
| Size | 40mm / 44mm | 40mm (1.58 inches) |
| Type | LTPO OLED Retina | AMOLED |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 324 x 394 / 368 x 448 | 336 x 336 |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | Apple S5 SiP | Fitbit custom processor |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 |
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This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in smartwatches, see all Apple products or all Fitbit products. View full details for the Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) or the Fitbit Versa 3.