Apple Watch SE (2022) vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 3
The Verdict
Apple Watch SE (2022) excels as a budget-conscious option at $249, featuring the capable S8 processor, LTPO OLED display, and seamless iOS integration with watchOS 9+ support. Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 commands a $150 premium with stainless steel construction, superior health monitoring (ECG and SpO2), and approximately 1.5-2 days of battery life versus SE's 18 hours. However, Galaxy Watch 3 runs aging Tizen OS 5.5 without guaranteed modern updates, while the SE benefits from Apple's longer software commitment. SE's lighter weight (26.8-33g) and USB-C charging prove more practical daily. For iPhone users prioritizing affordability and longevity, Apple Watch SE delivers exceptional value. Android users seeking comprehensive health metrics should consider Galaxy Watch 3, though newer alternatives like Watch 4/5 series offer better software experiences at comparable prices. SE emerges as the smarter choice for most users.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple Watch SE (2022) if…
- →Same S8 chip as Series 8 at $150 less — best value Apple Watch
- →Crash Detection included at this price point
- →Lightweight nylon-reinforced composite back is comfortable on the wrist
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 if…
- →Physical rotating bezel provides tactile, satisfying navigation
- →Premium stainless steel build with classic watch aesthetics
- →ECG and SpO2 monitoring were cutting-edge at launch
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple Watch SE (2022)
Pros
- Same S8 chip as Series 8 at $150 less — best value Apple Watch
- Crash Detection included at this price point
- Lightweight nylon-reinforced composite back is comfortable on the wrist
- Family Setup lets kids use it without an iPhone
- Full access to the Apple Watch app ecosystem
Cons
- No Always-On display — screen goes dark when wrist is lowered
- No ECG, SpO2, or skin temperature sensors
- Thicker bezels than Series 8 make the screen feel smaller
- 18-hour battery still requires nightly charging
Samsung Galaxy Watch 3
Pros
- Physical rotating bezel provides tactile, satisfying navigation
- Premium stainless steel build with classic watch aesthetics
- ECG and SpO2 monitoring were cutting-edge at launch
- Fall detection with automatic SOS alerts
- Thinner and lighter than Galaxy Watch (2018)
Cons
- Tizen OS is now discontinued — no new app development
- Battery life of 1.5 days typical requires frequent charging
- Older Exynos 9110 is noticeably slower than W920
- Heavy at 48-54 g — uncomfortable for sleep tracking
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple Watch SE (2022) | Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | watchOS 9 (upgradable to watchOS 11+) | Tizen OS 5.5 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 26.8 g (40mm) / 33 g (44mm) | 48.2 g (41mm) / 53.8 g (45mm) |
| Case material | Aluminum | Stainless Steel / Titanium |
| Water resistance | WR50 (50m) | 5ATM + IP68, MIL-STD-810G |
| Health & Sensors | ||
| ECG | ||
| SpO₂ | ||
| Skin temperature | ||
| Heart rate | ||
| Sleep tracking | ||
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 2 days (typical ~1.5 days) |
| Display | ||
| Size | 40mm / 44mm | 41mm / 45mm |
| Type | LTPO OLED Retina | Super AMOLED |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 324 x 394 / 368 x 448 | 360 x 360 |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | Apple S8 SiP | Exynos 9110 |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.0 |
Related Comparisons
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 Samsung products. View full details for the Apple Watch SE (2022) or the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3.