Apple Watch Series 11 vs Apple Watch SE 3: Which should you buy for your New Year’s resolutions?
Published: (December 30, 2025 at 03:49 PM EST)
2 min read
Source: 9to5Mac
Source: 9to5Mac
Apple Watch lineup refresh for 2025
Apple has updated its entire lineup of Apple Watch models this year, adding three new devices:
- Apple Watch SE 3
- Apple Watch Series 11
- Apple Ultra 3
Apple Watch SE 3 vs. Apple Watch Series 11
Below is a quick comparison of the two most relevant models for most users:
| Feature | Apple Watch SE 3 | Apple Watch Series 11 |
|---|---|---|
| Display | Retina LTPO OLED, up to 1,000 nits | Retina LTPO OLED, up to 1,500 nits |
| Processor | S9 SiP | S9 SiP with additional neural engine cores |
| Health sensors | Heart‑rate, blood‑oxygen, ECG (optional) | Heart‑rate, blood‑oxygen, ECG, temperature, skin‑humidity, blood‑glucose research sensor |
| Battery life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 18 hours (with more power‑hungry features) |
| Durability | WR50 water resistance | WR50 water resistance, crack‑resistant front crystal |
| Price (USD) | $299 | $449 (regular price) |
Key takeaways
- Performance: Both watches share the same S9 chip, but the Series 11 adds extra neural engine cores for faster on‑device processing of health data.
- Health tracking: The Series 11 introduces several new sensors (temperature, skin‑humidity, and a research‑grade blood‑glucose sensor) that the SE 3 lacks.
- Display: The Series 11’s brighter display is more visible in direct sunlight.
- Cost: The SE 3 remains the budget‑friendly option, while the Series 11 targets power users who need advanced health monitoring.
Current promotion
- Save $100 on the Apple Watch Series 11 for a limited time.
Note: Pricing and availability are subject to change; check Apple’s official store for the latest details.