Don't buy the Apple Watch Series 3

The Apple Watch Series 3 might seem like an easy and affordable entry into the Apple Watch world, but we recommend purchasing another model, unless you are looking for an exercise in frustration and disappointment.

It is still for sale in 2021 (and 2022)

Along with the Apple Watch Series 7 debut in September 2021, Apple made another announcement that it would continue to sell the Apple Watch Series 3. Series 3 debuted in 2017, but priced at $ 199 from Apple for the device makes it seem affordable. way for users to try on Apple Watch for size.

Although this is the cheapest Apple Watch model, it has major and minor flaws that may make you regret the purchase.

Why should you avoid the Apple Watch Series 3?

Anyone who's ever used an iPhone after its prime knows that just because Apple is offering an update for older devices doesn't mean it will work well on them.

The Apple Watch Series 3 is starting to show its age in a frustrating way. Thanks to the relatively small 8GB on-board storage, even updating the watch to the latest version of watchOS is a complicated process.

Unless you never actually use your Apple Watch, the limited storage fills up pretty quickly. Due to the size of watchOS updates, there often won't be enough updates without backing up your watch data, installing the update, and then restoring your data from backup.

Remember, this is every time you update watchOS. These may not happen particularly frequently, but it will be irritating the very first time you have to.

Of course, this all assumes that Apple will continue to support Series 3 in future watchOS updates. No one wants to buy a product only to see the company drop their support in a year. Apple hasn't announced plans to drop support, but the company hasn't given a long-term plan for the future of Series 3 either.

What should you buy instead?

Even if you're on a budget, there are better options available than the Apple Watch Series 3. Yes, they may cost more, but you'll get more for your money at the same time.

The Apple Watch SE is a better option for most people than the Series 3, but as of September 2021, it costs $ 279 to the Series 199's $ 3. in the first place, this price difference can be a deciding factor. That said, if you really want an Apple Watch, the SE is worth the extra money.

The Apple Watch Series 3 and Apple Watch SE both feature dual-core processors, heart rate sensors, and promise around 18 hours of battery life. The Apple Watch SE is slightly larger, with case sizes of 44mm and 40mm, while the Apple Watch Series 3 comes in case sizes of 42mm and 38mm.

The Apple Watch SE has a major advantage in that you can buy a model with a cellular radio, which is completely lacking in the Apple Watch Series 3. It also has a larger screen with smaller bezels, a tall -More powerful speaker and 32 GB storage compared to the 8 GB series 3.

The extra storage in the Apple Watch SE should be reason enough to go for this model, assuming you plan to keep it up to date. The newer chip in this model is also expected to continue to perform well with future watchOS updates for longer, which will give the OS longer longevity.

Consider buying used

If you're not interested in the Apple Watch SE, there are still options to get a better watch than the Series 3 without spending more than you're comfortable with.

One of the best ways to save money on Apple products while still getting something that you can be sure works right out of the box is to buy from the company's own refurbished store. Apple. You get the price savings of buying used, but your Apple Watch will appear in pristine condition in what looks like brand new packaging.

As of this writing, you can find an Apple Watch Series 4 GPS in the Refurbished section of the Apple Online Store for $ 279. Yes, that's more than the Series 199's $ 3 price tag, but you get a bigger, brighter screen, improved battery life, and a slimmer body.

You can also save even more money by opting for one of the many services that resell used Apple Watch models. If you're considering going this route, we've got a Complete Guide to Saving Money on Apple Products that can help.

What if you really wanted a Series 3?

You may be a fan of the slightly tougher look of the Series 3 compared to the more rounded shapes of the newer Apple Watch models. Maybe you like the 38mm size compared to the slightly larger sizes of Series 4 and later.

Of course, it's also possible that you really don't want to spend too much on what is essentially an accessory, but still prefer to buy new. There are many valid reasons why you might be interested in purchasing an Apple Watch.

If you're absolutely determined to buy an Apple Watch Series 3, don't let us stop you. Just make sure you know the downsides before hitting that buy button.