Is the Apple Watch Series 3 Still Worth Buying in 2022?

TL;DR

The Apple Watch Series 3 is not worth buying in 2022 due to its outdated performance and software issues, including frequent storage problems that require factory resets for updates. Instead, consider the Apple Watch SE or Series 4/5, which offer better features and longevity at a reasonable price.

Transcript

welcome back everyone the apple watch series 3 is one of those apple watches that apple is still currently selling brand new but ultimately it probably doesn't make any sense of purchasing it just because it's pretty much on its last leg now i know that 199 price tag can be super you know persuasive to some people you know it's still supported with... Read More

Key Insights

• ❓ The Apple Watch Series 3 remains available but struggles with performance reliability and software support.
• 👤 Users report frequent issues with updating and storage, often needing factory resets, diminishing the watch's appeal for daily use.
• 😥 With a starting price of $199, the Series 3 offers a tempting entry point, though newer models provide better value.
• ❓ Comparatively, the Series SE and Series 4/5 exhibit substantial advancements in processing capabilities, addressing the shortcomings of the Series 3.
• 👤 Many users primarily utilize smartwatches for notifications and fitness tracking, which the Series 3 continues to support reasonably well.
• ⏯️ The power button and digital crown function similarly to newer models, contributing to some semblance of familiarity in their use.
• 🤕 Compatibility with existing Apple bands allows the Series 3 to fit seamlessly within a user’s existing collection.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why is the Apple Watch Series 3 considered outdated?

The Apple Watch Series 3 is considered outdated due to its hardware limitations, such as the S3 chip, which does not support the latest features and software updates as efficiently as newer models. Users often face challenges with storage during updates, which can hinder performance and overall experience, ultimately making it less appealing compared to newer alternatives.

Q: What are some key features of the Apple Watch Series 3?

The Apple Watch Series 3 features a 38mm and 42mm size option, an adequate display, heart rate monitoring, and seamless integration with other Apple products. However, it lacks new features present in more recent models, such as an always-on display. While maintaining basic functionality, the overall experience may feel lackluster compared to newer watches.

Q: How does the Apple Watch Series 3 compare to the Apple Watch SE and Series 4/5?

The Apple Watch SE and Series 4/5 offer significant improvements in speed, performance, and storage, making them more robust choices. While the Series 3 still has some core functionalities like heart rate monitoring and notifications, it cannot compete with the newer models’ processing power and user experience, particularly for more intensive applications.

Q: Are there any benefits to buying the Apple Watch Series 3?

The primary benefit of the Apple Watch Series 3 is its lower price point of $199, which may attract budget-conscious consumers. Additionally, its design allows for excellent compatibility with existing Apple Watch bands. However, considering the performance and longevity issues, it may not deliver a satisfactory long-term experience.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Apple Watch Series 3 is still sold new but may not be worth the $199 price due to being outdated and experiencing performance issues.

• Users have reported challenges with software updates, including storage limitations and the need for factory resets, impacting usability.

• Compared to newer models like the Apple Watch SE or Series 4 and 5, the Series 3 lacks necessary advancements and longevity, making them better options.