Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) Review: Still Worth It?

Nov 2, 2025 by Admin 52 views

Hey tech enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into a classic: the Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm). Released a while back, it's still a relevant device for many. But is it worth your hard-earned cash in today's market? We're going to break it all down – the good, the bad, and everything in between. Get ready for a comprehensive review to help you decide if this older Apple Watch is the right fit for you. We'll explore its features, performance, and ultimately, whether it still holds its own against the newer models and the competition.

Design and Build Quality

First impressions matter, right? The Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) maintains the sleek, minimalist design Apple is known for. The 38mm size is perfect for those who prefer a more compact and less obtrusive smartwatch. Its lightweight design is comfortable for all-day wear, whether you're hitting the gym, working at your desk, or out for a night on the town. The familiar square face with rounded corners blends seamlessly into your wrist, and the digital crown and side button provide intuitive navigation. The build quality is solid, with a durable aluminum case that can withstand everyday bumps and scratches. You can easily swap out the bands to match your style. From a design perspective, the Apple Watch Series 3 is timeless. The aesthetic is still modern and sleek, ensuring it won't look outdated anytime soon. It's a testament to Apple's design philosophy, focusing on elegance and functionality. The display is bright and clear, making it easy to read notifications and track your fitness goals, even in direct sunlight. While it might not have the edge-to-edge display of the newer models, it still offers a great viewing experience. The overall design makes this Apple Watch a versatile accessory, suitable for various occasions. It's a testament to Apple's focus on user experience and attention to detail.

Durability and Comfort

Durability is a key consideration, and the Apple Watch Series 3 doesn't disappoint. The aluminum case is robust enough to handle the rigors of daily use. Whether you're working in an office or engaging in outdoor activities, the watch can withstand the bumps and scrapes of an active lifestyle. The Ion-X glass display is scratch-resistant, which helps protect it from everyday wear and tear. Furthermore, the watch is water-resistant, making it safe to wear while swimming or showering. Comfort is paramount, and the 38mm size contributes significantly to a comfortable wearing experience. Its compact form factor ensures it doesn't feel bulky or heavy on your wrist. The watch sits snugly against your wrist, providing a secure fit. The variety of band options allows you to customize the watch to fit your personal style and preferences. Whether you prefer a sports band for workouts, a leather band for a more sophisticated look, or a stainless steel band for a touch of elegance, there's a band to suit every occasion. This level of customization ensures that the watch is not only comfortable but also an extension of your personal style. Overall, the durability and comfort features make the Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) a reliable and enjoyable wearable device, ideal for daily use and various activities.

Performance and Features

Alright, let's talk about what's under the hood of this Apple Watch. The Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) runs on a dual-core processor, which, while not the latest and greatest, still gets the job done. It handles everyday tasks like notifications, app launches, and fitness tracking smoothly. You might notice some occasional lag when compared to the newer models, especially when running more demanding apps, but for the average user, it's perfectly adequate. The watch comes with watchOS, Apple's wearable operating system. It's user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy to navigate through the various features and settings. The interface is clean and organized, with a focus on simplicity. You can access apps, check your activity rings, and control your music with ease. The watch also offers a range of features, including heart rate monitoring, GPS, and cellular connectivity (depending on the model you choose). These features are great for tracking your fitness goals, staying connected, and making calls or sending texts without your phone nearby. The heart rate sensor provides accurate readings, allowing you to monitor your heart rate during workouts and throughout the day. The GPS is also reliable, enabling you to track your outdoor activities, such as running, cycling, or hiking, without needing your phone. In summary, the Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) delivers decent performance for its age. While it may not be the fastest smartwatch on the market, it offers a solid user experience and a range of useful features that make it a worthwhile option for many users.

Fitness Tracking Capabilities

This Apple Watch is a solid companion for fitness enthusiasts. The Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) is equipped with a range of fitness tracking capabilities. It accurately tracks your daily activity, including steps taken, calories burned, and active minutes. The watch uses the activity rings to motivate you to stay active throughout the day, closing them by meeting your move, exercise, and stand goals. This gamified approach to fitness can be very effective in encouraging you to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The built-in heart rate sensor monitors your heart rate during workouts and throughout the day. It provides valuable insights into your cardiovascular health, allowing you to track your heart rate zones and optimize your workouts. The watch also features GPS, which is especially useful for tracking outdoor activities like running, cycling, and hiking. The GPS accurately maps your routes, providing valuable data on distance, pace, and elevation. The Apple Watch Series 3 is also water-resistant, making it safe to wear during swimming or other water activities. It can track your swim workouts, providing metrics like laps, distance, and stroke style. Moreover, the watch seamlessly integrates with the Apple Health app on your iPhone. This allows you to track your fitness data and monitor your overall health trends. You can also connect with friends and share your activity data, adding a social element to your fitness journey. Overall, the fitness tracking capabilities of the Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) make it a valuable tool for anyone looking to stay active and monitor their health.

Display and User Interface

Let's talk about the display and how you actually use the Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm). The watch features a bright and clear OLED display. It's easy to read in various lighting conditions, including direct sunlight. The display is responsive and offers vibrant colors and sharp details, making it a pleasure to interact with. The user interface is clean and intuitive, built around the watchOS operating system. Navigation is straightforward, with a focus on simplicity and ease of use. You can easily swipe through notifications, access apps, and control various functions using the touchscreen, digital crown, and side button. The digital crown allows you to scroll through lists, zoom in and out, and navigate through the user interface. It provides a tactile and precise way to interact with the watch. The side button can be used to access the dock, launch Siri, or turn the watch on and off. The interface is designed to provide quick access to the information and features you need most. Notifications are delivered clearly and concisely, allowing you to stay informed without being overwhelmed. The watch also offers a range of customizable watch faces, allowing you to personalize the look and feel of the watch. You can choose from various styles, complications, and colors to match your individual preferences. The display and user interface of the Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) are well-designed, offering a seamless and enjoyable user experience. Its bright display, intuitive interface, and customizable options make it easy to use and a pleasure to wear. It is a testament to Apple's focus on user experience and attention to detail. This makes the Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) a practical and enjoyable companion.

Battery Life

Battery life is a crucial factor for any smartwatch. The Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) is rated for up to 18 hours of battery life with typical usage. This means you should be able to get through a full day of use without needing to recharge. However, the actual battery life may vary depending on how you use the watch. If you use features like GPS, cellular connectivity, or frequently track workouts, the battery will drain faster. Some users report needing to charge the watch before the end of the day if they heavily use those features. On the other hand, if you only use the watch for basic functions like notifications and checking the time, you might get closer to the 18-hour mark. It's important to consider your usage patterns when evaluating the battery life. Compared to newer models, the Series 3's battery life is shorter. The newer Apple Watches often offer longer battery life, sometimes up to 36 hours or more. But, 18 hours is still enough for a day of use. Charging is straightforward, using a magnetic charging cable that attaches to the back of the watch. Charging time is relatively quick, taking about two hours to charge from zero to 100%. If you're looking for a smartwatch with exceptional battery life, the Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) might not be the best choice. However, the battery life is generally sufficient for most users, and it allows you to get through a full day of use without too much trouble.

Cellular Connectivity

One of the standout features is cellular connectivity, and the Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) offered this as an option. If you opt for the cellular model, you can make and receive calls, send texts, and stream music without your iPhone nearby. This is super convenient if you want to go for a run, swim, or simply leave your phone at home. You'll need to have a cellular plan with your carrier to take advantage of this feature, which typically comes with an additional monthly fee. The cellular connectivity works well, providing a reliable connection in most areas. It allows you to stay connected even when you're away from your phone, which is especially useful for activities where carrying your phone might be cumbersome. With cellular, you can also use apps that require an internet connection, such as streaming music or accessing maps. However, keep in mind that cellular connectivity can drain the battery faster than using the watch without it. If you're not going to use the cellular feature frequently, you may be better off saving money and opting for the non-cellular version. Overall, the cellular connectivity feature is a valuable addition for those who want to stay connected on the go. It expands the functionality of the Apple Watch, making it a more versatile device. However, you'll need to assess whether the added cost and potential impact on battery life are worth it for your needs.

WatchOS and App Ecosystem

Let's talk about the software and apps that make the Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) tick. It runs on watchOS, Apple's wearable operating system. WatchOS is known for its user-friendly interface, seamless integration with other Apple devices, and regular software updates that enhance performance and introduce new features. The Apple Watch Series 3 is compatible with a wide range of apps available in the App Store. These apps cover various categories, including fitness, health, communication, productivity, and entertainment. You can easily download and install apps directly on your watch, expanding its functionality and versatility. The watchOS interface is clean and intuitive, making it easy to navigate through the apps and features. You can customize the watch faces, add complications to show your favorite data, and set up notifications to stay informed. WatchOS also offers a range of useful features, such as Apple Pay, Siri integration, and the ability to control your music. Apple Pay allows you to make contactless payments at participating stores, adding convenience and security to your transactions. Siri, Apple's virtual assistant, is accessible via voice commands, allowing you to set reminders, make calls, send texts, and control your smart home devices. The app ecosystem is a major strength of the Apple Watch, offering a wealth of options to enhance your user experience. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, a productivity guru, or simply looking for ways to stay connected, there's an app for almost everything. The continued support and updates from Apple ensure that the Apple Watch Series 3 remains a relevant and functional device, despite its age. Overall, the watchOS and the app ecosystem of the Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) provide a seamless and user-friendly experience, making it a versatile and useful device for everyday use.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's break down the good and the not-so-good of the Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) to help you make an informed decision.

Pros:

Affordable: One of the main advantages is its lower price point compared to newer models. This makes it a great option for those on a budget or who are new to smartwatches.
Stylish Design: It retains the sleek and timeless Apple Watch design that looks good on any wrist.
User-Friendly WatchOS: The operating system is intuitive and easy to navigate, even for first-time smartwatch users.
Fitness Tracking: Solid fitness tracking capabilities, including heart rate monitoring, GPS (on some models), and activity tracking.
App Ecosystem: Access to a vast library of apps through the App Store, expanding its functionality.

Cons:

Slower Processor: The dual-core processor is not as fast as the newer models, which might lead to occasional lags.
Older Display: While still functional, the display lacks the edge-to-edge design and some of the advanced features of the latest models.
Battery Life: Battery life is decent but not as long as the newer models.
No Latest Features: Missing features like fall detection, ECG, and blood oxygen monitoring found in newer models.

Conclusion: Is the Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) Still Worth Buying?

So, after all this, is the Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) still a viable option? It depends. If you're looking for a basic, affordable smartwatch and are new to the Apple Watch ecosystem, it's a good entry point. It still provides a solid user experience, tracks fitness metrics, and gives you access to the Apple ecosystem. However, if you want the latest features, the fastest performance, and the best battery life, you might consider investing in a newer model. Consider your budget, needs, and priorities. If you're on a tight budget and want a reliable smartwatch with essential features, the Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) is still a decent choice. But if you value the latest technology and are willing to spend more, then you should consider a newer model. For those who are upgrading from an older smartwatch, it's a good option as well.

Ultimately, the Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) remains a relevant device for those looking for a functional and affordable smartwatch. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of the latest models, it still delivers a solid user experience and offers a range of features that make it a worthwhile option for many users. Weigh the pros and cons carefully, consider your personal preferences and needs, and then make a decision that best suits you. Happy shopping, guys!