The Apple Watch Series 3 38mm, first introduced in 2017, remains a popular option for those looking for a reliable smartwatch without breaking the bank. While Apple has since released newer models, the Series 3 38mm continues to offer solid performance, fitness tracking, and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, all at an affordable price. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the key features, performance, and why the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is still a great choice in 2024.
Overview of the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm
The apple watch series 3 38mm comes in two sizes: 38mm and 42mm. The 38mm version is more compact and lightweight, making it ideal for those with smaller wrists or who prefer a sleeker look. Despite its smaller size, the 38mm version still packs in powerful features and remains one of the most affordable options in Apple’s smartwatch lineup.
Key Specifications:
Display: 1.5-inch Retina display (340 x 272 pixels)
Processor: S3 dual-core chip
Storage: 8GB (GPS model) or 16GB (GPS + Cellular model)
Water resistance: Up to 50 meters
Battery life: Up to 18 hours
Compatibility: iPhone 6s or later with iOS 14 or later
Key Features of the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm
1. Fitness and Health Tracking
Fitness tracking remains a key feature of the Apple Watch Series 3, making it a perfect companion for both casual users and fitness enthusiasts. The 38mm model comes equipped with:
Heart Rate Monitoring: Continuous heart rate tracking provides valuable insights into your daily activity and health, alerting you to unusually high or low heart rates.
Workout Modes: Whether you’re running, swimming, or doing yoga, the Apple Watch Series 3 offers tracking for a variety of exercises. The built-in GPS ensures accurate distance tracking for outdoor activities.
Activity Rings: Apple’s signature “Move,” “Exercise,” and “Stand” rings motivate users to stay active by visualizing progress and setting daily goals.
2. Water Resistance
The Apple Watch Series 3 is water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming and other water-based activities. With dedicated swim tracking modes, the watch measures laps, distance, and calories burned in both pool and open-water swims.
3. Siri Integration
Siri is fully integrated into the Apple Watch Series 3, enabling users to perform various tasks without needing to pull out their iPhone. Whether it’s sending a text, setting a reminder, or controlling music, Siri on the Series 3 works with a simple voice command.
4. Notifications and Connectivity
With the Apple Watch Series 3, you can receive notifications, text messages, emails, and calls directly on your wrist. This convenient feature lets you stay connected even when your phone isn’t nearby. The Cellular model takes it one step further by enabling calls and messages without needing to carry your iPhone, making it a perfect option for runners or gym-goers.
5. Music and Podcasts on the Go
If you enjoy listening to music or podcasts during workouts, the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm can sync music playlists directly to the device (for the Cellular model), allowing you to leave your phone behind and use Bluetooth headphones for a seamless experience.
Performance of the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm
1. Speed and Responsiveness
While newer Apple Watches boast faster processors, the S3 dual-core chip in the Series 3 38mm remains capable of handling daily tasks. You may experience a slight delay when opening apps compared to the latest models, but the overall performance remains snappy for checking notifications, tracking fitness, and controlling music.
2. Battery Life
Apple estimates that the Series 3 38mm offers up to 18 hours of battery life on a single charge. This estimate holds true for typical day-to-day usage, such as checking notifications, tracking workouts, and listening to music. However, extensive use of GPS and workout modes may reduce battery life faster.
3. Software Compatibility
One of the biggest concerns for older Apple Watches is software compatibility. As of 2024, the Apple Watch Series 3 is still compatible with the latest version of watchOS, though it’s important to note that it may struggle with some of the more advanced features found in watchOS updates. That said, it still handles core functions like fitness tracking, notifications, and music control without issue.
Why the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is Still Relevant in 2024
1. Affordability
One of the main reasons to choose the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm in 2024 is its affordability. With prices for newer models like the Apple Watch Series 8 and Ultra running significantly higher, the Series 3 offers a budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing too many essential features.
2. Fitness Tracking
If you’re primarily interested in fitness tracking, the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is more than capable of meeting your needs. It accurately tracks workouts, monitors heart rate, and encourages users to stay active through the Activity Rings system.
3. Seamless Apple Ecosystem Integration
The Apple Watch Series 3 integrates seamlessly with the rest of the Apple ecosystem, making it easy to connect with your iPhone, AirPods, and other Apple devices. Whether you’re responding to messages, checking notifications, or controlling music, the watch remains a powerful companion to your iPhone.
4. Compact Design
For users who prefer a smaller, more discreet watch, the 38mm version is a perfect choice. It offers the same functionality as the larger 42mm version but in a more compact and lightweight form factor. This makes it ideal for those with smaller wrists or for users who prefer a sleeker look.
Limitations of the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm
1. Lack of Advanced Features
As an older model, the Apple Watch Series 3 lacks some of the more advanced features found in newer models, such as the always-on display, ECG, and blood oxygen monitoring. While these features may not be essential for everyone, those who want the latest health-tracking technology may want to consider newer models like the Series 6 or 7.
2. Storage Limitations
The Apple Watch Series 3 38mm offers 8GB of storage for the GPS model and 16GB for the Cellular model. While this is sufficient for basic apps and music storage, it may feel restrictive if you want to store large amounts of music or apps directly on the watch.
3. Future Software Support
While the Series 3 is currently compatible with the latest watchOS updates, it’s likely that support for future software updates will be phased out in the coming years. This means that users may eventually miss out on new features and security updates that newer Apple Watches will continue to receive.
Conclusion
The Apple Watch Series 3 38mm continues to be a strong contender for those seeking an affordable smartwatch with essential features. Despite being several years old, it offers excellent fitness tracking, heart rate monitoring, water resistance, and seamless integration with Apple devices. If you’re not in need of the latest health-tracking technology or advanced features, the Series 3 38mm is a budget-friendly option that delivers great value for everyday use.
