OVERALL
ALTERNATIVES
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
Scored using Smartwatches Methodology v2.0
Smartwatches Methodology v2.0
Mathematical & Unbiased Scoring
Products in this category are scored under Frontumo Smartwatches Methodology v2.0: technical specifications plus grades from 3,488 independent expert reviews and 5,192 video reviews, with 0% commercial bias.
Explore Smartwatches Methodology v2.0

Apple Watch SE 2020 40mm Review | 126 Data compared

Avg. price:~£260Screen size:1.53 inchBattery life:0.88 daysDisplay type:OLED

Apple Watch SE 2020 40mm Review: Compare 126 technical specifications and 22 expert and video reviews to see how this product ranks in the Smartwatches category and whether it is worth buying.

7.6

Overall score

Score
7.6/ 10
✕
What it is
An overall evaluation of the smartwatch's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.
When it matters
When you need a quick reference to identify the best smartwatches on the market.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 76% of models
Score components

70%

7.2

Technical score

30%

8.5

Review score ( 10 · 12)

Review score 30% · 8.5 · based on 22 independent reviews
Every model in this category gets the same split: reviews 30%, technical score 70%. This model has enough reviews, so its review score is the weighted average of their grades. 5 more reviews are not scored yet.
â–²Better than 76% of smartwatches
7.2

Technical score

Technical score
7.2/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of the smartwatchx27s technical performance, covering seven key areas: health, fitness, display & design, hardware, battery, smart features and connectivity.
When it matters
When you want to compare smartwatches based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 71% of models
Score components

24%

5.7

Health

21%

9.9

Fitness

16%

3.1

Battery

14%

8.6

Smart features

12%

8.8

Connectivity

9%

7.8

Display & Design

4%

7.4

Hardware

â–²Better than 71% of smartwatches
8.5

Review score

Review score
8.5/ 10
✕
What it is
Average grade from independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers, 1–10.
How we count it
Grades: Each review's own score is converted to 1–10; without one, we grade the review ourselves.
Weighting: Big test sites count more, short reviews half as much as full tests. A video review counts half.
Share: Reviews are 30% of the overall score for every model in this category; each of the 5 needed reviews that is missing counts as 7/10.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 89% of models
Grades by review (22)
10 reviews: 8 with a printed score, 2 estimated from the review. 12 video reviews, each counting half as much as a written test. Share in the overall score: 30%, the same for every model in this category.
Text reviews 4
✓ explicit
4

7.6%

10

expertreviews.co.uk

7.6%

9.0

trustedreviews.com

7.6%

8.0

t3.com

7.6%

8.0

pcmag.com

Video reviews 2

3%

9.0

Tobis Tings

1.5%

9.0

Karl Conrad

estimated from the review
Shop star ratings are not part of this score.
â–²Better than 89% of smartwatches
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Best prices

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Best rankings

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).All: ranking among all products in the database.
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Technical Specifications of smartwatch Apple Watch SE 2020 40mm

Technical score
Technical score
7.2/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of the smartwatchx27s technical performance, covering seven key areas: health, fitness, display & design, hardware, battery, smart features and connectivity.
When it matters
When you want to compare smartwatches based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 71% of models
Score components:

24%

5.7

Health

21%

9.9

Fitness

16%

3.1

Battery

14%

8.6

Smart features

12%

8.8

Connectivity

9%

7.8

Display & Design

4%

7.4

Hardware

7.2
Review score
Review score
8.5/ 10
✕
What it is
Average grade from independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers, 1–10.
How we count it
Grades: Each review's own score is converted to 1–10; without one, we grade the review ourselves.
Weighting: Big test sites count more, short reviews half as much as full tests. A video review counts half.
Share: Reviews are 30% of the overall score for every model in this category; each of the 5 needed reviews that is missing counts as 7/10.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 89% of models
Grades by review (22)
10 reviews: 8 with a printed score, 2 estimated from the review. 12 video reviews, each counting half as much as a written test. Share in the overall score: 30%, the same for every model in this category.
Text reviews 4
✓ explicit
4

7.6%

10

expertreviews.co.uk

7.6%

9.0

trustedreviews.com

7.6%

8.0

t3.com

7.6%

8.0

pcmag.com

Video reviews 2

3%

9.0

Tobis Tings

1.5%

9.0

Karl Conrad

estimated from the review
Shop star ratings are not part of this score.
8.5
Popularity
Popularity
7.1/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the smartwatch.
When it matters
When you prefer to purchase a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 59% of models
Popularity:
Apple Watch SE 2020 40mm has a popularity of 7.1 points, which is higher than 59.2% of smartwatches.
7.1
Value for money
Value for money
8.0/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the smartwatch's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for a smartwatch with a good balance between quality and price.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 70% of models
Score components:

60%

7.6

Overall score

40%

9.2

Price

8.0
Brand name
Apple
Heart rate monitor
yes
Heart rate monitor
yes
â–² Better than 11% of models
This smartwatch includes a heart rate monitor. 10.5% of smartwatches include a heart rate monitor.
Blood oxygen monitoring
no
Blood oxygen monitoring
no
â–¼ Worse than 67% of models
This smartwatch does not support blood oxygen monitoring. 66.8% of smartwatches support blood oxygen monitoring.
ECG
no
ECG
no
â–¼ Worse than 17% of models
This smartwatch does not support ECG. 16.6% of smartwatches support ECG.
Irregular heart rate warnings
yes
Irregular heart rate warnings
yes
â–² Better than 52% of models
This smartwatch supports irregular heart rate warnings. 51.9% of smartwatches support irregular heart rate warnings.
Show more
What reviewers say
Accelerometer
yes
Accelerometer
yes
â–² Better than 1% of models
This smartwatch includes an accelerometer. 0.6% of smartwatches include an accelerometer.
Barometer
yes
Barometer
yes
â–² Better than 51% of models
This smartwatch includes a barometer. 50.6% of smartwatches include a barometer.
Gyroscope
yes
Gyroscope
yes
â–² Better than 30% of models
This smartwatch includes a gyroscope. 30.2% of smartwatches include a gyroscope.
Cadence sensor
yes
Cadence sensor
yes
â–² Better than 69% of models
This smartwatch includes a cadence sensor. 69% of smartwatches include a cadence sensor.
Cadence may require external sensor/app pairing on some models.
Distance tracking
yes
Distance tracking
yes
â–² Better than 4% of models
This smartwatch supports distance tracking. 4.1% of smartwatches support distance tracking.
Show more
Battery life
0.88 days
Battery life
0.88 days
â–¼ Worse than 96% of models
Market range: <1 days – >16 days
This smartwatch offers a battery life of 0.88 days which is shorter than that of 96.1% of smartwatches and equal to that of 1.7% of smartwatches.
Converted from roughly 18-24 hours of battery life.
Battery life in training mode
6 h
Battery life in training mode
6 h
â–¼ Worse than 84% of models
Market range: <5.5 h – >48 h
This smartwatch lasts 6 h in training mode which is shorter than 83.5% of smartwatches and equal to that of 6.1% of smartwatches.
Battery life with GPS on
6.5 h
Battery life with GPS on
6.5 h
â–¼ Worse than 86% of models
Market range: <5.75 h – >43 h
This smartwatch lasts 6.5 h with GPS on which is shorter than 86% of smartwatches and equal to that of 0.6% of smartwatches.
Battery power
245 mAh
Battery power
245 mAh
â–¼ Worse than 72% of models
Market range: <195 mAh – >475 mAh
This smartwatch has a battery capacity of 245 mAh which is smaller than the batteries in 72.5% of smartwatches and equal to those in 0.6% of smartwatches.
Battery capacity varies by case size/model variant.
Charge time
150 min
Charge time
150 min
â–¼ Worse than 89% of models
Market range: <60 min – >150 min
This smartwatch charges in 150 min which is slower than 88.7% of smartwatches and equal to the charge time of 7.2% of smartwatches.
Approximate value from reported charging range: 150 minutes.
Show more
What reviewers say
Operating system
watchOS
Operating system
watchOS
★ Better than 96% of models
This smartwatch runs watchOS which is more advanced than the operating system in 95.7% of smartwatches and the same as that in 4.3% of smartwatches.
OS detail: watchOS (7).
Software update frequency
ended
Software update frequency
ended
â–¼ Worse than 43% of models
This smartwatch has ended software update support which is less active than that of 42.6% of smartwatches and equal to that of 57.5% of smartwatches.
Third-party app support
yes
Third-party app support
yes
â–² Better than 52% of models
This smartwatch supports third-party apps. 52.4% of smartwatches support third-party apps.
Notifications
yes
Notifications
yes
Category Benchmark
This smartwatch supports notifications. 0.3% of smartwatches support notifications.
Voice assistant support
yes
Voice assistant support
yes
â–² Better than 32% of models
This smartwatch supports voice assistants. 32.4% of smartwatches support voice assistants.
Show more
What reviewers say
Cellular module
yes
Cellular module
yes
â–² Better than 82% of models
This smartwatch includes a cellular module. 82.2% of smartwatches include a cellular module.
Cellular support may depend on LTE/GPS+Cellular variant selection.
SIM cards
1
SIM cards
1
â–² Better than 2% of models
Market range: <0 – >5
This smartwatch uses 1 for cellular connectivity which is more advanced than that of 2% of smartwatches and the same as that of 98% of smartwatches.
eSIM
GPS
yes
GPS
yes
â–² Better than 44% of models
This smartwatch supports GPS. 43.9% of smartwatches support GPS.
Galileo support
yes
Galileo support
yes
â–² Better than 62% of models
This smartwatch supports Galileo navigation. 61.6% of smartwatches support Galileo navigation.
Compass
yes
Compass
yes
â–² Better than 47% of models
This smartwatch includes a compass. 47.5% of smartwatches include a compass.
Show more
Screen size
1.53 inch
Screen size
1.53 inch
â–² Better than 70% of models
Market range: <1.2 inch – >1.82 inch
This smartwatch has a screen size of 1.53 inch which is larger than the screens of 70.2% of smartwatches and equal to those of 0.2% of smartwatches.
Some sources mention multiple/uncertain size variants.
Display type
OLED
Display type
OLED
â–¼ Worse than 50% of models
This smartwatch uses a OLED display type which is less advanced than that of 50.3% of smartwatches and the same as that of 9.6% of smartwatches.
Retina branding. LTPO panel wording.
Resolution
324x 394
Resolution
324x 394
â–¼ Worse than 53% of models
This smartwatch has a display resolution of 324x394 which is lower than that of 52.7% of smartwatches and equal to that of 0.7% of smartwatches.
Pixel density
333 ppi
Pixel density
333 ppi
â–² Better than 58% of models
Market range: <207 ppi – >461 ppi
This smartwatch has a pixel density of 333 ppi which is higher than that of 57.6% of smartwatches and equal to that of 0.2% of smartwatches.
Display brightness
1,000 nits
Display brightness
1,000 nits
â–² Better than 59% of models
Market range: <450 nits – >2k nits
This smartwatch reaches 1,000 nits of display brightness, which is higher than that of 59.4% of smartwatches and equal to that of 26.5% of smartwatches.
Show more
What reviewers say
CPU speed
?
Processor model
Apple S5
Processor model
Apple S5
★ Better than 92% of models
This smartwatch uses the Apple S5 processor model.
RAM
1 GB
RAM
1 GB
â–² Better than 31% of models
Market range: <0.5 GB – >2 GB
This smartwatch has 1 GB of RAM which is larger than the RAM in 31.3% of smartwatches and equal to that of 45.8% of smartwatches.
Internal storage
32 GB
Internal storage
32 GB
â–² Better than 85% of models
Market range: <0 GB – >32 GB
This smartwatch uses 32 GB for internal storage which is larger than that of 84.7% of smartwatches and equal to that of 13.4% of smartwatches.
External memory slot
no
External memory slot
no
Category Benchmark
This smartwatch does not include an external memory slot. 0.3% of smartwatches include an external memory slot.
Show more
What reviewers say

Apple Watch SE 2020 40mm vs the average smartwatch

246810TotalHealthFitnessBatteryConnectivityDisplay & DesignSmart featuresHardware
  • More advanced operating system
    Operating system
    watchOS
    ★ Better than 96% of models
    This smartwatch runs a more advanced operating system than the average smartwatch (watchOS vs Proprietary OS).
    OS detail: watchOS (7).
    watchOS vs Proprietary OS
  • Built-in cellular module
    Cellular module
    yes
    â–² Better than 82% of models
    This smartwatch includes a cellular module, the average smartwatch does not. 17.9% of smartwatches include a cellular module.
    Cellular support may depend on LTE/GPS+Cellular variant selection.
  • Readiness score
    Readiness score
    yes
    â–² Better than 83% of models
    This smartwatch supports readiness scores, the average smartwatch does not. 17.5% of smartwatches support readiness scores.
  • Fall detection
    Fall detection
    yes
    â–² Better than 79% of models
    This smartwatch supports fall detection, the average smartwatch does not. 21.3% of smartwatches support fall detection.
  • HRV tracking
    HRV tracking
    yes
    â–² Better than 59% of models
    This smartwatch supports HRV tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 40.8% of smartwatches support HRV tracking.
  • Maps support
    Maps support
    yes
    â–² Better than 69% of models
    This smartwatch supports maps, the average smartwatch does not. 31.5% of smartwatches support maps.
  • VO2 max measurement
    VO2 max measurement
    yes
    â–² Better than 52% of models
    This smartwatch measures VO2 max, the average smartwatch does not. 47.6% of smartwatches measure VO2 max.
  • Emergency SOS
    Emergency SOS
    yes
    â–² Better than 57% of models
    This smartwatch includes Emergency SOS, the average smartwatch does not. 42.8% of smartwatches include Emergency SOS.
  • Readiness score
    Readiness score
    yes
    â–² Better than 83% of models
    This smartwatch supports readiness scores, the average smartwatch does not. 17.5% of smartwatches support readiness scores.
  • HRV tracking
    HRV tracking
    yes
    â–² Better than 59% of models
    This smartwatch supports HRV tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 40.8% of smartwatches support HRV tracking.
  • VO2 max measurement
    VO2 max measurement
    yes
    â–² Better than 52% of models
    This smartwatch measures VO2 max, the average smartwatch does not. 47.6% of smartwatches measure VO2 max.
  • Irregular heart rate alerts
    Irregular heart rate warnings
    yes
    â–² Better than 52% of models
    This smartwatch supports irregular heart rate warnings, the average smartwatch does not. 48.1% of smartwatches support irregular heart rate warnings.
  • Weight tracking
    Weight tracking
    yes
    â–² Better than 61% of models
    This smartwatch supports weight tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 39.1% of smartwatches support weight tracking.
    Tracked through the companion app or smart-scale sync.
  • External heart rate monitor support
    External heart rate monitor compatibility
    yes
    â–² Better than 57% of models
    This smartwatch supports external heart rate monitor compatibility, the average smartwatch does not. 42.7% of smartwatches support external heart rate monitor compatibility.
  • Barometer sensor included
    Barometer
    yes
    â–² Better than 51% of models
    This smartwatch includes a barometer, the average smartwatch does not. 49.5% of smartwatches include a barometer.
  • Cadence tracking
    Cadence sensor
    yes
    â–² Better than 69% of models
    This smartwatch includes a cadence sensor, the average smartwatch does not. 31.1% of smartwatches include a cadence sensor.
    Cadence may require external sensor/app pairing on some models.
  • Route support
    Route support
    yes
    â–² Better than 50% of models
    This smartwatch supports route support, the average smartwatch does not. 50% of smartwatches support route support.
    Supports on-watch route guidance via Apple Maps.
  • Supports wireless charging
    Wireless charging
    yes
    â–² Better than 76% of models
    This smartwatch supports wireless charging, the average smartwatch does not. 24.5% of smartwatches support wireless charging.
  • Built-in cellular module
    Cellular module
    yes
    â–² Better than 82% of models
    This smartwatch includes a cellular module, the average smartwatch does not. 17.9% of smartwatches include a cellular module.
    Cellular support may depend on LTE/GPS+Cellular variant selection.
  • Maps support
    Maps support
    yes
    â–² Better than 69% of models
    This smartwatch supports maps, the average smartwatch does not. 31.5% of smartwatches support maps.
  • NFC functionality
    NFC
    yes
    â–² Better than 57% of models
    This smartwatch supports NFC, the average smartwatch does not. 43.4% of smartwatches support NFC.
  • Supports Wi-Fi
    Wi-Fi support
    yes
    â–² Better than 57% of models
    This smartwatch supports Wi-Fi, the average smartwatch does not. 43.3% of smartwatches support Wi-Fi.
  • Galileo satellite support
    Galileo support
    yes
    â–² Better than 62% of models
    This smartwatch supports Galileo navigation, the average smartwatch does not. 38.5% of smartwatches support Galileo navigation.
  • Rugged construction
    Rugged design
    yes
    â–² Better than 62% of models
    This smartwatch has a rugged design, the average smartwatch does not. 37.9% of smartwatches have a rugged design.
    Rugged design supported by MIL-STD/military-grade durability claim.
  • 400 nits higher display brightness
    Display brightness
    1,000 nits
    â–² Better than 59% of models
    Market range: <450 nits – >2k nits
    This smartwatch has higher display brightness than the average smartwatch (1000 nits vs 600 nits). The average smartwatch reaches 600 nits.
    1,000 nits vs 600 nits
  • 14.5 g lighter weight
    Weight
    30.5 g
    â–² Better than 86% of models
    Market range: <29 g – >80 g
    This smartwatch is lighter than the average smartwatch (30.5 g vs 45 g). The average smartwatch weighs 45.0 g.
    30.5 g vs 45.0 g
  • Stronger display glass
    Display glass type
    Ion-X
    â–¼ Worse than 54% of models
    This smartwatch uses Ion-X display glass, while the average smartwatch uses mineral glass.
    Ion-exchanged strengthened glass (Ion-X)
    Ion-X vs mineral glass
  • 1.2 mm thinner watch body
    Thickness
    10.40 mm
    â–² Better than 83% of models
    Market range: <9.8 mm – >14.1 mm
    This smartwatch is thinner than the average smartwatch (10.4 mm vs 11.6 mm). The average smartwatch thickness is 11.6 mm.
    10.40 mm vs 11.6 mm
  • 0.13 inch larger screen size
    Screen size
    1.53 inch
    â–² Better than 70% of models
    Market range: <1.2 inch – >1.82 inch
    This smartwatch has a larger screen size than the average smartwatch (1.5 inch vs 1.4 inch). The average smartwatch screen is 1.40 inch.
    Some sources mention multiple/uncertain size variants.
    1.53 inch vs 1.40 inch
  • 2 mm narrower band
    Width of band
    20.0 mm
    â–² Better than 66% of models
    Market range: <20 mm – >22 mm
    This smartwatch has a narrower band width than the average smartwatch (20 mm vs 22 mm). The average smartwatch band is 22.0 mm wide.
    20.0 mm vs 22.0 mm
  • 8 mm narrower watch width
    Width
    34.0 mm
    ★ Better than 91% of models
    Market range: <34.6 mm – >46.8 mm
    This smartwatch is narrower than the average smartwatch (34 mm vs 42 mm). The average smartwatch width is 42.0 mm.
    34.0 mm vs 42.0 mm
  • 5 mm shorter watch height
    Height
    40.0 mm
    â–² Better than 88% of models
    Market range: <39.5 mm – >51 mm
    This smartwatch is shorter than the average smartwatch (40 mm vs 45 mm). The average smartwatch height is 45 mm.
    40.0 mm vs 45 mm
  • More advanced operating system
    Operating system
    watchOS
    ★ Better than 96% of models
    This smartwatch runs a more advanced operating system than the average smartwatch (watchOS vs Proprietary OS).
    OS detail: watchOS (7).
    watchOS vs Proprietary OS
  • Fall detection
    Fall detection
    yes
    â–² Better than 79% of models
    This smartwatch supports fall detection, the average smartwatch does not. 21.3% of smartwatches support fall detection.
  • Emergency SOS
    Emergency SOS
    yes
    â–² Better than 57% of models
    This smartwatch includes Emergency SOS, the average smartwatch does not. 42.8% of smartwatches include Emergency SOS.
  • Third-party app support
    Third-party app support
    yes
    â–² Better than 52% of models
    This smartwatch supports third-party apps, the average smartwatch does not. 47.6% of smartwatches support third-party apps.
  • 28 GB more storage
    Internal storage
    32 GB
    â–² Better than 85% of models
    Market range: <0 GB – >32 GB
    This smartwatch offers more internal storage than the average smartwatch (32 GB vs 4 GB). The average smartwatch provides 4 GB of storage.
    32 GB vs 4 GB
  • More advanced processor model
    Processor model
    Apple S5
    ★ Better than 92% of models
    This smartwatch uses the Apple S5 processor model, while the average smartwatch uses Silicon Labs EFM32 Giant Gecko.
    Apple S5 vs Silicon Labs EFM32 Giant Gecko
  • No blood oxygen monitoring
    Blood oxygen monitoring
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 67% of models
    This smartwatch does not support blood oxygen monitoring, the average smartwatch does. 66.7% of smartwatches support blood oxygen monitoring.
  • No stress monitoring
    Stress monitoring
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 66% of models
    This smartwatch does not support stress monitoring, the average smartwatch does. 65.4% of smartwatches support stress monitoring.
  • 6.12 days day/s shorter battery life
    Battery life
    0.88 days
    â–¼ Worse than 96% of models
    Market range: <1 days – >16 days
    This smartwatch offers 0.9 days of battery life, while the average smartwatch offers 7 days.
    Converted from roughly 18-24 hours of battery life.
    0.88 days vs 7 days
  • No always-on display
    Always-On Display
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 68% of models
    This smartwatch does not have an always-on display, the average smartwatch does. 67.6% of smartwatches have an always-on display.
  • 13.5 h shorter GPS battery life
    Battery life with GPS on
    6.5 h
    â–¼ Worse than 86% of models
    Market range: <5.75 h – >43 h
    This smartwatch lasts less with GPS on than the average smartwatch (6.5 h vs 20 h). The average smartwatch lasts 20 h.
    6.5 h vs 20 h
  • 13.25 h shorter training battery life
    Battery life in training mode
    6 h
    â–¼ Worse than 84% of models
    Market range: <5.5 h – >48 h
    This smartwatch lasts less in training mode than the average smartwatch (6 h vs 19.25 h). The average smartwatch lasts 19.25 h.
    6 h vs 19.25 h
  • Not compatible with Android
    Android compatibility
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 95% of models
    This smartwatch is not compatible with Android, the average smartwatch is. 95.3% of smartwatches are compatible with Android.
  • Basic battery type
    Battery type
    Li-ion
    â–¼ Worse than 51% of models
    This smartwatch uses a Li-ion battery, while the average smartwatch uses Li-Po.
    Li-ion vs Li-Po
  • 2x more expensive
    Apple Watch SE 2020 40mm is more expensive than the average smartwatch (£260 vs £130).
    £260 vs £130
  • No blood oxygen monitoring
    Blood oxygen monitoring
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 67% of models
    This smartwatch does not support blood oxygen monitoring, the average smartwatch does. 66.7% of smartwatches support blood oxygen monitoring.
  • No stress monitoring
    Stress monitoring
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 66% of models
    This smartwatch does not support stress monitoring, the average smartwatch does. 65.4% of smartwatches support stress monitoring.
  • 5,534 m lower max altitude
    Maximum altitude
    3,000 m
    â–¼ Worse than 59% of models
    Market range: <3k m – >9.1k m
    This smartwatch supports a lower maximum altitude than the average smartwatch (3000 m vs 8534 m). The average smartwatch reaches 8534 m.
    3,000 m vs 8,534 m
  • 6.12 days day/s shorter battery life
    Battery life
    0.88 days
    â–¼ Worse than 96% of models
    Market range: <1 days – >16 days
    This smartwatch offers 0.9 days of battery life, while the average smartwatch offers 7 days.
    Converted from roughly 18-24 hours of battery life.
    0.88 days vs 7 days
  • 13.5 h shorter GPS battery life
    Battery life with GPS on
    6.5 h
    â–¼ Worse than 86% of models
    Market range: <5.75 h – >43 h
    This smartwatch lasts less with GPS on than the average smartwatch (6.5 h vs 20 h). The average smartwatch lasts 20 h.
    6.5 h vs 20 h
  • 13.25 h shorter training battery life
    Battery life in training mode
    6 h
    â–¼ Worse than 84% of models
    Market range: <5.5 h – >48 h
    This smartwatch lasts less in training mode than the average smartwatch (6 h vs 19.25 h). The average smartwatch lasts 19.25 h.
    6 h vs 19.25 h
  • Basic battery type
    Battery type
    Li-ion
    â–¼ Worse than 51% of models
    This smartwatch uses a Li-ion battery, while the average smartwatch uses Li-Po.
    Li-ion vs Li-Po
  • 30 min longer charge time
    Charge time
    150 min
    â–¼ Worse than 89% of models
    Market range: <60 min – >150 min
    This smartwatch charges slower than the average smartwatch (150 min vs 120 min). The average smartwatch charges in 120 min.
    Approximate value from reported charging range: 150 minutes.
    150 min vs 120 min
  • 55 mAh smaller battery capacity
    Battery life
    245 mAh days
    â–¼ Worse than 96% of models
    Market range: <1 days – >16 days
    This smartwatch has a smaller battery capacity than the average smartwatch (245 mAh vs 300 mAh). The average smartwatch battery is 300 mAh.
    Converted from roughly 18-24 hours of battery life.
    245 mAh vs 300 mAh
  • Not compatible with Android
    Android compatibility
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 95% of models
    This smartwatch is not compatible with Android, the average smartwatch is. 95.3% of smartwatches are compatible with Android.
  • No always-on display
    Always-On Display
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 68% of models
    This smartwatch does not have an always-on display, the average smartwatch does. 67.6% of smartwatches have an always-on display.
  • Basic display type
    Display type
    OLED
    â–¼ Worse than 50% of models
    This smartwatch uses OLED display technology, while the average smartwatch features AMOLED.
    Retina branding. LTPO panel wording.
    OLED vs AMOLED
  • Less practical form
    Form
    rectangular
    â–¼ Worse than 72% of models
    This smartwatch uses a rectangular form, while the average smartwatch uses round.
    rectangular vs round
  • 10 °C lower max temperature
    Maximum operating temperature
    35.0 °C
    â–¼ Worse than 82% of models
    Market range: <35 °C – >60 °C
    This smartwatch handles a lower maximum operating temperature than the average smartwatch (35 °C vs 45 °C). The average smartwatch reaches 45.0 °C.
    35.0 °C vs 45.0 °C
  • No smart alarm
    Smart alarm
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 53% of models
    This smartwatch does not support a smart alarm, the average smartwatch does. 52.7% of smartwatches support smart alarms.
  • 1 year/s older release date
    Release date
    2020
    â–¼ Worse than 55% of models
    Market range: <2k – >2k
    This smartwatch is an older model than the average smartwatch (2020 vs 2021). The average smartwatch was released in 2021.
    September 2020
    2020 vs 2021

Video reviews

Hands-on testing, unboxing, and real-world video evaluations

9.0
Tobis Tings
≈ estimated
08/01/2023
Long-term test · 4 months of daily use
Verdict
Apple Watch SE 2020 40mm suits everyday use well, and skipping the Ultra leaves no regrets.
9.0
Karl Conrad
≈ estimated
17/09/2020
Unboxing · first look and feature comparison
Verdict
Apple Watch SE 2020 40mm is the best Apple Watch to buy right now if you don't need blood oxygen sensing.
Not graded yet
Not graded yet
Not graded yet
Not graded yet
Not graded yet

What reviewers agree on

Based on 10 · 12

Reviewers love the sharp display and smart features, but widely miss an always-on screen and blood oxygen or ECG sensors.
Praised
Mixed views
Criticised
Pick a topic to see who said what

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

9.0
trustedreviews.com
✓ explicit
06/10/2020
Full review · Fitness and sleep
Verdict
The Apple Watch SE is the easiest Apple Watch to recommend for most people, with GPS, fall detection and a bright OLED screen, though it lacks an always-on display.
8.0
t3.com
✓ explicit
25/03/2021
Hands-on review · Hiking and fitness
Verdict
The Apple Watch SE is a slick, comfortable everyday watch with a clear screen and strong hiking features, but it skips the blood oxygen and ECG sensors.
techradar.com
01/09/2020
Not graded yet
10
expertreviews.co.uk
✓ explicit
01/12/2020
Full review · Series 6 comparison
Verdict
The Apple Watch SE is a strong pick for iPhone owners, keeping most Series 6 features and accurate heart-rate tracking, but it lacks ECG, blood oxygen and an always-on screen.
8.0
pcmag.com
✓ explicit
29/09/2020
Hands-on review · Safety features
Verdict
The Apple Watch SE suits kids, older relatives or anyone who wants Series 6 apps and fitness without an always-on display or advanced health sensors.
7.0
macwelt.de
≈ estimated
03/10/2020
Hands-on test · Series 6 comparison
Verdict
The Apple Watch SE suits a first Apple Watch with fast performance and reliable LTE, but without an always-on screen or blood oxygen sensor it can feel dated soon.
stern.de
23/09/2020
Not graded yet
8.0
phonandroid.com
≈ estimated
15/10/2020
Full review · Compact design
Verdict
The Apple Watch SE is a discreet 40mm watch with a bright screen and altimeter, a stripped-down Series 6 that drops the ECG and blood-oxygen sensors.
iphon.fr
20/09/2020
Not graded yet
8.0
global.techradar.com
✓ explicit
09/09/2021
Hands-on test · Fitness tracking
Verdict
The Apple Watch SE suits iPhone users who want fitness tracking and a bright screen, but its battery lasts only about a day and a half.
andreagaleazzi.com
23/09/2020
Not graded yet
8.5
iphoneitalia.com
✓ explicit
05/10/2020
Full review · Health features
Verdict
The Apple Watch SE keeps most features of the Series 6, missing only ECG and always-on display, so it suits buyers who don't need detailed heart monitoring.
spider-mac.com
23/09/2020
Not graded yet
8.2
iculture.nl
✓ explicit
01/10/2020
Full review · Everyday fitness
Verdict
The Apple Watch SE is a modern, sporty choice for people who can live without an always-on screen, but it charges slowly and lacks Qi wireless charging.
global.techradar.com
12/11/2020
Not graded yet
8.5
iphoned.nl
✓ explicit
08/10/2020
Full review · Everyday use
Verdict
The Apple Watch SE suits a first Apple Watch or an upgrade from a Series 3, offering all basic features but no always-on display.

Third-party reviews

Read buyer reviews on Amazon →

What we like about Apple Watch SE 2020 40mm

  • Excellent value for money, providing core Apple Watch features at a more accessible price point.
  • Bright, crisp Retina OLED display that remains easy to read in direct sunlight.
  • Lightweight and comfortable design, making it suitable for all-day wear and sleep tracking.
  • Smooth and snappy performance powered by the S5 chip.
  • Reliable fitness and activity tracking, including accurate GPS and heart rate monitoring.
  • Swim-proof design with water resistance up to 50 metres.
  • Access to the extensive watchOS app ecosystem and seamless integration with iPhone.

What we don't like about Apple Watch SE 2020 40mm

  • Lack of an Always-On display, requiring a wrist raise or tap to see the time.
  • Missing advanced health sensors such as ECG (electrocardiogram) and SpO2 (blood oxygen monitoring).
  • Battery life typically requires daily charging, especially with active GPS or workout use.
  • Slower charging speeds compared to premium models like the Series 6 or later.
  • Incompatibility with Android devices; requires an iPhone for setup and most features.
  • Sleep tracking is considered basic compared to some competitors.

Verdict

The Apple Watch SE (2020) 40mm is an entry-level smartwatch featuring a 1.57-inch Retina LTPO OLED display with a 324 x 394 pixel resolution and 1,000 nits peak brightness. It is powered by the S5 SiP dual-core processor, includes 32GB of storage, and offers 50-metre water resistance suitable for swimming. Key characteristics include an always-on altimeter, a second-generation optical heart sensor, and critical safety features such as fall detection and Emergency SOS. Its primary pros are its affordable price point, fast performance relative to older models, and comprehensive fitness tracking capabilities; however, it lacks an always-on display mode, as well as advanced health sensors for ECG and blood oxygen (SpO2) monitoring found in premium series.

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