OVERALL
ALTERNATIVES
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
Scored using Smartwatches Methodology v3.0
Smartwatches Methodology v3.0
Mathematical & Unbiased Scoring
Products in this category are scored under Frontum Smartwatches Methodology v3.0: the technical score from the specifications is the base, and independent expert and video reviews (up to ±0.5 points), owner opinions (up to ±0.3) and best-of lists (up to +0.3) move it up or down.
Explore Smartwatches Methodology v3.0

Apple Watch Series 3 38mm review: 127 specs compared

Avg. price:~£200Screen size:1.50 inchBattery life:0.88 daysDisplay type:OLED

Apple Watch Series 3 38mm Review: Compare 127 technical specifications, 77 expert and video reviews and 1 best-of list to see how this product ranks in the Smartwatches category and whether it is worth buying.

Apple Watch Series 3 38mm
7.3/10

Overall score

Score
7.3/ 10
✕
What it is
Our main score for this model, 1–10. It combines specs, best-of lists, expert reviews and owners.
How we count it
Parts: Technical score 35%, List score 30%, Reviews score 25%, Sentiment score 10%
Marks: Each part gets a mark out of 10. For reviews, lists and owners, a typical model in this category gets about 8 and the best one gets 10.
No data yet: A part with no data shows "?". It counts as the mark of a weaker model in this category (4 in 5 models with data score higher). This way, models with reviews, lists and owners usually come out ahead.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 60% of models
Score components

35%

6.5

Technical score

30%

6.5

List score

25%

8.3

Reviews score

10%

10

Sentiment score

▲Better than 60% of smartwatches
8.0

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
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 60% of models
Score components

70%

7.3

Overall score

30%

9.5

Price

▲Better than 60%
6.5

Technical score

Technical score
6.5/ 10
✕
What it is
How good the specs are compared with the other models in this category, 1–10.
How we count it
Areas: We rate the specs in each area against the other models in this category.
Weighting: The areas that matter most to buyers count more. The shares are shown under Score components.
Share: The technical score is 35% of the overall score.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 54% of models
Score components

24%

5.0

Health

21%

9.2

Fitness

16%

2.7

Battery

14%

7.8

Smart features

12%

8.4

Connectivity

9%

6.5

Display & Design

4%

6.4

Hardware

▲Better than 54%
8.3

Reviews score

Reviews score
8.3/ 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. Every review counts the same: written or video, short or full test.
Score: The average grade is 80% of the review mark; the number of reviews is the other 20% (1 review = 5, the typical number in this category = 8, the most-reviewed model = 10).
Enough data: With few reviews, the average grade is pulled toward the typical grade of this category. No reviews yet: 7.4 for now.
Share: Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 73% of models

80%

8.0

Average grade

20%

9.4

Popularity

Grades by review (77)
26 reviews + 51 videos, average 8.0/10. Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
User ratings collected online are not part of this score.
▲Better than 73%
6.5

List score

List score
6.5/ 10
✕
What it is
How often independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers put this model in their best-of lists for this category.
How we count it
Points: The model in the most lists of this category gets 10; the others get 8 to 10 in proportion. In no list yet: 7.5. Lists count 30% of the overall score.
Enough data: Every list counts, even a single one. With fewer than 5 best-of lists in the category, this part is left out.
Lists with this model (1)
List score: in 1 of 120 lists (1%)
▲Better than 76%
  • apple-watch-series-3-38mm
  • apple-watch-series-3-38mm
  • apple-watch-series-3-38mm
apple-watch-series-3-38mm
apple-watch-series-3-38mm
apple-watch-series-3-38mm
Where to buy
*As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Best rankings
Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).All: ranking among all products in the database.

What reviewers say about the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm

Based on 10 · 11

Reviewers agree fitness tracking is its strongest point, backed by smooth performance, but battery life falls short and cellular disappoints.
Praised
Mixed views
Criticised
Pick a topic to see who said what

What owners say about the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm

Based on 194 owners sharing their experience in online comments

67%positive13%mixed20%negative

Owners value freedom from carrying a phone and useful daily features, while battery limits and water damage cause recurring frustration.

What owners dislike

  • Owners say the battery drains fast with GPS workouts, heart rate tracking or LTE on, so it may need charging every night.11
  • Owners report the watch stopped working or went dead after swimming with the water lock on, after a shower, or after a wash and dry.8
  • Owners say there are few apps, third-party apps often fail or are slow, and there is no podcast or notes support.7
  • Some owners find the watch loses its appeal over time, and a few returned it soon after buying.6
  • LTE only works on some carriers and networks, and some owners outside the US say it works on only one network.5
  • Owners say the monthly cellular plan fee, often about $10 per line, roughly doubles the cost of owning the watch.5
  • Owners say the watch shows only iMessage texts, and some report WhatsApp or Gmail notifications not arriving.4
  • Owners say the workout app is weaker than Fitbit, and the lap counter can't be paused in water lock mode without first turning it off.4
  • Owners say Siri is slow to respond from the watch and can't answer many general questions, so it often sends them to the iPhone.3
  • Owners say the screen is small and only two complications can be shown on a watch face, with no option to choose more.3

Points mentioned by at least 3 owners, most mentioned first.

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Smartwatches model ranking

Ranked #254 of 777 models in Smartwatches (Overall score)

Technical Specifications of smartwatch Apple Watch Series 3 38mm

Technical score
Technical score
6.5/ 10
✕
What it is
How good the specs are compared with the other models in this category, 1–10.
How we count it
Areas: We rate the specs in each area against the other models in this category.
Weighting: The areas that matter most to buyers count more. The shares are shown under Score components.
Share: The technical score is 35% of the overall score.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 54% of models
Score components:

24%

5.0

Health

21%

9.2

Fitness

16%

2.7

Battery

14%

7.8

Smart features

12%

8.4

Connectivity

9%

6.5

Display & Design

4%

6.4

Hardware

6.5
Reviews score
8.3
List score
6.5
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
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 60% of models
Score components:

70%

7.3

Overall score

30%

9.5

Price

8.0
Heart rate monitor
yes
This smartwatch includes a heart rate monitor. 9.5% of smartwatches include a heart rate monitor.
Blood oxygen monitoring
no
This smartwatch does not support blood oxygen monitoring. 69.7% of smartwatches support blood oxygen monitoring.
ECG
no
This smartwatch does not support ECG. 18.2% of smartwatches support ECG.
Irregular heart rate warnings
yes
This smartwatch supports irregular heart rate warnings. 49.5% of smartwatches support irregular heart rate warnings.
HRV tracking
yes
This smartwatch supports HRV tracking. 54.9% of smartwatches support HRV tracking.
Show more
What reviewers say
Accelerometer
yes
This smartwatch includes an accelerometer. 0.5% of smartwatches include an accelerometer.
Barometer
yes
This smartwatch includes a barometer. 46.5% of smartwatches include a barometer.
Gyroscope
yes
This smartwatch includes a gyroscope. 28.9% of smartwatches include a gyroscope.
Cadence sensor
yes
This smartwatch includes a cadence sensor. 67.2% of smartwatches include a cadence sensor.
Cadence may require external sensor/app pairing on some models.
Distance tracking
yes
This smartwatch supports distance tracking. 3.7% of smartwatches support distance tracking.
Show more
What reviewers say
Battery life
0.88 days
Market range: <1 day – >20 days
This smartwatch lasts 0.88 days on a charge, which is shorter than 96.5% of Smartwatches and the same as 1.6% of Smartwatches.
Converted from roughly 18-24 hours of battery life.
Battery life in training mode
5 h
Market range: <6 h – >48 h
This smartwatch records workouts for 5 h on a charge, which is shorter than 91.3% of Smartwatches and the same as 3.4% of Smartwatches.
Battery life with GPS on
5 h
Market range: <6 h – >46 h
This smartwatch lasts 5 h with GPS on, which is shorter than 92.4% of Smartwatches and the same as 2.4% of Smartwatches.
Battery power
262 mAh
Market range: <200 mAh – >500 mAh
This smartwatch has a 262 mAh battery, which is smaller than 67.9% of Smartwatches.
Battery capacity varies by case size/model variant.
Charge time
120 min
Market range: <60 min – >150 min
This smartwatch charges from empty in 120 min, which is quicker than 13.3% of Smartwatches and the same as 44.6% of Smartwatches.
Approximate value from reported charging range: 120 minutes.
Show more
What reviewers say
Operating system
watchOS
This smartwatch runs watchOS, which is more advanced than the system in 96% of Smartwatches and equal to 4% of Smartwatches.
Software update frequency
ended
This smartwatch has ended software update support which is less active than that of 46.1% of smartwatches and equal to that of 53.9% of smartwatches.
Third-party app support
yes
This smartwatch supports third-party apps. 48.5% of smartwatches support third-party apps.
Notifications
yes
This smartwatch supports notifications. 0.3% of smartwatches support notifications.
Voice assistant support
yes
This smartwatch supports voice assistants. 30.8% of smartwatches support voice assistants.
Show more
What reviewers say
Cellular module
yes
This smartwatch includes a cellular module. 83.5% of smartwatches include a cellular module.
Cellular support may depend on LTE/GPS+Cellular variant selection.
SIM cards
1
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
This smartwatch supports GPS. 40.3% of smartwatches support GPS.
Galileo support
yes
This smartwatch supports Galileo navigation. 56.5% of smartwatches support Galileo navigation.
Dual-frequency GPS
no
This smartwatch does not support dual-frequency GPS. 15.1% of Smartwatches offer this.
Show more
What reviewers say
Screen size
1.5 inch
Market range: <1.2 inch – >1.83 inch
This smartwatch has a 1.5 inch screen, which is larger than 66.8% of Smartwatches and the same as 4.1% of Smartwatches.
Some sources mention multiple/uncertain size variants.
Display type
OLED
This smartwatch uses OLED, which is less advanced than the screen in 53.2% of Smartwatches and equal to 9.1% of Smartwatches.
Retina branding.
Resolution
272x 340
This smartwatch has a display resolution of 272x340 which is lower than that of 66.8% of smartwatches and equal to that of 0.1% of smartwatches.
Pixel density
326 ppi
Market range: <213 ppi – >461 ppi
This smartwatch has a pixel density of 326 ppi, which is higher than 45% of Smartwatches and equal to 8.7% of Smartwatches.
Display brightness
1,000 nit
Market range: <450 nits – >2k nits
This smartwatch has a screen brightness of 1,000 nits, which is higher than 53.5% of Smartwatches and equal to 27% of Smartwatches.
Show more
What reviewers say
CPU speed
?
Processor model
Apple S3
This smartwatch uses the Apple S3 processor model.
RAM
0.75 GB
Market range: <0.5 GB – >2 GB
This smartwatch has 0.75 GB of RAM, which is less than 67.7% of Smartwatches and equal to 3.6% of Smartwatches.
768 MB RAM
Internal storage
8 GB
Market range: <0 GB – >32 GB
This smartwatch has 8 GB of internal storage, which is more than 65.5% of Smartwatches and equal to 11.3% of Smartwatches.
External memory slot
no
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 Series 3 38mm vs the average smartwatch

246810TotalHealthFitnessBatteryConnectivityDisplay & DesignSmart featuresHardware
  • More advanced operating system
    This smartwatch runs a more advanced operating system than the average smartwatch (watchOS vs Proprietary OS).
    watchOS vs Proprietary OS
  • Built-in cellular module
    This smartwatch includes a cellular module, the average smartwatch does not. 16.6% of smartwatches include a cellular module.
    Cellular support may depend on LTE/GPS+Cellular variant selection.
  • HRV tracking
    This smartwatch supports HRV tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 45.2% of smartwatches support HRV tracking.
  • Maps support
    This smartwatch supports maps, the average smartwatch does not. 34.4% of smartwatches support maps.
  • Emergency SOS
    This smartwatch includes Emergency SOS, the average smartwatch does not. 44.8% of smartwatches include Emergency SOS.
  • Supports wireless charging
    This smartwatch supports wireless charging, the average smartwatch does not. 23.4% of smartwatches support wireless charging.
  • NFC functionality
    This smartwatch supports NFC, the average smartwatch does not. 45.2% of smartwatches support NFC.
  • External heart rate monitor support
    This smartwatch supports external heart rate monitor compatibility, the average smartwatch does not. 46.6% of smartwatches support external heart rate monitor compatibility.
    Supports external monitors over Bluetooth/BLE.
  • 18.6% higher review score
    Reviews score
    8.3/ 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. Every review counts the same: written or video, short or full test.
    Score: The average grade is 80% of the review mark; the number of reviews is the other 20% (1 review = 5, the typical number in this category = 8, the most-reviewed model = 10).
    Enough data: With few reviews, the average grade is pulled toward the typical grade of this category. No reviews yet: 7.4 for now.
    Share: Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
    Score distribution
    ▼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    ▲ Better than 73% of models

    80%

    8.0

    Average grade

    20%

    9.4

    Popularity

    Grades by review (77)
    26 reviews + 51 videos, average 8.0/10. Reviews count 25% of the overall score.
    User ratings collected online are not part of this score.
    8.3 vs 7.0
  • 33.3% higher sentiment score
    10.0 vs 7.5
  • HRV tracking
    This smartwatch supports HRV tracking, the average smartwatch does not. 45.2% of smartwatches support HRV tracking.
  • External heart rate monitor support
    This smartwatch supports external heart rate monitor compatibility, the average smartwatch does not. 46.6% of smartwatches support external heart rate monitor compatibility.
    Supports external monitors over Bluetooth/BLE.
  • Cadence tracking
    This smartwatch includes a cadence sensor, the average smartwatch does not. 32.9% of smartwatches include a cadence sensor.
    Cadence may require external sensor/app pairing on some models.
  • Supports wireless charging
    This smartwatch supports wireless charging, the average smartwatch does not. 23.4% of smartwatches support wireless charging.
  • Built-in cellular module
    This smartwatch includes a cellular module, the average smartwatch does not. 16.6% of smartwatches include a cellular module.
    Cellular support may depend on LTE/GPS+Cellular variant selection.
  • Maps support
    This smartwatch supports maps, the average smartwatch does not. 34.4% of smartwatches support maps.
  • NFC functionality
    This smartwatch supports NFC, the average smartwatch does not. 45.2% of smartwatches support NFC.
  • Supports Wi-Fi
    This smartwatch supports Wi-Fi, the average smartwatch does not. 43.5% of smartwatches support Wi-Fi.
  • Galileo satellite support
    This smartwatch supports Galileo navigation, the average smartwatch does not. 43.6% of smartwatches support Galileo navigation.
  • 18.3 g lighter
    This smartwatch is lighter than the average smartwatch (26.7 g vs 45 g). The average smartwatch weighs 45 g.
    26.7 g vs 45 g
  • Better case material
    This smartwatch uses aluminum, stainless steel, ceramic for the case material, while the average smartwatch uses polycarbonate.
    aluminum, stainless steel, ceramic vs polycarbonate
  • Stronger display glass
    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
  • 9.2 mm narrower case
    This smartwatch has a narrower case than the average smartwatch (33.3 mm vs 42.5 mm). The average smartwatch measures 42.5 mm across.
    33.3 mm vs 42.5 mm
  • 6.4 mm shorter case
    This smartwatch has a shorter case than the average smartwatch (38.6 mm vs 45 mm). The average smartwatch is 45 mm tall.
    38.6 mm vs 45 mm
  • 0.1 inch larger display
    This smartwatch has a larger screen than the average smartwatch (1.5 inch vs 1.4 inch). The average smartwatch has a 1.4 inch screen.
    Some sources mention multiple/uncertain size variants.
    1.5 inch vs 1.4 inch
  • 250 nits brighter screen
    This smartwatch has a brighter screen than the average smartwatch (1,000 nits vs 750 nits). The average smartwatch peaks at 750 nits.
    1,000 nits vs 750 nits
  • More advanced operating system
    This smartwatch runs a more advanced operating system than the average smartwatch (watchOS vs Proprietary OS).
    watchOS vs Proprietary OS
  • Emergency SOS
    This smartwatch includes Emergency SOS, the average smartwatch does not. 44.8% of smartwatches include Emergency SOS.
  • More advanced processor model
    This smartwatch uses the Apple S3 processor model, while the average smartwatch uses Silicon Labs EFM32 Giant Gecko.
    Apple S3 vs Silicon Labs EFM32 Giant Gecko
  • 2x more internal storage
    This smartwatch has more internal storage than the average smartwatch (8 GB vs 4 GB). The average smartwatch has 4 GB of internal storage.
    8 GB vs 4 GB
  • No blood oxygen monitoring
    This smartwatch does not support blood oxygen monitoring, the average smartwatch does. 69.6% of smartwatches support blood oxygen monitoring.
  • No stress monitoring
    This smartwatch does not support stress monitoring, the average smartwatch does. 68.7% of smartwatches support stress monitoring.
  • No multi-sport mode
    This smartwatch does not include a multi-sport mode, the average smartwatch does. 71.7% of smartwatches include a multi-sport mode.
  • 16 h shorter GPS battery life
    This smartwatch lasts less time with GPS on than the average smartwatch (5 h vs 21 h). The average smartwatch lasts 21 h with GPS on.
    5 h vs 21 h
  • 17.7% lower list score
    List score
    6.5/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    How often independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers put this model in their best-of lists for this category.
    How we count it
    Points: The model in the most lists of this category gets 10; the others get 8 to 10 in proportion. In no list yet: 7.5. Lists count 30% of the overall score.
    Enough data: Every list counts, even a single one. With fewer than 5 best-of lists in the category, this part is left out.
    Lists with this model (1)
    List score: in 1 of 120 lists (1%)
    6.5 vs 7.9
  • 15 h shorter training battery life
    This smartwatch lasts less time in training mode than the average smartwatch (5 h vs 20 h). The average smartwatch lasts 20 h in training mode.
    5 h vs 20 h
  • 6.12 days shorter battery life
    This smartwatch runs for less time per charge than the average smartwatch (0.9 days vs 7 days). The average smartwatch runs for 7 days on a charge.
    Converted from roughly 18-24 hours of battery life.
    0.88 days vs 7 days
  • No always-on display
    This smartwatch does not have an always-on display, the average smartwatch does. 70.3% of smartwatches have an always-on display.
  • 17.7% lower list score
    List score
    6.5/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    How often independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers put this model in their best-of lists for this category.
    How we count it
    Points: The model in the most lists of this category gets 10; the others get 8 to 10 in proportion. In no list yet: 7.5. Lists count 30% of the overall score.
    Enough data: Every list counts, even a single one. With fewer than 5 best-of lists in the category, this part is left out.
    Lists with this model (1)
    List score: in 1 of 120 lists (1%)
    6.5 vs 7.9
  • 81.8% more expensive
    Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is more expensive than the average smartwatch (£200 vs £110).
    £200 vs £110
  • No blood oxygen monitoring
    This smartwatch does not support blood oxygen monitoring, the average smartwatch does. 69.6% of smartwatches support blood oxygen monitoring.
  • No stress monitoring
    This smartwatch does not support stress monitoring, the average smartwatch does. 68.7% of smartwatches support stress monitoring.
  • 4 years older
    This smartwatch was released earlier than the average smartwatch (2017 vs 2021). The average smartwatch was released in 2021.
    September 2017
    2017 vs 2021
  • No multi-sport mode
    This smartwatch does not include a multi-sport mode, the average smartwatch does. 71.7% of smartwatches include a multi-sport mode.
  • 5,534 m lower altitude rating
    This smartwatch has a lower altitude rating than the average smartwatch (3,000 m vs 8,534 m). The average smartwatch is rated to 8,534 m.
    3,000 m vs 8,534 m
  • 15 fewer exercise types
    This smartwatch includes fewer exercise types than the average smartwatch (75 vs 90). The average smartwatch includes 90 exercise types.
    Reported as at least 75 exercise modes.
    75 vs 90
  • 16 h shorter GPS battery life
    This smartwatch lasts less time with GPS on than the average smartwatch (5 h vs 21 h). The average smartwatch lasts 21 h with GPS on.
    5 h vs 21 h
  • 6.12 days shorter battery life
    This smartwatch runs for less time per charge than the average smartwatch (0.9 days vs 7 days). The average smartwatch runs for 7 days on a charge.
    Converted from roughly 18-24 hours of battery life.
    0.88 days vs 7 days
  • 15 h shorter training battery life
    This smartwatch lasts less time in training mode than the average smartwatch (5 h vs 20 h). The average smartwatch lasts 20 h in training mode.
    5 h vs 20 h
  • No low-power mode
    This smartwatch does not include a low power mode, the average smartwatch does. 93.1% of smartwatches include a low power mode.
  • Basic battery type
    This smartwatch uses a Li-ion battery, while the average smartwatch uses Li-Po.
    Li-ion vs Li-Po
  • 43 mAh smaller battery capacity
    This smartwatch has a smaller battery than the average smartwatch (262 mAh vs 305 mAh). The average smartwatch has a 305 mAh battery.
    Battery capacity varies by case size/model variant.
    262 mAh vs 305 mAh
  • Not compatible with Android
    This smartwatch is not compatible with Android, the average smartwatch is. 95.8% of smartwatches are compatible with Android.
  • Less current Bluetooth version
    This smartwatch uses a less current Bluetooth version than the average smartwatch (4.2 vs 5).
    4.2 vs 5
  • No always-on display
    This smartwatch does not have an always-on display, the average smartwatch does. 70.3% of smartwatches have an always-on display.
  • More basic display
    This smartwatch uses a more basic screen than the average smartwatch (OLED vs AMOLED).
    Retina branding.
    OLED vs AMOLED
  • Less practical form
    This smartwatch uses a rectangular form, while the average smartwatch uses round.
    rectangular vs round
  • Lower resolution
    This smartwatch has a display resolution of 272x340, while the average smartwatch reaches 360x360.
    272x340 vs 360x360
  • 10 °C lower heat tolerance
    This smartwatch tolerates a lower temperature than the average smartwatch (35 °C vs 45 °C). The average smartwatch is rated up to 45 °C.
    35 °C vs 45 °C
  • No smart alarm
    This smartwatch does not support a smart alarm, the average smartwatch does. 50.6% of smartwatches support smart alarms.
  • No gesture control
    This smartwatch does not support gesture control, the average smartwatch does. 79.6% of smartwatches support gesture control.

Video reviews

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

6.0
Ian Reyes
≈ estimated
06/03/2026
Long-term review · used for years, 2026 perspective
Verdict
Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is not essential, but useful depending on your needs, and worth it used at a good price.
9.0
Naseem Speach
≈ estimated
20/01/2022
Long-term review · four years of daily use
Verdict
Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is an ideal first Apple Watch, offering the same core experience for less money.
9.0
DesFit
≈ estimated
11/10/2021
Long-term review · fitness and sports tests
Verdict
Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is still a solid fitness watch with accurate tracking for its age, though battery life and speed lag newer models.
9.0
Dion Schuddeboom
≈ estimated
17/09/2021
Long-term review · six months of daily use
Verdict
Apple Watch Series 3 38mm earns no regrets after six months of daily use, especially when bought at a discount.
4.0
16views
≈ estimated
26/02/2021
Long-term review · over a year of daily use
Verdict
Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is not worth buying in 2021; the slowdown and older chip make the newer Series SE the better choice.
8.0
Anna T Nguyen
≈ estimated
17/02/2021
Long-term review · six months of daily use
Verdict
Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is still worth buying in 2021 if the budget fits and you can live with the older screen and battery.
7.0
Bhawik Bhagat
≈ estimated
04/02/2021
Long-term review · six months of use
Verdict
Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is good value at its price, but a newer model is the better buy for new buyers.
6.0
HotshotTek
≈ estimated
27/01/2021
Hands-on review · battery, fitness and value check
Verdict
Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is not bad at a low price, but the SE is the better pick for most buyers.
9.0
Manny Li
≈ estimated
13/07/2020
Long-term review · almost a year of daily use
Verdict
Apple Watch Series 3 38mm has not been regretted after almost a year; it is enjoyable and useful, especially with an iPhone.
9.0
wetryanything
≈ estimated
13/03/2020
Long-term update · six months of use · certified refurbished purchase
Verdict
Apple Watch Series 3 38mm has been reliable and comfortable after six months, especially for notifications, and a refurbished Apple unit is a good buy.
9.0
91Tech
≈ estimated
22/12/2019
Review · value check, features and band use
Verdict
Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is still worth buying, especially on sale, despite its older design and smaller screen.
9.0
Nick Ackerman
≈ estimated
24/02/2019
Long-term use · value and battery review
Verdict
Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is still well worth buying in 2019, with good performance, battery life and speed.
More graded video reviews (19)
creator’s own scoreestimated by us

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

7.0
techadvisor.com
✓ explicit
04/10/2017
Hands-on review · Cellular calls
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 with LTE works well as a backup when your phone dies, but the iPhone is still needed for most daily tasks.
8.0
uk.pcmag.com
✓ explicit
16/10/2019
Hands-on review · Cellular and heart rate
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 handles calls and music without the phone nearby, but LTE drains the battery fast.
8.0
t3.com
✓ explicit
25/04/2022
Retrospective review · Display and fitness
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 is a bright, simple-to-use watch with strong fitness tracking, but its battery lasts under two days and it has no always-on screen.
8.0
express.co.uk
✓ explicit
24/09/2017
Hands-on review · Phone-free use
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 with cellular lets you leave your iPhone at home, but it works only on EE and lacks an always-on display.
7.0
gq.com
≈ estimated
21/09/2017
Hands-on review · Cellular and fitness
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 with LTE lets you leave the iPhone behind for calls, texts and music, but cell coverage and some apps still let it down.
9.0
techradar.com
✓ explicit
16/06/2021
Retrospective review · Cellular and fitness
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 is a solid fitness watch for iPhone owners, but the LTE model is only worth it if you often leave your phone behind.
6.0
dcrainmaker.com
≈ estimated
07/11/2017
In-depth review · Sports and fitness
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 suits casual fitness users, but endurance athletes must piece together several third-party apps to match dedicated sport watches.
7.0
tomsguide.com
✓ explicit
28/01/2021
Long-term review · LTE and music
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 is a good iPhone watch whose LTE model is hard to recommend, so the non-LTE version is the better buy.
9.0
techmanity.co.uk
≈ estimated
04/08/2018
Long-term review · Cellular smartwatch
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 lets you pay, call and stream without a phone, but calls can drain its battery within a day.
9.0
imore.com
≈ estimated
23/09/2017
Hands-on test · Fitness and health
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 is a strong fit for small wrists, with quick Siri and phone calls on the wrist, but it still needs an iPhone to pair.
8.0
arstechnica.com
≈ estimated
27/09/2017
Hands-on review · LTE testing
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 Cellular can work away from the iPhone, but setup with a carrier is fiddly and LTE needs a data plan on top.
8.8
computerbild.de
✓ explicit
15/06/2022
Test report · Cellular smartwatch
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 is a reliable cellular watch with accurate heart and fitness tracking, but its design looks dated and its battery lasts two days at most.
9.5
chip.de
≈ estimated
11/11/2017
Lab test · Fitness and cellular
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 has the most features in this test, with cellular calls and a water-resistant case, but takes only Apple's own straps and a magnetic charger.
8.2
netzwelt.de
✓ explicit
11/09/2019
Hands-on test · eSIM cellular smartwatch
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 is a motivating fitness tracker, but its phone-free cellular works only with a few German carriers and the battery could last longer.
8.0
sport-passion.fr
≈ estimated
15/12/2017
Full review · Phone-free LTE
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 is a stylish sports watch whose cellular model makes calls and streams music without a phone, but it comes only in a rectangular case.
8.9
fr.ign.com
✓ explicit
23/10/2017
Full test · Sport and daily use
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 GPS is a solid choice for newcomers, but Series 2 owners will notice little beyond faster apps and spoken Siri.
8.6
iculture.nl
✓ explicit
05/10/2017
Long-term review · Buying advice
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 is still usable if you already own one, but Apple no longer sells it, so the SE is the better buy.
7.5
xgn.nl
✓ explicit
11/10/2017
Hands-on review · Design and speed
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 is the fastest Apple Watch yet with watchOS 4, but it is hardly innovative, so it suits buyers who don't own one yet.
9.0
global.techradar.com
✓ explicit
23/06/2019
Full review · Fitness and battery
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 is a strong fitness watch with good battery life, but it pairs only with an iPhone, and Siri still feels inconsistent.
7.6
test-aankoop.be
✓ explicit
N/A
Lab test · Fitness and smart features
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 (38mm) is a comfortable fitness watch with strong GPS and heart rate tracking, but its battery life and charging are weak.

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Apple Watch Series 3 38mm

  • Integrated GPS and barometric altimeter for accurate fitness and elevation tracking.
  • Waterproof design suitable for swimming and water sports.
  • Clear, vibrant OLED display with rich colours and deep blacks.
  • S3 processor provides smooth navigation and snappier app launches compared to previous generations.
  • Excellent call quality with a loud speaker and sensitive microphone.
  • Streamlined user experience that integrates deeply with the iPhone ecosystem.

What customers don't like about Apple Watch Series 3 38mm

  • Battery life is relatively poor, often requiring daily charging and draining rapidly when using LTE or GPS.
  • Lack of an 'always-on' display requires a wrist flick or tap to view the time.
  • Limited long-term software support; no longer supports modern watchOS versions.
  • Smaller 38mm screen can be more difficult to navigate and view text compared to larger models.
  • Cellular connectivity can be unreliable and incurs additional monthly service fees.
  • Lack of advanced health sensors like ECG, blood oxygen, or fall detection found in newer models.

Verdict

The Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is a compact smartwatch featuring a 1.65-inch Retina OLED display with 1000 nits of brightness and a resolution of 272 x 340 pixels. Powered by the S3 dual-core processor and W2 wireless chip, it delivers smooth performance for health tracking via its optical heart sensor, barometric altimeter, and built-in GPS. Main characteristics include its 50-metre water resistance, Siri integration with a built-in speaker, and a lightweight aluminum case weighing approximately 26.7g. Its primary pros are its reliable fitness tracking, fast app loading speeds compared to predecessors, and seamless integration with the iPhone ecosystem. However, notable cons include its outdated design with large bezels, a battery life that drains significantly during LTE or GPS use, and its lack of support for the latest watchOS updates, which limits access to modern features and security patches.

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