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 Series 3 42mm Review | 126 Data compared

Avg. price:~£230Screen size:1.65 inchBattery life:0.75 daysDisplay type:OLED

Apple Watch Series 3 42mm 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.

7.0

Overall score

Score
7.0/ 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 64% of models
Score components

70%

6.5

Technical score

30%

8.3

Review score ( 10 · 12)

Review score 30% · 8.3 · 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. 19 more reviews are not scored yet.
â–²Better than 64% of smartwatches
6.5

Technical score

Technical score
6.5/ 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 58% of models
Score components

24%

5.1

Health

21%

9.0

Fitness

16%

2.8

Battery

14%

7.8

Smart features

12%

8.2

Connectivity

9%

7.2

Display & Design

4%

5.7

Hardware

â–²Better than 58% of smartwatches
8.3

Review score

Review 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.
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 81% of models
Grades by review (22)
10 reviews: 6 with a printed score, 4 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
3

7.9%

9.0

techradar.com

7.9%

8.0

t3.com

7.9%

8.0

uk.pcmag.com

≈ estimated
1

3.2%

7.0

techpickstream.com

Video reviews 3

3.2%

8.0

DetroitBORG

1.6%

9.0

Product Perspective

1.6%

8.0

AppleInsider

estimated from the review
Shop star ratings are not part of this score.
â–²Better than 81% of smartwatches
  • apple-watch-series-3-42mm
  • apple-watch-series-3-42mm
  • apple-watch-series-3-42mm
apple-watch-series-3-42mm
apple-watch-series-3-42mm
apple-watch-series-3-42mm

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 Series 3 42mm

Technical score
Technical score
6.5/ 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 58% of models
Score components:

24%

5.1

Health

21%

9.0

Fitness

16%

2.8

Battery

14%

7.8

Smart features

12%

8.2

Connectivity

9%

7.2

Display & Design

4%

5.7

Hardware

6.5
Review score
Review 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.
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 81% of models
Grades by review (22)
10 reviews: 6 with a printed score, 4 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
3

7.9%

9.0

techradar.com

7.9%

8.0

t3.com

7.9%

8.0

uk.pcmag.com

≈ estimated
1

3.2%

7.0

techpickstream.com

Video reviews 3

3.2%

8.0

DetroitBORG

1.6%

9.0

Product Perspective

1.6%

8.0

AppleInsider

estimated from the review
Shop star ratings are not part of this score.
8.3
Popularity
Popularity
10.0/ 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
★ Better than 93% of models
Popularity:
Apple Watch Series 3 42mm has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 93.2% of smartwatches.
10
Value for money
Value for money
7.7/ 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 58% of models
Score components:

60%

7.0

Overall score

40%

9.3

Price

7.7
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
What reviewers say
Battery life
0.75 days
Battery life
0.75 days
â–¼ Worse than 98% of models
Market range: <1 days – >16 days
This smartwatch offers a battery life of 0.75 days which is shorter than that of 98% of smartwatches and equal to that of 2% of smartwatches.
Converted from the reported 18-hour battery life.
Battery life in training mode
5 h
Battery life in training mode
5 h
â–¼ Worse than 91% of models
Market range: <5.5 h – >48 h
This smartwatch lasts 5 h in training mode which is shorter than 90.6% of smartwatches and equal to that of 3.6% of smartwatches.
Battery life with GPS on
5 h
Battery life with GPS on
5 h
â–¼ Worse than 91% of models
Market range: <5.75 h – >43 h
This smartwatch lasts 5 h with GPS on which is shorter than 91% of smartwatches and equal to that of 2.8% of smartwatches.
Battery power
342 mAh
Battery power
342 mAh
â–² Better than 64% of models
Market range: <195 mAh – >475 mAh
This smartwatch has a battery capacity of 342 mAh which is larger than the batteries in 63.6% of smartwatches.
Battery capacity varies by case size/model variant.
Charge time
120 min
Charge time
120 min
â–¼ Worse than 43% of models
Market range: <60 min – >150 min
This smartwatch charges in 120 min which is faster than 13.1% of smartwatches and equal to the charge time of 44.2% of smartwatches.
Approximate value from reported charging range: 120 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 (4).
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
no
Compass
no
â–¼ Worse than 53% of models
This smartwatch does not include a compass. 52.7% of smartwatches include a compass.
Show more
What reviewers say
Screen size
1.65 inch
Screen size
1.65 inch
â–² Better than 78% of models
Market range: <1.2 inch – >1.82 inch
This smartwatch has a screen size of 1.65 inch which is larger than the screens of 78% of smartwatches and equal to those of 1.5% 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.
Resolution
312x 390
Resolution
312x 390
â–¼ Worse than 60% of models
This smartwatch has a display resolution of 312x390 which is lower than that of 59.8% of smartwatches and equal to that of 0.2% of smartwatches.
Pixel density
303 ppi
Pixel density
303 ppi
â–¼ Worse than 62% of models
Market range: <207 ppi – >461 ppi
This smartwatch has a pixel density of 303 ppi which is lower than that of 62.5% 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 S3
Processor model
Apple S3
★ Better than 90% of models
This smartwatch uses the Apple S3 processor model.
RAM
0.75 GB
RAM
0.75 GB
â–¼ Worse than 71% of models
Market range: <0.5 GB – >2 GB
This smartwatch has 0.75 GB of RAM which is smaller than the RAM in 70.7% of smartwatches and equal to that of 4% of smartwatches.
768 MB RAM
Internal storage
8 GB
Internal storage
8 GB
â–² Better than 68% of models
Market range: <0 GB – >32 GB
This smartwatch uses 8 GB for internal storage which is larger than that of 67.6% of smartwatches and equal to that of 12.1% 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 Series 3 42mm 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 (4).
    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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 63.4% more popular
    Apple Watch Series 3 42mm has a higher popularity than the average smartwatch (10 vs 6.1).
    10 vs 6.12
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 42 mAh larger battery capacity
    Battery life
    342 mAh days
    â–¼ Worse than 98% of models
    Market range: <1 days – >16 days
    This smartwatch has a larger battery capacity than the average smartwatch (342 mAh vs 300 mAh). The average smartwatch battery is 300 mAh.
    Converted from the reported 18-hour battery life.
    342 mAh vs 300 mAh
  • 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.
  • 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
  • 0.25 inch larger screen size
    Screen size
    1.65 inch
    â–² Better than 78% of models
    Market range: <1.2 inch – >1.82 inch
    This smartwatch has a larger screen size than the average smartwatch (1.7 inch vs 1.4 inch). The average smartwatch screen is 1.40 inch.
    Some sources mention multiple/uncertain size variants.
    1.65 inch vs 1.40 inch
  • Better case material
    Case material
    aluminum, stainless steel, ceramic
    â–² Better than 88% of models
    This smartwatch uses aluminum, stainless steel, ceramic for the case material, while the average smartwatch uses polycarbonate.
    aluminum, stainless steel, ceramic vs polycarbonate
  • 12.7 g lighter weight
    Weight
    32.3 g
    â–² Better than 81% of models
    Market range: <29 g – >80 g
    This smartwatch is lighter than the average smartwatch (32.3 g vs 45 g). The average smartwatch weighs 45.0 g.
    32.3 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
  • 5.6 mm narrower watch width
    Width
    36.4 mm
    â–² Better than 80% of models
    Market range: <34.6 mm – >46.8 mm
    This smartwatch is narrower than the average smartwatch (36.4 mm vs 42 mm). The average smartwatch width is 42.0 mm.
    36.4 mm vs 42.0 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 (4).
    watchOS vs Proprietary OS
  • 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.
  • More advanced processor model
    Processor model
    Apple S3
    ★ Better than 90% of models
    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
  • 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 multi-sport mode
    Multi-sport mode
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 69% of models
    This smartwatch does not include a multi-sport mode, the average smartwatch does. 68.4% of smartwatches include a multi-sport mode.
  • 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.
  • 6.25 days day/s shorter battery life
    Battery life
    0.75 days
    â–¼ Worse than 98% of models
    Market range: <1 days – >16 days
    This smartwatch offers 0.8 days of battery life, while the average smartwatch offers 7 days.
    Converted from the reported 18-hour battery life.
    0.75 days vs 7 days
  • 15 h shorter GPS battery life
    Battery life with GPS on
    5 h
    â–¼ Worse than 91% of models
    Market range: <5.75 h – >43 h
    This smartwatch lasts less with GPS on than the average smartwatch (5 h vs 20 h). The average smartwatch lasts 20 h.
    5 h vs 20 h
  • 14.25 h shorter training battery life
    Battery life in training mode
    5 h
    â–¼ Worse than 91% of models
    Market range: <5.5 h – >48 h
    This smartwatch lasts less in training mode than the average smartwatch (5 h vs 19.25 h). The average smartwatch lasts 19.25 h.
    5 h vs 19.25 h
  • 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.
  • No compass
    Compass
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 53% of models
    This smartwatch does not include a compass, the average smartwatch does. 52.6% of smartwatches include a compass.
  • 76.9% more expensive
    Apple Watch Series 3 42mm is more expensive than the average smartwatch (£230 vs £130).
    £230 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.
  • No multi-sport mode
    Multi-sport mode
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 69% of models
    This smartwatch does not include a multi-sport mode, the average smartwatch does. 68.4% of smartwatches include a multi-sport mode.
  • 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
  • 6.25 days day/s shorter battery life
    Battery life
    0.75 days
    â–¼ Worse than 98% of models
    Market range: <1 days – >16 days
    This smartwatch offers 0.8 days of battery life, while the average smartwatch offers 7 days.
    Converted from the reported 18-hour battery life.
    0.75 days vs 7 days
  • 15 h shorter GPS battery life
    Battery life with GPS on
    5 h
    â–¼ Worse than 91% of models
    Market range: <5.75 h – >43 h
    This smartwatch lasts less with GPS on than the average smartwatch (5 h vs 20 h). The average smartwatch lasts 20 h.
    5 h vs 20 h
  • 14.25 h shorter training battery life
    Battery life in training mode
    5 h
    â–¼ Worse than 91% of models
    Market range: <5.5 h – >48 h
    This smartwatch lasts less in training mode than the average smartwatch (5 h vs 19.25 h). The average smartwatch lasts 19.25 h.
    5 h vs 19.25 h
  • No low-power mode
    Low power mode
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 93% of models
    This smartwatch does not include a low power mode, the average smartwatch does. 92.5% of smartwatches include a low power mode.
  • 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
  • No compass
    Compass
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 53% of models
    This smartwatch does not include a compass, the average smartwatch does. 52.6% of smartwatches include a compass.
  • 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.
  • Older Bluetooth version
    Bluetooth version
    4.2
    â–¼ Worse than 66% of models
    This smartwatch supports an older Bluetooth version than the average smartwatch (4.2 vs 5). The average smartwatch uses 5.0.
    4.2 vs 5.0
  • 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.
    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
  • 23 ppi lower pixel density
    Pixel density
    303 ppi
    â–¼ Worse than 62% of models
    Market range: <207 ppi – >461 ppi
    This smartwatch has a lower pixel density than the average smartwatch (303 ppi vs 326 ppi). The average smartwatch display reaches 326 ppi.
    303 ppi vs 326 ppi
  • Lower resolution
    Display type
    312 x 390
    â–¼ Worse than 50% of models
    This smartwatch has a display resolution of 312x390, while the average smartwatch reaches 352x430.
    Retina branding.
    312x390 vs 352x430
  • 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.
  • No gesture control
    Gesture control
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 78% of models
    This smartwatch does not support gesture control, the average smartwatch does. 77.7% of smartwatches support gesture control.
  • 4 year/s older release date
    Release date
    2017
    â–¼ Worse than 83% of models
    Market range: <2k – >2k
    This smartwatch is an older model than the average smartwatch (2017 vs 2021). The average smartwatch was released in 2021.
    September 2017
    2017 vs 2021
  • 0.25 GB less RAM
    RAM
    0.75 GB
    â–¼ Worse than 71% of models
    Market range: <0.5 GB – >2 GB
    This smartwatch has less RAM than the average smartwatch (0.8 GB vs 1 GB). The average smartwatch includes 1 GB of RAM.
    768 MB RAM
    0.75 GB vs 1 GB

Video reviews

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

8.0
DetroitBORG
≈ estimated
01/10/2017
Unboxing and review · cellular, Siri and battery tests
Verdict
Apple Watch Series 3 42mm is not a big step up from Series 2, but Siri voice feedback and fitness tracking stand out.
9.0
Product Perspective
≈ estimated
24/09/2019
Unboxing and setup · first impressions and budget pick
Verdict
Apple Watch Series 3 42mm is the best budget Apple Watch pick, with easy setup and a comfortable 42mm size.
8.0
AppleInsider
≈ estimated
27/09/2017
Hands-on review · LTE, music and calls outdoors
Verdict
Apple Watch Series 3 42mm is a clear step toward independence and a strong pick for athletes, but it still needs an iPhone.
Not graded yet
Not graded yet
Not graded yet
Not graded yet
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What reviewers agree on

Based on 10 · 13

Reviewers like its smooth performance, solid build and fitness tracking, but are split on battery life and lukewarm about the display.
Praised
Mixed views
Criticised
Pick a topic to see who said what

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

8.0
uk.pcmag.com
✓ explicit
16/10/2019
Review · LTE and heart rate
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 suits iPhone owners who want calls without their phone, though the LTE model's battery needs a nightly charge.
techadvisor.com
04/10/2017
Not graded yet
8.0
t3.com
✓ explicit
25/04/2022
Retrospective review · Fitness tracking
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 is a fast, comfortable iPhone watch with a bright screen and strong fitness tracking, suiting buyers who can live without an always-on display.
zeipad.com
Updated 2017
Not graded yet
9.0
techradar.com
✓ explicit
16/06/2021
Review · Cellular and fitness
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 suits iPhone owners who want strong fitness tracking and clear calls, though Siri can stall and the watch depends on an iPhone.
mirror.co.uk
18/09/2017
Not graded yet
chip.de
11/11/2017
Not graded yet
8.8
computerbild.de
✓ explicit
15/06/2022
Test report · Older cellular model
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 is a dependable cellular watch with exact heart-rate readings, though its design looks dated and its battery lasts two days at most.
spiegel.de
20/09/2017
Not graded yet
8.0
runwithlars.de
≈ estimated
26/07/2018
Hands-on test · Running watch
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 suits everyday wear and run tracking with fast GPS, but lacks the interval planning and lap function of a dedicated running watch.
stern.de
20/09/2017
Not graded yet
8.2
netzwelt.de
✓ explicit
11/09/2019
Field test · eSIM smartwatch
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 is a solid fitness tracker, but its phone-free cellular service works with only a few German carriers.
9.0
inside-digital.de
≈ estimated
18/01/2018
Multi-week test · Cellular smartwatch
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 runs smoothly and has plenty of features, but the cellular version needs a Telekom contract.
chip.de
09/11/2017
Not graded yet
01net.com
20/09/2017
Not graded yet
8.0
sport-passion.fr
≈ estimated
15/12/2017
Test and review · Cellular watch
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 suits iPhone owners who want calls and music on the wrist, but its rectangular-only case and iPhone-dependent cellular model hold it back.
lexpress.fr
11/10/2017
Not graded yet
lesnumeriques.com
22/10/2026
Not graded yet
tomsguide.fr
29/10/2017
Not graded yet
macitynet.it
12/10/2017
Not graded yet
video.corriere.it
20/09/2017
Not graded yet
9.0
saggiamente.com
✓ explicit
15/01/2018
Personal review · Upgrade comparison
Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 3 is a clear step up from the first model, with spoken Siri and longer battery life, but it looks much the same.

Third-party reviews

Read buyer reviews on Amazon →

What we like about Apple Watch Series 3 42mm

  • Standalone cellular connectivity allows calls and texts without an iPhone nearby
  • Highly accurate heart-rate monitoring and step counting
  • Excellent durability and water resistance up to 50 meters, suitable for swimming
  • Bright, high-quality Retina OLED display (1,000 nits) that is easy to read in direct sunlight
  • Smooth and responsive performance for core tasks due to the S3 dual-core chip
  • Large ecosystem of interchangeable bands and high-quality physical build materials
  • Affordable entry-point for first-time Apple Watch users

What we don't like about Apple Watch Series 3 42mm

  • Significant battery drain when using LTE cellular or GPS for workouts
  • Lack of modern software support; no longer receives the latest watchOS updates
  • Lacks an Always-On Display, requiring a wrist flick to see the time
  • Slow music syncing over Bluetooth, which can take a very long time for large playlists
  • Small internal storage (8GB/16GB) frequently causes issues when trying to install system updates
  • Missing advanced health sensors found in newer models, such as ECG and Blood Oxygen
  • Device can become noticeably warm during extended cellular phone calls

Verdict

The Apple Watch Series 3 42mm is a versatile smartwatch featuring a 1.65-inch Retina OLED display with 1000 nits of brightness and a resolution of 312 x 390 pixels. Powered by the dual-core S3 processor and W2 wireless chip, it delivers smooth performance for fitness tracking, supported by a built-in GPS, barometric altimeter, and optical heart rate sensor. Main characteristics include its 50-meter water resistance, 8GB or 16GB of internal storage, and compatibility with watchOS up to version 8.8.1. Pros include its reliable activity monitoring, bright outdoor visibility, and the option for cellular connectivity to handle calls and texts independently of an iPhone. However, notable cons include an aging design with thick bezels, the lack of an always-on display, and significantly reduced battery life when using LTE or GPS extensively.

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