Apple Watch Series 3 38mm: Still Worth It?

by Admin 43 views
Apple Watch Series 3 38mm Review: Is It Still a Good Buy in 2024?

Hey tech enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into a blast from the past – the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm. Released back in 2017, this smartwatch might seem ancient in the fast-paced world of technology. But is it still worth considering in 2024? This review aims to break down the features, performance, and overall value of the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm to help you decide if it's the right fit for your wrist.

Design and Build Quality of the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm

Alright, let's talk about the look and feel. The Apple Watch Series 3 38mm sports a sleek, minimalist design that has become synonymous with the Apple Watch. It's got that iconic rounded square shape, which, let's be honest, looks pretty darn good on most wrists. The 38mm size is particularly suitable for those with smaller wrists, making it comfortable to wear all day long. The build quality is solid, featuring an aluminum case that feels sturdy and durable. While it doesn't have the premium finishes of the newer models, like stainless steel or titanium, the aluminum holds up surprisingly well over time. You can choose from various band options, and because it uses the standard Apple Watch band mechanism, you have a massive selection of bands to personalize your watch.

One of the critical aspects of the design is its water resistance. The Series 3 is swim-proof, meaning you can wear it in the pool or the ocean without a problem. This is a huge plus if you are into swimming or simply want a watch that can handle splashes and sweat. The display is a Retina OLED screen, which, even by today's standards, looks pretty good. It's bright, clear, and easy to read in various lighting conditions. While it doesn't have the always-on display found on newer models, the screen is responsive and vibrant. The Digital Crown and side button are still present, allowing for easy navigation and interaction with the watch.

The overall design is compact and lightweight, making it comfortable for everyday wear. Whether you are hitting the gym, going to work, or just relaxing at home, the Series 3 38mm feels good on your wrist. The build quality ensures that it can withstand the rigors of daily life, and the water resistance adds an extra layer of protection. However, keep in mind that the bezels (the black borders around the screen) are quite noticeable compared to newer models, which have significantly reduced bezels. This means the screen real estate feels a bit smaller. That being said, the design remains timeless and functional, and the 38mm size is perfect for those who prefer a smaller, more discreet smartwatch. So, for the design, the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm still holds up well today, offering a classic look and feel that's both stylish and practical. It’s a testament to Apple's design philosophy, where simplicity and functionality come together seamlessly.

Performance and Features: What Can You Expect?

Now, let's get into the heart of the matter: performance and features. The Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is powered by the S3 SiP (System in Package) with a dual-core processor. This means it may not be as snappy as the newer models, which have more powerful processors. However, for everyday tasks like checking notifications, tracking workouts, and using basic apps, it holds its own. There might be occasional lags or delays when switching between apps or loading more complex features. But, generally, the performance is decent enough for what it is designed to do. The watch runs watchOS, Apple's operating system designed for smartwatches, which is known for its user-friendliness and intuitive interface. You can access a wide range of features through watchOS, including activity tracking, heart rate monitoring, and various app integrations.

The Series 3 comes with built-in GPS, which is a fantastic feature for tracking outdoor activities like running, cycling, or walking without needing your iPhone nearby. The heart rate sensor is also pretty accurate, allowing you to monitor your heart rate during workouts and throughout the day. You can also receive notifications from your iPhone, make and receive calls (if you have the cellular model), and even listen to music via Bluetooth headphones. However, the storage capacity is limited, with only 8GB of internal storage in the GPS version, which could be a significant problem when compared to the 16GB available on the cellular version. That is not a lot of space, especially if you plan to store music or download many apps.

One of the biggest limitations of the Series 3 is its lack of the latest watchOS updates. While it does support the current watchOS version, it might not be compatible with all the latest features available on newer Apple Watches. This can be a significant factor if you want to stay up-to-date with the latest software innovations and security patches. The battery life is another area to consider. With moderate use, you can expect a full day of battery life. However, if you use GPS, make calls, or listen to music extensively, the battery life will drain faster. So, you'll likely need to charge it every night. Overall, the performance is sufficient for basic tasks, and the features are still relevant in 2024. But you should be aware of the limitations, especially regarding the processor speed, storage capacity, and battery life, which might be a dealbreaker for some people.

Battery Life and Software Experience

Let’s chat about the power and the brains of the operation. The Apple Watch Series 3 38mm, like any smartwatch, hinges on two main elements: how long it can stay alive and how intuitive it is to use.

Battery Life

The battery life on the Series 3 is, well, it's a mixed bag. In its heyday, Apple claimed up to 18 hours of battery life with typical usage, which meant a full day. In 2024, the reality is slightly different. The battery has aged, and its performance has likely diminished. You can still expect to get a full day's use out of it, provided you are not a heavy user. What is heavy usage? Well, using GPS for extended periods, making calls, or streaming music over Bluetooth will drain the battery faster. If you are a casual user who mainly checks notifications, tracks your steps, and maybe does a quick workout, you should be fine. But, if you are a fitness fanatic, prepare to charge it nightly. Many users report that with the latest watchOS updates, the battery life has been slightly optimized, but it’s still not on par with the newer models. Keeping the screen brightness down and minimizing background app refresh can extend battery life. Overall, the battery life is adequate for everyday use but might require some management to ensure it lasts throughout the day.

Software Experience

On the software side, the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm runs watchOS, Apple's proprietary operating system. WatchOS is known for its user-friendly interface and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. The user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, even for first-time smartwatch users. You can swipe, tap, and use the Digital Crown to scroll through menus and interact with apps. The integration with iPhones is flawless. You can receive notifications, answer calls, and control your music directly from your wrist. Also, the app selection is vast, with many apps available on the App Store that are compatible with the Series 3. However, keep in mind that the processor is slower than the models available today, so apps might take longer to load.

Despite its age, the Series 3 still receives watchOS updates, albeit not as frequently as the newer models. This is important because it means the watch is still getting security patches and minor feature updates. The watchOS interface has evolved over the years, and the Series 3 experience is quite similar to the newer Apple Watches. You get the same health and fitness tracking features, including heart rate monitoring, activity rings, and various workout modes. Siri integration is also present, allowing you to use voice commands to set timers, send messages, and control your smart home devices. Overall, the software experience is still good in 2024. While the performance might not be as snappy as on the latest models, the user-friendly interface, seamless iPhone integration, and vast app selection make it a viable option for those on a budget. Just be prepared for occasional lags and slower app loading times.

Is the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm Still Worth Buying? (The Verdict)

So, the million-dollar question: Is the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm still worth buying in 2024? The answer isn't a simple yes or no; it depends on your needs and budget. Let’s break it down.

Pros

  • Affordability: One of the biggest advantages is its lower price point. You can find it at a significantly reduced price compared to newer models, making it an excellent entry-level smartwatch. If you are on a tight budget, it is a great option.
  • Classic Design: The design is timeless and still looks good. The 38mm size is perfect for those with smaller wrists, and the build quality is durable. You will get a stylish watch that can withstand daily life.
  • Feature-Rich: It still offers many essential features, including activity tracking, heart rate monitoring, GPS, and water resistance. It has a lot to offer for those who need basic smartwatch functionality.
  • WatchOS Ecosystem: The integration with the Apple ecosystem is seamless, making it easy to receive notifications, answer calls, and use various apps.

Cons

  • Slower Performance: The older processor can cause lags and slower app loading times, which might be frustrating for some users.
  • Limited Storage: With limited storage, it may be a problem if you want to store music or download many apps.
  • Battery Life: The battery life might not last a full day with heavy use, especially if you use GPS or listen to music.
  • No Always-On Display: It lacks the always-on display found on newer models, which can be convenient for quickly checking the time.

Who Should Consider the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm?

  • Budget-Conscious Buyers: If you are looking for an affordable smartwatch, the Series 3 is a great option. It’s significantly cheaper than the latest models.
  • First-Time Smartwatch Users: If you are new to smartwatches and want to try one without spending a lot of money, the Series 3 is an excellent starting point.
  • Users with Smaller Wrists: The 38mm size is ideal for those with smaller wrists who prefer a more discreet watch.
  • Casual Users: If you mainly need a watch for basic tasks like checking notifications, tracking steps, and occasional workouts, the Series 3 is perfectly adequate.

Who Should Avoid the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm?

  • Power Users: If you are a heavy user who needs a fast, responsive watch for various apps, games, and advanced features, you should consider a newer model.
  • Fitness Enthusiasts: If you are serious about fitness and need advanced workout metrics, you might be better off with a more advanced model.
  • Users who Need Long Battery Life: If you need a watch that can last more than a day with heavy use, the Series 3 might not be the best choice.

Conclusion: Is It Still Relevant?

In conclusion, the Apple Watch Series 3 38mm is still a viable option in 2024, especially for budget-conscious buyers and those new to smartwatches. While it has its limitations, the affordability, classic design, and core features make it a decent choice. However, if you are a power user, fitness enthusiast, or need the latest features and best performance, you should consider a newer model. Evaluate your needs and budget. For those who can compromise on speed and the latest features, the Series 3 offers a good value proposition. It’s a reliable smartwatch that gets the job done without breaking the bank. So, before you buy, weigh the pros and cons carefully and decide if it meets your requirements. It's a great entry-level smartwatch.