For the first time, Apple refreshed all three of its Apple Watch models at once – the budget-friendly Apple Watch SE 3, the mainstream Series 11, and the adventure-ready Ultra 3. Each brings something new for 2025, from faster charging to features that monitor hypertension and sleep.
Apple’s most affordable watch starts at $249 and now includes an always-on display, so you can glance at the time or your notifications without lifting your wrist. It can now play music and podcasts through its speaker, charges twice as fast as before, and has tougher front glass.
It’s also a popular choice for kids. Just remember – if you want to text or track them without an iPhone nearby, you’ll need the cellular version.
The new Series 11 starts at $399 and is thinner, lighter, and more durable than before. Its screen is twice as scratch-resistant, and there’s now a 5G antenna on the cellular model, which means you should have a stronger signal in weak areas.
Apple also added hypertension notifications, which can detect elevated blood pressure patterns over time. It won’t take a live blood pressure reading, but it will recommend that you talk to your doctor. Keep in mind this feature also came to Series 9 and 10 via a software update, so you can go into the Health app to activate it.
Also, battery life on the 11 series is now up to 24 hours. Why? Apple wants you to sleep with your watch on. If you do, a new sleep score will rate your rest from 0 to 100 – but it doesn’t offer coaching or advice much beyond the numbers. (If you want that, check out an app called Bevel.)
At $799, the Ultra 3 is Apple’s top-of-the-line model, built for the outdoors. It comes with a 5G antenna by default (there’s no non-cellular version). It’s also the first Apple Watch with Satellite SOS built-in, which means you can send a message for help even without cell service. It’s still not as fast or easy as T-Mobile’s T-Satellite service which uses Starlink, but it’s better than nothing.
The Ultra 3 has Apple’s largest display yet and it’s easier to see from any angle. Battery life is now a whopping 42 hours. The titanium case is 3D-printed using recycled materials, part of Apple’s continued push toward sustainability.
Bottom line
The SE 3 is great for kids or first-time users, the Series 11 will fit most people best and the Ultra 3 is for those who want the ultimate adventure companion.
Remember to get the the cellular model if you want to text, stream, or use data without your phone.
If you’re wondering whether it’s worth upgrading, Apple’s comparison tool on its website can show you how your current watch stacks up. If you’re using anything from the Series 8 or earlier, these new models are nice upgrade.
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