The Apple Watch SE continues to be one of Apple’s most compelling offerings for users who want a powerful smartwatch without the high price tag. Positioned as the more affordable sibling to the flagship Series models, the SE packs many of the same features at a fraction of the cost. In this review, we’ll dive into the Apple Watch SE’s performance, battery life, and overall value in 2025 to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your wrist.
Performance: Fast, Fluid, and Familiar
The 2025 Apple Watch SE is powered by Apple’s S8 SiP (System in Package) chip, the same one found in the Series 8, making the watch feel snappy and responsive across all functions.
Highlights:
- Smooth UI: watchOS 10 runs effortlessly, with zero lag when launching apps or switching watch faces.
- Fitness Tracking: Accurate step counting, heart rate monitoring, and workout tracking rival the higher-end models.
- Safety Features: Fall Detection and Crash Detection now come standard, boosting its practicality for everyday safety.
Even though it lacks the advanced sensors like blood oxygen and ECG found in the Series 9 or Ultra, most casual users won’t notice the absence—especially if fitness and general notifications are your priorities.
Battery Life: Dependable and All-Day Lasting
Apple promises up to 18 hours of battery life, and real-world testing confirms that the SE delivers on this claim—with room to spare in many cases.
Battery Breakdown:
- Typical Use: Around 18–24 hours on a single charge
- Low Power Mode: Can extend to 2 days with notifications and fitness tracking still active
- Fast Charging: Not supported (unlike Series 9), but still charges fully in under 2 hours
While it doesn’t match the multiday performance of Garmin or Amazfit watches, it’s more than enough for daily use, especially with overnight charging or a quick top-up during the day.
Value: Best Budget Smartwatch for iPhone Users
The Apple Watch SE delivers tremendous value for the price, especially in 2025. At around $249–$279, it strikes the perfect balance of affordability and functionality.
What You Get:
- Seamless integration with your iPhone, Messages, and Siri
- Access to Apple Fitness+, Apple Pay, and App Store apps
- Premium build quality with aluminum casing and Retina display
- Regular software updates and security support
For most people, especially those not needing ECG, blood oxygen sensors, or the always-on display, the SE offers nearly everything the higher-end models do—without the price shock.
What It’s Missing
To be fair, there are a few things you won’t find on the Apple Watch SE:
- No Always-On Display: You’ll need to raise your wrist or tap the screen
- No ECG or Blood Oxygen Sensor
- No Temperature Sensing (for cycle tracking)
If these are dealbreakers, the Series 9 might be a better fit—but for many users, they’re unnecessary extras.
Final Verdict: Is the Apple Watch SE Worth It?
Absolutely. The Apple Watch SE remains the best value smartwatch for iPhone users in 2025. It delivers all the essentials—great performance, reliable battery life, and excellent integration with Apple’s ecosystem—without overcomplicating things or breaking the bank.
Final Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Perfect for casual users, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone new to the Apple Watch lineup. If you want the Apple Watch experience without the flagship price tag, the SE is still your smartest option.
