At a Glance
- The Apple Watch SE 3 starts at $249 for the 40-mm model.
- Major carriers and retailers offer up to $335 in trade-in credit and $300 off with activation.
- Free months of Apple services come with most purchases.
- Why it matters: These savings make the budget-friendly watch even more accessible for new and existing Apple users.
Apple’s newest entry-level smartwatch, the Apple Watch SE 3, has been priced at $249 for the 40-mm version and $279 for the 44-mm model. An additional $50 brings cellular connectivity to either size. Despite the modest price, the watch retains many of the features that have made Apple’s smartwatches popular.
How to Get the Best Price
Retailers and carriers have lined up a variety of promotions that can shave hundreds off the sticker price. Below is a roundup of the most generous offers available.
Walmart
Walmart offers the 40-mm SE 3 for $239, a $10 discount on the base model. Cellular models drop to $249 after a $50 price cut. The deal includes three free months of Apple TV, Apple Fitness Plus, and Apple News Plus, plus four free months of Apple Music and Arcade for new or returning subscribers.
Amazon
Amazon’s only discount is $9 off the 40-mm model, bringing the price to $240. The offer is available in both midnight and starlight colors. Buyers can also trade in an older device for up to $335 in credit, which is refunded as an Apple gift card if it exceeds the watch’s cost. A 3 % cash back reward is available when purchasing with an Apple Card.
Best Buy
Best Buy does not list a direct discount on the SE 3, but its trade-in program can save hundreds. The amount varies with the smartwatch being traded in, but even older models such as the Series 9 will net at least $100. The purchase also includes three free months of Apple Music and four free months of Apple Fitness Plus for new or returning subscribers.
Target
Target currently lists the SE 3 at full price. However, a 5 % discount is available for shoppers who use their Target Circle™ Card. New or returning subscribers also receive three free months of Apple Fitness Plus.
Carrier Promotions
Carriers offer some of the most aggressive savings:
- T-Mobile: A new Watch Plan Plus line saves $300 on the 40-mm watch, effectively making it free. The 44-mm model is priced at $30. A second watch can also be purchased for free when the first is activated.
- Verizon: Customers on a qualifying unlimited plan can save up to $300 on the SE 3 with a trade-in. The 40-mm model is free, and the 44-mm model costs less than $1 per month. Credits are applied as bill credits over 36 months.
- AT&T: Buying two watches gives $300 off, provided at least one new wearable line is activated. An eligible trade-in can add further savings.
Features and Colors
The SE 3 comes in midnight and starlight finishes. Users can choose from three band types: rubber, textile, and stainless steel. The watch offers a 1.78-inch display, an always-on feature, and the same health sensors as previous SE models, including heart rate monitoring and fall detection.
Should You Upgrade?
Upgrading depends on what you need. In a recent review, News Of Los Angeles expert Vanessa Hand Orellana noted: “The Series 11 feels like a big leap with its longer battery life and sleeker design. If you don’t need advanced health sensors such as ECG or the new hypertension alerts, though, the Apple Watch SE 3 is a better value, and the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is best for anyone chasing longer battery life and pro-level sports features.” If you already own a Series 10, you might not need a new watch, but older models could benefit from the SE 3’s improvements.
Comparing to Other Models
The SE 3 sits between the mid-range Series 11 and the high-end Ultra 3. The Series 11 offers a larger display and better battery, while the Ultra 3 adds advanced health sensors and rugged design. For users on a budget who still want cellular connectivity, the SE 3 is the most affordable choice.
Where to Find Deals
The offers above are current as of the latest update. Prices and promotions can change quickly, so checking the retailers’ websites or the News Of Los Angeles shopping portal before purchasing is advisable. The News Of Los Angeles team will continue to update this list as new deals appear.
Key Takeaways
- The Apple Watch SE 3 starts at $249 for the 40-mm model.
- Major retailers and carriers can reduce the price by up to $335 with trade-ins.
- Carrier activation can bring the watch to free or near-free prices.
- Free months of Apple services come with most purchases.
- The SE 3 offers a solid feature set for a budget-friendly price.
Final Thoughts
Apple’s budget smartwatch remains a strong contender for anyone seeking a reliable, feature-rich watch without a high price tag. With the array of discounts from carriers and retailers, the SE 3 can be purchased for as low as a few dollars a month or even for free, depending on the promotion. Those looking to upgrade from older Apple Watches or switch from Android smartwatches will find the SE 3 an attractive option.
