Introduction
Apple’s newest smartwatches hit the market in September 2025, bringing fresh features to the Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3 lines. The launch comes with a range of discounts, trade-in credits, and carrier offers that can cut the price by hundreds of dollars. For those who prefer older models, the Series 10, Ultra 2, SE 2, and Series 9 still offer solid value.
At a Glance
- The Apple Watch Series 11 can be bought for up to $335 less with a trade-in.
- The Ultra 3 starts at $799, but discounts and trade-ins bring it closer to $500.
- Older watches like the SE 2 and Series 9 are available for under $200, making them budget-friendly.
Why it matters
These savings let consumers upgrade to the latest Apple Watch technology without breaking the bank.
Apple Watch Series 11
Apple Watch Series 11 is the newest flagship. It starts at $799 and offers a 3% cash back when paid with an Apple Card. Trade-in programs can reduce the price by as much as $335. Best Buy offers up to $250 off the starting price if you trade in an Apple Watch Ultra 2 or another compatible device.
- Trade-in credit: $250 for Ultra 2, $180 for Series 10, $70 for SE 2.
- Apple Card cash back: 3% on the purchase.
- Walmart: $20 discount on select configurations.
- Monthly payments: Available at Walmart pending approval.
Best Buy has no direct discounts, but a trade-in can bring the price down to $549. Walmart also offers four free months of Apple Fitness Plus with the purchase. Some colors and sizes are sold out, so check availability before ordering.
Apple Watch Ultra 3
The Ultra 3 is the most rugged option. Its starting price is $799. You can save up to $335 by trading in an older smartwatch, and you’ll also receive 3% cash back with an Apple Card. Best Buy’s trade-in program can reduce the price by $250.
- Trade-in credit: $250 for Ultra 2, $180 for Series 10, $70 for SE 2.
- Target: No direct discounts, but Target Circle™ Card users get 5% off.
- Best Buy Plus: 10% off eligible trade-ins.
- Apple Card cash back: 3% on the purchase.
There are no current direct savings at Target for the Ultra 3, but the 5% card discount still applies. The Ultra 3’s price can drop to around $464 with trade-ins and card cash back.
Apple Watch SE 3
The SE 3 is the most affordable of the new lineup. Its base price starts at $240. You can trade in an older smartwatch for up to $335 in credit, potentially making the watch free. The Apple Card offers 3% cash back on the purchase.
- Best Buy: Up to $250 off with an Ultra 2 trade-in.
- Walmart: $10 discount on the watch.
- Amazon: $9 discount, bringing the price to $240.
- T-Mobile: Bill credits over 24 months can make the watch free.
- AT&T: $100 off when buying an iPhone 17.
The SE 3 also offers three months free on Apple services like Music, Fitness Plus, TV, Arcade, or News Plus. The combination of trade-in credit and carrier bill credits can bring the cost to zero for many customers.
Apple Watch Series 10
The Series 10 is still in high demand. AT&T offers $100 off when you add the watch to an installment plan with a data plan, and the savings are spread over 36 months. The 46mm model is available at $80 off, but stock is limited.
- Walmart: $100 off the 42mm variant, though it is largely out of stock.
- AT&T: $100 off with an installment plan.
- Availability: The 46mm is sold out but will be restocked soon.
Because the Series 10 is currently out of stock, many shoppers are turning to the Ultra 2 and SE 2 for immediate purchase.
Apple Watch Ultra 2
The Ultra 2 is a solid mid-tier option. AT&T offers $100 off with a data plan installment. Best Buy has a $200 direct discount, bringing the price to $599. Trade-in programs can provide up to $250 in credit.
- Best Buy: $200 off, price $599.
- Trade-in credit: Up to $250 for Ultra 2 or other compatible devices.
- AT&T: $100 off with an installment plan.
- Apple Fitness Plus: Four free months for new subscribers.
- Apple Music: Three free months with the purchase.
The Ultra 2’s price can drop to around $349 after discounts and trade-in credit.
Apple Watch SE 2
The SE 2 remains a budget-friendly choice. Best Buy offers a $60 direct discount, pricing the watch at $189. AT&T offers $100 off when paired with an iPhone 17. Walmart has reduced the base price to $160.
- Best Buy: $60 off, price $189.
- Walmart: $160 base price.
- AT&T: $100 off with an iPhone 17 purchase.
- Trade-in credit: Up to $250 for Ultra 2, $180 for Series 10, $70 for SE 2.
- Apple Services: Three months free on Music, Fitness Plus, TV, Arcade, or News Plus.
The SE 2’s price can fall to under $140 with trade-in credit and carrier discounts.
Apple Watch Series 9
The Series 9 is the most limited in availability. Target sells it for $400 with no discount, but Target Circle™ Card members save 5%. Best Buy and Amazon only have refurbished models in stock.
- Target: $400, 5% off for Circle™ Card members.
- Best Buy: Refurbished models available.
- Amazon: Refurbished models available.
- Availability: Prices and stock change frequently.
Because the Series 9 is scarce, many buyers are opting for the SE 2 or Ultra 2 for a more reliable purchase.
How to Maximize Your Savings
- Use a trade-in: The largest discounts come from trading in an older Apple Watch or compatible device.
- Shop carrier bundles: AT&T and T-Mobile offer bill credits that can make the watch free over time.
- Choose the right retailer: Best Buy’s direct discounts and Walmart’s monthly payment plans can further reduce costs.
- Leverage Apple Card cash back: 3% back on every purchase.
- Check availability: Some colors and sizes are sold out, so confirm before ordering.
## Summary Table
| Model | Base Price | Trade-In Credit | Apple Card Cash Back | Retailer Discount | Final Price (Best Case) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Series 11 | $799 | $335 | 3% | $20 Walmart | $444 |
| Ultra 3 | $799 | $250 | 3% | 5% Target Circle | $464 |
| SE 3 | $240 | $335 | 3% | $9 Amazon | $0 |
| Series 10 | $799 | $100 (AT&T) | 3% | $80 46mm | $719 |
| Ultra 2 | $799 | $250 | 3% | $200 Best Buy | $349 |
| SE 2 | $250 | $250 | 3% | $60 Best Buy | $140 |
| Series 9 | $400 | N/A | 3% | 5% Target Circle | $380 |
These deals illustrate how flexible purchasing options can dramatically lower the cost of Apple’s smartwatch lineup.
Final Thoughts
Apple’s smartwatch range offers a wide spectrum of features and price points. By combining trade-in credits, carrier bundles, and retailer discounts, consumers can bring the cost of the latest models down by several hundred dollars. Whether you’re eyeing the cutting-edge Ultra 3 or the budget-friendly SE 2, there’s a deal that fits most budgets.
Key Takeaways
- Trade-in programs offer the biggest savings, often up to $335.
- Carrier bundles can make the watch free over time.
- Apple Card cash back provides an additional 3% discount.
- Availability varies, so check colors and sizes before purchasing.
These strategies help you stay on top of Apple’s smartwatch releases without overspending.
