The Apple Watch SE is the most affordable entry point into the Apple ecosystem for anyone who wants a smartwatch without spending more than €300. With the 3rd generation (SE 4) expected sometime in 2026, we analyse what changes to expect, what will still be missing, and whether you should wait or buy now.
The SE Story So Far
Apple launched the first Apple Watch SE in 2020, offering the core Apple Watch experience at a lower price. The SE 2 followed in 2022 with the S8 chip, and in 2024 the refreshed version arrived with a plastic back cover instead of ceramic. This change reduced manufacturing costs and allowed Apple to offer new colours with a more playful design that appeals particularly to younger buyers.
The current SE (as of February 2026) features the S8 chip, a Retina OLED display, heart rate monitoring, fall detection, crash detection, GPS, Family Setup, and all the core fitness and notification features. However, it lacks Always-On Display, ECG, blood oxygen measurement, and the temperature sensor. These omissions keep it firmly positioned as the budget option in the lineup.
What to Expect from SE 4
Based on Apple's upgrade patterns and supply chain rumours, the Apple Watch SE 4 is expected to bring several notable improvements:
- S9 or S10 chip: A significant performance boost over the S8. The S9 introduces the double tap gesture, improved voice processing, and faster app loading
- Possible Always-On Display: The most requested upgrade. If AOD is added, it will fundamentally change the daily experience
- Upgraded OLED display: A potential brightness increase (> 2,000 nits) for better visibility in direct sunlight
- Recycled aluminium/plastic body: Continuation of Apple's environmental approach with sustainable materials
- UWB chip: For better communication with AirTags and other nearby Apple devices
What It Will Not Have
The SE 4 is expected to continue without ECG and without blood oxygen measurement. These features remain exclusive to the Series and Ultra models to maintain the product line differentiation. The temperature sensor is also not expected on the SE. This strategy ensures there is always a compelling reason to upgrade to the higher-priced models.
Who It Is For
The Apple Watch SE targets three main consumer groups. First, those buying an Apple Watch for the first time who want to try the ecosystem without a major investment. Second, parents buying an Apple Watch for their children through Family Setup — the SE is the ideal choice for this purpose given its lower cost and full Family Setup support. Third, those who want an Apple Watch but have a limited budget and do not need the advanced health features that come with the premium models.
Apple's strategy is clear: the SE exists to bring more users into the ecosystem. Once someone purchases an Apple Watch, they are very likely to upgrade to a Series or Ultra in the future, while also subscribing to Apple Fitness+, Apple Music, and other services. The SE is essentially the “gateway” to the broader Apple ecosystem for new users, and it fulfils this role remarkably well at its price point.
SE vs Series: What You Miss
The fundamental question for every potential buyer is: is it worth paying more for the Series? The answer depends entirely on your priorities. If you care about ECG, blood oxygen monitoring, or Always-On Display, then the Series is the right choice. If you want fitness tracking, notifications, Apple Pay, and basic health monitoring, the SE covers everything you need.
The price difference between SE and Series is approximately €120-150. For many users, this gap is not justified — especially if they do not actively use the ECG or blood oxygen features. The SE delivers roughly 85% of the Apple Watch experience at about 65% of the price. That value proposition is remarkably strong and explains why the SE consistently outsells the Series in many markets.
"The Apple Watch SE is the best value for money in the smartwatch market. No other watch at this price offers such a complete experience."
— Market analysis, January 2026Comparison with Competitors
In the budget smartwatch category, the Apple Watch SE competes primarily with the Samsung Galaxy Watch FE (approximately €200) and the Google Pixel Watch (approximately €250). The Galaxy Watch FE offers ECG and blood oxygen at a lower price, but the Wear OS ecosystem does not match the integration that watchOS provides with the iPhone. The Pixel Watch has excellent design but limited battery life.
For iPhone users, the Apple Watch SE remains the best choice due to its flawless integration with iOS, iMessage, Apple Pay, Find My, and the Health app. No Android smartwatch can offer the same level of integration with iPhone. If you have an Android phone, then the Galaxy Watch FE or Pixel Watch are better options for your platform. The SE's dominance is essentially limited to iPhone users, but for that audience, nothing else comes close.
Is the SE Worth It in 2026?
Absolutely, especially if you do not need the advanced health features. The Apple Watch SE offers the same watchOS experience as the Series — all the apps, all the notifications, all the watch faces, Apple Pay, and fitness tracking. The limitations are specific and concern features that most users do not utilise on a daily basis.
If you can wait until autumn 2026, the SE 4 will offer better performance at roughly the same price point. If you need a watch right now, the current SE is an excellent purchase at €279 — and it frequently goes on sale for around €230-250. Either way, the SE lineup represents the smartest entry into Apple's wearable ecosystem.
Should You Wait or Buy Now?
If you need an Apple Watch immediately, buy the current SE — it offers outstanding value. If you can wait until September/October 2026, the SE 4 will bring significant upgrades at the same price point. Neither choice is wrong.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much will the SE 4 cost?
Apple has not announced pricing. Based on pricing history, we expect a price around €279-299 for the base 40mm GPS model, consistent with previous SE generations.
Will it have ECG?
Very unlikely. ECG remains a feature that differentiates the Series from the SE. Apple uses this distinction to justify the higher price of premium models and maintain clear product segmentation.
Will it have Always-On Display?
It is possible but not certain. If Apple adds AOD to the SE 4, it will be the biggest upgrade compared to the current model. With the S9/S10 chip, the energy efficiency makes it technically feasible.
Can I use it for Family Setup?
Yes. The SE is the ideal choice for Family Setup. It offers all the necessary features (GPS, calls, notifications, Schooltime, location tracking) at an accessible price.
Why does Apple keep the SE lineup?
The SE brings new users into the Apple ecosystem, serves Family Setup needs, and provides an alternative for those who do not want to spend more than €300 on a smartwatch. It is strategically important for expanding Apple's user base and driving long-term revenue through ecosystem lock-in and services subscriptions like Apple Fitness+ and Apple Music.
What is the difference between SE and Ultra?
The difference is enormous. The Ultra offers a titanium body, larger display, battery life of > 72 hours, depth gauge, Satellite SOS, action button, rescue siren, and extreme condition durability. The SE is designed for everyday use and basic fitness, while the Ultra targets athletes, hikers, divers, and those who need the ultimate in durability and features. The price gap reaches €500 and reflects the substantial difference in capabilities between the two models.
Will the design change?
Probably not dramatically. Apple tends to keep the SE form factor consistent to minimise manufacturing costs. We may see new colours, a slightly thinner build, and possibly new recycled aluminium and plastic materials, but the general rectangular design will remain familiar. The sizes are expected to stay at 40mm and 44mm, maintaining compatibility with existing bands.
