The Apple Watch Series 3 was a big deal when it first came out. It brought a lot of cool features to your wrist without costing a fortune. But now, in 2025, things have changed. We’re going to look at whether this older model is still a good buy or if you should look elsewhere for your smartwatch needs. It’s a bit like deciding if your old flip phone is still useful when everyone else has a smartphone.
Key Takeaways
- The Apple Watch Series 3 no longer gets software updates, meaning no new features or security fixes.
- App compatibility is a major issue, as many apps won’t work on older watchOS versions.
- Performance is sluggish, and battery life has likely degraded significantly on used models.
- It lacks modern health features like ECG and blood oxygen monitoring found in newer watches.
- Finding a reliable, certified refurbished Series 3 is very difficult; newer models like the Series 6 are better value.
The Diminishing Value of the Apple Watch Series 3
When the Apple Watch Series 3 first came out, it felt like a big deal. It brought a lot of Apple’s smartwatch tech to a more accessible price point, and for a while, it was a solid choice. But looking at it now, in 2025, its value has really dropped off. A big part of this is that Apple has stopped sending out software updates for it. This means no more watchOS upgrades, which also means no new features or security fixes. It’s like buying a phone that can’t get the latest operating system – it just starts to fall behind quickly.
This lack of updates also affects app compatibility. Developers tend to build their apps for the newer versions of watchOS, so many apps you might want to use just won’t work on the Series 3 anymore. It’s a shame because apps are a big reason people get smartwatches in the first place. Plus, the processor inside the Series 3 is pretty old now. You’ll notice apps taking longer to load, and the whole experience can feel sluggish. Battery life, which was never amazing, also tends to get worse over time, especially on older devices.
Here’s a quick look at what you’re missing out on:
- No More Software Updates: This is the biggest issue. It means no new features and no security patches.
- Limited App Support: Many newer apps simply won’t run on the older operating system.
- Performance Issues: The older chip makes the watch feel slow and laggy for everyday tasks.
- Battery Degradation: Expect shorter battery life as the device ages.
Key Features That Have Been Left Behind
When you look at the Apple Watch Series 3 now, in 2025, it’s clear that a lot of its original appeal has faded. Apple has moved on, and so have the features that make a smartwatch truly useful today. For starters, the health tracking capabilities are pretty basic. Unlike newer models that can measure your blood oxygen levels or take an electrocardiogram (ECG), the Series 3 only has a standard heart rate sensor. This means if you’re serious about monitoring your well-being, this watch just won’t cut it.
Then there’s the display and overall design. The bezels are noticeably thicker, and the screen itself is smaller compared to what we’re used to on current Apple Watches. It feels a bit cramped, and you don’t get that edge-to-edge look that makes newer models feel so modern. Plus, a big miss is the lack of an always-on display. You have to actively raise your wrist or tap the screen to see the time or any notifications, which can be a bit of a hassle when you just want a quick glance. It’s a feature that’s become pretty standard on most smartwatches, and its absence here really highlights how dated the Series 3 is. If you’re looking for advanced health features, you might want to check out how the blood oxygen feature works on newer models.
Availability and Purchasing Considerations
Finding an Apple Watch Series 3 in good working order in 2025 is becoming quite the challenge. Apple stopped selling it quite a while ago, so you won’t find it new in stores. This means you’re mostly looking at the used market, which comes with its own set of headaches.
Difficulty Finding Certified Refurbished Models
Certified refurbished units are usually a safe bet when buying older tech. They’ve been checked over, fixed up, and often come with a warranty. However, with the Series 3 being so old, these are getting really hard to track down. Apple itself doesn’t offer them anymore, and other places that used to might have sold out their stock. It’s like searching for a needle in a haystack, and when you do find one, it might not be the best deal.
Risks of the Secondary Market
If you can’t find a refurbished one, you’ll likely end up on sites like eBay or Facebook Marketplace. This is where things get risky. You might find a Series 3 for cheap, but there’s no guarantee it’s in good shape. The battery could be shot, it might have hidden damage, or worse, it could be a fake. Plus, since it’s not getting software updates, you’re missing out on security patches, which is a big deal. Buying from these places means you’re taking a gamble on the watch’s condition and longevity.
Where to Buy Refurbished Apple Watches
If you’re set on a refurbished Apple Watch, stick to reputable sellers. Your best bet is usually Apple’s own certified refurbished store, though they might not have the Series 3 anymore. Other good options include:
- Amazon Renewed: They test and inspect devices, and usually offer a return window.
- Best Buy Outlet: Sometimes you can find good deals on open-box or refurbished items here.
- Dedicated Refurbishers (like UpTrade): Some sites specialize in refurbished electronics and have their own testing and warranty processes.
When buying refurbished, always check the seller’s return policy and warranty information. It’s better to pay a little more for peace of mind than to end up with a dud.
Comparing the Series 3 to Newer Models
When you’re looking at smartwatches in 2025, it’s easy to get drawn to the older, cheaper models. But when it comes to the Apple Watch Series 3, the savings just aren’t worth it anymore. Newer models offer so much more, and frankly, the Series 3 is missing out on a lot of what makes a smartwatch useful today. Let’s break down why stepping up to something like the Series 6 is a much better idea.
Apple Watch Series 6: A Superior Alternative
If you’re even considering a Series 3, you should really be looking at the Series 6. It came out a few years later, in 2020, and it’s a completely different experience. The Series 6 still gets software updates, which is a huge deal for security and app compatibility. Plus, it’s just faster and has features the Series 3 can only dream of.
Key Specifications: Series 3 vs. Series 6
Here’s a quick look at how they stack up:
| Feature | Apple Watch Series 3 | Apple Watch Series 6 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2017 | 2020 |
| Software Support Until | Discontinued | Expected 2026+ |
| Processor | S3 (Slow) | S6 (2x Faster) |
| Display | Standard Retina | Always-On Retina |
| Health Features | Basic Heart Rate | ECG, Blood Oxygen |
| Battery Life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 18 hours |
| Fast Charging | No | Yes |
Price and Availability in 2025
Finding a Series 3 in good condition is tough these days. Apple doesn’t sell them new or refurbished anymore. You’ll likely have to hunt on places like eBay or Facebook Marketplace, and who knows what kind of battery life or hidden issues you’ll get. On the flip side, you can find certified refurbished Series 6 models starting around $140. For a bit more, you can even find newer models like the Series 7 for about $160, or the Series 8 for $195. Honestly, paying a little extra for a much more capable and supported watch makes a lot more sense.
Why the Apple Watch Series 3 is Not Recommended
Let’s be blunt: if you’re looking at an Apple Watch Series 3 in 2025, you’re probably better off looking elsewhere. This watch, while a solid device back in its day, has simply aged out of usefulness for most people. The biggest reason to steer clear is the complete lack of software updates. Apple officially cut off support for the Series 3, meaning no more watchOS updates, no new features, and critically, no security patches. That leaves it vulnerable and unable to run newer apps.
Security Vulnerabilities Due to No Updates
Think of software updates like giving your watch a regular check-up. Without them, it’s like leaving your front door unlocked. The Series 3 isn’t getting the latest security fixes from Apple. This means any new digital threats that pop up won’t be addressed on your watch, potentially putting your data at risk. It’s a bit like driving a car that hasn’t had its brakes checked in years – you just don’t know when something might fail.
Laggy User Experience
Remember when things used to feel snappy? Well, the Series 3’s S3 chip just can’t keep up anymore. Opening apps can take a while, scrolling through menus might stutter, and animations can feel sluggish. It’s not just a minor annoyance; it can make using the watch feel like a chore. Compared to newer models that are two or even three times faster, the Series 3 feels stuck in the past. It’s the difference between a quick tap and a frustrating wait.
Missing Modern Smartwatch Features
Beyond the performance and security issues, the Series 3 is missing a lot of the features we now expect from a smartwatch. You won’t find advanced health sensors like ECG or blood oxygen monitoring. The display is also older, with thicker borders and no always-on capability, meaning you have to flick your wrist just to see the time. It’s these missing pieces that really highlight how far Apple Watch technology has come since the Series 3 first came out.
The Future of Apple Watch Updates
So, what’s next for Apple Watch software? It’s a big question, especially when you’re looking at older models like the Series 3. Apple usually supports its devices for a good few years, but eventually, they stop getting the latest updates. This means newer features and security patches won’t be available.
For 2025, we’re expecting the next big software update to be watchOS 12. This update is slated to bring some pretty neat features, many of which will likely be powered by Apple’s new AI push. Think smarter workout coaching with a feature called ‘Workout Buddy’ that analyzes your data and offers encouragement, or improved accessibility features like Live Listen transcription and Live Translation, which use your iPhone to help you understand conversations. Some of these AI features might be exclusive to the newest hardware, like the rumored Apple Watch Series 11, to give people a reason to upgrade.
Here’s a quick look at what’s expected for upcoming Apple Watch models:
- Apple Watch Series 11: Expected to launch around September 2025, likely with a new S11 chip for better performance. It’s also rumored to get some AI features directly, though many will rely on your iPhone.
- Apple Watch Ultra 3: Also anticipated in September 2025. Rumors suggest it might get a microLED display, which would be a big visual upgrade, and potentially 5G support.
- Apple Watch SE 3: This model faced some production issues, so its design might stick to the current aluminum look. It should still get the watchOS 12 features, but perhaps without the most advanced AI capabilities.
It’s worth noting that features like Touch ID are still a ways off, with reports suggesting they might appear in 2026 models. Battery life is also expected to remain fairly consistent, around 18 hours, across most models. So, while new software is always exciting, the hardware limitations of older watches mean they’ll eventually miss out on the full experience.
So, Should You Buy the Apple Watch Series 3 in 2025?
Honestly, if you’re looking at an Apple Watch Series 3 in 2025, it’s probably best to look elsewhere. Finding one in good shape is tough, and even if you do, it’s missing out on all the new software features and security updates. Plus, apps might not even work right anymore. For a bit more cash, you can snag a Series 6, which still gets updates and runs way smoother. It’s just a much better deal for what you get.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Apple Watch Series 3 still worth buying in 2025?
No, the Apple Watch Series 3 is not a good buy in 2025. It no longer gets software updates, which means it won’t get new features or security fixes. Plus, many apps won’t work on it anymore, and it’s much slower than newer models.
Will the Apple Watch Series 3 get any more software updates?
Apple stopped providing software updates for the Series 3. This means it won’t receive any new versions of watchOS, which include new features and important security updates.
Is it hard to find a good Apple Watch Series 3 in 2025?
You might struggle to find a Series 3 that’s certified refurbished because Apple and most stores don’t sell them anymore. If you do find one, it’s likely used and might have a worn-out battery or other issues.
What’s a good alternative to the Apple Watch Series 3?
The Apple Watch Series 6 is a much better choice. It’s faster, has more health features like ECG and blood oxygen tracking, still gets software updates, and has a nicer display. You can often find it refurbished for around $140.
Does the Apple Watch Series 3 have advanced health features?
The Series 3 only has a basic heart rate sensor. Newer models, starting with the Series 4 and Series 6, offer more advanced health tracking like ECG and blood oxygen monitoring, which are important for keeping a close eye on your health.
How does the performance of the Apple Watch Series 3 compare to newer models?
The Series 3’s processor is quite old, making it slow for everyday tasks. Apps can take a while to open, and navigating the watch can feel laggy. Newer models are much quicker and provide a smoother experience.
