Apple Watch SE 3 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch FE
The Apple Watch SE 3 and Samsung Galaxy Watch FE are both affordable smartwatches aimed at budget-conscious users. The SE 3 excels with tighter iOS integration and watchOS features, while the Galaxy Watch FE offers longer battery life and broader Android compatibility.
Apple Watch SE 3
Apple's third-generation budget smartwatch with fitness tracking, Siri voice control, and seamless iPhone integration. Released in September 2023, it retains the classic square design and includes essential health monitoring features.
Price
$249 USD
Release Date
September 2023
Battery Life
~18 hours
Display
1.58" OLED, 324x394 px
Pros
- Seamless iPhone and Apple ecosystem integration
- Strong third-party app support via watchOS
- Consistent software updates and longevity
Cons
- Requires iPhone; not compatible with Android
- Battery life typically 18 hours vs competitors' 10+ days
- No always-on display option
Samsung Galaxy Watch FE
Samsung's entry-level smartwatch designed for budget buyers, offering fitness tracking, sleep monitoring, and Wear OS 3.5. Released in June 2023, it prioritizes battery longevity and basic health metrics over premium features.
Price
$199 USD
Release Date
June 2023
Battery Life
~10 days
Display
1.2" AMOLED, 396x396 px
Pros
- Exceptional battery life (10+ days typical)
- Works with most Android phones via Wear OS
- Always-on display and rotating bezel navigation
Cons
- Smaller app ecosystem compared to Apple Watch
- Slower processor impacts responsiveness
- Limited integration with non-Samsung Android phones
Apple Watch SE 3 wins
SE 3 delivers superior performance, stronger ecosystem integration, and a more responsive experience for iPhone users, making the higher cost justified by longevity and feature access.
Apple Watch SE 3
iPhone users seeking reliable fitness tracking and tight Apple ecosystem integration.
Samsung Galaxy Watch FE
Android users prioritizing extended battery life and multi-device compatibility without premium features.
Performance & Battery Comparison
Processor Speed
SE 3 uses Apple's faster S9 chip for smoother app launches and animations; Galaxy FE uses the slower Exynos 1100.
Battery Life
SE 3 lasts ~18 hours requiring daily charging; Galaxy FE reaches 10+ days due to efficient Wear OS and AMOLED display.
Ecosystem Integration
SE 3 deeply integrates with iOS, Health app, and Apple services; Galaxy FE works with most Android but optimized for Samsung devices.
Health Features
Both track heart rate, sleep, and basic workout metrics; SE 3 adds blood oxygen and ECG in some regions, Galaxy FE includes stress tracking.
Display Quality
SE 3's larger OLED display (1.58") offers better clarity; Galaxy FE's smaller (1.2") AMOLED is sharp but physically smaller for readability.
Specs & Features Breakdown
| Aspect | Apple Watch SE 3 | Samsung Galaxy Watch FE |
|---|---|---|
| Compatible OS | iOS only (iPhone required) | Any Android device via Wear OS |
| Storage | 32 GB | 4 GB |
| Water Resistance | 50m WR (swimming) | 50m WR (swimming) |
| GPS | Yes (built-in) | Yes (built-in) |
| Always-On Display | No | Yes |
| Price | $249 USD | $199 USD |
Best Use Cases & Ecosystem Fit
Choose the Apple Watch SE 3 if you're an iPhone user who values app variety and deep health integration with Apple Health and Fitness+. The Samsung Galaxy Watch FE is ideal for Android users who prioritize battery life and want a reliable fitness tracker without daily charging, especially if you own other Samsung devices.
When to choose each
Choose Apple Watch SE 3 if…
iPhone users seeking reliable fitness tracking and tight Apple ecosystem integration.
Choose Samsung Galaxy Watch FE if…
Android users prioritizing extended battery life and multi-device compatibility without premium features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Samsung Galaxy Watch FE is the only option here, as the SE 3 requires an iPhone and cannot pair with Android devices at all.
SE 3 needs daily or every-18-hour charging, while Galaxy Watch FE typically lasts 10+ days between charges, making it far more convenient for travel.
Galaxy Watch FE is $50 cheaper ($199 vs $249) and offers longer battery life; SE 3 costs more but provides faster performance and exclusive iOS health features.
Sources & references
Suggested sources to verify product details, pricing, reviews, and specifications.
- ReferenceApple Watch SE 3 review: Cost, performance, specifications
In a mostly unremarkable update year for the flagship Apple Watches, the Apple Watch SE 3 stands out as the most improve
- Referencer/AppleWatch on Reddit: SE3 review - The apple watch for everybody
35 votes, 50 comments. I've used this SE3 for a week now, and Apple wasn't joking when they said all day batte
- ReferenceApple Watch SE 3 review: Still the best choice for most - Wareable
The Apple Watch SE 3 is <strong>an outstanding smartwatch</strong>—and continues the line's legacy as the best choi