Lacks the Series 6’s advanced health features, but the Apple Watch SE is cheaper and still a great smartwatch

Cheaper than the Series 6; Packed with features; Accurate HR and GPS tracking

No ECG or blood oxygen readings; Charges slower than Series 6; No always-on display

My daughter is extremely happy

Great watch. Am especially enjoying the activity tracker.

By pulling together many of the best bits from the now-discontinued Series 4 and Series 5, the SE is an affordable entry into the Apple Watch experience that will suit a majority of users.

Affordable price; Ease of use; Apple Pay; Heart-rate sensor; Interchangeable straps

No always-on display; Missing some of the sensors found in Series 6 model

“The Apple Watch SE misses out on some of the flashier features on the Series 6, but keeps nearly all the important ones, along with the same design, at a lower price.”

Stylish design; Highly customizable; Comprehensive health tracking; Responsive; fluid performance; Reliable; easy-to-use software

No always-on display

While the new "SE" moniker attached to the Apple Watch SE has no official designation, I'd like to think it stands for "surprise edition" because that's what the Apple Watch SE is — a pleasant surprise.

It might not be the best Apple Watch in terms of features, but for most people the Apple Watch SE is the one you should buy. It retains all the vital tech (IP rating, GPS, sharp OLED) and ditches the ones that make the most sense.

Excellent value; Huge range of tracking features; The best smartwatch OS around; Wide variety of straps available

No always-on display; Battery life still only really a day

It’s not the best Apple Watch, but it's the most easily recommendable. The Apple Watch SE is anything but a ‘cheap Apple Watch.’ It brings the brilliant core experience that most people want, for less.

Top design; All the essential features; Competitive price