The Apple Watch SE (1st Generation), launched on September 18, 2020, provided a compelling blend of features and value, making it an attractive option for users seeking an entry-level smartwatch with a strong feature set.
Positioned between the budget-friendly Apple Watch Series 3 and the more advanced Apple Watch Series 6, the SE offered a balance of performance and affordability.
This review explores the key aspects of the Apple Watch SE (1st Generation), highlighting its design, performance, and health features.
Table of Contents
- Release Date and Price
- Technical Specs: Apple Watch SE (1st Generation)
- Design and Display
- Performance and Processor
- Health and Fitness Features
- Battery Life: Reliable Performance for Daily Use
- Software and Features
- Connectivity: Seamless Integration with iPhone
- Apple Watch Series 5 vs. SE (1st Generation) vs. Series 6: A Detailed Comparison
- Pros and Cons of Apple Watch SE
- Conclusion
Release Date and Price
The Apple Watch SE (1st Generation) was released on September 18, 2020, offering an attractive blend of features and affordability. At launch, the 40mm GPS model was priced at $279, while the 44mm GPS model was available for $309.
For users seeking cellular connectivity, the GPS + Cellular models were priced at $329 for the 40mm version and $359 for the 44mm version.
The SE was priced lower than the Apple Watch Series 6, so more people could afford it. It had a large display, powerful performance, and the ability to track health and fitness.
Technical Specs: Apple Watch SE (1st Generation)
See Full Specifications for: Apple Watch SE (1st Gen)
Design and Display
The Apple Watch SE (1st Generation) adopted a design like the Apple Watch Series 4 and Series 5, featuring a larger display than the Series 3. It was available in two sizes: 40mm and 44mm, providing users with a choice between a more compact or a larger screen.
The watch sported an LTPO OLED Retina display with a resolution of 324 x 394 pixels for the 40mm model and 368 x 448 pixels for the 44mm model. The display’s brightness of 1,000 nits ensured excellent readability even in direct sunlight.
The SE featured a sleek, modern design with rounded corners and a ceramic back, which contributed to both its aesthetic appeal and comfort.
Performance and Processor
The Apple Watch SE (1st Generation) delivered a strong performance, comparable to the Apple Watch Series 5. The S5 chip enabled smooth operation of apps, efficient performance in daily tasks, and responsive interactions with the watchOS interface.
The watch also included the W3 wireless chip for improved Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, ensuring reliable communication with other Apple devices.
Health and Fitness Features
While the Apple Watch SE (1st Generation) did not include the ECG app or blood oxygen monitoring found in the higher-end models, it still offered a robust suite of health and fitness features. It could track your heart rate, steps, calories, and location while you work out.
The SE also included fall detection, a safety feature that automatically alerts emergency services and contacts if it detects a hard fall and the user remains unresponsive. This feature added a layer of security, particularly for older adults or those with certain health concerns.
The watch was swim-proof with water resistance up to 50 meters, making it suitable for tracking swimming activities.
Battery Life: Reliable Performance for Daily Use
The Apple Watch SE (1st Generation) offered up to 18 hours of battery life on a single charge, consistent with the performance of previous models.
This battery life allowed users to comfortably use the watch throughout the day, including tracking workouts, receiving notifications, and using apps.
Charging was accomplished via a magnetic charging cable, which connected easily to the back of the watch, ensuring a straightforward charging process.
Software and Features
The Apple Watch SE (1st Generation) launched with watchOS 7, which introduced several new features and enhancements. WatchOS 7 brought new watch faces, customizable complications, and the ability to share watch faces with other users.
It also included a new Sleep app, which allowed users to track their sleep patterns and set bedtime routines. The SE supported Apple Pay for contactless payments and Siri for voice commands, further enhancing its functionality.
Connectivity: Seamless Integration with iPhone
The Apple Watch SE (1st generation) offers excellent connectivity options, ensuring smooth integration with the iPhone and other devices.
- Bluetooth: 5.0
- Wi-Fi: 802.11b/g/n 2.4GHz
- GPS: Built-in
- NFC: Apple Pay support
Bluetooth 5.0 provides improved range and connectivity, while built-in GPS allows for accurate location tracking during workouts. The SE also supports Apple Pay via NFC, enabling convenient contactless payments directly from the watch.
Apple Watch Series 5 vs. SE (1st Generation) vs. Series 6: A Detailed Comparison
Here’s a detailed comparison of the Apple Watch Series 5, Apple Watch SE (1st Gen), and Apple Watch Series 6 in a tabular format.
| Feature | Apple Watch Series 5 | Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) | Apple Watch Series 6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Case Size | 40mm, 44mm | 40mm, 44mm | 40mm, 44mm |
| Material Options | Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Titanium, Ceramic | Aluminum | Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Titanium |
| Display | LTPO OLED Always-On Retina, 1000 nits | LTPO OLED Retina, 1000 nits | LTPO OLED Always-On Retina, 1000 nits |
| Processor | S5 SiP Dual-Core | S5 SiP Dual-Core | S6 SiP Dual-Core |
| Storage | 32GB | 32GB | 32GB |
| ECG App | Yes | No | Yes |
| Blood Oxygen App | No | No | Yes |
| Heart Rate Sensor | Electrical & Optical | Optical Only | Electrical & Optical |
| Sleep Tracking | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Cycle Tracking | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Emergency SOS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| International Emergency Calling | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Fall Detection | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Water Resistance | 50 meters (Swimproof) | 50 meters (Swimproof) | 50 meters (Swimproof) |
| GPS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Cellular Option | Yes (GPS + Cellular) | Yes (GPS + Cellular) | Yes (GPS + Cellular) |
| Altimeter | Yes | Yes | Always-On Altimeter |
| Compass | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| U1 Ultra-Wideband Chip | No | No | Yes |
| Battery Life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 18 hours | Up to 18 hours |
| Charging Speed | Standard | Standard | 20% Faster than Series 5 |
| Wireless Connectivity | Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n), Bluetooth 5.0 | Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n), Bluetooth 5.0 | Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n), Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Environmental Features | Energy Efficient, Recyclable Materials | Energy Efficient, Recyclable Materials | Energy Efficient, Recyclable Materials |
| Software Support | watchOS Updates Available | watchOS Updates Available | watchOS Updates Available |
| Price at Launch | Starting at $399 (GPS), $499 (GPS + Cellular) | Starting at $279 (GPS), $329 (GPS + Cellular) | Starting at $399 (GPS), $499 (GPS + Cellular) |
Apple Watch Series 6 offers the most advanced features, including an always-on display, blood oxygen monitoring, and a faster processor. The Apple Watch Series 5 also has an always-on display but lacks blood oxygen tracking and has an older processor.
The Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) is the most affordable, missing the always-on display and advanced health sensors but still providing essential smartwatch features. The Series 6 is best for health-focused users, the Series 5 balances premium features with an older chip, and the SE is ideal for budget-conscious buyers.
Pros and Cons of Apple Watch SE
Pros:
- Affordable compared to premium Apple Watches
- Premium design with a lightweight build
- Large Retina OLED display with 1000-nit brightness
- Strong fitness tracking and heart rate monitoring
- GPS and Cellular models available
- Upgradable to the latest watchOS versions
Cons:
- No Always-On Display
- No ECG or Blood Oxygen Monitoring
- Battery life could be better
- No fast charging support
Conclusion
The Apple Watch SE (1st Generation) successfully blended affordability with functionality, offering users a well-rounded smartwatch experience without the high price of premium models. With its large display, robust performance, and essential health-tracking capabilities, the SE provided excellent value for a wide range of users.
Whether upgrading from an older model or purchasing a smartwatch for the first time, the Apple Watch SE (1st Generation) delivered a feature-rich experience that met the needs of both casual and fitness-oriented users.
FAQs: Apple Watch SE (1st Generation) Review: Affordable Smartwatch
Is Apple Watch SE 1st Gen Still Supported?
Yes, the Apple Watch SE 1st Gen is still supported by Apple. It was launched in September 2020 with watchOS 7 and is upgradable to watchOS 10.6.1. Apple continues to provide software updates, bug fixes, and security patches, ensuring a smooth experience. However, future watchOS updates may eventually phase out support as newer models take priority.
What is the Difference Between 1st and 2nd Generation Apple Watch SE?
The Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen (2022) brings key upgrades over the 1st Gen (2020), including:
- Faster Processor – SE 2 has the S8 chip, which is 20% faster than SE 1's S5 chip
- Crash Detection – SE 2 includes an advanced crash detection feature
- Improved Sensors – SE 2 has a better heart rate sensor and Bluetooth 5.3
- Lighter Build – SE 2 is slightly lighter due to a redesigned back
Both models have the same display, battery life, and fitness tracking features, making SE 2 a refined upgrade rather than a complete overhaul.
Is the Apple Watch SE 1 Waterproof?
Yes, the Apple Watch SE 1st Gen is water-resistant up to 50 meters (WR50 rating). It is safe for:
- Swimming in pools and shallow water
- Not suitable for deep diving, high-pressure water sports, or sauna use
Apple advises against exposing it to soapy water, perfumes, and chemicals, which can reduce its water resistance over time.
What is Special About the Apple Watch SE?
The Apple Watch SE is a budget-friendly smartwatch that offers premium Apple features at a lower price. Key highlights include:
- Affordable Price – Offers great value compared to high-end Apple Watches
- Large Retina OLED Display – Bright and clear 1.78-inch screen
- Comprehensive Fitness Tracking – Tracks heart rate, calories, sleep, and workouts
- Seamless Apple Ecosystem Integration – Works smoothly with iPhones, Apple Pay, and Siri
- watchOS Updates – Continues to receive new features and security patches
It lacks ECG and blood oxygen monitoring, but for most users, it delivers an excellent smartwatch experience at a lower price.
Does the Apple Watch SE 1 Have GPS?
Yes, the Apple Watch SE 1st Gen has built-in GPS and GLONASS, allowing users to track location-based activities without needing an iPhone nearby.
- Great for outdoor workouts – Tracks running, cycling, and hiking routes
- Accurate positioning – Ensures precise navigation with Apple Maps
- Available in GPS + Cellular models – Cellular versions enable calls and texts without an iPhone
The GPS-only model requires an iPhone for internet-based location services, while the GPS + Cellular model offers standalone connectivity.
