Quick Deal Access

Apple Watch Series 3 vs Series 7 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Apple Watch Series 7 & Apple Watch Series 3 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Apple Watch Series 7 rather than the Apple Watch Series 3. 

Table Of Contents hide
1 Why Do I Recommend The Apple Watch Series 7?
2 Side By Side Comparison
3 What Common Both Can Do?
4 Common Features

Why Do I Recommend The Apple Watch Series 7? 

  • The Apple Watch Series 7 features an Always-On Retina LTPO OLED display for continuous visibility and easier time or notification checking without wrist movement, whereas the Apple Watch Series 3 uses a standard Retina OLED display.
  • Apple Watch Series 7 comes with the S7 dual-core SiP processor for smoother multitasking and faster app loading, while the Apple Watch Series 3 uses the older S3 chip with noticeably slower performance.
  • It supports USB-C fast charging to regain about 80% battery in 45 minutes, while the Apple Watch Series 3 uses a slower USB-A magnetic charger.
  • The Apple Watch Series 7 includes an ECG sensor for on-demand heart rhythm analysis and early atrial fibrillation detection, whereas the Apple Watch Series 3 only provides basic optical heart rate monitoring.
  • Apple Watch Series 7 has an Always-On Altimeter for real-time elevation tracking during workouts and climbs, while the Apple Watch Series 3 features a standard altimeter that updates less frequently.
  • It comes with an IP6X dust-resistant and crack-resistant crystal front for improved durability in outdoor environments, whereas the Apple Watch Series 3 lacks dust protection and uses standard Ion-X glass.
  • The Apple Watch Series 7 features Bluetooth 5.0 for stronger, faster, and more energy-efficient connections with iPhones and accessories, while the Apple Watch Series 3 uses the older Bluetooth 4.2 standard.
  • Apple Watch Series 7 supports advanced health tools such as Blood Oxygen monitoring and Fall Detection for more comprehensive safety and wellness tracking, whereas the Apple Watch Series 3 does not include these capabilities.

Maybe the Apple Watch Series 3 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Apple Watch Series 7. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Check Apple Watch 7 Best Price

Check Apple Watch 3 Best Price

Side By Side Comparison

FeatureApple Watch Series 7Apple Watch 3
Display TypeAlways-On Retina LTPO OLEDRetina OLED
Display Size41mm / 45mm38mm / 42mm
Screen Area~50% larger than Series 3Smaller display area
Bezel Thickness1.7mm ultra-thinThick bezels
Case MaterialsAluminum, Stainless Steel, TitaniumAluminum only
ChipsetS7 SiP dual-coreS3 SiP dual-core
Wireless ChipW3 + U1 Ultra WidebandW2 wireless chip
Storage Capacity32GB8GB
Charging MethodUSB-C fast chargingStandard magnetic charging
Charging Speed33% fasterNormal speed
Display Brightness1000 nits Always-On1000 nits (inactive when wrist down)
Dust ResistanceIP6X certifiedNone
Blood Oxygen SensorYesNo
ECG FunctionYesNo
Always-On DisplayYesNo
QWERTY KeyboardYesNo
Fall DetectionYesNo
CompassYesNo
AltimeterAlways-On AltimeterStandard Altimeter
Bluetooth Version5.04.2
Wi-Fi Bands2.4GHz + 5GHz2.4GHz only
Speaker OutputLouder redesigned speakerStandard speaker
MicrophoneDual microphoneSingle microphone
Front GlassCrack-resistant crystalIon-X glass
watchOS SupportwatchOS 10watchOS 8
Heart Sensor3rd-gen optical + electrical1st-gen optical
Fitness FeaturesSpO₂, VO₂ max, ECG, Fall DetectionBasic heart rate tracking
ColorsMidnight, Starlight, Green, Blue, RedSilver, Space Gray
Digital CrownWith haptic feedbackStandard crown
Display CornersRounded, edge-to-edgeSquare, thick borders
Processor EfficiencyHigher power efficiencyLower efficiency
Charging Cable TypeUSB-C to Magnetic Fast ChargerUSB-A Magnetic Charger
Operating TemperatureWider supported rangeNarrower range
Build DurabilityStronger front crystalStandard durability
Cellular OptionGPS + Cellular availableGPS + Cellular
PriceCheck Apple Watch 7 PriceCheck Apple Watch 3 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Water Resistance: Both Apple Watch models are rated WR50, allowing users to wear them during swimming or showering without water damage, making them suitable for daily and fitness use in wet environments.
  • Heart Rate Monitor: Each model includes a built-in optical heart sensor that continuously monitors heart rate during workouts and rest, providing users with real-time heart health insights.
  • GPS: Both watches have GPS functionality for accurate route tracking and distance measurement during outdoor activities without relying on a connected iPhone.
  • Accelerometer: Each device includes an accelerometer that measures movement and step count, contributing to precise activity and fitness tracking.
  • Gyroscope: Both models feature a gyroscope for motion detection, which helps improve workout metrics and supports navigation gestures and wrist-based interactions.
  • Ambient Light Sensor: Each watch includes an ambient light sensor that automatically adjusts screen brightness for visibility in various lighting conditions and improved battery efficiency.
  • Speaker: Both watches feature a built-in speaker for calls, notifications, and Siri responses, allowing for hands-free communication directly from the wrist.
  • Microphone: Each device includes a microphone that enables voice commands through Siri, phone calls, and audio replies to messages.
  • Siri Support: Both watches support Apple’s Siri voice assistant, allowing users to control apps, set reminders, and access information using voice commands.
  • Digital Crown: Each model includes the signature Digital Crown for navigating the interface, scrolling, and returning to the home screen with tactile precision.
  • Touchscreen Display: Both have a capacitive touchscreen that supports taps and swipes, making interaction smooth and intuitive on the watch interface.
  • Optical Heart Sensor: Each includes an optical heart sensor capable of detecting changes in blood flow, enabling accurate heart rate tracking across different activities.
  • Wi-Fi Connectivity: Both models can connect to Wi-Fi networks, enabling app updates, message syncing, and cloud features even when the iPhone isn’t nearby.
  • Bluetooth Connectivity: Each supports Bluetooth for seamless pairing with iPhones and accessories like wireless headphones and external sensors.
  • GPS + Cellular Model Option: Both have GPS-only and GPS + Cellular versions, enabling standalone connectivity for calls and messages when away from the phone.
  • Aluminum Case Option: Both come in aluminum variants, offering a lightweight yet durable construction for everyday wear.
  • Interchangeable Bands: Each watch supports interchangeable Apple Watch bands, allowing users to customize their look easily.
  • Magnetic Charging: Both use Apple’s magnetic charging system, ensuring simple and secure attachment for recharging the battery.
  • Activity Rings: Each model includes Apple’s Activity Rings—Move, Exercise, and Stand—to help users visualize daily goals and motivate consistent activity.
  • 1000 Nits Brightness: Both displays reach up to 1000 nits brightness, ensuring clear visibility outdoors under direct sunlight.

Check Apple Watch 7 Best Price

Check Apple Watch 3 Best Price

Common Features

FeatureApple Watch Series 7Apple Watch 3
Water ResistanceWR50WR50
Heart Rate MonitorYesYes
GPSYesYes
AccelerometerYesYes
GyroscopeYesYes
Ambient Light SensorYesYes
SpeakerYesYes
MicrophoneYesYes
Siri SupportYesYes
Digital CrownYesYes
Touchscreen DisplayYesYes
Optical Heart SensorYesYes
Wi-Fi ConnectivityYesYes
Bluetooth ConnectivityYesYes
GPS + Cellular Model OptionYesYes
Aluminum Case OptionYesYes
Interchangeable BandsYesYes
Magnetic ChargingYesYes
Activity RingsYesYes
1000 Nits BrightnessYesYes
Price Check Apple Watch 7 Price Check Apple Watch 3 Price

FAQ

Is the Apple Watch Series 7 significantly faster than the Series 3?
Yes, the Apple Watch Series 7 uses the S7 SiP chip, which is multiple generations ahead of the S3 chip in the Series 3. This results in noticeably faster app loading, smoother animations, and better overall efficiency.

Can both Apple Watch Series 7 and Series 3 track workouts?
Yes, both models include comprehensive workout tracking features for activities like running, cycling, swimming, and yoga. However, the Series 7 provides more metrics and advanced sensors for improved accuracy.

Do both watches support GPS for outdoor tracking?
Yes, both watches include built-in GPS to track routes, pace, and distance without needing an iPhone nearby. The Series 7, however, provides more precise GPS data due to newer hardware.

Are the Apple Watch Series 7 and Series 3 water-resistant?
Yes, both models are rated WR50, meaning they can be safely used for swimming and general water exposure, though neither is suitable for deep diving.

Can both models receive notifications and calls?
Yes, both models can receive calls, messages, and app notifications when connected to an iPhone. The Series 7 offers clearer audio and faster response due to upgraded hardware.

Do both support Apple Pay?
Yes, Apple Pay is supported on both the Series 7 and Series 3, allowing users to make secure contactless payments directly from their wrist.

Can both track heart rate continuously?
Yes, both watches include an optical heart rate sensor that monitors heart rate throughout the day and during workouts. The Series 7 adds ECG and Blood Oxygen tracking for deeper health insights.

Do both models work with iPhones?
Yes, both Apple Watch models are designed to work with iPhones. However, the Series 7 requires newer iOS versions, while the Series 3 is compatible with older devices up to watchOS 8.

Is battery life similar on both models?
Yes, both the Series 7 and Series 3 provide up to 18 hours of battery life, though the Series 7 recharges significantly faster with USB-C fast charging.

Can both measure sleep?
Yes, both models support sleep tracking through watchOS features, allowing users to monitor sleep duration and consistency, though the Series 7 does it with greater precision and detail.

Do both support interchangeable watch bands?
Yes, both models are compatible with Apple’s interchangeable bands, giving users freedom to personalize their style and fit easily.

Can both display notifications from third-party apps?
Yes, both watches can show notifications from third-party apps installed on a connected iPhone, though Series 7 handles them faster with its updated processor and display.

Is there a difference in display quality between the two models?
Yes, while both use OLED technology, the Series 7 has an Always-On Retina LTPO display that is much larger, brighter, and more durable than the standard Retina display on the Series 3.

Do both include an emergency SOS feature?
Yes, both models support Emergency SOS for calling local emergency services directly from the watch, though Series 7 also adds Fall Detection for extra safety.

Are both watches suitable for fitness and daily health tracking?
Yes, both watches are capable of tracking steps, calories, workouts, and heart rate, making them suitable for fitness and health monitoring. The Series 7 provides more advanced sensors for detailed analysis and improved accuracy.