Introduction

For weeks, I’ve been wearing the Apple Watch SE (2023) GPS 44mm Silver Aluminium Case with the Winter Blue Sport Loop (Model Numbers: MREF3QA/A, MREF3LL/A, MREF3QH/A). This review dives deep into my experiences, exploring its strengths and weaknesses in everyday use. I’ll be focusing on its performance, battery life, and the overall user experience.

Key Features

The Apple Watch SE (2023) boasts a compelling array of features, considering its price point. The bright Retina display with up to 1000 nits is incredibly sharp and easily readable even in direct sunlight. The S8 SiP ensures smooth and responsive performance throughout the day. I particularly appreciated the health features like high and low heart rate notifications and the fall detection, offering a reassuring sense of security. The ability to pair multiple watches with one iPhone via Family Setup is a fantastic bonus for families.

Performance & Battery Life

The S8 SiP delivers excellent performance. App loading times are quick, and navigating the watchOS interface is fluid. I experienced no noticeable lag during my testing period. Battery life is another strong point. With typical usage (including fitness tracking and notifications), I consistently achieved a full day’s use on a single charge. For lighter usage, you could easily stretch it to a day and a half. However, heavy use of GPS for extended periods will noticeably drain the battery faster.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Bright and clear Retina display
• Smooth performance thanks to the S8 SiP
• Excellent battery life for typical use
• Comprehensive health and safety features
• Affordable price point for an Apple Watch

Cons:

• Lacks some advanced features found in the higher-end Apple Watches (like always-on display)
• Battery life is reduced with heavy GPS usage

Final Verdict

The Apple Watch SE (2023) (MREF3QA/A, MREF3LL/A, MREF3QH/A) offers outstanding value. It’s a fantastic entry point into the Apple Watch ecosystem, delivering a smooth user experience, impressive features, and solid battery life. While it sacrifices some premium features found in more expensive models, its performance and capabilities make it an excellent choice for most users. I wholeheartedly recommend this smartwatch.