Apple Watch SE (2024) GPS 44mm Midnight Aluminium Case with Ink Sport Loop (MXEP3QA/A) Review

For weeks, the Apple Watch SE (2024) GPS 44mm Midnight Aluminium Case with Ink Sport Loop (MXEP3QA/A) has been my constant companion. This review is based on my extensive hands-on experience, encompassing daily use, fitness tracking, and the exploration of its various features. I aimed to provide a realistic assessment of its strengths and weaknesses, offering potential buyers a well-rounded perspective before making a purchase.

Key Features

The Apple Watch SE (2024) boasts a compelling array of features, many of which are surprisingly robust for its price point. The always-on Retina display is bright and clear, even in direct sunlight. The GPS functionality is accurate and reliable, consistently tracking my runs and walks without significant deviation. The heart rate monitor is also quite dependable, providing consistent readings throughout the day and during workouts. Sleep tracking offers detailed insights into sleep stages and overall sleep quality. The water resistance is a welcome addition, allowing me to wear it while swimming without worry.

Material Combination
Colour Name Ink Sport Loop
Connection Type GPS
Band Size One Size (Adjustable Band)
Trending Apple Watch Se
Smartwatch Dial Size 44 mm
Model Number MXEP3QA/A
Model Name MXEP3QA/A, MXEP3ZP/A, MXEP3LL/A

Performance & Usage

In daily use, the Apple Watch SE (2024) is remarkably responsive. The interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, even for those unfamiliar with Apple’s watchOS. Battery life is excellent, easily lasting a full day on a single charge, even with heavy usage. The fitness tracking capabilities are impressive, offering detailed statistics for various workouts. The accuracy of the GPS and heart rate sensors is commendable, providing reliable data for tracking progress and monitoring health metrics. Sleep tracking data has been surprisingly helpful in identifying potential areas for improvement in my sleep hygiene.

However, there are some minor drawbacks. While the display is bright, it can be difficult to read in extremely low-light conditions. The lack of advanced health sensors, such as an ECG, is a noticeable omission compared to higher-end Apple Watches. Also, the speaker could be louder for clearer audio during phone calls.

Pros & Cons

    Pros:

  • Excellent value for money
  • Accurate GPS and heart rate tracking
  • Long battery life
  • Intuitive and easy-to-use interface
  • Water resistant for swimming
  • Sleep tracking

    Cons:

  • Display can be difficult to read in very low light
  • Lacks advanced health sensors (e.g., ECG)
  • Speaker could be louder

Final Verdict

Overall, the Apple Watch SE (2024) GPS 44mm Midnight Aluminium Case with Ink Sport Loop (MXEP3QA/A) is a fantastic smartwatch for its price. It offers a compelling combination of features, performance, and battery life, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and affordable fitness tracker and smartwatch. While it lacks some of the advanced features found in more expensive models, its strengths significantly outweigh its weaknesses. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a solid entry-level Apple Watch experience.