Struggling to decide between the Apple Watch Series 3 and the Apple Watch Series 4? You’re not alone! Both smartwatches offer compelling features, but significant differences might sway your decision. We’ll break down everything you need to know to make the perfect choice for your needs and budget.
The Apple Watch 3 was a groundbreaking device, but the Apple Watch 4 took things to the next level. From design to performance, the evolution is clear. Let’s delve into the specifics and uncover which Apple Watch reigns supreme for you.
This in-depth comparison will explore the key aspects that matter most. We’ll examine the design, display, performance, health features, and battery life of both watches. Get ready to discover which Apple Watch model is the ultimate winner in this head-to-head battle!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Series 3 | Series 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | Smaller | Larger |
| Processor | S3 Dual-Core | S4 Dual-Core |
| GPS | Yes | Yes |
| Cellular Option | Yes (Optional) | Yes (Optional) |
| ECG App | No | Yes |
| Fall Detection | No | Yes |
| Speaker | Slightly quieter | Louder |
| Digital Crown | Standard | With haptic feedback |
| Storage | 8GB/16GB | 16GB/32GB |
| Water Resistance | Swim-proof | Swim-proof |
| Operating System | watchOS | watchOS |
| Case Material | Aluminum, Stainless Steel | Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Ceramic |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design and Display
- Apple Watch 3: Features a design similar to previous generations with a smaller screen size. The display is bright enough for most conditions, but the bezels are noticeably thicker compared to later models. The design is functional but feels dated.
- 4: Boasts a significantly larger display with much thinner bezels, maximizing screen real estate. The design is sleeker and more modern, with a more curved and refined aesthetic. This provides a better viewing experience.
- Winner: 4
Processor and Performance
- Apple Watch 3: Powered by the S3 chip, which provides adequate performance for basic tasks and app usage. It can sometimes feel sluggish when multitasking or running more demanding apps.
- 4: Equipped with the faster S4 chip, offering a significant performance boost. Apps launch quicker, animations are smoother, and overall responsiveness is greatly improved.
- Winner: 4
Health Tracking Features
- Apple Watch 3: Tracks basic health metrics like heart rate, activity, and workouts. Lacks advanced features such as ECG (electrocardiogram) and fall detection.
- 4: Introduces the ECG app for detecting irregular heart rhythms and includes fall detection, which can automatically call for help if a hard fall is detected.
- Winner: 4
Screen Size and Resolution
- Apple Watch 3: Offers a smaller screen size with lower resolution, making it less ideal for viewing detailed information or interacting with apps.
- 4: Features a larger screen with a higher resolution, providing a more immersive and user-friendly experience, making text and graphics easier to read.
- Winner: 4
Storage Capacity
- Apple Watch 3: Comes with limited storage, potentially restricting the number of apps, music, and photos that can be stored on the watch.
- 4: Typically offers more storage capacity, allowing users to store more content directly on the watch without having to worry about space constraints.
- Winner: 4
Speaker and Microphone
- Apple Watch 3: The speaker and microphone are adequate for basic calls and voice commands, but the sound quality and clarity are not as refined.
- 4: Features improved speaker and microphone quality, resulting in clearer phone calls and more accurate voice recognition.
- Winner: 4
Water Resistance
- Apple Watch 3: Offers water resistance, suitable for swimming and other water activities.
- 4: Also offers water resistance. Both watches are suitable for swimming.
- Winner: Tie
Operating System and Software Updates
- Apple Watch 3: While still receiving updates, it may not get the latest features and support for as long as the newer models.
- 4: Will likely receive software updates for a longer period, ensuring access to the latest features, security patches, and improvements.
- Winner: 4
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Design | Series 4 |
| Display | Series 4 |
| Performance | Series 4 |
| Health Features | Series 4 |
| Value | Series 3 |
| Overall | Series 4 |
What They Have in Common
- Gps: Both Apple Watch Series 3 and Series 4 models include built-in GPS for tracking your workouts and outdoor activities, allowing you to leave your phone behind.
- Water Resistance: Both watches are water-resistant up to 50 meters, making them suitable for swimming and other water-based activities.
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Both include optical heart rate sensors for tracking your heart rate throughout the day and during workouts.
- Notifications: Both watches can receive and display notifications from your iPhone, keeping you connected to your messages, calls, and apps.
- Activity Tracking: Both offer comprehensive activity tracking, including steps, calories burned, and workout monitoring, helping you stay active and achieve your fitness goals.
Apple Watch 3 Vs 4 Buying Guide
Design and Build Quality
The Apple Watch Series 3 features a design that has aged gracefully, still offering a comfortable fit and familiar aesthetic. It’s available in aluminum, with options for GPS or GPS + Cellular connectivity. The Series 4, on the other hand, boasts a significantly redesigned appearance, with a larger display and thinner bezels, maximizing screen real estate within a similar overall footprint. It also introduces a more refined, premium feel, especially in the stainless steel and ceramic models, showcasing a step up in build quality and aesthetics. The rounded corners and curved display of the Series 4 contributes to its modern look.
Display Technology and Size
One of the most apparent differences is the display. The Apple Watch Series 3 offers a smaller display with thicker bezels, which can feel somewhat cramped compared to modern smartwatches. The Series 4 introduces a larger display, with over 30% more screen area, thanks to the reduced bezels and the curved corners. This allows for more information to be displayed at once, making it easier to read notifications, view complications, and interact with apps. The Series 4 also features a brighter display, enhancing visibility, especially in direct sunlight. (See Also: Demeyere 5 Plus Vs Atlantis )
Performance and Speed
The Apple Watch Series 4 packs a more powerful processor, the S4 SiP (System in Package), compared to the Series 3’s S3 SiP. This translates to noticeable improvements in speed and responsiveness. Apps launch quicker, animations are smoother, and the overall user experience feels snappier on the Series 4. The improved performance is particularly evident when multitasking or running demanding applications. The Series 3, while still functional, may experience occasional lag or delays in comparison.
Health and Fitness Features
Both watches offer comprehensive health and fitness tracking capabilities, including heart rate monitoring, activity tracking, and workout modes. However, the Apple Watch Series 4 introduces several advanced features. The Series 4 includes an ECG (electrocardiogram) app for detecting atrial fibrillation (AFib), and fall detection, which can automatically call for help if it detects a hard fall. While the Series 3 offers similar tracking for basic activities, it lacks these advanced health-monitoring functions.
Connectivity and Battery Life
Both models offer GPS and cellular connectivity options, allowing you to stay connected even without your iPhone nearby. In terms of battery life, both watches are rated for all-day usage. However, the larger display and more powerful processor of the Series 4 might result in slightly reduced battery life under heavy use. In typical usage scenarios, you can expect similar battery performance from both models, often requiring charging at the end of the day. Cellular models generally consume more power.
Price and Value Proposition
The Apple Watch Series 3 is typically available at a lower price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. It offers a solid set of features and remains a capable smartwatch. The Apple Watch Series 4, being a more premium product, comes with a higher price tag. However, the improved display, performance, and advanced health features offer significant added value. The decision depends on your budget and the features you prioritize, with the Series 3 offering great value and the Series 4 providing a more premium experience. (See Also: Nikon 50 1 8 Vs 1 4 )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Apple Watch Series 3 If…
- You’re on a budget and looking for a more affordable Apple Watch.
- You don’t need the latest health features like ECG and fall detection.
- You’re satisfied with a smaller display and a slightly less powerful processor.
- You primarily want basic fitness tracking and notifications.
Buy Apple Watch Series 4 If…
- You want the latest health features, including ECG and fall detection.
- You desire a larger, more immersive display with a more modern design.
- You appreciate a faster processor and improved performance.
- You want the advanced features and improvements available in the latest Apple Watch generation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key design differences between Apple Watch 3 and 4?
The Apple Watch Series 4 has a more modern design, featuring a larger display with significantly thinner bezels. It has a more refined, rounded appearance compared to the Series 3, which has a more traditional design with thicker bezels. The Series 4 is also available in different finishes, adding to its premium aesthetic.
Does the Apple Watch 4 have a better display than the Watch 3?
Yes, the Apple Watch Series 4 boasts a significantly larger and brighter display than the Series 3. The display on the Series 4 features more screen real estate due to the reduced bezels, making it easier to read information and interact with the interface. The increased brightness also improves visibility in direct sunlight.
How much faster is the Apple Watch 4 compared to the Watch 3?
The Apple Watch Series 4 is noticeably faster than the Series 3, thanks to its more powerful S4 processor. Apps launch quicker, animations are smoother, and the overall user experience feels snappier. This improved performance is particularly evident when multitasking or running demanding applications.
What health features does the Apple Watch 4 have that the Watch 3 doesn’t?
The Apple Watch Series 4 includes advanced health features not found on the Series 3, such as an ECG (electrocardiogram) app for detecting atrial fibrillation (AFib) and fall detection. These features offer enhanced health monitoring capabilities compared to the more basic health tracking on the Series 3. (See Also: Samsung Pro Vs Evo 850 )
Is the battery life better on the Apple Watch 4?
Battery life is similar between the Apple Watch Series 3 and 4 in typical usage. However, the larger display and more powerful processor of the Series 4 might lead to slightly reduced battery life under heavy use. Both watches are designed to last a full day on a single charge.
Which Apple Watch is better for fitness tracking?
Both watches offer excellent fitness tracking capabilities, including heart rate monitoring and various workout modes. However, the Apple Watch Series 4 may be considered slightly better for fitness due to its larger display, making it easier to view stats during workouts, and the potential for greater accuracy from improved sensors.
Should I buy the Apple Watch 3 or 4?
The decision depends on your budget and desired features. The Apple Watch Series 3 offers great value and remains a capable smartwatch. The Apple Watch Series 4 provides a more premium experience with a larger display, improved performance, and advanced health features. Consider your priorities and budget when making your choice.
Final Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 4 clearly surpasses the Series 3 in several key areas. Its larger, brighter display, faster processor, and advanced health features like ECG and fall detection provide a more compelling and modern smartwatch experience. While the Series 3 remains a viable option for those on a budget, the improvements in the Series 4 justify the higher price for most users. The enhanced performance and features make it the superior choice.
Winner: Apple Watch 4