Apple Watch Series 3 vs Series 4 – Which Should You Buy?

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By Maya Collins • May 2, 2026
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Apple Watch Series 4 & Series 3 have some important differences, both models are popular for their health tracking, smart features, and daily utility. The Apple Watch Series 4 is a more advanced model with newer sensors, advanced display, additional health sensors, more internal storage and better connectivity. The Series 3 is more affordable and still provides core fitness tracking. Let’s explore their differences and similarities to find your perfect fit!

Feature-by-Feature Breakdown

Processor:

  • Apple Watch Series 4 features the S4 64-bit dual-core processor that improves app performance and system responsiveness.
  • Apple Watch Series 3 uses the older S3 dual-core processor, which is slower with modern apps.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 4

Display:

  • Apple Watch Series 4 includes an LTPO OLED Retina display that enables smoother visuals and better power efficiency.
  • Apple Watch Series 3 has a standard 1.6 inch Retina OLED display.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 4

Brightness:

  • Apple Watch Series 4 supports up to 1000 nits of brightness that improves visibility in direct sunlight.
  • Apple Watch Series 3 reaches up to 1000 nits, which is still usable outdoors but less vibrant.
Winner:

Tie

Operating System:

  • Apple Watch Series 4 supports watchOS 10 and future updates that ensure long-term software compatibility.
  • Apple Watch Series 3 supports up to watchOS 8 and no longer receives updates.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 4

Voice Assistant:

  • Apple Watch Series 4 supports on-device Siri that processes commands quickly without internet connection.
  • Apple Watch Series 3 requires an internet connection for Siri to function.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 4

Connectivity:

  • Apple Watch Series 4 supports Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi bands for better wireless performance.
  • Apple Watch Series 3 uses Bluetooth 4.2 and older Wi-Fi standards.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 4 (See Also: Apple Watch Se 3 Vs Ultra 3 )

Health Features:

  • Apple Watch Series 4 includes ECG, Fall Detection, and advanced heart rate notifications to support advanced fitness tracking.
  • Apple Watch Series 3 provides basic activity and heart rate tracking.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 4

Speaker & Microphone:

  • Apple Watch Series 4 includes improved microphone placement and louder speaker that enhance call quality.
  • Apple Watch Series 3 has a basic speaker and mic that are functional but less clear.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 4

Internal Storage:

  • Apple Watch Series 4 has 16GB of storage that allows space for more music, photos, and apps.
  • Apple Watch Series 3 comes with 8GB of storage.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 4

Battery Life:

  • The Apple Watch Series 4 offers 18-hour battery life that supports all-day use with advanced features enabled.
  • Apple Watch Series 3 comes with up to 16 hours of battery life.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 4

Resolution:

  • Apple Watch Series 4 includes a 368 x 448 resolution that delivers sharper text and app visuals.
  • Apple Watch Series 3 has a resolution of 312 x 390 pixels.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 4

Check Apple Watch Series 4 Best Price
Check Apple Watch Series 3 Best Price

Specs at a Glance

FeatureApple Watch Series 4Apple Watch Series 3
ProcessorS4 dual-core 64-bitS3 dual-core 32-bit
RAM1GB768MB
Storage16GB8GB
Case MaterialStainless SteelAluminum
ConnectivityGPS + CellularGPS only
Display TypeLTPO OLED Always-On RetinaOLED Retina
Display Size44mm42mm
Resolution368 x 448312 x 390
Brightness1000 nits1000 nits
Battery LifeUp to 18 hoursUp to 18 hours
ChargingStandard magnetic chargingStandard magnetic charging
Water Resistance50 meters50 meters
ECGYesNo
Fall DetectionYesNo
SiriOn-device SiriCloud-based Siri
Wi-Fi2.4GHz and 5GHz2.4GHz only
Bluetooth5.04.2
WatchOS SupportUp to watchOS 10watchOS 8 max
MicrophoneImproved dual-mic arraySingle mic

  (See Also: Apple Watch Se 3 Vs Ultra 2 )

Who Should Buy What?

Buy the Apple Watch Series 4 if you:

  • Want a more modern design with a larger, sharper display.
  • Need cellular connectivity for calls and messages without your iPhone.
  • Value faster performance, better speakers, and more storage.
  • Plan to use ECG and advanced health monitoring features.
  • Prefer longer support for watchOS updates and future compatibility.

Check Apple Watch Series 4 Best Price

Buy the Apple Watch Series 3 if you:

  • Are looking for a basic smartwatch with solid fitness tracking.
  • Don’t need cellular features or ECG support.
  • Prefer a lower-cost Apple Watch for occasional use.
  • Want a watch that still offers waterproofing and heart rate tracking.
  • Don’t mind an older design with thicker bezels and less storage.

Check Apple Watch Series 3 Best Price

Winner by Category

CategoryWinner
ProcessorApple Watch Series 4
DisplayApple Watch Series 4
Display SizeApple Watch Series 4
Higher ResolutionApple Watch Series 4
Display BrightnessTie
Dual Speaker SystemApple Watch Series 4
Internal StorageApple Watch Series 4
Wi-FiApple Watch Series 4
Health & Fitness FeaturesApple Watch Series 4
On-Device SiriApple Watch Series 4
MicrophoneApple Watch Series 4
LTE ConnectivityApple Watch Series 4
DesignApple Watch Series 4

What They Have in Common

  • Retina Display: Both the Series 3 and Series 4 feature a bright Retina display, ensuring clear visibility of notifications, apps, and watch faces in different lighting conditions.
  • Water Resistance: Both models are water-resistant up to 50 meters, allowing you to swim, shower, and track water workouts without worrying about damage.
  • Heart Rate Monitoring: Each watch includes an optical heart rate sensor, providing real-time tracking to help users monitor their fitness and spot irregularities.
  • Fitness and Activity Tracking: Both devices support Apple’s Activity Rings and workout tracking, helping users stay motivated to reach their daily movement and exercise goals.
  • watchOS Compatibility: Both watches run on watchOS, giving users access to Apple’s core features like notifications, apps, Siri, and customizable watch faces for a consistent experience.

FAQ (Quick Answers)

Is the Apple Watch Series 4 still compatible with the latest watchOS updates?
The Apple Watch Series 4 supports up to watchOS 10, which means it can still run most modern apps and features, though it may not receive future updates beyond that version.

Does the Apple Watch Series 3 support ECG or Fall Detection?
No, the Apple Watch Series 3 does not support ECG or Fall Detection. These health features were introduced starting with the Series 4.

Can I make phone calls without an iPhone using the Apple Watch Series 4?
Yes, the GPS + Cellular model of the Apple Watch Series 4 allows you to make calls, send messages, and stream music without your iPhone nearby.

Is the Apple Watch Series 3 still usable in 2025?
Yes, it is still usable for basic tasks like fitness tracking, heart rate monitoring, and notifications, but it no longer supports the latest watchOS versions or newer features.

What are the main design differences between Series 4 and Series 3?
The Series 4 has a larger, edge-to-edge display and a slimmer case design, while the Series 3 has a smaller screen with thicker bezels and a slightly bulkier case. (See Also: Apple Watch Se 3 Vs Series 10 )

Does the Apple Watch Series 3 support Bluetooth 5.0?
No, the Apple Watch Series 3 only supports Bluetooth 4.2. Bluetooth 5.0 was introduced in the Apple Watch Series 4 for better wireless performance.

Are both models suitable for swimming?
Yes, both the Apple Watch Series 4 and Series 3 are water-resistant up to 50 meters and can be used for swimming and showering.

Can I use the same bands with both Series 4 and Series 3?
Yes, most bands are interchangeable as long as they match the case size. Bands made for 42mm fit both 42mm (Series 3) and 44mm (Series 4) cases.

Does the Apple Watch Series 4 charge faster than Series 3?
The Apple Watch Series 4 charges slightly faster due to improved internal hardware, though both use the same magnetic charging system.

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Which model is better for someone on a budget?
The Apple Watch Series 3 is the better option for budget-conscious buyers who want basic smartwatch features without spending much.

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