The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Pre-orders are closed. Apple Watch Ultra 3, Apple Watch Series 11, and Apple Watch SE 3 launched on September 19, 2025, and are now available to buy. In the U.S., Apple lists them from $799, $399, and $249, respectively. You can configure and order each model through Apple’s online store or Apple Store app, with delivery or pickup options shown for your location.
When did pre-orders open, and when did the watches launch?
Apple announced the three watches in September 2025 and made them available for pre-order through apple.com and the Apple Store app. Their retail launch date was Friday, September 19, 2025, according to Apple’s SE 3 announcement. That launch ordering window has passed; Apple’s current shopping pages offer the watches for purchase.
What do the three models cost, and how do they differ?
The prices below are U.S. starting prices published by Apple. The final price depends on the configuration, and taxes, seller promotions, and regional pricing can change what you pay. Battery figures are Apple’s stated maximums, not independent real-world test results.
| Model | U.S. starting price | Case and materials | Connectivity | Apple-stated battery rating | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Watch SE 3 | $249 | 40mm or 44mm aluminum; Midnight or Starlight | GPS or GPS + Cellular | Up to 18 hours; up to 32 hours in Low Power Mode | Buyers prioritizing price and core smartwatch, fitness, sleep, and safety functions |
| Apple Watch Series 11 | $399 | 42mm or 46mm; aluminum or titanium. Apple’s U.S. titanium configurations start at $699. | Aluminum GPS configurations start at $399; GPS + Cellular and titanium options depend on configuration | Up to 24 hours; up to 38 hours in Low Power Mode | Buyers seeking a mainstream watch with broader health features and material choices |
| Apple Watch Ultra 3 | $799 | 49mm titanium, natural or black | Cellular connectivity is included | Up to 42 hours; up to 72 hours in Low Power Mode | Outdoor and endurance users who want rugged hardware and longer stated battery life |
Apple’s detailed product and launch pages list Ultra 3 at $799 in the U.S.; use that figure rather than a lower price that may appear in a shopping search snippet. See Apple’s Series 11 announcement, SE 3 announcement, and Ultra 3 announcement for the stated starting prices and features.
Recommended Free Tools
#1 Best Overall
- RUGGED AND READY TO GO—The ultimate sports and adventure smartwatch is built to last with an extremely tough titanium case and a strong sapphire crystal display. Water resistant up to 100m—it’s great for swimmers, divers, and fans of high-speed water sports.*
- A FULL-FEATURED HEALTH TRACKER—Ultra 3 can take an ECG* and check your heart rhythm for signs of AFib—right from your wrist. The smartwatch sends alerts for possible hypertension,* an irregular heart rhythm,* or an unusually high or low heart rate. You can view your overnight health tracking metrics with the Vitals app,* track your sleep score, and take readings of your blood oxygen.*
- ULTIMATE RUNNING AND WORKOUT COMPANION—A superior fitness tracker for marathoners, triathletes, mountain bikers, backcountry hikers, and mountain climbers, Ultra 3 provides precision dual-frequency GPS, Pacer, Heart Rate Zones, Custom Workouts, running power, Workout Buddy powered by Apple Intelligence from your nearby iPhone,* training load, and more.
- KEEP HELP CLOSE AT HAND—Ultra 3 is a smartwatch that can detect a hard fall or severe car crash* and automatically help connect you to emergency services and notify your emergency contacts. Check In can automatically notify a loved one when you’ve arrived at your destination.
- MULTIDAY BATTERY LIFE—Ultra 3 is a smartwatch that’s engineered to give you even longer battery life. It’s perfect for trail runners—with up to 42 hours of normal use and up to 72 hours in Low Power Mode.* Track a workout with full GPS and heart rate monitoring for up to 20 hours in Low Power Mode.*
Which Apple Watch should you choose?
Choose SE 3 for the lower-cost essentials
The SE 3 is the least expensive route into Apple Watch. Its aluminum case and core fitness, safety, sleep, notification, and smartwatch functions suit buyers who do not need ECG, hypertension notifications, premium case materials, or Ultra-specific outdoor hardware. Its stated battery rating is shorter than the other two models.
Choose Series 11 for a balanced everyday watch
Series 11 is the mainstream option if you want a choice of aluminum or titanium, two case sizes, and health features such as ECG and hypertension notifications. It is more conventional and less rugged than Ultra 3, and offers GPS or cellular configurations depending on the selected model.
Rank #2
- RUGGED AND READY TO GO—The ultimate sports and adventure smartwatch is built to last with an extremely tough titanium case and a strong sapphire crystal display. Water resistant up to 100m—it’s great for swimmers, divers, and fans of high-speed water sports.*
- A FULL-FEATURED HEALTH TRACKER—Ultra 3 can take an ECG* and check your heart rhythm for signs of AFib—right from your wrist. The smartwatch sends alerts for possible hypertension,* an irregular heart rhythm,* or an unusually high or low heart rate. You can view your overnight health tracking metrics with the Vitals app,* track your sleep score, and take readings of your blood oxygen.*
- ULTIMATE RUNNING AND WORKOUT COMPANION—A superior fitness tracker for marathoners, triathletes, mountain bikers, backcountry hikers, and mountain climbers, Ultra 3 provides precision dual-frequency GPS, Pacer, Heart Rate Zones, Custom Workouts, running power, Workout Buddy powered by Apple Intelligence from your nearby iPhone,* training load, and more.
- KEEP HELP CLOSE AT HAND—Ultra 3 is a smartwatch that can detect a hard fall or severe car crash* and automatically help connect you to emergency services and notify your emergency contacts. Check In can automatically notify a loved one when you’ve arrived at your destination.
- MULTIDAY BATTERY LIFE—Ultra 3 is a smartwatch that’s engineered to give you even longer battery life. It’s perfect for trail runners—with up to 42 hours of normal use and up to 72 hours in Low Power Mode.* Track a workout with full GPS and heart rate monitoring for up to 20 hours in Low Power Mode.*
Choose Ultra 3 for demanding outdoor use
Ultra 3 is the most expensive and largest option, with a 49mm titanium case and features aimed at outdoor, endurance, water, and satellite-use scenarios. Its longer Apple-stated battery rating may appeal to hikers, campers, divers, and endurance athletes. Its size, weight, and price make it a poor match for buyers who want a smaller, lighter everyday watch.
How to order from Apple
Before checkout, have your Apple Account, shipping and billing details, payment method, and chosen case and band details ready. If you plan to trade in an old Watch, gather its model information; for a cellular configuration, check your carrier first.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #3
- RUGGED AND READY TO GO—The ultimate sports and adventure smartwatch is built to last with an extremely tough titanium case and a strong sapphire crystal display. Water resistant up to 100m—it’s great for swimmers, divers, and fans of high-speed water sports.*
- A FULL-FEATURED HEALTH TRACKER—Ultra 3 can take an ECG* and check your heart rhythm for signs of AFib—right from your wrist. The smartwatch sends alerts for possible hypertension,* an irregular heart rhythm,* or an unusually high or low heart rate. You can view your overnight health tracking metrics with the Vitals app,* track your sleep score, and take readings of your blood oxygen.*
- ULTIMATE RUNNING AND WORKOUT COMPANION—A superior fitness tracker for marathoners, triathletes, mountain bikers, backcountry hikers, and mountain climbers, Ultra 3 provides precision dual-frequency GPS, Pacer, Heart Rate Zones, Custom Workouts, running power, Workout Buddy powered by Apple Intelligence from your nearby iPhone,* training load, and more.
- KEEP HELP CLOSE AT HAND—Ultra 3 is a smartwatch that can detect a hard fall or severe car crash* and automatically help connect you to emergency services and notify your emergency contacts. Check In can automatically notify a loved one when you’ve arrived at your destination.
- MULTIDAY BATTERY LIFE—Ultra 3 is a smartwatch that’s engineered to give you even longer battery life. It’s perfect for trail runners—with up to 42 hours of normal use and up to 72 hours in Low Power Mode.* Track a workout with full GPS and heart rate monitoring for up to 20 hours in Low Power Mode.*
- Open Apple’s Apple Watch buying hub, or go directly to the Series 11, SE 3, or Ultra 3 shopping page. The same general process is available in the Apple Store app.
- Select the model, then choose an available case size, finish, and material. Ultra 3 has a 49mm titanium case; SE 3 comes in 40mm and 44mm aluminum; Series 11 comes in 42mm and 46mm aluminum or titanium configurations.
- Choose GPS or GPS + Cellular where offered. Confirm that the selected option is the one you intend to buy; cellular hardware does not itself provide carrier service.
- Choose a compatible band and size. Use Apple’s current sizing guidance for Solo Loop or Braided Solo Loop bands, even if you have bought one before, because Apple says its sizing has changed. Check band compatibility rather than assuming an older band will fit every new case and size.
- Review the complete configuration and price. Add AppleCare+ only if it is offered for your configuration and region and you want the coverage.
- Choose delivery or Apple Store pickup. Availability and dates depend on your location and configuration; Apple provides the final delivery date during the purchase process.
- Enter eligible trade-in details if you want to apply a trade-in, then select an available payment option or installment plan. Apple purchase options can vary by configuration and eligibility.
- Sign in or enter checkout details, submit the order, and keep the confirmation email or order number. Check the order in your Apple Account for status updates.
Apple’s SE 3 buying page illustrates the configuration, pickup or delivery, trade-in, and payment choices; availability and terms may differ for other models, regions, and buyers.
GPS or GPS + Cellular: what should you buy?
- GPS: Usually the lower-cost choice for people who carry their iPhone most of the time and do not need the Watch to use a cellular connection independently.
- GPS + Cellular: Can support calls, messages, streaming, and other connected functions away from the iPhone, but requires a compatible carrier and may add a recurring service charge. Carrier support, account requirements, and fees vary.
Check with your carrier before ordering a cellular model. Confirm it supports Apple Watch, works with the carrier account paired to your iPhone, and whether you need an additional wearable line. Apple says a GPS + Cellular model is required for Apple Watch For Your Kids; see its current SE 3 buying page for that qualification.
Rank #4
- RUGGED AND READY TO GO—The ultimate sports and adventure smartwatch is built to last with an extremely tough titanium case and a strong sapphire crystal display. Water resistant up to 100m—it’s great for swimmers, divers, and fans of high-speed water sports.*
- A FULL-FEATURED HEALTH TRACKER—Ultra 3 can take an ECG* and check your heart rhythm for signs of AFib—right from your wrist. The smartwatch sends alerts for possible hypertension,* an irregular heart rhythm,* or an unusually high or low heart rate. You can view your overnight health tracking metrics with the Vitals app,* track your sleep score, and take readings of your blood oxygen.*
- ULTIMATE RUNNING AND WORKOUT COMPANION—A superior fitness tracker for marathoners, triathletes, mountain bikers, backcountry hikers, and mountain climbers, Ultra 3 provides precision dual-frequency GPS, Pacer, Heart Rate Zones, Custom Workouts, running power, Workout Buddy powered by Apple Intelligence from your nearby iPhone,* training load, and more.
- KEEP HELP CLOSE AT HAND—Ultra 3 is a smartwatch that can detect a hard fall or severe car crash* and automatically help connect you to emergency services and notify your emergency contacts. Check In can automatically notify a loved one when you’ve arrived at your destination.
- MULTIDAY BATTERY LIFE—Ultra 3 is a smartwatch that’s engineered to give you even longer battery life. It’s perfect for trail runners—with up to 42 hours of normal use and up to 72 hours in Low Power Mode.* Track a workout with full GPS and heart rate monitoring for up to 20 hours in Low Power Mode.*
Check iPhone, software, and regional compatibility
- iPhone: Apple’s current requirement for these models is iPhone 11 or later with iOS 26 or later, as stated in its January 2026 guidance. An older iPhone or outdated software can prevent pairing or limit use.
- Watch software: At launch, Apple said watchOS 26 would support Series 6 or later, SE 2 or later, and all Ultra models, with some features varying by device and region. That describes the launch compatibility statement, not a guarantee that every feature works on every supported Watch.
- Carrier and cellular: Apple identifies current cellular models as 5G capable, but access depends on the exact configuration, carrier, account, and service availability. Hardware capability does not guarantee coverage or service.
- Health and satellite features: ECG, hypertension notifications, Blood Oxygen availability, and satellite services can depend on country, regulatory approval, software version, and device configuration. Apple warns that features are not available on all devices or in all regions; verify the feature you need for your location before purchase.
What if your preferred configuration is unavailable or delayed?
If the model or finish is out of stock
- Check whether another band or finish is available; band and case combinations can affect stock.
- Compare the other case size if it would still fit comfortably.
- Check both delivery and Apple Store pickup for your location.
- Compare Apple’s website with the Apple Store app, then check authorized retailers or carriers for the same configuration.
- Before substituting, confirm that you have not switched between GPS and GPS + Cellular unintentionally.
If the delivery estimate changes
Apple shows a final delivery date as part of ordering, but dates can change. Review the order status in your Apple Account and check whether the selected band or configuration is affecting availability. If you are considering canceling and ordering a more available version, first confirm the original order’s cancellation and refund terms.
If cellular activation does not work
Check that you bought GPS + Cellular, your carrier supports Apple Watch, the Watch and iPhone use compatible carrier accounts, and your plan meets the carrier’s requirements. Some carriers require a separate wearable line. Also confirm that the paired iPhone meets Apple’s software and model requirements.
Best Value
- Snowboarding, skiing, mountain biking, rowing, and more — you’ll find tons of additional ways to take your favorite sports and activities to the next level with Ultra 3 in the App Store. Tap in. Max out.
Where to buy now
Apple’s live buying hub links to all three models and shows current configurations. Buying direct is useful for checking Apple Store pickup, trade-in, and Apple’s available payment options. Authorized retailers and wireless carriers may have different stock, discounts, financing terms, or activation requirements; verify their live listings and policies before ordering.
Apple’s U.S. pages show installment examples of $20.75 per month for 12 months for SE 3, $33.25 per month for 12 months for Series 11, and approximately $66.58 per month for 12 months for Ultra 3. These are payment examples, not discounts; terms, eligibility, taxes, and financing-provider conditions apply. Compare the full price and total commitment with any retailer or carrier offer. Apple’s three-month Apple Fitness+ and Apple Music promotion was a launch offer with regional and offer-specific conditions, not a benefit to assume is still available.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.




