How does Series 3 compare to OG Watch?

[Michael CM1]

Ive got a stainless steel version of the OG Apple Watch. Over the past year or so the battery drained so much that I decided to turn off raise to wake. I’m down to about 80 percent on battery capacity, which isn’t bad after three years.

I’m thinking about upgrading to a new model. I’m also thinking I may go the Sport version this time to save some money, but I don’t know what the durability issues might be. I wear my watch all the time outside, which has included hitting tree limbs and such while mowing. Does anybody else have experience with that? This model I have barely shows any wear, and the only wear it shows is what normally happens to stainless steel. It might even look better if I used SS cleaner.

The other obvious selling point would be speed. This thing has never, ever been fast on anything. If apps didn’t load in 15 seconds, I just never used them. So I’m curious about whether anyone has upgraded from the original and how much more useful it might be. Apps like weather and allergy things come to mind as useful.

Thanks!

 

[bbednarz]

The speed difference between the OG and S3 is night and day. Things are incredibly quick on the watch now. I have had each generation now and the series 3 is the first one where it seems worthwhile to use the apps on the watch instead of deferring to the phone.

As for the Stainless vs Aluminum I think it depends on how long between upgrades you want to go. Seeing as you rode the OG watch out for 3 years and assuming you can afford it I would go with the stainless again. I had the stainless S2 but recently bought the aluminum S3. It has a very small scratch on the corner of the display whereas my stainless is in perfect condition after being used for a year. In my younger years this scratch would've annoyed me, but at this point I really don't care. My reason for abandoning the stainless is because I cannot justify that much money on something I will likely upgrade each year.

 

[antnee]

I recently went from a SS S0 to the SS S3 night and day different and the battery is MUCH MUCH Better.

 

[Michael CM1]

The speed difference between the OG and S3 is night and day. Things are incredibly quick on the watch now. I have had each generation now and the series 3 is the first one where it seems worthwhile to use the apps on the watch instead of deferring to the phone.

As for the Stainless vs Aluminum I think it depends on how long between upgrades you want to go. Seeing as you rode the OG watch out for 3 years and assuming you can afford it I would go with the stainless again. I had the stainless S2 but recently bought the aluminum S3. It has a very small scratch on the corner of the display whereas my stainless is in perfect condition after being used for a year. In my younger years this scratch would've annoyed me, but at this point I really don't care. My reason for abandoning the stainless is because I cannot justify that much money on something I will likely upgrade each year.

Thanks for all that. What I may do is go with a sport model this time since I have seen one for $309 refurbished. I can get $75 for my watch so you’re talking $234 for a new one. If it doesn’t hold up as well, I go back to SS in a couple of years.

 

[antnee]

Thanks for all that. What I may do is go with a sport model this time since I have seen one for $309 refurbished. I can get $75 for my watch so you’re talking $234 for a new one. If it doesn’t hold up as well, I go back to SS in a couple of years.

I sold mine a few weeks ago for 180 you should be able to get something close to that.

 

[44267547]

Ive got a stainless steel version of the OG Apple Watch. Over the past year or so the battery drained so much that I decided to turn off raise to wake. I’m down to about 80 percent on battery capacity, which isn’t bad after three years.

I’m thinking about upgrading to a new model. I’m also thinking I may go the Sport version this time to save some money, but I don’t know what the durability issues might be. I wear my watch all the time outside, which has included hitting tree limbs and such while mowing. Does anybody else have experience with that? This model I have barely shows any wear, and the only wear it shows is what normally happens to stainless steel. It might even look better if I used SS cleaner.

The other obvious selling point would be speed. This thing has never, ever been fast on anything. If apps didn’t load in 15 seconds, I just never used them. So I’m curious about whether anyone has upgraded from the original and how much more useful it might be. Apps like weather and allergy things come to mind as useful.

Thanks!

The aluminum used on the sport model Apple Watch is very durable. It’s actually the same aluminum used on the iPhone 7 if they gives you any inclination. It’s 40% lighter than the stainless steel Apple Watch model, but the big difference is the display. The sport model uses Ion-X Glass, which is similar Durability as the iPhone Glass, but not nearly scratch resistant as the sapphire display on the stainless model. If you were concerned about protecting the screen from scratch is, could also look at a screen protector for the sport model. If you were concerned about protecting the screen from scratches, you could also look at a screen protector for the sport model.

 

[KrisLord]

Unless you’re wanting a SS for a fancier look when in the office or out for a meal, I’d get the cheaper aluminium version and get AppleCare so that if you do break it, it’s cheap to repair.

 

[Michael CM1]

The aluminum used on the sport model Apple Watch is very durable. It’s actually the same aluminum used on the iPhone 7 if they gives you any inclination. It’s 40% lighter than the stainless steel Apple Watch model, but the big difference is the display. The sport model uses Ion-X Glass, which is similar Durability as the iPhone Glass, but not nearly scratch resistant as the sapphire display on the stainless model. If you were concerned about protecting the screen from scratch is, could also look at a screen protector for the sport model. If you were concerned about protecting the screen from scratches, you could also look at a screen protector for the sport model.

Thanks for the info! I’m a geology graduate so I definitely know about the extra benefits of the sapphire screen. That was actually the selling point to me. I couldn’t rave enough about it after the countless times it got whacked by my Leyland Cypress trees without showing a thing.

I ended up ordering a refurb 42mm sport GPS Series 3 from Best Buy for $309. I may get a job soon that involves being around a lot of rivers, so the upgrade seems even more necessary. It’ll be another week or so before it arrives, so I may check out screen protectors. But my iPhone 7 has worked quite nicely with aluminum and glass, so I may be worrying about nothing.
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I sold mine a few weeks ago for 180 you should be able to get something close to that.

Where did you sell yours? I was going to use the buyback process Apple has, which is where the $75 came from. I have never sold anything through eBay et al, so I’m never confident about those sites actually working without a hassle.

 

[rdy0329]

Battery drain is a huge factor tbh. I would do a workout and 33% will be gone in one hour on my S0. I could stand the slowness for another year but S3 battery life is like the holy grail I don’t have money to splurge on.

On materials, Cellular S3 on Aluminum has the ceramic back which is already a plus, the ion-x glass might not be as scratch resistant. My sister’s Aluminum model shattered with a bat of badminton racket while my SS has endured multiple whacks to wall and gym equipments and still looks great.

 

[Skika]

Night and day speed and battery wise.

 

[Nell]

If I look really closely, I can see a few scratches on my original Sport watch but in day to day use I don’t notice them so I wouldn’t worry too much about damaging an aluminium watch (I don’t do gardening but I’m also not at all careful about my watch so inevitably it gets bashed against door frames or in the workshop etc).

In terms of performance, the S3 is a very significant upgrade and the cellular connectivity is really nice to have.

 

[The Game 161]

speed wise it's huge.

 

[PaladinGuy]

I think it’s fair to say that there are pros and cons to the aluminum and steel models. I started with a steel original Apple Watch at launch. For the series 2, I tried to just get aluminum, but it just didn’t feel nearly as nice to me. I also found myself constantly worried about scratches on the screen. I ended up selling it and going back to a steel model. I also had bands that just don’t look right with aluminum (in my opinion).

I will say that the resale value is terrible on all of them, and I’ve lost a lot more on the steel watches I’ve sold. Looking at it from only a financial perspective, it’d probably be better for me to have bought aluminum models, as I’ve sold them each year and upgraded. For me though, it’s not just a financial decision. It’s something I wear every day. Therefore, whether or not I’ll enjoy wearing it matters to me.

Not sure if that helps you. That’s just some of my logic when I thought through aluminum or steel.

Oh, and the series 3 blows the original Apple Watch out of water when it comes to speed. It’s night and day. I even find a very noticeable speed difference between the series 2 and 3.

 

[Lerten]

Upgraded from series 0, 38 mm, stainless steel to series 3, 38mm, stainless steel.

Haven't even activated the LTE yet, the difference in speed, battery life and screen brightness is amazing. It all comes together and improves every day usability of the watch; it starts to feel more like an iPhone (in that, that you tap on an icon and within a second or two it has launched). Everything is more visible (especially on the SS version which had problems with the brightness due to the sapphire glass) thanks to the brighter screen. And the battery is amazing, easily lasts two days with one workout thrown in (again, haven't activated the LTE yet).

Really, really happy with it. A must upgrade from series 0.

 

[44267547]

I think it’s fair to say that there are pros and cons to the aluminum and steel models. I started with a steel original Apple Watch at launch. For the series 2, I tried to just get aluminum, but it just didn’t feel nearly as nice to me. I also found myself constantly worried about scratches on the screen. I ended up selling it and going back to a steel model. I also had bands that just don’t look right with aluminum (in my opinion).

I will say that the resale value is terrible on all of them, and I’ve lost a lot more on the steel watches I’ve sold. Looking at it from only a financial perspective, it’d probably be better for me to have bought aluminum models, as I’ve sold them each year and upgraded. For me though, it’s not just a financial decision. It’s something I wear every day. Therefore, whether or not I’ll enjoy wearing it matters to me

Part of The problem with the stainless steel Apple Watch model resale is they are just not as popular as the aluminum model. A lot of consumers just won’t justify the price point difference of over $200 for the stainless steel model just for a casing and the sapphire display if its new. And the aluminum model is much more popular because it is lighter and more in tune with fitness. But as you said, I would rather have the stainless model because prefer the weight and the protection of the sapphire.

 

[LivnItUp123]

In addition to the posts above, the SS is worth it to the user who keeps their watches for years vs the user who upgrades yearly. Also, if you work in a field like yours, Michael, that's another valid reason I'd go with SS.
Also and, although it's rare users have to send their watch in for repair, it happens. There is no way I'd go w/out AC+ on the Watch, esp keeping in mind the length of time you kept your original watch but also, the type of work you do. Say your face separates by chance, due to it somehow falling from your wrist or it just separates and you can't pinpoint why, a screen would be a mint to replace, even if you had insurance with your carrier, versus a much less screen/face replacement fee with AC+ coverage, on top of all of the other benefits AC+ offers. I have it on every device I own which also includes 2 iphones, an iPad, and an iMac. Those 2 incidences for accidents within 3 years was all I needed to hear. I haven't gotten carrier insurance in years, bc AC+ has me covered much better all around. I also like that you pay the one time fee straight away through Apple & don't have to worry about recurring pymts. 1 time pymt that youve paid for a period of 3 years & never have to worry about again-love it. I get my coverage straight through Apple support, where they run a remote diagnostic with me then send the link to pay, to make it even easier. NO waiting in a line at the store or possible processing issues online.
Speed? Battery? As others posted, out of sight. This series cannot be compared, actually. Best one thus far and I've only heard positive comments by other owners too. The capabilities seem endless yet it's extremely user friendly. Totally different from the Series 2 I had even.
My S3 is still fairly new to me, and I can't wait to look into features others have told me about that I had no idea were built in.... I learn something new everyday with this series, it seems.
Enjoy your new Watch, Michael

 

[Michael CM1]

I think it’s fair to say that there are pros and cons to the aluminum and steel models. I started with a steel original Apple Watch at launch. For the series 2, I tried to just get aluminum, but it just didn’t feel nearly as nice to me. I also found myself constantly worried about scratches on the screen. I ended up selling it and going back to a steel model. I also had bands that just don’t look right with aluminum (in my opinion).

I will say that the resale value is terrible on all of them, and I’ve lost a lot more on the steel watches I’ve sold. Looking at it from only a financial perspective, it’d probably be better for me to have bought aluminum models, as I’ve sold them each year and upgraded. For me though, it’s not just a financial decision. It’s something I wear every day. Therefore, whether or not I’ll enjoy wearing it matters to me.

Not sure if that helps you. That’s just some of my logic when I thought through aluminum or steel.

Oh, and the series 3 blows the original Apple Watch out of water when it comes to speed. It’s night and day. I even find a very noticeable speed difference between the series 2 and 3.

You and everybody else are helping. I mean I already bought the new one, but it sounds like everybody is confirming things I thought. It's a shame the stainless steel watches aren't holding more value because they are damn rugged. I thought I'd keep it for five years, but just dammit on the slowness. I could probably deal with the battery issue by replacing it, but you can't replace slow.

Getting an sport model will help me know what to do next time. I'm hardly rolling in the money, so saving $300 is quite awesome. My iPhones have held up pretty well aside from when I dropped a 6 onto a tile floor face first. Sure, I've had cases on them. But I won't know with the watch without trying it. I might end up getting one of these case/band combos to use while mowing since I know I'm not going to avoid vegetation.

For people who mentioned the cellular benefit, I agree that it would be nice. But I always have my phone on me and it's not like AT&T (or anybody) has made it affordable based on what I would personally get out of it. I bet runners love it, but again that phone is always on me.

 

[ebika]

I replaced my OG 38mm SS watch with a S3 38mm SS watch yesterday. It's so refreshing to have all the same functionality (plus a few new ones) without the aggravating lag on every UI element and app.

 

[Michael CM1]

I replaced my OG 38mm SS watch with a S3 38mm SS watch yesterday. It's so refreshing to have all the same functionality (plus a few new ones) without the aggravating lag on every UI element and app.

I am looking forward to actually being able to show someone an app on my watch before it shuts off twice.

 

[Dino F]

Hmm, I don't really see how the S3 has that many benefits over the S0.....

1. Processor - Series 3 is 2.55x faster than Series 0 The speed increase isn't such a massive difference - thats literally only about 2-3 seconds and certainly not a deal breaker.
2. Screen - Series 3 screen is 2.22x brighter than Series 0 Brighter screen = more drain on the battery so again, is this REALLY a 'feature'??
3. Sensors - Serieos 3 has GPS and Barometic Altimeter Ok, these are added features
4. Water - Series 3 is water resistant to 50 meters and Series 0 is splash resistant Unless you are specifically doing water related exercises, you wouldn't ordinarily wear your S3 watch down on the beach or by the pool all day for fear of knocking it or getting covered in sand or sun tan lotions etc...
5. Capacity - Series 3 is 8GB and Series 0 is 2GB Never listen to music via my watch so this is a non feature.
6. Siri - Speaks on Series 3 Don't think you would hear Siri when you're out and about unless you held your watch to your ear.
7. Back - Series 3 is ceramic and Series 0 is composite This makes zero difference in day to day usage. Who cares what its made of?

I have still have my Space Grey 42mm and its still working great - battery last me all day, speed is still quick enough for me (apps only take about 2 to 3 seconds to open). OK, it may not be waterproof but I think I would be too scared to wear my S3 at the pool/beach for fear of damaging it when swimming or getting it covered in sand/lotions on the beach (additionally, you would need your phone somewhere close by otherwise why would you have your watch on without your phone nearby. I would never take my phone to the pool/beach).

I certainly don't think the price of a S3 watch is justified when 'upgrading' from a S0 watch (for me at least).

 

[bbednarz]

Hmm, I don't really see how the S3 has that many benefits over the S0.....

1. Processor - Series 3 is 2.55x faster than Series 0 The speed increase isn't such a massive difference - thats literally only about 2-3 seconds and certainly not a deal breaker.
2. Screen - Series 3 screen is 2.22x brighter than Series 0 Brighter screen = more drain on the battery so again, is this REALLY a 'feature'??
3. Sensors - Serieos 3 has GPS and Barometic Altimeter Ok, these are added features
4. Water - Series 3 is water resistant to 50 meters and Series 0 is splash resistant Unless you are specifically doing water related exercises, you wouldn't ordinarily wear your S3 watch down on the beach or by the pool all day for fear of knocking it or getting covered in sand or sun tan lotions etc...
5. Capacity - Series 3 is 8GB and Series 0 is 2GB Never listen to music via my watch so this is a non feature.
6. Siri - Speaks on Series 3 Don't think you would hear Siri when you're out and about unless you held your watch to your ear.
7. Back - Series 3 is ceramic and Series 0 is composite This makes zero difference in day to day usage. Who cares what its made of?

I have still have my Space Grey 42mm and its still working great - battery last me all day, speed is still quick enough for me (apps only take about 2 to 3 seconds to open). OK, it may not be waterproof but I think I would be too scared to wear my S3 at the pool/beach for fear of damaging it when swimming or getting it covered in sand/lotions on the beach (additionally, you would need your phone somewhere close by otherwise why would you have your watch on without your phone nearby. I would never take my phone to the pool/beach).

I certainly don't think the price of a S3 watch is justified when 'upgrading' from a S0 watch (for me at least).

I could not disagree more. If you are using the watch simply as a notification device then I can see where you are coming from. I have owned each watch released besides the S1. This is the first watch where using an app is actually feasible. The S0 was painfully slow at times. I think the benefits of the S3 over the S0 are enormous. Everything from GPS to cellular along with the added sensors and faster processors. All while maintaining the same if not better battery life.

 

[Michael CM1]

Hmm, I don't really see how the S3 has that many benefits over the S0.....

1. Processor - Series 3 is 2.55x faster than Series 0 The speed increase isn't such a massive difference - thats literally only about 2-3 seconds and certainly not a deal breaker.
2. Screen - Series 3 screen is 2.22x brighter than Series 0 Brighter screen = more drain on the battery so again, is this REALLY a 'feature'??
3. Sensors - Serieos 3 has GPS and Barometic Altimeter Ok, these are added features
4. Water - Series 3 is water resistant to 50 meters and Series 0 is splash resistant Unless you are specifically doing water related exercises, you wouldn't ordinarily wear your S3 watch down on the beach or by the pool all day for fear of knocking it or getting covered in sand or sun tan lotions etc...
5. Capacity - Series 3 is 8GB and Series 0 is 2GB Never listen to music via my watch so this is a non feature.
6. Siri - Speaks on Series 3 Don't think you would hear Siri when you're out and about unless you held your watch to your ear.
7. Back - Series 3 is ceramic and Series 0 is composite This makes zero difference in day to day usage. Who cares what its made of?

I have still have my Space Grey 42mm and its still working great - battery last me all day, speed is still quick enough for me (apps only take about 2 to 3 seconds to open). OK, it may not be waterproof but I think I would be too scared to wear my S3 at the pool/beach for fear of damaging it when swimming or getting it covered in sand/lotions on the beach (additionally, you would need your phone somewhere close by otherwise why would you have your watch on without your phone nearby. I would never take my phone to the pool/beach).

I certainly don't think the price of a S3 watch is justified when 'upgrading' from a S0 watch (for me at least).

Thanks for the list of changes (it's hard to find all that stuff!), but I have to disagree having now received the watch.

1) The speed is a massive difference. From never opening an app to it being loaded is taking 3-5 seconds. Most apps I tried this with on my old watch couldn't open in 15 seconds.
2) I never set mine to full brightness. Maybe this is a thing in the sun. Not sure one that.
3) Those weren't really selling points. Maybe I'll change my mind if I see them used somehow.
4) Actually a huge selling point. I may be getting a job soon that involves working around rivers and streams. If I do a me and fall in, that would make quite the difference. But this obviously isn't something everyone needs.
5) I'm pretty sure all of the watches have 8GB except for I want to say the cellular S3 has 16GB. Alas, I don't think storage is any sort of concern.
6) Good question on the volume. I can hear it alone in a room, and it's a neat addition. But outside in a crowd? Eh.
7) I'm obviously taking a step back on materials from the stainless model to sport. I'm fine with the look of aluminum and glass until it gets scratched or cracked. Honestly I don't even care that much about scratches on the case. Just please let my display hold up! I don't even know what "composite" means as far as the back, so I'm "whatevs" about it.