The Apple Watch Series 3 was a pivotal device, introducing cellular connectivity and a refined design. But within the Series 3 lineup, you had two distinct models: the Edition and the Aluminum. This comparison dives deep into their differences to help you determine which one best suits your needs and budget.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Aluminum Series 3 offers excellent value and performance for most users. The Edition, with its premium ceramic case, provides a luxurious feel and enhanced scratch resistance, but at a significantly higher price. For most, the Aluminum is the smarter choice.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 / 800 - Europe, Australia (A1891) | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 / 800 - Europe, Australia (A1891) |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 18, 19, 20, 26 - Europe, Australia (A1891) | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 18, 19, 20, 26 - Europe, Australia (A1891) |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | 1, 3, 39, 40, 41 - China (A1892) | 1, 3, 39, 40, 41 - China (A1892) |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2017, September. Released 2017, September | 2017, September. Released 2017, September |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front (Sapphire crystal), ceramic back, ceramic frame | Glass front, ceramic back, aluminum frame |
| Dimensions | 42.6 x 36.5 x 11.4 mm (1.68 x 1.44 x 0.45 in) | 42.5 x 36.4 x 11.4 mm (1.67 x 1.43 x 0.45 in) |
| SIM | eSIM | eSIM |
| Weight | 46.4 g (1.62 oz) | 34.9 g (1.23 oz) |
| | 50m water resistant | 50m water resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Sapphire crystal glass | Ion-X strengthened glass |
| Resolution | 390 x 312 pixels (~303 ppi density) | 390 x 312 pixels (~303 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.65 inches | 1.65 inches |
| Type | Retina OLED, 1000 nits (peak) | Retina OLED, 1000 nits (peak) |
| | 3D Touch display | 3D Touch display |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Dual-core | Dual-core |
| Chipset | Apple S3 | Apple S3 |
| GPU | PowerVR | PowerVR |
| OS | watchOS 4.0, upgradable to watchOS 8.7 | watchOS 4.0, upgradable to watchOS 8.7 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 16GB 768MB RAM | 8GB 768MB RAM, 16GB 768MB RAM |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | No | No |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, barometer | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, barometer |
| | Natural language commands and dictation (talking mode) | Natural language commands and dictation (talking mode) |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | Wireless | Wireless |
| Type | Li-Ion 341 mAh (1.34 Wh), non-removable | Li-Ion 341 mAh (1.34 Wh), non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | White, Gray | Silver, Gold, Space Gray |
| Models | A1860, A1861, A1889, A1891, A1890, A1892 | A1860, A1861, A1889, A1891, A1890, A1892, A1858, A1859 |
| Price | About 1450 EUR | About 480 EUR |
| SAR | 0.35 W/kg (head) 0.18 W/kg (body) | 0.52 W/kg (head) 0.34 W/kg (body) |
Apple Watch Edition Series 3
- Premium Ceramic Case (scratch-resistant)
- Luxurious Feel
- More Durable than Aluminum (against scratches)
- Significantly Higher Price
- Limited Availability (discontinued)
- Battery life similar to Aluminum
Apple Watch Series 3 Aluminum
- More Affordable
- Widely Available (used market)
- Lightweight Aluminum Case
- Good Value for Money
- More Susceptible to Scratches
- Less Premium Feel
Display Comparison
Both the Edition and Aluminum Series 3 feature a 1.2-inch display with a resolution of 312 x 390 pixels. The display technology is the same (OLED), offering vibrant colors and excellent contrast. The difference lies primarily in the case material, which subtly affects the perceived brightness and reflections.
Camera Comparison
Neither the Edition nor the Aluminum Series 3 has a built-in camera. This feature was not included in this generation of Apple Watch.
Performance
Performance is virtually identical. Both models share the same Apple S3 chip and dual-core processor. App loading times, responsiveness, and overall speed are consistent across both versions. You won't notice a performance difference in daily use.
Battery Life
Battery life is similar on both models, typically lasting around 18 hours with moderate use. Heavy usage, such as GPS tracking or cellular calls, will drain the battery faster. Charging times are also comparable.
Buying Guide
The Apple Watch Series 3 Aluminum is ideal for everyday users seeking a reliable smartwatch with essential features at a reasonable price. The Edition is for those who prioritize premium materials, a luxurious aesthetic, and are willing to pay a premium for it. Consider your budget and desired level of durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the main difference between the Edition and Aluminum Series 3?
The primary difference is the case material. The Edition uses a ceramic case, while the Aluminum uses, well, aluminum. This impacts durability and aesthetics.
❓ Is the Apple Watch Series 3 Edition still worth buying?
It depends. If you prioritize a premium feel and scratch resistance and can find one at a reasonable price, it could be worthwhile. However, newer Apple Watch models offer significantly more features and performance.
