Those accustomed to Apple already know that the acronym “SE” stands for an entry model – a version with fewer features (and cheaper) of some premium product. It was already valid for iPhones and, a few years ago, also for smartwatches: in September the Second generation Apple Watch SE.
The price reduction is expressive: on Apple’s Brazilian site, the “little brother” costs R$ 1,900 less than the Apple Watch Series 8 (which Tilt also tested).
Both were also evaluated for the Tilt Lab Day event, which analyzed 8 smartwatch models currently on the market. As expected, series 8 won several awards (see the swatches in the video at the top of the page) and the SE was solidly in second place in three categories.
But how much is this difference really? Is R$1,900 worth it? Check it out in detail below.
What type is it?
Anyone taking a quick look will notice no visual distinction between them. Even the small size of the SE is barely noticeable. Its 40mm and 44mm models are just 1mm smaller than those in the 8 Series.
The SE is operated by a rotating crown (which can also be pressed in) and a more “camouflaged” second button just below. And of course, as with other smartwatches, the screen is touch sensitive.
Curiously who is the pulse that is “indomitable” (a recurring problem in the line). It takes practice to attach it to your wrist and until you get used to it, it becomes a very tedious and time consuming task. And maybe you will repeat it often enough, because the bracelets are interchangeable and there are different color and style models to match your look.
If Apple perhaps hasn’t refined the mechanics yet, the electronics remain incomparable. Pairing with iphone (it only works with him) it’s almost instantaneous, smooth. Accessing its functions through the watch is also easy. You don’t even have to look for the manual in the box.
almost complete
Heart rate measurement on Apple Watch SE
Image: Rodrigo Lara/UOL
Compared to the 8, the SE does not use the “always-on” display system, nor does it have an IP6X dust resistance rating. It also lacks three main functions: it doesn’t measure blood oxygen, electrocardiogram, or monitor body temperature (used to detail the menstrual cycle).
The other functions remain, such as tracking a huge number of sports. Between them:
- walking and running (indoor and outdoor)
- bike
- bodybuilding
- I swim
- soccer
- basketball
- pathway
Watch SE also measures heart rate, detects falls or accidents, and offers media control, app installation, and options to customize the look.
Its “engine” is also the Apple S8 chipset, so it’s as fast as the Watch Series 8. But, like its “big brother” (and many other company products), its battery isn’t the best. It lasts about a day, but can last a day and a half when using the economy mode, which limits some functions.
Is it worth saving?
For my daily use, more focused on sport and common functions, the reductions compared to the Watch Series 8 are not lacking.
Other users, however, may be frustrated. Especially people who are menstruating: checking your period will still have to be done manually.
On the plus side are:
- the main health monitoring functions are present
- wide range of sports modes
- fast performance and ease of use
- significantly lower price than the 8 Series
The negative aspects weigh a little more if you consider that, for the amount charged by the SE, it is possible to take one home Series 7 (and still have some money left). The model of the previous generation loses nothing for beginners and, even compared to the Watch Series 8, only body temperature monitoring is missing.
But, if the idea is to have the latest product, the SE is still worth it. It is a complete, simple to use and elegant smartwatch that, in essence, owes nothing to its more expensive brother.
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