Have you been thinking about getting an Apple Watch but don’t want to break the bank? You might be eyeing the Apple Watch SE (1st gen) and wondering if it’s still a good choice in 2024. Well, you’re in luck! I’m here to share my personal experience after using this nifty gadget for over two months. Let’s dive into why the Apple Watch SE might just be the smartwatch you’re looking for.
Unboxing the Apple Watch SE (1st gen): My Initial Thoughts
Back in December, I snagged a second-hand Apple Watch SE (1st gen) from a local CeX store—you know, that place where you can find all sorts of second-hand tech? I got myself a 44 mm Space Grey model for just £120. It was in condition B, which means it was in pretty good shape. No major scratches, though it didn’t come with a strap, but no worries—I found a decent one on Amazon. I’ve been wearing it as my main watch, and spoiler alert: I’m loving it!
First Impressions: Design and Build Quality
Even though this model hit the shelves back in September 2020, it still holds its own in the design department. My watch barely has any scratches and looks almost like new. Sure, it’s a bit older, but it doesn’t feel outdated at all. If you’re on a budget, checking out second-hand options might be the way to go, just like I did.
Diving into Features and Performance
The Apple Watch SE might not boast all the bells and whistles of its more expensive siblings, but don’t let that fool you. It’s got all the essentials for most everyday users. Think Apple Pay, GPS, an accelerometer, and even Fall Detection—a lifesaver for outdoor adventures. On the flip side, though, it doesn’t offer an always-on display, ECG, or blood oxygen tracking. For me, those features weren’t deal-breakers, and I think most folks won’t miss them either.
Performance: Does It Live Up to the Hype?
If there’s one thing I can’t stand, it’s tech that’s sluggish. Thankfully, the Apple Watch SE is anything but. I haven’t encountered any lag or performance issues—it’s been smooth sailing! So, if you’re worried about performance, this watch gets a big thumbs up from me.
Battery Life: How Does It Hold Up?
When you’re buying a used device, battery life is a key concern. Lucky for me, the battery on my watch has about 90% capacity left, which is pretty solid for a second-hand gadget. With daily use—including activity tracking—I charge it in the morning, and it lasts till bedtime. I use the Benks 3-In-1 Magnetic Charging Stand, a nifty gadget I reviewed on my YouTube channel, to keep it juiced up.
Staying Active: Health Features at a Glance
For those like me who love staying active, this watch doesn’t disappoint. From heart rate monitoring to step tracking, it covers the basics and more. Whether I’m cycling, taking long walks, or dabbling in various workouts, the watch keeps up admirably. While it lacks ECG and Blood Oxygen sensors, it does sync perfectly with Strava, which is a big plus for fitness enthusiasts.
Keeping Updated: Software Support
Even though Apple has discontinued the first-gen SE, it’s still getting software updates. How long will that continue? That’s anyone’s guess. It’s essential to keep this in mind before buying, as support could end, leaving you without updates or new features.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
So, is the Apple Watch SE (1st gen) worth it in 2024? In my experience, absolutely—especially if you’re on a budget. Initially, I planned to use it temporarily, but now I’m thinking of hanging onto it for at least another year. If you do decide to buy second-hand, just make sure to inspect it in person and ask about warranties. I got mine with a two-year warranty from CeX, which adds great peace of mind. Overall, I’m thrilled with my purchase!
FAQ
Is the Apple Watch SE (1st gen) still getting updates in 2024?
Yes, it continues to receive software updates, though there’s no guarantee how long this will last.
Does the Apple Watch SE have health tracking features?
Absolutely! It comes with standard health features like heart rate monitoring, activity tracking, and connects well with apps like Strava.
What should I look for when buying a second-hand watch?
Check the condition and battery life, and ensure a warranty is included. Inspect the device in person if possible for peace of mind.
Looking for Cellular Plans for Apple Watch?
Here’s a breakdown of all the plans that are currently available in the US.
| Carrier | Cost (per month) | Additional Details |
|---|---|---|
| US Mobile | FREE with Unltd Premium Or $6.5/mo annually Or $9.5/mo Taxes & fees included! | Works with any plans. |
| Verizon | $15 + tax & fees | $7.50 credit with certain plansVerizon |
| AT&T | $10 + tax & fees | |
| T-Mobile | $12 + tax & fees | Only works with certain planswww.iphonelife.comiMore |
| Xfinity Mobile | $10 + tax & fees | Pairs well with Xfinity home internet www.iphonelife.comCoverage Critic |
| C Spire | $10 + tax & fees | Only available in select regionsWear To TrackiMore |
