Apple Watch Series 3 (42mm Black): Unboxing & First Look

Hey guys! Today, we're diving into the classic and still-relevant Apple Watch Series 3, specifically the 42mm black version. Even though newer models have hit the market, this one remains a solid choice for many, especially those looking for a budget-friendly entry into the world of smartwatches. So, let's unbox this bad boy and see what it offers in today's tech landscape.

Unboxing Experience

The unboxing experience of the Apple Watch Series 3 is quintessentially Apple: clean, minimalist, and efficient. The box itself is compact and sturdy, usually white, with a clear image of the watch on the top. Sliding off the lid reveals the Apple Watch nestled snugly in its compartment. Beneath the watch, you'll find the other essentials: the magnetic charging cable, the USB power adapter, and the various strap pieces to customize the fit. Apple always pays attention to the details, ensuring even the unboxing feels premium, which is a nice touch.

Inside the box, you typically find the watch itself, separated into two pieces: the watch face and the strap. The straps usually come in two different sizes to accommodate various wrist sizes. You also get the magnetic charging cable, which is proprietary to Apple Watches, and a 5W USB power adapter. Documentation is minimal, usually just a quick start guide and some safety information. Don't expect a lot of frills here; Apple keeps it simple and focused on getting you up and running quickly.

One thing you'll immediately notice is the sleekness of the design. The black aluminum case looks sharp, and the Ion-X glass covering the display feels smooth to the touch. The Digital Crown on the side provides a tactile way to navigate the interface, and the side button offers quick access to frequently used functions. Even after several years, the design holds up remarkably well, showcasing Apple's commitment to timeless aesthetics.

First Impressions and Design

Grabbing the Apple Watch Series 3 for the first time, you'll notice its lightweight feel. The aluminum case is comfortable on the wrist, making it suitable for all-day wear. The 42mm size is a great fit for those with larger wrists, providing a good balance between screen real estate and overall size. The OLED display is bright and vibrant, offering excellent visibility even in direct sunlight. The colors pop, and the text is crisp, making it easy to read notifications and other information at a glance. For many users, the size is ideal for readability without feeling too bulky.

The design is instantly recognizable as an Apple Watch, with its rounded corners and minimalist aesthetic. The black aluminum finish gives it a stealthy and sophisticated look, making it versatile enough to wear in various settings, from the gym to the office. The Digital Crown and side button are intuitively placed and provide satisfying tactile feedback. The heart rate sensor on the back sits flush against the skin, ensuring accurate readings without causing discomfort. While it may not have the edge-to-edge display of newer models, the Series 3 still looks modern and appealing.

Compared to its predecessors, the Series 3 brought significant improvements in performance and features. The inclusion of built-in GPS allowed for more accurate tracking of outdoor activities without needing to rely on a paired iPhone. The faster processor made the user interface feel snappier and more responsive. And the addition of cellular connectivity (on some models) allowed users to make calls, send messages, and stream music directly from their wrist. These enhancements made the Series 3 a game-changer in the smartwatch market.

Setting Up and Key Features

Setting up the Apple Watch Series 3 is a breeze, especially if you're already an iPhone user. The Watch app on your iPhone guides you through the process step-by-step, making it incredibly user-friendly. Pairing is seamless, and transferring your settings and preferences from your iPhone to your Watch is quick and easy. Within minutes, you'll be up and running, ready to explore the features and functionalities of your new smartwatch. The integration with the Apple ecosystem is one of the key reasons why Apple Watches are so popular.

Once set up, you'll have access to a wide range of features that make the Apple Watch Series 3 a valuable companion in your daily life. Notifications are delivered promptly and discreetly to your wrist, allowing you to stay informed without constantly pulling out your phone. You can customize which notifications you receive, ensuring you only get the information that matters most to you. The ability to respond to messages directly from your wrist is also incredibly convenient.

Fitness tracking is another area where the Apple Watch Series 3 shines. It accurately tracks your steps, distance, calories burned, and active minutes throughout the day. The built-in GPS allows you to track your outdoor workouts, such as running and cycling, with precision. The heart rate sensor continuously monitors your heart rate, providing valuable insights into your overall health and fitness. The Activity app encourages you to stay active by setting daily goals and rewarding you for achieving them. It's a great motivator for staying healthy and fit.

Beyond fitness tracking, the Apple Watch Series 3 offers a variety of other useful features. You can use it to control your music, set alarms and timers, check the weather, and even make contactless payments using Apple Pay. The App Store provides access to a vast library of apps that extend the functionality of the Watch even further. Whether you want to track your sleep, control your smart home devices, or play games, there's an app for that. The versatility of the Apple Watch is one of its greatest strengths.

Performance and Battery Life

Even though it's not the latest model, the Apple Watch Series 3 still offers respectable performance for everyday tasks. The processor is capable of handling most apps and functions without significant lag. Navigating the user interface is generally smooth and responsive. However, you may notice some slowdowns when running more demanding apps or multitasking heavily. Overall, the performance is more than adequate for most users, especially considering the price point.

Battery life is another important factor to consider. The Apple Watch Series 3 typically lasts for around 18 hours on a single charge, depending on usage. If you're using it heavily for workouts or other activities that utilize GPS, you may need to charge it more frequently. However, for most users, it should easily last through a full day of normal use. Charging is relatively quick, taking around 2 hours to fully charge the battery. It's best to get into the habit of charging it overnight so it's ready to go each morning.

To extend the battery life of your Apple Watch Series 3, there are several tips and tricks you can try. Lowering the screen brightness, disabling background app refresh, and turning off notifications for less important apps can all help to conserve power. You can also enable Power Reserve mode, which disables most features and only displays the time. This can be useful when you're running low on battery and need to make it last as long as possible. With a few simple tweaks, you can significantly improve the battery life of your Apple Watch.

Final Thoughts: Is It Still Worth It?

So, is the Apple Watch Series 3 (42mm black) still worth buying in [current year]? The answer depends on your needs and budget. If you're looking for an affordable entry into the world of smartwatches and don't need the latest and greatest features, the Series 3 is a solid option. It offers a good balance of features, performance, and price. It's still a capable device that can handle most everyday tasks with ease. However, if you're a power user who demands the best possible performance and features, you may want to consider a newer model.

For those on a tight budget, the Apple Watch Series 3 provides excellent value for money. It offers many of the same features as newer models, such as fitness tracking, notifications, and Apple Pay, at a fraction of the cost. It's a great way to experience the benefits of a smartwatch without breaking the bank. Plus, it's still supported by Apple with software updates, ensuring it will continue to function well for years to come. It remains a reliable and practical choice for many users.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the Apple Watch Series 3 comes down to personal preference. If you're comfortable with its limitations and appreciate its affordability, it can be a great addition to your tech arsenal. However, if you require the latest features and performance, you may want to explore other options. Hopefully, this unboxing and first look has given you a better understanding of what the Apple Watch Series 3 has to offer. Happy smartwatching!