The Apple Watch SE 44mm (second generation, launched in 2022) is one of the smartest purchases in the Apple Watch lineup in 2026 — especially refurbished. Apple's current lineup includes Series 11, Ultra 3, and the 2025 SE, but the 2022 SE 44mm offers virtually the same essential features (notifications, fitness, heart rate, GPS, safety) with the larger screen most users prefer. At iOutlet, all Apple Watch models come with a direct 24-month warranty and a battery tested with specialist technical software.
In this article
- Apple Watch SE 44mm (2022) Specifications
- Advantages of the 44mm size
- What the SE 44mm does NOT have (vs Series 10/11)
- SE 44mm 2022 vs SE 44mm 2025
- Real-world battery life in 2026
- GPS or GPS + Cellular?
- SE 44mm vs alternatives comparison
- Personalisation: bands and watch faces
- Is the Apple Watch SE 44mm worth it in 2026?
- Frequently asked questions
- Does the SE 44mm 2022 still receive updates in 2026?
- Can I swim with the SE?
- Does it work with any iPhone?
- Can you make calls on the SE?
- What about delivery and warranty from iOutlet?
This guide takes a close look at the SE 44mm in 2026: specs, comparison with the SE 2025 and Series 10/11, real-world battery life, GPS vs Cellular options, and when this refurbished model makes more sense than buying new.
Apple Watch SE 44mm (2022) Specifications
- Size: 44mm (aluminium case)
- Colours: Midnight, Starlight, Silver
- Display: Retina LTPO OLED, 368×448, up to 1000 nits brightness
- Chip: S8 SiP (same family as Series 8)
- Storage: 32GB
- Battery: up to 18 hours with normal use
- Water resistance: WR50 (50 metres)
- Connectivity: GPS or GPS + Cellular, Wi-Fi 4, Bluetooth 5.0
- Sensors: 2nd-generation optical heart rate, high-G accelerometer (up to 32g), gyroscope, ambient light sensor
- Detection: fall detection, car crash detection, irregular rhythm alerts
Advantages of the 44mm size
- Larger display — easier to read notifications, messages, maps, and workouts.
- Slightly better battery life — larger case accommodates a bigger battery.
- Music controls are easier to use — handy during workouts with Apple Music.
- Suits medium and large wrists — never looks too small.
What the SE 44mm does NOT have (vs Series 10/11)
- Always-On Display — the screen turns off when you lower your wrist. You need to tap or raise your wrist to see the time.
- Blood oxygen sensor (SpO2) — exclusive to Series 9+ and Ultra.
- ECG (electrocardiogram) — Series 4+ only (not SE).
- Temperature sensor — Series 8+ and Ultra only.
- Stainless steel or titanium case — SE is aluminium only.
- Fast charging — does not support the fast charging introduced with Series 7+.
- Larger 46mm display — Series 10 and 11 have bigger screens.
For most users, none of this is critical. If you value Always-On Display, SpO2, ECG, or a larger screen, consider a refurbished Series 10 from iOutlet. Otherwise, the SE 44mm delivers 90% of the Apple Watch experience at half the price.
SE 44mm 2022 vs SE 44mm 2025
Apple launched a new SE generation in 2025 with the S10 chip — essentially a faster version of the same concept. The visual and functional differences are minimal:
- Faster chip — S10 vs S8 (around 30% more performance)
- No new health features — a deliberate continuation of the SE concept
- Same display, same design, same colours
For typical use (notifications, workouts, GPS, safety), you won't notice the difference between the SE 2022 and SE 2025. Refurbished, the SE 2022 offers genuine savings for a virtually identical experience.
Real-world battery life in 2026
Apple quotes up to 18 hours. In real-world use (notifications, daily workouts, heart rate monitoring, occasional GPS, sleep tracking), you can comfortably get through a full day with charge to spare, finishing the day between 30% and 50%. With extended Low Power mode, you can reach 36 hours. On iOutlet refurbished models, the battery is tested with specialist technical software and is covered by the 24-month warranty.
GPS or GPS + Cellular?
Two versions available:
- GPS — works with an iPhone nearby (Bluetooth/Wi-Fi). Ideal for typical use at home, in the office, or workouts with your iPhone.
- GPS + Cellular — built-in eSIM allows calls, messages, and streaming without your iPhone. Useful for running without your phone or for emergencies away from home. In Portugal, MEO, NOS, and Vodafone all support it.
The Cellular version costs more (when new) and requires a dedicated plan. Refurbished, it's worth it if you know you'll regularly use it out of range of your iPhone.
SE 44mm vs alternatives comparison
| Model | Chip | Always-On | SpO2/ECG | Condition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SE 44mm (2022) | S8 | No | No / No | Refurbished |
| SE 44mm (2025) | S10 | No | No / No | New |
| Series 8 45mm | S8 | Yes | Yes / Yes | Refurbished |
| Series 10 46mm | S10 | Yes | Yes / Yes | Refurb/New |
| Series 11 46mm | S11 | Yes | Yes / Yes | New |
| Ultra 3 49mm | S11 | Yes | Yes / Yes | New (premium) |
Personalisation: bands and watch faces
All Apple Watch bands for 44mm/45mm/46mm are compatible (same connector). Sport Band, Sport Loop, Braided Solo Loop, Trail Loop, Solo Loop, and various leather and stainless steel options.
Watch faces: dozens of native faces with customisable complications. Third-party apps offer further aesthetic options.
Is the Apple Watch SE 44mm worth it in 2026?
Yes, if: you want the Apple Watch experience at the best price; typical use (notifications, workouts, GPS, safety); the lack of Always-On isn't a dealbreaker; you value iOutlet's direct 24-month warranty.
Step up to a refurbished Series 10, if: you want Always-On, blood oxygen sensor, ECG, temperature sensor, and a 46mm display. The price difference refurbished is usually small.
Frequently asked questions
Does the SE 44mm 2022 still receive updates in 2026?
Yes. It runs watchOS 12 and is supported by Apple. It will continue to receive updates for another 2–3 years.
Can I swim with the SE?
Yes, WR50 — suitable for swimming in pools and the sea. Not for deep diving or water sports involving significant water impact.
Does it work with any iPhone?
It works with iPhone XS or later, running iOS 18+. Compatible with the vast majority of iPhones in use in 2026. See our refurbished iPhone selection to pair it with.
Can you make calls on the SE?
Yes, with an iPhone nearby (any SE) or independently (SE GPS + Cellular with a carrier plan). Built-in microphone and speaker included.
What about delivery and warranty from iOutlet?
Free delivery within up to 8 working days to mainland Portugal. 24-month direct iOutlet warranty on refurbished items, with full coverage (including the battery). 14-day no-questions-asked returns.
Ready to choose? Browse all refurbished Apple Watch options available at iOutlet, all with a direct 24-month warranty, battery tested with specialist technical software, and free delivery within up to 8 working days.
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