The Apple Watch SE 2, elegantly displayed alongside the Spigen Crystal Liquid Pro Apple Watch band, stands as a testament to Apple’s refined balance of design, function, and accessibility. Captured in a photograph by Kayla Solino for ZDNET, this combination perfectly encapsulates the aesthetic minimalism and sophistication for which Apple has long been celebrated.
As one of several watch models in Apple’s extensive and ever-evolving lineup, the SE 2 occupies a unique place. While it is no longer the latest device in the company’s foundational SE range—Apple introduced the refreshed Watch SE 3 in September—it nonetheless continues to resonate with consumers who value dependable functionality without an inflated price tag. Though the SE 2 does not inherit every advanced feature integrated into the SE 3, it remains a thoroughly capable entry-level smartwatch. It is especially well-suited for individuals who are new to wearable technology or for younger users who may not yet require the professional-grade sensors or premium finishes of Apple’s higher-tier watches. Moreover, its affordability makes it particularly appealing during high-discount shopping events such as Black Friday, when it routinely becomes the least expensive new Apple Watch available.
In practical terms, the SE 2 delivers remarkable value for users seeking to monitor fundamental health and fitness data, stay connected conveniently, and enjoy the seamless interoperability of the broader Apple ecosystem. These strengths make it a model that many, myself included, find difficult to replace. Even with newer generations on the market, I still find the SE 2 performs more than adequately and integrates effortlessly into my daily routine.
To illustrate this balance, I can confidently say that the Apple Watch SE 2 has become a steadfast companion within my own lifestyle—one largely defined by simplicity and minimal reliance on unnecessary tech embellishments. It efficiently tracks my workouts, steps, and various health indicators, while also introducing me to the convenience of sleep tracking with impressive accuracy and ease of use. For those who are tempted to make a purchase right now, major retailers such as Walmart are currently offering up to $90 off select versions of the Apple Watch SE 2. The deal extends across several variations, including models equipped with the Midnight and Starlight sport bands.
The larger 44mm configuration of the Apple Watch SE 2 is also discounted, available at $159 in select finishes—a historically low price point for this device. Considering that inventory of the SE 2 is expected to diminish as the SE 3 increasingly takes over retail displays, this may be one of the final opportunities to acquire the SE 2 in brand-new condition directly from major outlets. By comparison, the updated Apple Watch SE 3 has simultaneously seen its price lowered from $249 to $199, reflecting Apple’s strategy of keeping its wearable lineup competitive and accessible.
For buyers who are not specifically seeking the more advanced functionalities of the premium Series 10, Series 11, or the SE 3, the Watch SE 2 remains an astute purchase. Despite being positioned as a base model, its capabilities extend well beyond expectations. Users can anticipate up to 18 hours of battery life—enough to last a typical day with moderate usage—and enjoy 32GB of internal storage, sufficient for apps, music, and core data. The watch also inherits a subset of the health and safety features found in higher-end Apple models such as the Series 9 and Ultra, though it omits certain advanced tools like blood oxygen monitoring, ECG heart diagnostics, and temperature tracking. Nevertheless, for everyday well-being and activity monitoring, the SE 2 remains exemplary.
My personal transition to the SE series came during the previous Black Friday sales event. Having previously owned the Apple Watch Series 3, I decided to upgrade to the 40mm SE model, and it quickly became one of my most satisfying technology investments. The SE offered every essential feature I needed while steering clear of the complex or extraneous enhancements that often make flagship devices feel intimidating or excessive. Its bright and clear display, rapid response speed, and effortlessly intuitive operation have rendered it an ideal companion for both fitness sessions and more sedentary tasks such as replying to messages or emails. The savings realized by choosing the SE model instead of a premium version also enabled me to personalize my watch further, purchasing several additional interchangeable bands to coordinate with different ensembles and moods.
ZDNET evaluated this particular deal using its established editorial rating system, granting it an impressive 4 out of 5 score based on the sub-$150 price threshold. This is the lowest retail price ever recorded for the Watch SE 2, and given the variety still available in color choices and band sizes, it likely represents one of the most favorable buying opportunities currently accessible. While some shoppers might prefer to pay a small premium for the $199 SE 3, the SE 2 remains an undeniably strong contender—especially for beginners or those who desire a high-quality smartwatch experience without the need for top-tier innovations.
Of course, as with any popular promotion, the availability of these deals can fluctuate unexpectedly, and some may expire or sell out rapidly. Nevertheless, ZDNET’s editorial team maintains a commitment to continuously monitoring and updating the most advantageous product discounts, ensuring readers can make informed and timely purchase decisions. Should a particular offer lapse, consumers can rest assured that new opportunities will soon follow, all catalogued and refreshed on ZDNET.com.
ZDNET’s overarching objective is to deliver guidance that empowers shoppers to buy with intelligence and confidence. Drawing upon over three decades of experience, the company involves a diverse team of 30 dedicated product reviewers and maintains more than 10,000 square feet of testing space designed to rigorously evaluate cutting-edge technology. In 2025, ZDNET refined its methodology for assessing consumer deals, implementing a structured, quantifiable system that allows readers to interpret the scale of savings visually through its editorial rating badges. These icons signify expert endorsement and simplify the decision-making process, particularly for those navigating the vast landscape of modern tech sales.
At the heart of this evolved approach lies a balanced rating method that combines quantitative measures—such as percentage-based discounts—with qualitative judgments derived from editorial expertise. Each deal is appraised according to variables including product frequency, brand recognition, relevance, and consistency of availability. The final result is a carefully curated list of technology offers, handpicked for ZDNET’s readership and fully supported by its editorial credibility and professional oversight. This structure ensures that the value extended to each reader is not merely numerical but also rooted in trust, transparency, and a comprehensive understanding of what constitutes a genuinely worthwhile purchase.
Sourse: https://www.zdnet.com/article/this-apple-watch-model-is-still-my-favorite-and-its-the-cheapest-one-during-black-friday/
