Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3 Review 2025: Is It Still Worth Buying for Fitness & Style?

Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3

Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3
Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3 Review 2025: Is It Still Worth Buying for Fitness & Style?

Inroduction

In a smartwatch market driven by flashy upgrades and new features every year, the Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3 still quietly holds a space — especially for those who care more about fitness, simplicity, and affordability. First launched in 2017 in partnership with Nike, this watch was built with runners and athletes in mind.

Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3
Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3 Review 2025: Is It Still Worth Buying for Fitness & Style?

 Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3: Full Specifications (Expanded)

CategoryDetails
Model NameApple Watch Nike+ Series 3
BrandApple Inc.
EditionNike+ Special Edition
Release DateSeptember 22, 2017
Case Sizes38mm, 42mm
Case Material7000 Series Aluminum
Back MaterialComposite back
Glass ProtectionIon-X Strengthened Glass
Display TypeOLED Retina Display (2nd Gen) with Force Touch
Display Resolution272 x 340 pixels (38mm), 312 x 390 pixels (42mm)
Display Brightness1000 nits (excellent outdoor visibility)
Always-On DisplayNot available
Touch InputYes, with Force Touch
ProcessorApple S3 Dual-Core Processor
Graphics ChipPowerVR GPU
Wireless ChipApple W2 Wireless Chip
Operating SystemUp to watchOS 8 (final update)
RAM768MB
Internal Storage8GB (GPS), 16GB (GPS + Cellular)
SensorsAccelerometer, Gyroscope, Optical Heart Sensor
ConnectivityWi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.2
Cellular SupportAvailable in LTE models only
GPS & NavigationBuilt-in GPS and GLONASS
MicrophoneBuilt-in
SpeakerBuilt-in
Siri SupportYes, with improved speed via W2 chip
Water ResistanceUp to 50 meters (ISO 22810:2010 standard)
Battery Capacity279mAh (38mm), 334mAh (42mm)
Battery LifeUp to 18 hours (mixed usage)
Charging MethodMagnetic charging cable (included)
Charging TimeAround 2 hours from 0% to 100%
Strap TypeNike Sport Band or Nike Sport Loop (fluoroelastomer, breathable)
Strap SizeS/M and M/L options included
Color OptionsSpace Gray Aluminum, Silver Aluminum
Watch FacesExclusive Nike Analog/Digital faces with Run Club metrics
App CompatibilityApple Watch App Store, Nike Run Club, Apple Health, Workout, Music, etc.
Audio PlaybackStream or sync music (Apple Music compatible)
Apple PayYes, via NFC
Fall DetectionNo
ECG MonitorNot available
Blood Oxygen MonitorNot supported
Sleep TrackingYes (via third-party apps or native from watchOS 7+)
Step CountingYes
Calorie TrackingYes
Workout ModesRunning, Cycling, Swimming, Walking, HIIT, Indoor activities
Phone CompatibilityRequires iPhone 6s or later with iOS 14 or above
Software FeaturesSiri, Notifications, Apple Pay, Activity Rings, Heart Rate Zones
Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3
Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3 Review 2025: Is It Still Worth Buying for Fitness & Style?

 Key Features of the Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3

1. Display

The second-generation OLED Retina display offers crisp clarity and high brightness levels up to 1000 nits, making it visible even under direct sunlight — ideal for outdoor workouts.

2. Performance

Equipped with the S3 dual-core processor and W2 wireless chip, it handles multitasking, app performance, and Bluetooth connectivity smoothly for most fitness and lifestyle tasks.

3. Fitness & Health Tracking

This model is a favorite among fitness enthusiasts. It includes:

  • Built-in GPS and GLONASS for accurate outdoor workout tracking
  • Optical heart rate sensor for 24/7 monitoring
  • Accelerometer and gyroscope for motion tracking
  • Nike Run Club integration, offering training plans, coaching, and motivation
  • Full swim-proof design for pool and open-water workouts

4. Design

Sleek, minimal, and athletic — the Nike+ edition stands out with:

  • Lightweight aluminum body
  • Breathable and flexible Nike Sport Band or Loop
  • Exclusive Nike watch faces that show time and workout metrics clearly

5. Battery Life

Despite its age, the Series 3 delivers up to 18 hours of regular use. This includes tracking workouts, receiving notifications, and using basic apps. A full overnight charge is still enough to power it through your day.

6. Software Support

Though the latest watchOS versions are not supported, watchOS 8 is still functional and includes most day-to-day features like:

  • Notifications
  • Music control
  • Apple Pay
  • Siri support
  • Fitness tracking
  • App syncing with iPhone
Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3

Pros and Cons of Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3

pros
  • Affordable price in 2025 compared to newer models
  • Excellent GPS and fitness tracking accuracy
  • Stylish and breathable Nike-exclusive bands
  • Lightweight, water-resistant, and comfortable design
  • Seamless integration with iPhone and Apple ecosystem

Cons

  • No watchOS updates beyond version 8
  • Slower performance than latest Apple Watches
  • Lacks ECG and blood oxygen sensors
  • Older display design with thick bezels
  • Limited internal storage, especially in GPS-only version
Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3
Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3 Review 2025: Is It Still Worth Buying for Fitness & Style?

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use the Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3 with my iPhone in 2025?

Yes, it still works with iPhones running iOS 14 or later. It syncs well for calls, messages, and fitness data.

2. Is the Nike+ version better than the regular Series 3?

The Nike+ model includes Nike-exclusive bands and watch faces, plus the Nike Run Club app pre-installed — ideal for runners and athletes.

3. Does it support the latest apps and features?

It supports most apps compatible with watchOS 8, but newer apps and features (like ECG or SpO2 monitoring) require newer Apple Watches.

4. Is it waterproof for swimming?

Yes! It’s water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it safe for pool workouts, showering, and even swimming in the ocean.

5. Is the Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3 still worth buying in 2025?

For budget-conscious buyers or first-time smartwatch users who want fitness tracking and Apple compatibility — absolutely yes.

Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3
Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3 Review 2025: Is It Still Worth Buying for Fitness & Style?

 Final Verdict: Is the Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3 Still Worth Buying in 2025?

The Apple Watch Nike+ Series 3 remains a smart buy in 2025 — if you’re focused on fitness, want stylish Nike branding, and don’t need the latest features. It’s especially attractive for beginners or casual users who want to track workouts, check messages, and enjoy smooth Apple integration at a fraction of the price.

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