The Apple Watch Series 5, released in September 2019, introduced an always-on Retina display, letting users check time effortlessly. Powered by the S5 chip, it ensures smooth performance and enhanced functionality, making daily interactions faster and more efficient.
Packed with health and fitness features like heart rate tracking and an ECG app, it appeals strongly to fitness enthusiasts. Available in materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, and ceramic, it blends innovation with elegance to suit various preferences.
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Release Date and Price
The Apple Watch Series 5 was released on September 20, 2019. At launch, the pricing for the Series 5 started at $399 for the 40mm aluminum GPS model, while the 44mm aluminum GPS version was priced at $429. For the GPS + Cellular models, the starting prices were $499 for the 40mm variant and $529 for the 44mm variant.
The Series 5 also introduced premium materials, with the titanium models starting at $799 and the ceramic models beginning at $1,299.
Technical Specs: Apple Watch Series 5
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Design and Display
The Apple Watch Series 5 kept the familiar design of earlier models but introduced an essential feature: the always-on display. This LTPO OLED Retina display lets users check time and notifications anytime without raising their wrist or tapping.
A major upgrade, the always-on display ensured continuous information access while saving battery with adaptive brightness and refresh rates. Series 5 came in two sizes, 40 mm and 44 mm, offering resolutions of 324 x 394 and 368 x 448 pixels.
In addition to the always-on display, Series 5 offered a range of case materials, including aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, and ceramic. This variety allowed users to choose a model that best suited their style and preferences. The new titanium and ceramic options provided a premium feel and durability, supplying different tastes and needs.
Performance and Processor
The Apple Watch Series 5 was powered by the S5 dual-core processor, which provided a performance boost over the previous generation. The S5 chip ensured smooth and responsive operation, whether users were navigating apps, tracking workouts, or utilizing new features.
The watch also featured the W3 wireless chip, which improved Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, ensuring seamless communication with other Apple devices.
Battery Life
Despite the introduction of the always-on display, the Apple Watch Series 5 maintained a battery life of up to 18 hours on a single charge. This battery life was sufficient for a full day of use, including continuous display, workout tracking, and notifications. Charging was done via a magnetic charging cable, which connected easily to the back of the watch.
The Series 5’s efficient use of power ensured that the always-on display did not significantly impact overall battery performance.
Features: Apple Watch Series 5
Here are a few notable features of the Apple Series 5 Watch:
Health and Fitness
The Apple Watch Series 5 continued to build on its health and fitness capabilities, offering a comprehensive suite of features. It included an optical heart rate sensor, an electrical heart sensor for ECG readings, and a built-in GPS for accurate tracking of outdoor activities.
Series 5 also featured the same advanced health monitoring capabilities introduced with Series 4, such as fall detection and international emergency calling.
The watch OS 6 update brought new health features, including the Noise app, which monitored surrounding sound levels and alerted users if they were exposed to potentially harmful noise levels. The Series 5 also supported menstrual cycle tracking through the health app, providing additional tools for users to monitor their well-being.
Software and Features
The Apple Watch Series 5 launched with Watch OS 6, which introduced several new features and improvements. Watch OS 6 included a redesigned App Store, allowing users to download apps directly from their wrist, and new watch faces with customizable complications.
The update also brought the ability to use the watch as a noise monitor and added new workout modes, such as yoga and hiking. The Series 5 continued to support Apple Pay for contactless payments and Siri for voice commands, enhancing its functionality and user experience.
Connectivity: Enhanced Integration and Options
The Apple Watch Series 5 includes several connectivity features that enhance its functionality and integration with the iPhone and other devices.
- Bluetooth:0
- Wi-Fi:11b/g/n 2.4GHz
- GPS: Built-in
- Cellular: Available in select models, enabling phone-free usage
- NFC: Apple Pay support
With Bluetooth 5.0, the Series 5 offers improved range and faster data transfer. The optional cellular model allows users to make calls, send messages, and stream music directly from the watch without needing their iPhone nearby. Apple Pay support via NFC enables convenient contactless payments directly from the wrist.
Comparison: Apple Watch Series 4 vs Series 5 vs SE (1st Generation)
Here’s a comparison of the Apple Watch Series 4, Apple Watch Series 5, and Apple Watch SE (1st generation) in a tabular format based on the provided details:
| Feature | Apple Watch Series 4 | Apple Watch Series 5 | Apple Watch SE (1st Generation) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Finish | Gold Stainless, Silver Aluminum, Space Gray Aluminum, Brush Gold Aluminum, Steel Stainless, Space Black Stainless | Gold Stainless, Silver Aluminum, Space Gray Aluminum, Brush Gold Aluminum, Steel Stainless, Space Black Stainless, Titanium, Space Black Titanium, White Ceramic | Gold Stainless, Silver Aluminum, Space Gray Aluminum |
| Case Sizes | 40mm, 44mm (aluminum or stainless steel) | 40mm, 44mm (aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, ceramic) | 40mm, 44mm (aluminum) |
| Display | LTPO OLED Retina Display, up to 1000 nits | LTPO OLED Always-on Retina Display, up to 1000 nits | LTPO OLED Retina Display, up to 1000 nits |
| ECG App | Yes (Electrical heart sensor) | Yes (Electrical heart sensor) | No |
| Heart Rate Notifications | High & low heart rate notifications | High & low heart rate notifications | High & low heart rate notifications |
| Irregular Rhythm Notifications | Yes (Irregular rhythm detection) | Yes (Irregular rhythm detection) | Yes (Irregular rhythm detection) |
| Low Cardio Fitness Notifications | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Sleep Tracking | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Cycle Tracking | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Fall Detection | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Water Resistance | 50m (Swimproof) | 50m (Swimproof) | 50m (Swimproof) |
| GPS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Chip | S4 SiP (64-bit dual-core) | S5 SiP (64-bit dual-core) | S5 SiP (64-bit dual-core) |
| Storage | 16GB | 32GB | 32GB |
| Sensors | ECG app, Second-gen optical heart sensor, Ambient light sensor, Altimeter, Compass, Gyroscope | ECG app, Second-gen optical heart sensor, Ambient light sensor, Altimeter, Compass, Gyroscope | Second-gen optical heart sensor, Ambient light sensor, Altimeter, Compass, Gyroscope |
| Connectivity | GPS, Cellular & Wi-Fi (LTE & UMTS) options | GPS, Cellular & Wi-Fi (LTE & UMTS) options | GPS, Cellular & Wi-Fi (LTE & UMTS) options |
| Battery Life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 18 hours | Up to 18 hours |
| Price | Higher (due to additional materials and features) | Higher (due to additional features like Always-on display) | More affordable (limited features) |
| Materials | Aluminum, Stainless Steel | Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Titanium, Ceramic | Aluminum |
| Apple Pay | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Environmental Features | Mercury-, BFR-, PVC-, and beryllium-free, Energy efficient | Mercury-, BFR-, PVC-, and beryllium-free, Energy efficient | Mercury-, BFR-, PVC-, and beryllium-free, Energy efficient |
| International Emergency Calling | Yes | Yes | Yes |
The Apple Watch Series 4, Series 5, and SE (1st generation) each offer unique features and specifications catering to different user needs. The Series 4 introduced the ECG app and featured advanced sensors, while the Series 5 brought an always-on display for enhanced convenience.
On the other hand, the Apple Watch SE (1st generation) offers a more affordable option while maintaining essential features like GPS, heart rate monitoring, and fall detection. This comparison highlights key differences in design, display, battery life, health features, and connectivity to help you choose the best Apple Watch based on your preferences.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Always-on Retina display for quick access to information.
- Advanced health monitoring features, including ECG and heart rate tracking.
- Water-resistant up to 50 m, suitable for swimming.
- Fast and smooth performance with the Apple S5 chipset.
- GPS + cellular connectivity for calls and notifications without an iPhone.
Cons:
- Battery life could be better, especially with the always-on display enabled.
- No sleep tracking feature (introduced in later models).
- No USB or headphone jack for wired connectivity.
Conclusion: Is the Apple Watch Series 5 Still Worth It?
The Apple Watch Series 5 introduced significant advancements in smartwatch technology, including an always-on display and improved health-tracking features.
Even though newer models exist, the Series 5 remains a strong choice for users seeking performance, convenience, and reliability. Its combination of speed, advanced health monitoring, and everyday usability ensures it stays relevant in the smartwatch market today.
Whether upgrading from an older model or joining the Apple Watch ecosystem, the Series 5 offers excellent functionality.
FAQs: Apple Watch Series 5 Review: Is It Worth the Upgrade?
Apple Watch Series 5 vs. Series 7: Which One is Better?
The Apple Watch Series 7 is a clear upgrade over the Series 5, offering a larger, more durable display, faster charging, and better overall performance. While the Series 5 introduced the always-on display, the Series 7 enhanced it with thinner bezels, a more durable design, and a full keyboard for text input. If you prioritize longevity, durability, and faster performance, the Apple Watch 7 is the better choice. However, the Series 5 remains a solid option with advanced health features and a premium build.
How Old is the Apple Watch Series 5?
The Apple Watch Series 5 was released on September 20, 2019, making it over five years old in 2024. While it's no longer the latest model, it still offers great features like an always-on display and ECG monitoring, making it a viable option for users who don’t need the latest tech.
Is the Apple Watch Series 5 Waterproof?
The Apple Watch Series 5 is water-resistant with a 50-meter rating (WR50), meaning it can handle swimming, splashes, and rain. However, it's not fully waterproof, so it’s not recommended for high-pressure water activities like scuba diving or deep-sea swimming. Always rinse it with fresh water after exposure to salt or chlorinated water.
Is the Apple Watch Series 5 Better Than the Apple Watch SE?
The Apple Watch Series 5 and Apple Watch SE cater to different users. The Series 5 has an always-on display, ECG monitoring, and a more premium design with stainless steel options, while the SE offers a more budget-friendly alternative with a newer processor. If you value advanced health tracking and a high-end build, go for the Series 5. If you prefer better performance at a lower cost, the Apple Watch SE is a great choice.
Does the Apple Watch Series 5 Track Sleep?
The Apple Watch Series 5 did not originally include a built-in sleep tracking feature, but with the watchOS 7 update, it gained support for Apple's native Sleep app. While it lacks advanced sleep metrics found in newer models, you can still use third-party apps to track sleep stages and patterns.
