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Apple Watch SE & Garmin Vivoactive 5 have some important differences, both models are popular for their health tracking, smart features, and daily utility. The Apple Watch SE comes with faster performance, improved cellular connectivity and advanced safety features. The vívoactive 5 offers bright AMOLED screen, extensive battery life, and a focus on wellness insights. Let’s explore their differences and similarities to find your perfect fit!
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor:
- Apple Watch SE has the all-new S8 SiP with a 64-bit dual-core CPU and improved neural engine for faster performance and better battery efficiency.
- Garmin vívoactive 5 uses a proprietary chipset designed for low-power consumption and daily tracking.
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Display:
- Apple Watch SE features a larger Retina LTPO OLED 1.73-inch display with thinner bezels to provide more space for complications, text, and animations.
- Garmin vívoactive 5 has a 1.2-inch AMOLED display.
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Operating System:
- Apple Watch SE supports watchOS 10 that integrates with Apple’s ecosystem and supports a wide range of third-party apps.
- Garmin vívoactive 5 runs on Garmin OS, which focuses on fitness with limited app support.
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Connectivity:
- Apple Watch SE supports GPS + Cellular connectivity to make calls, send messages, and stream music without an iPhone.
- Garmin vívoactive 5 connects via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi but lacks cellular support.
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Crash Detection:
- Apple Watch SE includes crash detection that automatically contacts emergency services after detecting a severe car accident.
- Garmin vívoactive 5 does not include crash detection functionality.
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Speaker & Microphone:
- Apple Watch SE features a built-in speaker and microphone that allow for hands-free calls, Siri, and voice messages.
- Garmin vívoactive 5 includes a microphone but does not support voice calling or audio playback.
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Internal Storage:
- Apple Watch SE includes 32GB of internal storage that enables music downloads, app installs, and podcasts without your phone.
- Garmin vívoactive 5 has 4GB of storage, mainly for offline music and activity data.
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Battery Life:
- Apple Watch SE has a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 18 hours to support daily wear with overnight charging.
- Garmin vívoactive 5 lasts up to 11 days in smartwatch mode for extended use without frequent charging.
Winner:
Garmin vívoactive 5
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Bluetooth:
- Apple Watch SE supports Bluetooth 5.3 for providing better connectivity, faster pairing, and improved energy efficiency.
- Garmin vívoactive 5 uses Bluetooth for syncing and notifications with your smartphone.
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Specs at a Glance
| Feature |
Apple Watch SE |
Garmin Vivoactive 5 |
| Processor |
Apple S8 SiP |
Proprietary Garmin chipset |
| RAM |
1GB |
Not disclosed |
| Storage |
32GB |
4GB |
| LTE Connectivity |
Yes |
No |
| Display Type |
Retina LTPO OLED |
AMOLED |
| Display Size |
1.57 inches |
1.2 inches |
| Resolution |
324 x 394 pixels |
390 x 390 pixels |
| Brightness |
1,000 nits |
Not officially stated |
| Battery Life |
Up to 18 hours |
Up to 11 days (5 days always-on) |
| Built-in GPS |
Yes |
Yes |
| Dual-frequency GPS |
No |
No |
| Microphone & Speaker |
Yes |
Microphone only |
| Water Resistance |
50m swimproof |
50m swimproof |
| Rugged Titanium Build |
No (aluminum) |
No (polymer case) |
| Emergency Siren |
No |
No |
| Health Sensors |
HR, fall/crash detection, sleep tracking |
HR, SpO2, stress, sleep insights |
| Action Button |
No |
No |
| OS |
watchOS 10 |
Garmin OS |
| Voice Assistant |
Siri |
No voice assistant |
Who Should Buy What?
Buy the Apple Watch SE if you:
- Want seamless integration with your iPhone and access to Apple services like Siri and Fitness+.
- Need LTE support for calls, messages, and apps without your phone.
- Prefer a large Retina display with better sunlight visibility.
- Use apps that benefit from 32GB of internal storage.
- Appreciate features like crash detection, microphone, and speaker support for full smartwatch use.
Check Apple Watch SE Best Price
Buy the Vivoactive 5 if you:
- Need a long battery life that lasts for days, even with always-on display.
- Prefer advanced wellness tracking like HRV status, nap detection, and sleep insights.
- Want a more affordable smartwatch that still covers all fitness basics.
- Like the traditional round watch design with AMOLED clarity.
- Don’t need LTE or deep app integrations but care more about health stats and battery.
Check Vivoactive 5 Best Price |
Winner by Category
| Category |
Winner |
| Processor |
Apple Watch SE |
| Dual Frequency GPS |
Tie |
| Display Size |
Apple Watch SE |
| Higher Resolution |
Garmin vívoactive 5 |
| Display Brightness |
Apple Watch SE |
| Dual Speaker System |
Apple Watch SE |
| Internal Storage |
Apple Watch SE |
| Battery Life |
Garmin vívoactive 5 |
| Microphone |
Apple Watch SE |
| LTE Connectivity |
Apple Watch SE |
FAQ
Does the Apple Watch SE support LTE connectivity?
Yes, the Apple Watch SE (GPS + Cellular model) supports LTE, allowing you to make calls, send messages, and use apps even when your iPhone is not nearby.
Can the Garmin vívoactive 5 make phone calls?
No, the Garmin vívoactive 5 does not support phone calls as it lacks a speaker and LTE functionality. It can only send notifications through Bluetooth when connected to a phone.
How long does the battery last on the Apple Watch SE?
The Apple Watch SE provides up to 18 hours of battery life on a full charge, which is typically enough for a full day of moderate use.
What is the battery life of the Garmin vívoactive 5?
The Garmin vívoactive 5 can last up to 11 days in smartwatch mode or up to 5 days with the always-on display enabled, making it suitable for extended use without frequent charging.
Does the Apple Watch SE have fall or crash detection?
Yes, the Apple Watch SE includes both fall detection and crash detection, which can automatically contact emergency services if a severe incident is detected.
Is the Garmin vívoactive 5 good for sleep tracking?
Yes, the Garmin vívoactive 5 includes detailed sleep tracking with insights on stages of sleep, nap detection, and personalized coaching through the Garmin Connect app.
Can I use Siri on the Apple Watch SE?
Yes, the Apple Watch SE comes with Siri voice assistant support, allowing you to set reminders, ask questions, or control smart devices hands-free.
Does the Garmin vívoactive 5 have an app store?
Yes, the Garmin vívoactive 5 supports Connect IQ, Garmin’s app platform, which includes a range of downloadable watch faces and fitness apps, though it’s more limited than Apple’s App Store.
Is either watch suitable for swimming?
Both the Apple Watch SE and the Garmin vívoactive 5 are water-resistant up to 50 meters, making them safe for swimming in pools or open water.
Which device is better for iPhone users?
The Apple Watch SE is better suited for iPhone users due to its deep integration with iOS features, including messaging, phone calls, Siri, and seamless app syncing.