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Apple Watch SE vs Series 5 – Which Should You Buy?

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Apple Watch SE & Series 5 have some important differences, both models are popular for their health tracking, smart features, and daily utility. The Apple Watch Series 5 is a more advanced model with newer sensors, advanced display, additional health sensors, more internal storage and better connectivity. The Apple Watch SE is more affordable and still provides core fitness tracking. Let’s explore their differences and similarities to find your perfect fit!

Feature-by-Feature Breakdown

Display:

  • Apple Watch Series 5 features an LTPO OLED Always-On Retina display that allows viewing the time without wrist movement.
  • Apple Watch SE does not support always-on display and requires wrist activation.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 5

 

Brightness:

  • Apple Watch Series 5 supports up to 1000 nits of brightness that improves visibility in direct sunlight.
  • Apple Watch SE also reaches up to 1000 nits.
Winner:

Tie

 

Operating System:

  • Apple Watch Series 5 supports watchOS 10 and future updates that ensure long-term software compatibility.
  • Apple Watch SE supports up to watchOS 9 and no longer receives updates.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 5

 

Screen Size:

  • Apple Watch Series 5 has a 44mm display that provides more space for text and UI elements.
  • Apple Watch SE uses a 40mm screen, which is smaller and less readable.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 5

 

Health Features:

  • Apple Watch Series 5 supports activity tracking, VO2 Max, ECG, heart rate notifications, and Fall Detection to monitor vital health metrics.
  • Apple Watch SE includes most fitness features but lacks ECG.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 5

 

Speaker & Microphone:

  • Apple Watch Series 5 includes improved microphone placement and louder speaker that enhance call quality.
  • Apple Watch SE has a basic speaker and mic that are functional but less clear.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 5

 

Battery Life:
  • The Apple Watch Series 5 offers 18-hour battery life that supports all-day use with advanced features enabled.
  • Apple Watch SE comes with up to 16 hours of battery life.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 5

 

Durability:
  • Apple Watch Series 5 has a slightly more premium aluminum build and sapphire back.
  • Apple Watch SE uses an aluminum case and Ion-X glass.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 5

 

Resolution:
  • Apple Watch Series 5 includes a 368 x 448 resolution that delivers sharper text and app visuals.
  • Apple Watch SE has a resolution of 324 x 394 pixels.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 5
Check Apple Watch Series 5 Best Price
Check Apple Watch SE Best Price

Specs at a Glance

Feature Apple Watch Series 5 Apple Watch SE
Display Size 1.78 inches 1.57 inches
Display Type LTPO OLED with Always-On LTPO OLED without Always-On
Display Resolution 368 x 448 pixels 324 x 394 pixels
Brightness 1000 nits 1000 nits
Battery Life Up to 18 hours Up to 16 hours
Fast Charging No No
LTE Yes No (GPS model only)
WiFi 2.4GHz only 2.4GHz only
Water Resistance 50 meters 50 meters
Sensors ECG, HR sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope HR sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope
Blood Oxygen App No No
Crash Detection No Yes
Compass Yes Yes
Fall Detection Yes Yes

 

Who Should Buy What?

Buy the Apple Watch Series 5 if you:

  • Want an Always-On Display for glancing at the time and stats anytime
  • Prefer a larger screen with higher resolution for better readability
  • Need ECG support for detailed heart health monitoring
  • Value LTE connectivity for using the watch without your phone
  • Appreciate a premium design with more durable materials

Check Apple Watch Series 5 Best Price

Buy the Apple Watch SE if you:

  • Want a more affordable Apple Watch with modern performance
  • Prefer a lightweight, compact design for smaller wrists
  • Don’t need Always-On Display or ECG functionality
  • Value crash detection and fall detection for safety
  • Are upgrading from a much older model like Series 3 or 1

Check Apple Watch SE Best Price

Winner by Category

Category Winner
Always-On Display Apple Watch Series 5
Display Size Apple Watch Series 5
Higher Resolution Apple Watch Series 5
Health & Fitness Apple Watch Series 5
LTE Connectivity Apple Watch Series 5
Durability Apple Watch Series 5
ECG App Apple Watch Series 5
Design Apple Watch Series 5

FAQ

Does the Apple Watch Series 5 have an Always-On Display?
Yes, the Apple Watch Series 5 features an Always-On Retina Display that allows you to view the time and other information without raising your wrist.

Can the Apple Watch SE GPS connect to cellular networks?
No, the Apple Watch SE GPS model does not support cellular connectivity. You will need your iPhone nearby to receive calls, messages, and use data.

Is ECG available on both Apple Watch Series 5 and SE GPS?
ECG is available on the Apple Watch Series 5, but not supported on the Apple Watch SE GPS.

Do both watches support watchOS 10?
Yes, both the Apple Watch Series 5 and the Apple Watch SE GPS are compatible with watchOS 10.

What is the battery life like on each watch?
Both models provide up to 18 hours of battery life under typical use.

Is crash detection available on the Apple Watch Series 5?
No, crash detection is not supported on the Apple Watch Series 5. It is available on the Apple Watch SE GPS.

Can I swim with these watches?
Yes, both watches are water resistant up to 50 meters and suitable for swimming in a pool or open water.

Do they both support the same fitness tracking features?
They both support standard fitness tracking like heart rate, VO2 Max, and workout tracking, but only the Series 5 includes ECG.

Which watch has the larger display?
The Apple Watch Series 5 has a 1.78-inch display, which is larger than the 1.57-inch screen on the Apple Watch SE GPS.

Do either of these models support fast charging?
No, neither the Apple Watch Series 5 nor the Apple Watch SE GPS includes fast charging capabilities.

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