As an Amazon Associate, I Earn from Qualifying Purchases. Read Disclaimer
Thinking of upgrading your Apple Watch? Maybe you’re using a Series 5 and wondering what the newer Series 9 can really do. Both watches are stylish and packed with features. But technology moves fast. The real question is whether the upgrade is worth it. In this comparison, we break down how much Apple improved the Series 9 over the Series 5.
Side By Side Comparison
| Feature | Apple Watch Series 5 | Apple Watch Series 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Display | Always-On Retina LTPO OLED, 1000 nits | Always-On Retina LTPO OLED, up to 2000 nits |
| Screen Size Options | 40mm, 44mm | 41mm, 45mm |
| Case Material | Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Titanium | Aluminum, Stainless Steel |
| Processor | S5 SiP with 64-bit dual-core | S9 SiP with 64-bit dual-core |
| Neural Engine | Not included | 4-core Neural Engine |
| Storage | 32GB | 64GB |
| Siri Processing | Cloud-based | On-device |
| UWB | Not supported | Second-generation Ultra Wideband chip |
| Double Tap Gesture | Not supported | Supported |
| Display Brightness | 1000 nits max | 2000 nits max |
| Battery Life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 18 hours |
| Charging | Standard magnetic charging | Fast charging supported |
| Compass | Not included | Included |
| Crash Detection | Not supported | Supported |
| OS Compatibility | watchOS 6+ | watchOS 10+ |
| Launch Year | 2019 | 2023 |
Detailed Feature Comparisons
Design and Construction
Both models maintain a sleek Apple aesthetic with rounded edges and premium materials. The Series 5 came in three case materials, including titanium, while the Series 9 drops titanium but offers slightly larger cases. The difference in size improves readability without adding much bulk.
Display Quality
The Series 9 introduces a brighter display with up to 2000 nits, which is double that of the Series 5. This makes it easier to see under direct sunlight. Both feature always-on displays, but the Series 9 delivers a smoother, clearer experience thanks to enhanced brightness and updated display technology.
Performance and Processing Power
The jump from the S5 to the S9 chip brings major improvements. The Series 9 is faster and more responsive, handling apps and multitasking better. It also adds a new 4-core Neural Engine that enables advanced features like on-device Siri and the double tap gesture.
Health and Safety Features
The Series 9 adds newer safety tools like crash detection and a more advanced heart rate sensor. While Series 5 includes ECG and fall detection, it lacks the updated algorithms and enhanced accuracy of Series 9’s sensors.
Battery and Charging
Battery life remains similar at up to 18 hours. However, the Series 9 includes fast charging, which gives you more flexibility, especially for overnight wear with sleep tracking.
Software and Smart Features
Both run watchOS, but the Series 9 benefits more from newer software features like on-device Siri and faster dictation. It also supports the new double tap gesture for one-handed use. Series 5 misses out on these due to hardware limitations.
Connectivity and Sensors
Series 9 adds a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, improving location accuracy for features like Find My. It also includes newer sensors like a compass and temperature sensing, both absent from Series 5.
Storage and Media
The Series 9 offers double the storage at 64GB. This means more room for apps, music, and podcasts. This is especially useful for users who go phone-free while working out or commuting.
FAQ
Is the Apple Watch Series 9 faster than the Series 5?
Yes. The Series 9 uses the S9 chip, which is significantly faster and more efficient than the S5 chip in the Series 5. It handles apps and animations more smoothly.
Does the Apple Watch Series 9 support double tap gestures?
Yes. The Series 9 introduces a double tap feature for one-handed control. This is not available on the Series 5.
Can both watches track heart health?
Yes. Both support ECG and heart rate monitoring. However, the Series 9 uses a newer sensor for improved accuracy.
Is the display brighter on the Series 9?
Yes. The Series 9 can reach up to 2000 nits, making it easier to see in bright conditions. The Series 5 tops out at 1000 nits.
Does the Series 9 charge faster than the Series 5?
Yes. The Series 9 supports fast charging. The Series 5 only offers standard charging.
Do both support the latest watchOS updates?
No. The Series 5 has limited future update support. The Series 9 will continue receiving updates for a longer time.
Is the Series 9 more durable than the Series 5?
Both are water-resistant and made with premium materials. However, the newer sensors and hardware in Series 9 make it more future-ready.
Do both watches support on-device Siri?
No. On-device Siri is only available on the Series 9. The Series 5 relies on cloud processing for Siri commands.
Can I use the same bands with both watches?
Yes. Bands from the Series 5 will fit the Series 9, as Apple maintains compatibility across similar case sizes.
Is it worth upgrading from Series 5 to Series 9?
Yes. The Series 9 brings meaningful improvements in performance, display, sensors, and smart features that enhance the daily experience.