Apple Watch Series 5 & Apple Watch Series 4 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Apple Watch Series 5 rather than the Apple Watch Series 4.
Why Do I Recommend The Apple Watch Series 5?
- The Apple Watch Series 5 features an Always-On Retina LTPO OLED display for checking the time and key information without raising the wrist or tapping the screen, whereas the Apple Watch Series 4 uses a display that turns off when not active.
- Apple Watch Series 5 has a built-in compass for accurate heading and improved navigation in Maps and outdoor apps, while the Apple Watch Series 4 does not include a compass.
- It includes 32GB internal storage for storing more music, podcasts, and apps directly on the watch, whereas the Apple Watch Series 4 includes 16GB storage.
- The Apple Watch Series 5 supports international emergency calling for safety and assistance when traveling globally, while the Apple Watch Series 4 supports only regional emergency calling.
- Apple Watch Series 5 features additional case options such as titanium and ceramic for more durable and premium style choices, whereas the Apple Watch Series 4 is limited to aluminum and stainless steel cases.
- It includes a refined power management system to maintain all-day battery life even with the Always-On display active, while the Apple Watch Series 4 uses a previous-generation power controller.
- The Apple Watch Series 5 features updated ambient light responsiveness to keep essential information readable at a glance in various lighting conditions, whereas the Apple Watch Series 4 fully darkens the display when idle.
- Apple Watch Series 5 has improved navigation compatibility with apps that rely on directional data such as hiking or star-tracking tools for more precise situational awareness, whereas the Apple Watch Series 4 lacks directional hardware.
Maybe the Apple Watch Series 4 can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Apple Watch Series 5. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Apple Watch Series 5 | Apple Watch Series 4 |
| Display Type | Always-On Retina LTPO OLED | Retina LTPO OLED |
| LTPO Refresh Management | Dynamic refresh down to 1Hz | Standard refresh, no 1Hz mode |
| Storage | 32GB | 16GB |
| Compass | Yes | No |
| International Emergency Calling | Yes | No |
| Ambient Light Behavior | Dimmed visible screen | Screen off when idle |
| Case Material Options | Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Titanium, Ceramic | Aluminum, Stainless Steel |
| Battery Optimization Mode | Extra Always-On tuning | Standard power optimization |
| Display Controller | New low-power driver | Previous generation driver |
| App Launch Defaults | Noise, Cycle Tracking preloaded | Added later via software |
| Weight (Material Variants) | More material choices affect weight | Fewer material options |
| Screen Visibility at Rest | Always visible watch face | Display only on raise/tap |
| Compass-Based Apps | Supported | Not supported |
| Marketed Hardware Update | Internal power module revision | Previous hardware |
| Battery Expectations | Same rating with Always-On | Same rating without Always-On |
| Price | Check Apple Watch 5 Price | Check Apple Watch 4 Price |
What Common Both Can Do?
- Retina Display: Both smartwatches use high-resolution Retina screens to provide clear visuals for readability in daily use. The color and brightness levels are well-balanced for indoor and outdoor viewing.
- LTPO OLED Panel: Both models use LTPO OLED technology to allow variable refresh rates that improve power efficiency. This is important for balancing smooth animations with battery life.
- Digital Crown with Haptic Feedback: Both feature the Digital Crown with subtle vibrations during scrolling. This helps with precise navigation through menus without covering the screen with your finger.
- ECG App Support: Both support electrocardiogram readings for heart rhythm analysis directly from the wrist. This helps detect irregular heart activity such as atrial fibrillation.
- Electrical Heart Sensor: Both include an electrical sensor that works with the ECG app for accurate heart rhythm measurements. It enhances health insights beyond standard heart rate tracking.
- Optical Heart Sensor: Both continuously track heart rate during workouts and throughout the day. This supports calorie estimates and alerts for unusually high or low heart rates.
- Fall Detection: Both can detect hard falls and prompt emergency services if needed. This is valuable for users with safety concerns or medical risks.
- Emergency SOS: Both allow emergency calling and notifications when urgent situations occur. This provides added security when away from a phone.
- GPS + Cellular Options: Both come in GPS-only or GPS + Cellular versions. Cellular connectivity lets users make calls and stream music without carrying an iPhone.
- Swimproof 50m Water Resistance: Both watches can be used for pool or open-water swimming. The water resistance rating supports full workout tracking while submerged.
- Bluetooth 5.0: Both use Bluetooth 5.0 for improved wireless performance and power efficiency. This ensures stronger connections with iPhones and accessories.
- Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n 2.4GHz: Both connect to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi networks for app data syncing and system updates. This maintains connectivity when Bluetooth range is exceeded.
- Speaker and Microphone: Both include built-in audio hardware for phone calls, Siri, and alerts. This keeps communication hands-free and convenient.
- 40mm / 44mm Sizes: Both are available in two case sizes to fit a wider range of wrist sizes. Users can choose a size that matches comfort and readability preferences.
- WatchOS Compatibility: Both support the same WatchOS platform for consistent app access and features. Both models continue to receive updates for functionality improvements.
- Apple Pay: Both enable secure contactless payment with NFC. This allows users to leave their wallet behind in many shopping situations.
- 64-bit Dual-Core S-Series Chip: Both use powerful processors that ensure responsive app performance. This keeps interactions smooth even with new software versions.
- Always-On Altimeter: Both track elevation changes during workouts and outdoor activities. This provides more accurate workout metrics and environmental context.
- Same Battery Life Rating: Both are rated for around 18 hours of battery life per charge under standard usage. The endurance expectation is similar for day-long comfort.
Common Features
| Feature | Apple Watch Series 5 | Apple Watch Series 4 |
| Retina Display | Yes | Yes |
| LTPO OLED Panel | Yes | Yes |
| Digital Crown with Haptic Feedback | Yes | Yes |
| ECG App Support | Yes | Yes |
| Electrical Heart Sensor | Yes | Yes |
| Optical Heart Sensor | Yes | Yes |
| Fall Detection | Yes | Yes |
| Emergency SOS | Yes | Yes |
| GPS + Cellular Options | Yes | Yes |
| Swimproof 50m Water Resistance | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth 5.0 | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n 2.4GHz | Yes | Yes |
| Speaker and Microphone | Yes | Yes |
| 40mm / 44mm Sizes | Yes | Yes |
| WatchOS Compatibility | Yes | Yes |
| Apple Pay | Yes | Yes |
| 64-bit Dual-Core S-Series Chip | S5 | S4 |
| Always-On Altimeter | Yes | Yes |
| Same Battery Life Rating | ~18 hours | ~18 hours |
| Price | Check Apple Watch 5 Price | Check Apple Watch 4 Price |
FAQ
Is the Apple Watch Series 5 significantly faster than the Apple Watch Series 4? Do both watches support ECG heart monitoring? Can the Apple Watch Series 4 and Series 5 both receive the latest watchOS updates? Is battery life better on the Series 5 compared to the Series 4? Do both watches have fall detection and emergency safety features? Are both watches suitable for swimming and water workouts? Can I use Apple Pay on both the Series 4 and Series 5? Do both watches support GPS and optional cellular connectivity? Are the display sizes the same on both models? Do both watches use the same style of bands and straps? Can I install the same apps on both models? Do both models have the same speaker and microphone features? Is the Always-On display unique to the Series 5? Is storage capacity the same on both watches? Do both support heart rate notifications and activity tracking? |