Apple Watch 5 vs 6: Which Apple Watch Should You Buy?
Are you in the market for a new smartwatch and torn between two excellent choices? The Apple Watch has consistently set the standard, and the comparison between the Apple Watch Series 5 and Series 6 is a popular one. These two models offer a blend of style, functionality, and health tracking capabilities that can enhance your daily life.
Choosing the right Apple Watch can be a challenge, given the subtle yet significant differences between them. This in-depth comparison will break down everything you need to know about the Apple Watch 5 and the Apple Watch 6. We’ll explore their key features, performance metrics, and design elements to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a tech aficionado, or simply someone looking to stay connected on the go, this guide is for you. Get ready to dive into the details and discover which Apple Watch model best suits your needs and preferences. Let’s find out which one reigns supreme!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | AW5 | AW6 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | Up to 1.78 inches | Up to 1.78 inches |
| Always-On Retina Display | Yes | Yes, Brighter |
| Processor | S5 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor | S6 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor |
| Blood Oxygen Sensor | No | Yes |
| ECG App | Yes | Yes |
| Fall Detection | Yes | Yes |
| GPS | Yes | Yes |
| Water Resistance | WR50 | WR50 |
| Storage | 32GB | 32GB |
| Emergency SOS | Yes | Yes |
| Cellular Option | Yes (Optional) | Yes (Optional) |
| Case Material | Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Titanium | Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Titanium |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- Apple Watch 5: Features an always-on Retina display, allowing you to see the time and other information at a glance. It offers good brightness and visibility in various lighting conditions. However, the display technology is slightly older compared to the Series 6.
- 6: Boasts a brighter and more advanced always-on Retina display, up to 2.5 times brighter outdoors. This enhances visibility, especially in sunlight. It also features a larger display with thinner bezels.
- Winner: 6
Processor
- Apple Watch 5: Powered by the S5 SiP (System in Package), offering smooth performance for everyday tasks and app usage. It handles most operations efficiently but might show slight lag during demanding tasks.
- 6: Equipped with the S6 SiP, a significantly faster processor than the S5. This results in snappier performance, faster app loading times, and improved responsiveness across the board.
- Winner: 6
Blood Oxygen Sensor
- Apple Watch 5: Does not include a blood oxygen sensor.
- 6: Introduces a blood oxygen sensor, allowing users to measure their blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) levels. This can provide valuable insights into respiratory health and overall wellness.
- Winner: 6
ECG (Electrocardiogram)
- Apple Watch 5: Includes an ECG app, enabling users to take an electrocardiogram to check for atrial fibrillation (AFib). This is a useful tool for heart health monitoring.
- 6: Features the same ECG functionality as the Series 5.
- Winner: Tie
Design and Build
- Apple Watch 5: Available in aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium cases. Offers a sleek and modern design with a variety of band options.
- 6: Features a similar design to the Series 5, with the addition of new case colors, including a blue aluminum and a (PRODUCT)RED aluminum option.
- Winner: Tie
Health and Fitness Tracking
- Apple Watch 5: Provides comprehensive health and fitness tracking features, including heart rate monitoring, activity tracking, and workout modes. It also includes fall detection.
- 6: Offers the same health and fitness tracking capabilities as the Series 5, with the addition of the blood oxygen sensor for enhanced health monitoring.
- Winner: 6
Battery Life
- Apple Watch 5: Offers up to 18 hours of battery life, typical for a full day of use. Battery life may vary depending on usage.
- 6: Provides the same 18-hour battery life as the Series 5.
- Winner: Tie
Connectivity
- Apple Watch 5: Supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Cellular models available.
- 6: Supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Cellular models available. The Series 6 also includes the U1 chip for Ultra Wideband connectivity, enabling more precise location tracking and potential future features.
- Winner: 6
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | Apple Watch 6 |
| Health Features | Apple Watch 6 |
| Display Brightness | Apple Watch 6 |
| Value | Apple Watch 5 |
What They Have in Common
- Design: Both Apple Watch models share a similar design aesthetic, featuring a rectangular display and a Digital Crown for navigation.
- Fitness Tracking: Both watches offer comprehensive fitness tracking capabilities, including heart rate monitoring, activity tracking, and workout modes.
- Notifications: Both models provide notifications from your iPhone, allowing you to stay connected with calls, texts, and app alerts.
- Water Resistance: Both Apple Watches are water-resistant up to 50 meters, suitable for swimming and other water activities.
- App Ecosystem: Both watches support the Apple Watch app ecosystem, providing access to a wide variety of apps for various functionalities.
- Gps: Both watches include GPS for accurate tracking of outdoor activities like running and cycling.
Apple Watch 5 Vs 6 Buying Guide
Design and Build Quality
The Apple Watch Series 5 and Series 6 share a similar design language, featuring the iconic square display with rounded corners. Both watches are available in various case materials, including aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium. However, the Series 6 introduces a brighter always-on display, making it easier to read in direct sunlight. The Series 6 also boasts a slightly refined design with subtle aesthetic updates. Both watches offer water resistance up to 50 meters, making them suitable for swimming and other water activities. The build quality remains top-notch on both, ensuring durability and a premium feel.
Performance and Processing Power
The Apple Watch Series 6 significantly outperforms the Series 5 in terms of processing power. It features the S6 SiP (System in Package), which is noticeably faster than the S5 SiP in the Series 5. This translates to quicker app loading times, smoother animations, and a more responsive overall user experience. The Series 6 also benefits from improved energy efficiency, contributing to longer battery life in certain usage scenarios. The performance difference is particularly noticeable when running demanding apps or multitasking.
Health and Fitness Features
Both watches excel in health and fitness tracking, offering comprehensive metrics. However, the Series 6 introduces some notable upgrades. It includes a blood oxygen sensor (SpO2), allowing users to measure their blood oxygen saturation levels. This feature provides valuable insights into respiratory health. The Series 6 also features a faster and more accurate heart rate sensor. Both watches offer features like fall detection, ECG (electrocardiogram), and various workout modes, making them excellent companions for a healthy lifestyle. The Series 6 edges ahead due to its new health metrics.
Display Technology
Both models feature stunning displays, but the Series 6 takes it a step further. The Series 6 boasts a brighter always-on Retina display, which is easier to read in direct sunlight. This is a significant improvement over the Series 5, which also features an always-on display, but at a lower brightness level. The brighter display on the Series 6 enhances visibility and usability in various environments. The display on both watches offers vibrant colors and sharp details, ensuring a visually appealing experience. The Series 6 delivers a more refined display experience.
Battery Life and Charging
Both the Apple Watch Series 5 and Series 6 offer all-day battery life, typically lasting around 18 hours with mixed use. However, the Series 6 introduces faster charging capabilities. It can charge from 0% to 100% in a shorter amount of time compared to the Series 5, making it more convenient for users. The Series 6 also features optimized battery management. Battery life can vary depending on usage patterns, but both watches provide sufficient power for a full day of activities. Series 6 has a charging advantage.
Price and Value
The Apple Watch Series 5 is often available at a lower price point compared to the Series 6, especially in the used or refurbished market. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. However, the Series 6 offers significant improvements in performance, health features, and display technology, justifying its higher price tag for many users. Considering the advancements, the Series 6 provides better overall value, especially for those seeking the latest technology. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and budget.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Apple Watch 5 If…
- You’re on a budget and want a feature-rich Apple Watch experience.
- You don’t need the latest health sensors like the blood oxygen sensor.
- You are happy with the display brightness and processing power of the Series 5.
- You can find a good deal on a refurbished or used model.
Buy Apple Watch 6 If…
- You want the latest health features, including blood oxygen monitoring.
- You want a brighter Always-On Retina display.
- You desire a faster processor for improved performance.
- You want the latest features and are willing to pay a premium.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between the Apple Watch Series 5 and Series 6?
The Series 6 offers a faster processor (S6 SiP), a brighter always-on display, a blood oxygen sensor (SpO2), and faster charging compared to the Series 5. It also has a slightly refined design. While both watches track health and fitness, the Series 6 has more advanced features. The Series 6 provides a more responsive and feature-rich experience.
Does the Apple Watch Series 6 have better battery life than the Series 5?
While both watches offer all-day battery life, the Series 6 has optimized battery management and charges faster. Actual battery life can vary based on usage, but the Series 6 generally provides similar or slightly better battery performance. The faster charging is a significant advantage, ensuring a quicker return to full power.
Which Apple Watch is better for fitness tracking?
Both watches are excellent for fitness tracking, but the Series 6 has a slight edge. The addition of the blood oxygen sensor provides valuable health insights. Both offer heart rate monitoring, various workout modes, and activity tracking. The Series 6’s faster processor also contributes to a smoother experience during workouts.
Can I still buy an Apple Watch Series 5?
Yes, you can still find the Apple Watch Series 5, particularly in the used, refurbished, or older stock market. However, availability may be limited compared to the Series 6. Consider the differences in features and performance when making your decision. Buying used can offer a more budget-friendly approach.
What are the available case materials for both watches?
Both watches offer various case materials, including aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium. The Series 6 also introduced new color options for the aluminum case. The choice of case material impacts the watch’s aesthetics and durability. Stainless steel and titanium are generally more premium options compared to aluminum.
Does the Series 6 have any new health features that the Series 5 doesn’t?
Yes, the Series 6 includes a blood oxygen sensor (SpO2), which the Series 5 lacks. The blood oxygen sensor measures blood oxygen saturation levels, providing insights into respiratory health. The Series 6 also features a faster and more accurate heart rate sensor. These additions enhance the watch’s health monitoring capabilities.
Is the Apple Watch Series 6 worth the upgrade from the Series 5?
For users seeking the latest technology and features, the Series 6 is a worthwhile upgrade. The improved performance, brighter display, blood oxygen sensor, and faster charging make a noticeable difference. However, if you’re happy with the Series 5’s performance and features, the upgrade might not be essential. Consider your needs and budget.
Final Verdict
The Apple Watch Series 6 emerges as the superior smartwatch, offering a faster processor, a brighter display, and the addition of a blood oxygen sensor. While the Series 5 remains a capable device, the Series 6’s advancements provide a more refined and feature-rich experience. The improved performance and new health features make the Series 6 the better choice for most users, justifying its higher price point.
Winner: Apple Watch Series 6