Apple Watch Series 5 vs Series 7 – Which Should You Buy?
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Choosing the right Apple Watch depends on how you plan to use it and the features that matter most to your lifestyle and budget. The Apple Watch Series 7 and Series 5 cater to different user needs and reflect two generations of improvements. The Series 7 is built for users who want a larger display, faster charging, and more durability. The Series 5 offers an always-on display and core smartwatch features for those who need reliable daily functionality. This article outlines the key differences between these models to help you make an informed decision.
Side by Side Comparison
| Feature | Apple Watch Series 7 | Apple Watch Series 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 41mm / 45mm (larger edge-to-edge design) | 40mm / 44mm (standard bezels) |
| Display Type | Always-On Retina LTPO OLED | Always-On Retina LTPO OLED |
| Display Brightness | Up to 1000 nits | Up to 1000 nits |
| Processor | S7 SiP (dual-core) | S5 SiP (dual-core) |
| RAM | 1GB | 1GB |
| Storage | 32GB | 32GB |
| Battery Life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 18 hours |
| Charging Speed | 0–80% in ~45 minutes | Slower (no fast charging support) |
| Durability | Crack-resistant front crystal | Standard glass |
| Water Resistance | WR50 (swimproof) | WR50 (swimproof) |
| Blood Oxygen Sensor | Yes | No |
| ECG App | Yes | Yes |
| Always-On Altimeter | Yes | No |
Detailed Feature Comparisons
Design and Construction
The Apple Watch Series 7 features a more refined design with thinner borders and a noticeably larger screen area compared to the Series 5. It also uses a stronger, crack-resistant front crystal, which improves durability during daily wear. In contrast, the Series 5 retains a classic look with wider bezels and a more standard glass screen.
Display Quality
Both models offer an always-on Retina display, but the Series 7 maximizes screen real estate, making it easier to read text and interact with apps. The edge-to-edge design of the Series 7 is especially useful for notifications, messages, and larger on-screen buttons.
Performance and Speed
The Series 7 is equipped with the newer S7 chip, which provides slightly faster performance and smoother animations compared to the S5 chip found in the Series 5. This results in quicker app loading and more responsive user interactions, although both watches handle basic tasks well.
Health and Fitness Tracking
One major upgrade in the Series 7 is the addition of a Blood Oxygen sensor and always-on altimeter. These features support more advanced health monitoring, especially during workouts or elevation changes. Both watches support ECG and heart rate tracking, but Series 7 offers broader wellness coverage.
Battery and Charging
Battery life remains the same at around 18 hours, but the Series 7 introduces fast charging that gets you to 80% in about 45 minutes. The Series 5 takes significantly longer to charge, which may be inconvenient for users who need quick power-ups during the day.
Durability and Water Resistance
Both models are swimproof with WR50 water resistance, but the Series 7 adds a tougher screen material for better protection against scratches and cracks. This makes it more reliable for users with active lifestyles or outdoor routines.
Software Features and Compatibility
While both support watchOS 10, the Series 5 does not run all the latest features as smoothly or completely as the Series 7. As Apple continues to update watchOS, newer hardware like the Series 7 will be supported longer and receive better performance with new features.
FAQ
Is the Apple Watch Series 7 significantly better than the Series 5?
Yes, especially in terms of display size, charging speed, durability, and health sensors. The Series 7 offers more refinements and upgrades that enhance daily usability and fitness tracking.
Does the Series 5 have the same screen brightness as the Series 7?
Yes, both watches offer up to 1000 nits of brightness, but the Series 7 has a larger and more edge-to-edge design which improves visibility.
Can both watches run the latest version of watchOS?
Yes, both support watchOS 10, but some features may not work as well on the Series 5 due to older hardware.
Does the Series 5 support fast charging like the Series 7?
No, fast charging is only available on the Series 7. The Series 5 charges slower and takes longer to reach a full charge.
Is the blood oxygen feature available on the Series 5?
No, only the Series 7 includes a Blood Oxygen sensor. The Series 5 lacks this feature entirely.
Are both models swimproof?
Yes, both the Series 7 and Series 5 have WR50 water resistance and are safe for swimming.
Which model is better for workouts and fitness tracking?
The Series 7 is better suited due to its added Blood Oxygen sensor, always-on altimeter, and more durable screen.
Do both models have an ECG feature?
Yes, both the Series 7 and Series 5 include the ECG app for monitoring heart rhythm.
Is the screen size much larger on the Series 7?
The Series 7 offers a noticeably larger display thanks to its slimmer bezels, even though the physical size difference is small.