Apple Watch Series 4 vs Series 5 – Which Should You Buy?

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By Maya Collins • May 4, 2026
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Apple Watch Series 5 & Series 4 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, more advanced display, additional health sensors, more internal storage and better connectivity. The Series 4 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

Processor:

  • Apple Watch Series 5 features the S5 64-bit dual-core processor that improves app performance and system responsiveness.
  • Apple Watch Series 4 uses the older S4 dual-core processor, which is slower with modern apps.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 5

Display:

  • Apple Watch Series 5 features an always-on Retina display that shows the time and complications continuously for improved glanceability without raising wrist.
  • Apple Watch Series 4 has the same type of display but lacks always-on functionality.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 5

Display Size:

  • Apple Watch Series 5 includes an 1.78 inch display to provide more space for complications, text, and animations.
  • Apple Watch Series 4 has a standard 1.6 inch display.
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 Series 4 reaches up to 1000 nits.
Winner:

Tie

Weight:

  • Apple Watch Series 5 has an aluminum case that results in a lighter build, making it more comfortable for all-day wear.
  • Apple Watch Series 4 uses stainless steel, which adds more weight and may feel heavier during extended use.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 5

Health Features:

  • Apple Watch Series 5 includes ECG, high/low heart rate and emergency SOS to support advanced fitness tracking.
  • Apple Watch Series 4 features the same health and fitness sensors.
Winner:

Tie (See Also: Garmin Venu 3 Vs 3s )

Speaker & Microphone:

  • Apple Watch Series 5 includes enhanced microphone and speaker that improve call and Siri clarity.
  • Apple Watch Series 4 has a basic mic and speaker configuration.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 5

Internal Storage:

  • Apple Watch Series 5 has 32GB of storage that allows space for more music, photos, and apps.
  • Apple Watch Series 4 comes with 16GB of storage.
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 Series 4 comes with up to 16 hours of battery life.
Winner:

Apple Watch Series 5

Check Apple Watch Series 5 Best Price
Check Apple Watch Series 4 Best Price

Specs at a Glance

FeatureApple Watch Series 5Apple Watch Series 4
DisplayAlways-On Retina LTPO OLEDRetina LTPO OLED
Display Size44mm44mm
Resolution368 x 448368 x 448
ProcessorS5 SiP with 64-bit dual-coreS4 SiP with 64-bit dual-core
RAM1GB1GB
Storage32GB16GB
Battery LifeUp to 18 hoursUp to 16 hours
WiFi2.4GHz2.4GHz
Bluetooth5.05.0
LTE ConnectivityYesYes
Always-On DisplayYesNo
CompassYesNo
Build MaterialAluminumStainless Steel

 

Who Should Buy What?

Buy the Apple Watch Series 5 if you:

  • Want an always-on display that makes checking the time and widgets more convenient.
  • Need more storage space for music, apps, and podcasts.
  • Prefer a lighter watch with a sportier aluminum build.
  • Value slightly improved mic performance for calls and Siri.
  • Are upgrading from an older Apple Watch and want modern features at a reasonable price.

Check Apple Watch Series 5 Best Price

Buy the Apple Watch Series 4 if you:

  • Prefer a premium stainless steel case and Milanese Loop for a dressier look.
  • Do not care about always-on display and can wake the screen manually.
  • Want a watch that still runs the latest watchOS but costs less on resale markets.
  • Value the same health and fitness tracking without paying extra for newer features.
  • Like the look and feel of stainless steel more than aluminum.
  • Let me know if you’d like Google Ads copy or a comparison table graphic for this article.

Check Apple Watch Series 4 Best Price

Winner by Category

CategoryWinner
ProcessorApple Watch Series 5
DisplayApple Watch Series 5
Display SizeApple Watch Series 5
Internal StorageApple Watch Series 5
Health & Fitness FeaturesApple Watch Series 5
On-Device SiriApple Watch Series 5
MicrophoneApple Watch Series 5
DesignApple Watch Series 5

What They Have in Common

  • Design and Display: Both watches feature a sleek design with rounded corners and a large Retina OLED display, making information clear and easy to read.
  • Health and Fitness Tracking: Both include heart rate monitoring, workout tracking, and activity rings, helping users stay active and maintain their fitness goals.
  • Water Resistance: Both models are swim-proof up to 50 meters, allowing users to track swimming workouts and wear them safely in water.
  • watchOS Compatibility: Both support watchOS updates, giving users access to Apple’s latest features, apps, and security improvements.
  • Emergency SOS: Both include Emergency SOS, letting users quickly call for help in critical situations, which is an important safety feature.

FAQ (Quick Answers)

Is the Apple Watch Series 5 significantly faster than the Series 4?
The Apple Watch Series 5 uses the S5 chip, which has similar performance to the S4 chip in Series 4, but adds a power management controller to support the always-on display more efficiently. (See Also: Apple Watch Series 3 Vs Series 7 )

Does the Apple Watch Series 5 support always-on display?
Yes, the Apple Watch Series 5 includes an always-on Retina LTPO OLED display that shows the time and complications even when your wrist is down.

Can both watches run the latest watchOS?
Yes, both the Apple Watch Series 5 and Series 4 currently support up to watchOS 10, but future updates may stop sooner for Series 4.

Is the Apple Watch Series 4 display the same as the Series 5?
The Apple Watch Series 4 has the same size, resolution, and brightness as the Series 5, but it does not support always-on display.

What is the difference in storage between Series 5 and Series 4?
The Apple Watch Series 5 includes 32GB of internal storage, while the Series 4 comes with 16GB.

Which model is better for durability and scratch resistance?
The Apple Watch Series 4 has a stainless steel case and sapphire crystal display, making it more resistant to scratches than the aluminum and Ion-X glass used in the Series 5.

Do both models support ECG and fall detection?
Yes, both Series 5 and Series 4 support the ECG app and include fall detection as part of their health features. (See Also: Apple Watch Series 7 Vs Series 9 )

Is there any difference in battery life between the two?
No, both models are rated for up to 18 hours of battery life under normal usage conditions.

Does the Series 5 have any additional sensors not found in the Series 4?
Yes, the Series 5 includes a built-in compass, which the Series 4 does not have.

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Are both watches compatible with the same bands and accessories?
Yes, the Apple Watch Series 5 and Series 4 share the same 44mm case size, so their bands and most accessories are interchangeable.

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