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Apple Watch Series 3 vs Series 5 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Apple Watch Series 5 & Apple Watch Series 3 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 3.

Why Do I Recommend The Apple Watch Series 5?

  • The Apple Watch Series 5 features an Always-On LTPO Retina display for continuous visibility of time and workout metrics without wrist movement, whereas the Apple Watch Series 3 uses a standard Retina display.
  • Apple Watch Series 5 has the S5 SiP for faster app loading, smoother navigation, and improved long-term performance, while the Apple Watch Series 3 uses the older S3 chip.
  • It includes 32GB storage capacity for more offline music, apps, and podcasts, whereas the Apple Watch Series 3 includes only 8GB storage.
  • The Apple Watch Series 5 includes an electrical heart sensor with ECG to detect irregular heart rhythms early, whereas the Apple Watch Series 3 has only a first-generation optical heart sensor.
  • It supports Fall Detection for automatic emergency assistance during serious incidents, while the Apple Watch Series 3 does not include this safety function.
  • The Apple Watch Series 5 includes a built-in compass for more accurate navigation during outdoor activities, whereas the Apple Watch Series 3 does not include a compass.
  • Apple Watch Series 5 has a louder speaker for clearer phone calls, Siri responses, and alerts in noisy environments, whereas the Apple Watch Series 3 uses a quieter speaker.
  • It supports dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0 for stronger wireless connections and better accessory compatibility, while the Apple Watch Series 3 uses older wireless standards with reduced range and efficiency.

Maybe the Apple Watch Series 3 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

FeatureApple Watch Series 5Apple Watch Series 3
Display TypeAlways-On LTPO OLEDOLED
ChipsetS5 SiPS3 SiP
Storage Capacity32GB8GB
Electrical Heart SensorYesNo
Optical Heart Sensor2nd Gen1st Gen
CompassYesNo
International Emergency CallingYesNo
Fall DetectionYesNo
Noise AppYesNo
Bluetooth5.04.2
Wi-Fi Bands2.4GHz + 5GHz2.4GHz
Case MaterialsAluminum, Stainless Steel, Titanium, CeramicAluminum
Back MaterialCeramic + SapphireComposite
SpeakerLouderStandard
Bezel SizeNarrowThick
App Support (watchOS Longevity)Longer Future SupportShorter Future Support
Storage for Offline MediaLarger CapacitySmaller Capacity
Display Power EfficiencyLTPO TechnologyStandard OLED
PriceCheck Apple Watch 5 PriceCheck Apple Watch 3 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Retina Display: Both models include a sharp Retina display that makes text, notifications, apps, and watch faces easy to read in daily use. The shared display class ensures consistent clarity and visibility.
  • OLED Technology: Both watches use OLED screens, which provide deep blacks and vivid colors. This improves contrast and enhances readability in varying lighting conditions.
  • Optical Heart Rate Sensor: Both include an optical heart rate sensor that measures pulse continuously throughout the day. This supports activity tracking and alerts for elevated or unusually low heart rates.
  • GPS: Each model has built-in GPS for distance and pace tracking during outdoor workouts without needing an iPhone nearby. This allows accurate route mapping and exercise metrics.
  • GPS + Cellular Option: Both watches offer versions with cellular connectivity, letting users call, text, and stream music even when the iPhone is not present. This increases freedom during workouts or travel.
  • Digital Crown: Each device uses Apple’s signature Digital Crown for scrolling and control. This provides a tactile and precise navigation method independent of touch gestures.
  • Water-Resistance 50m: Both watches are swim-proof and safe for pool use. Users can track swim workouts and wear the watches during daily water exposure.
  • Accelerometer: Both models include an accelerometer for movement detection and workout tracking. It enables step counting, fall measurements, and fitness recognition.
  • Gyroscope: Each watch features a gyroscope that detects wrist orientation and motion. This improves workout accuracy and gesture interaction.
  • Microphone: Both include a built-in microphone that enables voice commands, calls, and quick communication features such as Siri queries.
  • Speaker: Each watch has a speaker for call audio, alerts, and Siri responses. This allows quick sound-based interactions without relying solely on haptics.
  • Apple Pay: Both models support Apple Pay for secure contactless payments. This enables purchases without needing a physical wallet or phone.
  • Activity Rings: Each device uses Apple’s Activity Rings system to encourage daily movement, exercise, and standing goals. Progress visuals help maintain consistent fitness habits.
  • Emergency SOS: Both watches support Emergency SOS for rapid contact with emergency services when needed. This adds a safety benefit during urgent situations.
  • Siri Support: Each model supports Siri with voice commands, reminders, and queries. This improves hands-free convenience and productivity.
  • Wi-Fi: Both support standard 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity for data sync and app use. This ensures stable communication when paired with an iPhone.
  • Bluetooth: Each watch connects wirelessly to accessories and iPhones through Bluetooth. This enables pairing to headphones and continuous phone syncing.
  • Aluminum Case Option: Both include lightweight aluminum case versions. This keeps comfort high for everyday and fitness wear.
  • Interchangeable Bands: Each model uses the same band connection system, allowing easy customization. Users can swap bands between Series 3 and Series 5 without compatibility issues.
  • App Store Support: Both can download apps directly on the watch. This expands function and personalization beyond built-in software.

Common Features

FeatureApple Watch Series 5Apple Watch Series 3
Retina DisplayYesYes
OLED TechnologyYesYes
Optical Heart Rate SensorYesYes
GPSYesYes
GPS + Cellular OptionYesYes
Digital CrownYesYes
Water-Resistance 50mYesYes
AccelerometerYesYes
GyroscopeYesYes
MicrophoneYesYes
SpeakerYesYes
Apple PayYesYes
Activity RingsYesYes
Emergency SOSYesYes
Siri SupportYesYes
Wi-Fi2.4GHz2.4GHz
BluetoothYesYes
Aluminum Case OptionYesYes
Interchangeable BandsYesYes
App Store SupportYesYes
Price Check Apple Watch 5 Price
Check Apple Watch 3 Price

FAQ

Does Apple Watch Series 5 support the Always-On display feature?
Yes, the Always-On Retina Display is exclusive to Series 5, allowing the watch face to remain visible without raising the wrist. Apple Watch Series 3 does not support this feature.

Which watch has better performance?
Apple Watch Series 5 uses the S5 SiP, which is significantly faster and more efficient than the S3 chip in Series 3, resulting in smoother app performance and faster response times.

Is ECG supported on both models?
ECG is available only on Apple Watch Series 5. Apple Watch Series 3 does not include electrical heart sensor functionality.

Do both watches support fall detection?
Fall detection is supported on Apple Watch Series 5 but not on Series 3. This feature automatically contacts emergency services when a hard fall is detected and the user is unresponsive.

Which model gets longer software support?
Apple Watch Series 5 will receive watchOS updates for more years compared to the older Series 3, which may lose compatibility sooner.

Are both watches water-resistant for swimming?
Yes, both models are water-resistant up to 50 meters and support pool swimming and workout tracking in water.

Can both watches make calls without an iPhone?
Yes, but only if you choose a GPS + Cellular version. Both Series 5 and Series 3 have optional cellular-enabled models.

Is storage capacity different between the two watches?
Yes, Series 5 includes 32GB of storage, supporting more apps and offline media. Series 3 only includes 8GB, limiting storage space.

Do both models support Apple Pay?
Yes, both watches allow secure contactless payments using Apple Pay for purchases without needing the iPhone.

Which watch has better display quality?
Both have Retina OLED displays that deliver high brightness and vibrant colors, but Series 5 has a larger screen and improved viewing area due to thinner borders.

Do both devices include GPS for workouts?
Yes, both watches support GPS for accurate workout metrics such as pace, distance, and route tracking without needing a phone.

Are the watch bands interchangeable between devices?
Yes, watch bands are compatible across both models within matching case sizes, allowing easy style upgrades.

Does Apple Watch Series 5 include a compass?
Yes, Series 5 includes a built-in compass for more accurate navigation and mapping. Series 3 does not include this feature.

Which watch is better for long-term use?
Apple Watch Series 5 is better suited for long-term use due to its newer hardware, more advanced health features, and longer expected software support, making it the more future-proof option.

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