Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro
Side-by-side specifications, scores and verdict.
Quick Verdict
Apple Watch SE 2 delivers exceptional value for casual users seeking seamless iOS integration and essential fitness tracking at an attractive $249 price point. Its lightweight aluminum design (26.4g), watchOS 10 platform, and 18-hour battery life cover daily needs effectively. Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro ($449) targets power users with comprehensive health monitoring—ECG, SpO2, and skin temperature sensors—plus titanium construction, always-on Super AMOLED display, and exceptional 28-hour battery life (80 hours in power-saving mode). The Galaxy Watch 5 Pro weighs nearly double (46.5g) and includes military-grade durability (MIL-STD-810H). For iPhone users prioritizing simplicity and affordability, the SE 2 excels. Android users wanting premium build quality, advanced biometrics, and extended battery deserve the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro. Recommendation: Choose based on ecosystem—SE 2 for iPhone users, Galaxy Watch 5 Pro for Android users seeking flagship features.
Full Specifications
| Specification | Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) | Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Software | watchOS 10 | Wear OS 3.5 with One UI Watch 4.5 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 26.4 g | 46.5 g |
| Case material | Recycled aluminum | Titanium |
| Water resistance | WR50 | 5 ATM + IP68 / MIL-STD-810H |
| Health & Sensors | ||
| ECG | ||
| SpO₂ | ||
| Skin temperature | ||
| Heart rate | ||
| Sleep tracking | ||
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 18 hrs, up to 36 hrs Low Power Mode | Up to 80 hrs (power saving), 28 hrs normal |
| Display | ||
| Size | 44 mm | 45 mm |
| Type | Retina LTPO OLED | Super AMOLED |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 368 x 448 | 450 x 450 |
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 1 GB | 1.5 GB |
| Chipset | Apple S8 SiP | Exynos W920 |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.2 |
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple Watch SE 2 (2023)
Pros
- Best value Apple Watch — all core features at a significantly lower price
- Crash Detection and Emergency SOS via satellite
- Lightweight recycled aluminum case is comfortable all day
- Compatible with all Apple Watch bands
- Gets latest watchOS features including Siri and Maps
Cons
- No always-on display
- No ECG, SpO2, or skin temperature sensor
- Same battery life as pricier models — still needs daily charging
- S8 chip is not the latest — misses Double Tap gesture
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro
Pros
- Durable titanium case that is lightweight yet highly scratch-resistant
- Large 590 mAh battery delivers the best Galaxy Watch endurance
- GPX route import for turn-by-turn trail navigation
- Sapphire crystal glass resists scratches and impacts
- Full health suite including ECG, SpO2, and body composition
Cons
- No rotating bezel — relies on touch and button navigation
- Older Exynos W920 chip is slower than W930 in Watch 6
- Bulky and heavy compared to standard Galaxy Watch 5
- Wear OS 3.5 misses some features added in Wear OS 4
Related Comparisons
Explore more in smartwatches, see all Apple products or all Samsung products. View full details for the Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) or the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro.