Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) vs TicWatch Pro 5
The Verdict
Apple Watch SE 2 offers a refined experience with watchOS 10's seamless integration, lighter build at 26.4g, and stronger ecosystem connectivity including NFC payments and cellular options. TicWatch Pro 5 counters with substantially longer battery life,up to 80 hours in Essential Mode versus 18 hours,plus SpO2 monitoring, higher RAM (2GB vs 1GB), and a superior dual-layer AMOLED display with true always-on capability at 466x466 resolution. Both track heart rate and sleep effectively, but the TicWatch excels for users prioritizing independence from constant charging and advanced health metrics, while the SE 2 suits those deeply invested in Apple's ecosystem seeking compact design and premium build. For the $100 price difference, TicWatch Pro 5 delivers exceptional value with transformative battery performance and practical health features, making it the stronger recommendation for most users.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) if…
- →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
Buy the TicWatch Pro 5 if…
- →Dual-layer AMOLED + FSTN display saves battery while staying readable outdoors
- →Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 is the fastest chip in any Wear OS watch
- →Best-in-class 24-hour Wear OS battery with up to 80 hours in Essential Mode
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
TicWatch Pro 5
Pros
- Dual-layer AMOLED + FSTN display saves battery while staying readable outdoors
- Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 is the fastest chip in any Wear OS watch
- Best-in-class 24-hour Wear OS battery with up to 80 hours in Essential Mode
- Rugged MIL-STD-810H rated build handles extreme conditions
- Full Wear OS access with Google Maps, Wallet, and Play Store
Cons
- No ECG or skin temperature sensor at this price point
- No cellular LTE option available
- Wear OS 3.5 rather than the latest Wear OS 4
- Large, thick case may feel bulky on smaller wrists
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) | TicWatch Pro 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | watchOS 10 | Wear OS 3.5 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 26.4 g | 44.1 g |
| Case material | Recycled aluminum | Nylon fiber composite |
| 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 Essential Mode, 24 hrs Wear OS mode |
| Display | ||
| Size | 44 mm | 1.43 inch |
| Type | Retina LTPO OLED | AMOLED + FSTN dual-layer display |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 368 x 448 | 466 x 466 |
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 1 GB | 2 GB |
| Chipset | Apple S8 SiP | Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.3 |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in smartwatches, see all Apple products or all Mobvoi products. View full details for the Apple Watch SE 2 (2023) or the TicWatch Pro 5.