Apple Watch SE (2022) vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 5
The Verdict
Apple Watch SE 2022 targets budget-conscious users seeking tight ecosystem integration, while Galaxy Watch 5 delivers comprehensive health monitoring for those prioritizing feature depth. SE 2022 features the capable S8 processor, 18-hour battery, and watchOS 11+ compatibility, making it ideal for iPhone users. Galaxy Watch 5 counters with superior health sensors (ECG, SpO2, skin temperature), Super AMOLED display with always-on capability, and impressive 40-hour battery claims,though real-world usage typically yields 24 hours. Both offer GPS, NFC, and optional cellular. Watch 5's sapphire crystal glass and MIL-STD certification provide durability advantages. For Apple ecosystem users prioritizing simplicity and affordability, SE 2022 excels; for Android users or those wanting advanced biometric tracking, Galaxy Watch 5 justifies its $30 premium with meaningfully richer health features and superior display technology.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple Watch SE (2022) if…
- →Same S8 chip as Series 8 at $150 less — best value Apple Watch
- →Crash Detection included at this price point
- →Lightweight nylon-reinforced composite back is comfortable on the wrist
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 if…
- →Sapphire crystal display is 60% more durable than Watch 4
- →Comprehensive health suite: ECG, SpO2, skin temp, body composition
- →Dual-frequency GPS for accurate outdoor tracking
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple Watch SE (2022)
Pros
- Same S8 chip as Series 8 at $150 less — best value Apple Watch
- Crash Detection included at this price point
- Lightweight nylon-reinforced composite back is comfortable on the wrist
- Family Setup lets kids use it without an iPhone
- Full access to the Apple Watch app ecosystem
Cons
- No Always-On display — screen goes dark when wrist is lowered
- No ECG, SpO2, or skin temperature sensors
- Thicker bezels than Series 8 make the screen feel smaller
- 18-hour battery still requires nightly charging
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5
Pros
- Sapphire crystal display is 60% more durable than Watch 4
- Comprehensive health suite: ECG, SpO2, skin temp, body composition
- Dual-frequency GPS for accurate outdoor tracking
- Faster charging — 30% improvement over Galaxy Watch 4
- MIL-STD-810H military-grade durability rating
Cons
- Removed the beloved rotating bezel — now touch-only
- Battery rarely hits the advertised 40 hours in real use
- Requires a Samsung phone for ECG and blood pressure features
- Wear OS 3 app selection still lags behind Apple watchOS
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple Watch SE (2022) | Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | watchOS 9 (upgradable to watchOS 11+) | Wear OS 3.5 (One UI Watch 4.5) |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 26.8 g (40mm) / 33 g (44mm) | 28.7 g (40mm) / 33.5 g (44mm) |
| Case material | Aluminum | Aluminum with Sapphire Crystal glass |
| Water resistance | WR50 (50m) | 5ATM + IP68, MIL-STD-810H |
| Health & Sensors | ||
| ECG | ||
| SpO₂ | ||
| Skin temperature | ||
| Heart rate | ||
| Sleep tracking | ||
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 40 hrs (typical ~24 hrs) |
| Display | ||
| Size | 40mm / 44mm | 40mm / 44mm |
| Type | LTPO OLED Retina | Super AMOLED |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 324 x 394 / 368 x 448 | 396 x 396 / 450 x 450 |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | Apple S8 SiP | Exynos W920 |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.2 |
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 Samsung products. View full details for the Apple Watch SE (2022) or the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5.