9 September 2022
By Laura Kyle
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 and 5 Pro are impressive smartwatches packed with features that the health-conscious will love. Samsung responded to criticism of the previous version with several upgrades and added the Pro version to appeal to outdoor enthusiasts.
At its Unpacked event, Samsung recently unveiled the Galaxy Watch 5 and new Galaxy Watch 5 Pro. They took the criticism of the previous version to heart and have included several upgrades. The new Galaxy Watch 5 is thinner, lighter and more comfortable than its predecessor. It also has a larger display and an improved user interface. Are they worth their price tags? Let’s take a closer look.
Features
- Skin temperature sensor
- Waterproof 5ATM
- Built-in ECG monitor
- Continuous SpO2
- Body composition via a bioelectrical impedance sensor
Pros
- Improved battery life
- Additional version for outdoor sport
- Increased durability of the display
- Curved design for more sensor-to-skin contact
- Better sleep tracking
Cons
- Skin temperature feature is not available at launch
- Rotating bezel was removed
How have they improved the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 over its predecessor?
The earlier version of the smartwatch was an undeniable success. It received high marks from critics, and long-term reviewers still reaffirm their love for the wearable. However, there is very little that can’t be improved in the tech world, and the Galaxy Watch 4 was no exception. Many owners found the short battery life infuriating and discovered the bezel design made the display prone to dings, scuffs, and scratches.
Samsung listened and addressed the criticisms. The Galaxy Watch 5 is made with a Sapphire Crystal display that Samsung claims is 60% more resistant to scratches. In addition, the smartwatch comes in two display sizes, both with upgraded batteries. The standard version went from a 247mAh to a 284mAh battery, while the large version went from 361mAh to 410mAh. If that’s still not enough, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro has a 590mAh battery which could last three days, depending on how it’s used.
They added a skin temperature sensor which can be used to detect illness, monitor sleep better, and provide more insight into exercise recovery. Unfortunately, this feature won’t be available at the time of launch.
They redesigned the shape of the device to increase the curve. This is shaped better to the wrist and increases skin contact with the sensors to improve the accuracy of the data. Another area they focused on improving is the sleep coach. The updates provide greater insights into sleep behaviour and actionable plans for improving sleep over time.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro
Samsung introduced the Pro version to appeal to adventure seekers. Unlike the aluminium standard version, the premium option is made from titanium for additional durability. The Pro only comes in one size, which is slightly larger than the sizeable standard option. It makes the premium offering a bit more clunky but easier to see and use on the go. The additional room was needed for the larger battery; 590mAh in the Pro Vs. 410mAh in the large standard option.
Along with improved durability, they’ve added features to the Pro version that will come in handy for outdoor fans. A “Track Back” feature will allow the wearer to find their way back to the GPS starting point in case they get lost. In addition, owners of the Pro can navigate to points on a map directly on the smartwatch.
If you’re someone who would benefit from additional battery life, navigation features, and durability, then the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro was probably made with you in mind. However, it’s worth noting that those extra features come with a significant price increase.
Is the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 and 5 Pro right for you?
With both watches, you get feature-packed smartwatches that provide impressive health monitoring sensors and insights. The Galaxy Watch is dependable, intuitive, and good value for the money. If health tracking is your main goal and you aren’t interested in smartwatch features, then you may want to save some money by opting for a fitness tracker like the Fitbit Charge 5. Less than half the price, longer battery life, and similar health sensors. However, the Galaxy Watch is far more versatile.
It gets a little more tricky with the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro. If you are a hardcore outdoor enthusiast, you may find the Pro isn’t quite up to the task. The Garmin Instinct 2 may be better suited with its rugged design, longer battery life, and higher waterproof rating. Unfortunately, the cost difference reflects that. The Pro strikes an outstanding balance between a sporty smartwatch and an intense, rugged multi-sport wearable. You’ll get all the reliability and advanced features of the Galaxy Watch plus some extra design improvements to help it keep up to outdoor life.
Buy on Amazon & the latest price: Galaxy Watch 5 & Galaxy Watch 5 Pro
