Apple Watch Gen 1 vs Series 5: Detailed comparison

You could say that the world of smartwatches is as vast as it is exciting, and Apple has been a forerunner of this revolution ever since the very beginning. In fact, their first smartwatch dates back to April 2014 — marking the start of a new era for smartwatch lovers across the globe.

That is why we’ve put together this comparison — in the hope to help you make the most informed decision. Whether you are considering an upgrade of your existing watch or looking to get your first one, we will try to clear up any uncertainties about the differences between Gen 1 and Series 5.

Recency

Gen 1 was announced on September 9, 2014 at the Apple Special Event tagged ’Wish we could say more’. It was then was made available for purchase on September 20, 2019. Series 5 got announced 60 months later on the Apple Special Event that was held on September 10, 2019, and was released to shops on September 20, 2019.

As of 2022, Gen 1 has seised its production on September 7, 2016, whereas Series 5 currently remains in production.Gen 1 continues to be supported by the latest software updates, whereas Series 5 no nonger receives latest software updates since Still supported.

Body sizes and materials

Gen 1 comes in 38mm or 42mm case body sizes and Series 5 is available in 40mm or 44mm case sizes. Apple Watch Gen 1 features a new, improved digital crown with haptic feedback which means that you will feel that satisfying ’click’ when scrolling through menu items.

Both watch models offer the same shiny stainless steel that is also on a heavier side. Unique to Gen 1 remains standard aluminium, which, although is the lightest option, tends to get scratches fairly easily, lightweight but very durable matte titanium, and finally premium glossy ceramic option.

Display

Series 5 has a 30 percent larger screen, compared to Gen 1. Series 5 adds an Always-on Display function which means that Newer Series 5 watch model comes with an improved Third-generation Always-On Retina LTPO OLED display technology, compared to last model.

Resistance

Sensors

Safety and Emergency

Connectivity

Battery and charging

It’s been a while since Apple changed something in terms of battery life, and both watches offer up to 18h advertised run time.

System-on-Chip

Series 5 is powered by an S5-branded chip.

Gen 1 uses the Apple S5 SoC.

NeatCompare overall relative score

Price comparison

Information sources: apple.com, wikipedia.org. Product photos are copyright Apple, Inc.

Disclaimer: we always try to source product specification information from official sources, such as apple.com website, but sometimes it is impossible to verify all data that we find from public sources. Also, some products come in various versions and it's difficult to backtrack which version or region has which finctions available. So Please note that we are not responsible for any errors, on this page. All information is provided 'as is' with no guarantees whatsoever.

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