Apple Watch Series 1 vs Series 5: Detailed comparison
Updated on May 21, 2022
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.
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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 Series 1 and Series 5.
Recency
Series 1 was announced on September 7, 2016 at the Apple Special Event tagged ’See you on the 7th’. It was then was made available for purchase on September 20, 2019. Series 5 got announced 36 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, Series 1 has seised its production on September 21, 2018, whereas Series 5 currently remains in production.Series 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
Series 1 comes in 38mm or 42mm case body sizes and Series 5 is available in 40mm or 44mm case sizes. Apple Watch Series 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 standard aluminium, which, although is the lightest option, tends to get scratches fairly easily. Unique to Series 1 remains shiny stainless steel that is also on a heavier side, lightweight but very durable matte titanium, and finally premium glossy ceramic option.
Display
Series 5 has a 30 percent larger screen, compared to Series 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. It’s important to note that the newer Series 5 comes with an additional option of sapphire crystal display on stainless steel, titanium, and ceramic cases crystal coating.
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.
Series 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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