The technology company has launched its new members of the Samsung Galaxy smartwatch range, which is now in version 5. In this case, we are talking about two models, the 5 and the 5 Pro, and the question that always arises is the same: How do they differ? And, above all, which one is more worthwhile? In this article, I have compiled all the features of both smartwatches to help you choose the one that best suits your needs. Are you ready? Let’s get started!
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Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 vs 5 Pro: What’s the design like?
The first thing that catches our attention, in any smartwatch, is its design, so that’s the first section of this review. It’s worth noting that there is already a first difference between the two versions. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is available in two sizes: 40 and 44 mm. The Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, on the other hand, is only available in a 45 mm size.
As you can see, it’s bigger than either of the two standard versions and, more importantly, it’s heavier. The weight of the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro is 46.5 grams, while the heavier Galaxy watch 5 weighs 33 grams. In addition, the design of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is sportier than the Pro model, which is more like a traditional watch with a strap and a more traditional minute hand design.
As for the screen, it is worth noting that the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5’s screen is the same as the larger Galaxy Watch 5. That is, it has AMOLED technology, a size of 1.4 inches and a resolution of 450 x 450 pixels. It also has an always-on display function and sapphire glass, which is more resistant than Corning Glass.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 vs 5 Pro: The processor remains unchanged
Exactly the same in both models. In fact, the processor in all watches in the 5 series is the same as in the 4 series, the Exynos W920. Therefore, they also have the same storage capacity (1.5 GB RAM and 16 GB internal), and the same operating system, Wear OS 3.5. In this sense, Samsung has preferred to maintain a very continuist line.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 vs 5 Pro: The battery gets better
One of the big new features of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro compared to the standard version is the battery life and capacity. If we look at the 44mm model of the larger Samsung Galaxy Watch 5, it has a 410 mAh battery capacity.
The battery of the 5 Pro, on the other hand, is 590 mAh, a difference that is very noticeable in battery life. Basically, this means that you can get a couple of days more battery life compared to the 5 model, a very important advantage that justifies the price difference between the two. Of course, both smartwatches have fast charging.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 vs 5 Pro: Sports performance under scrutiny
In general, the smartwatches we are analysing are quite similar, although we have to give a slight advantage in this respect to the Pro model. Mainly because it has three new features that could be important. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro has a route training function with which you can import your training routes in GPX format from your mobile phone to the smartwatch, and synchronise your route list.
There’s also turn-by-turn navigation, which makes it harder to get lost, and Track Back, a feature that lets you retrace your steps in case you don’t know where you’re going.
Not least, both smartwatches are IP68 rated and have a waterproof tolerance of 5 ATM, equivalent to around 50 metres. Therefore, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro is an ideal smartwatch for outdoor activities related to the mountains, hiking, climbing, swimming, cycling, etc.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 vs 5 Pro: Health monitoring
We now analyse the different health-related sensors that our protagonists have, and the truth is that they are evenly matched in this aspect. Both have Samsung’s BioActive sensor, which is also upgraded from the model 4, and can measure heart rate, electrical bioimpedance and the heart’s electrical signal.
There is also a body temperature sensor, accelerometer, magnetic sensor, gyroscope and light sensor. And when it comes to the sleep cycle, both are able to provide a really comprehensive report, planning the best sleep routine based on your data and providing personalised suggestions to help you improve your sleep.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 vs 5 Pro: Connectivity
If we look at the technological and connectivity functionalities, we find few differences. Both smartwatches are compatible with Bluetooth version 5.2 and with GPS, Glonass, Beidou and Galileo location systems. In addition, they can be synchronised with your smartphone and are also synchronised with a voice assistant.
And if you are used to contactless payments, with both smartwatches you can activate NFC technology, which allows you to make contactless payments.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 vs 5 Pro: What’s my conclusion?
Now that I’ve analysed the differences and similarities between the two smartwatches in the Galaxy Watch 5 range, I have to say that I expected more differences than there actually are. Although, to be honest, I was surprised at first that the price difference (not taking into account any discounts) was so low, because usually Samsung does introduce more changes between the Pro models and the standard versions.
So, when asked which of the two is a more interesting smartwatch, my answer would be that it depends on what you use it for. What I like most about the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro is the road training feature, which I do think is important if you’re into outdoor sports, because it has advantages that the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 doesn’t have.
In addition, the difference in terms of battery life and capacity is also important, and may be a decisive aspect for some users. In this respect, it is surprising that there is more noticeable difference between the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 and the 5 Pro, than with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4.
Therefore, taking into account that the economic variation is not so great that the decision is clear, the best thing to do is to think about how you are going to use the smartwatch for the most part and, based on that, decide. In particular, I’m going with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro because of the improved battery life, and because it’s not much more of an investment for me financially. However, only you have the final say.