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Compare Apple Watch 3 vs Apple watch 4 vs 5: the differences, which one to choose?

This article is about Apple watch reviews & best price,Apple Watch 3 vs Apple watch 4 vs 5.

Since April 2015, the release date of its first Apple Watch, the apple brand continues to surprise us every year by offering a new, ever more sophisticated version of its smart health connected and sporty watch. Already very complete, we always wonder what new products could be offered on the next model!

In September 2019, Apple announces its 5th generation of Smartwatch, the Apple Watch Series 5, a watch offering very few new features and which, as a result, replaces the Apple Watch 4. The Apple Watch 3, meanwhile, remains marketed but sees its price drop strongly. Enough to attract new customers to Apple or, for those on a limited budget, to afford the best-selling smart health connected watch in the world at a lower price.

Best price Apple Watch Series 5

Best price Apple Watch Series 4

Best price Apple Watch Series 3

From Apple Watch 3 to Apple Watch 5: towards an ever more complete watch

Apple Watch 3: more 4G telephony and a finally fluid interface

The Apple Watch 3 brought 4G telephony (GPS & Cellular model), a small revolution that allows its users to make or receive calls, send or read emails or access various information without having to use their iPhone. The Series 3 also brought other notable improvements such as music streaming, Siri speaking through a small speaker, a faster processor, enhanced functionality, a brighter screen and offering the new Force Touch function. The Apple Watch 3 sees its price drop sharply following the introduction of the Apple Watch 5, the Smartwatch which replaces the Apple Watch 4. It therefore represents to date an excellent buying opportunity for people with a limited budget.

Read our detailed review of the Apple Watch 3 and our reviewBuy the Apple Watch 3

Apple Watch 4: a larger screen and advanced health monitoring (ECG, SOS call, etc.)

Apple Watch 4 and ECG

The Apple Watch 4 brings amazing health monitoring functions, including the famous electrocardiogram (ECG), a miniaturized medical device intended to detect certain cardiac anomalies, and the detection of falls by calling an emergency number in case of extended shore station. The technical improvements are also notable: in particular a larger screen with fine and rounded edges, new generation sensors, a processor 2 times faster.

The Apple Watch 4 is no longer sold by Apple since September 2019 since its replacement by the Apple Watch 5. However, specialist shops will sell it while stocks last.

Apple Watch 5: few changes apart from a permanently activated screen and a compass

Released in 2019, the Apple Watch 5 can be seen as an Apple Watch 4+, a model that replaces the Apple Watch 4 (the latter is therefore no longer sold). The novelties can be counted on the fingers of one hand. Apple seems to be upgrading its watch here to compete rather than releasing a new model. Apart from a screen that stays on continuously, a compass and some components revised to consume less battery, the changes are not significant. The autonomy remains unchanged, 6 p.m. Not enough to resell your old Apple Watch 4 for a new one.

Comparing Apple Watch 3 versus Apple Watch 4 versus Apple Watch 5: the differences

Here are the main differences between Apple Watch 3, 4 and 5. For a comparison between older models, see our article Comparison Apple Watch Series 3 vs 2 and 1.

luxury watch Hermès

The 3 watches are available in 2 case sizes and 2 versions, one with 4G connectivity (the Cellular model), the other without. Compared to the Apple Watch 3, the Apple Watch 4 brings major improvements, both functional and technical in addition to an even prettier look. The Apple Watch 5 brings some additional improvements: a permanently lit screen, a compass and the improvement of certain sensors.

Design and structure: improved screen and look, more precise digital crown

The Series 4 brings an improved screen, more energy efficient and larger in size. The definition increases (we gain 30% in area) which offers much greater visual comfort. The size of the case evolves: it gains 2 mm in height and is refined by 0.7 mm. The weight barely increases (2 to 3 g) despite the larger housing! To achieve this feat, Apple has refined the edges of the watch and rounded the corners of the screen to follow the curve of the case. Result: a superb look and a much more comfortable screen! The photos are larger, the maps more readable, the calendar more detailed and the number of “complications” (information on the screen) increases to 8.

The Series 5 brings, in addition, a major innovation (this is almost the only interest of the Apple Watch 5): a screen permanently on. No more twisting your wrist or tapping the screen to activate the display. Apple offers this without altering the remaining battery life of 18 h. The energy saving could in part be obtained by drastically reducing the refresh of the display when the watch is not in use (1 refresh per second instead of 60 per second!).

Regarding the back of the watch, since the Series 4, it is now all in ceramic and sapphire crystal in the center, materials that allow better passage of radio waves for improved cellular communication.

The digital crown, which allows easy and intuitive navigation, has also been improved. It is now with haptic feedback, that is to say it provides a more mechanical feeling (like the old winding watches) which gives it greater precision. The red dot, signature of the Cellular version, is replaced by a more discreet red circle.

Apple also offers a new stainless steel gold finish with a matching Milanese strap (the other finishes are aluminum) and, for its Apple Watch 5, new materials for the case: 100% recycled aluminum and, if you choose the Cellular version, titanium (lighter than steel) and ceramic. The bracelet collection continues to grow every year. You should also know that all the straps are compatible with older generations of Apple Watch.

(1) Depending on the size of the watch: 38 or 42 mm (Apple Watch 3), 40 or 44 mm (Apple Watch 4 & 5)(2) Aluminum housing: silver, space gray or gold – Stainless steel housing: silver, space black or gold – Titanium housing: titanium or space black – Ceramic housing: white

Technical characteristics and performance: responsive and fluid apps

On the technical side, the Apple Watch 4 has been significantly improved and offers much better performance than the Apple Watch 3 thanks to a processor twice as fast. The Apple Watch 5 also offers a new S5 processor, but the brand says nothing about its performance except that it (too) is up to twice as fast as that of the Apple Watch 3.

    • A processor up to 100% faster than the previous one: Apple is the only one in the world to run its watch 100% on a SiP (Silicon in Package), a chip that integrates all of the watch’s electronics, including the processor. The Apple Watch 4 has a new 64-bit dual-core processor that is up to twice as fast as the Apple Watch 3 S3 processor! The apps open faster and the fluidity is much better. The improvement was already very visible between Series 2 and Series 3.

8 complications screen

  • The AMOLED screen evolves: in addition to being larger, the screen technology changes on the Series 4. We go from an OLED retina screen of LTPS (Low Temperature Polycrystalline Silicon) technology to LTPO (Low Temperature Polycrystalline Oxid). This technology consumes 5 to 15% less energy and is more suitable for high resolutions and the design of flexible screens (rounded edges). This choice allowed Apple to optimize the energy consumption of its watch. On the Series 5, Apple further optimizes power consumption and offers a permanently activated screen (disengageable if you want to save battery) for unchanged autonomy (18 h).

  • More memory, 32 GB on the Series 5: on the Apple Watch 3, the memory had gone from 8 to 16 GB but only on the Cellular model. With the Series 4, the 2 models (with or without 4G chip) benefit from 16 GB of memory. With the Series 5, we go to 32 GB, so even more storage space (music and data).

  • An optical cardio of 2nde generation: Apple produces its own optical sensors for measuring heart rate and their reliability is quite good. The latest Apple Watch models (4 and 5) have a new improved sensor that can detect certain cardiac anomalies (potential bradycardia for example) with generation of alerts to the user.

  • A bigger and 50% more powerful speaker: to improve the quality of communications (speaking Siri, telephony, walkie-talkie function), the speaker of the Apple Watch 4 has been revised and corrected to be more powerful. The microphone has also been moved to reduce the echo phenomenon during telephone communications. The back of the watch is now entirely made of ceramic and sapphire crystal in the center to better let the radio waves pass.

  • Other improved or added components: the Apple Watch 4 (and of course the Apple Watch 5) comes with all new components. The gyroscope and accelerometer have been improved and record more measurements. The accelerometer can record accelerations up to 32 g instead of 16 g. Both handsets are used for fall detection. An electric heart rate sensor has been added to the watch to provide an electrocardiogram (ECG). The watch is also compatible with Bluetooth 5.0 (instead of 4.2). Finally, the ambient light sensor of the Apple Watch 5 is improved to optimize the consumption of the screen.

  • A new operating system: Apple is taking advantage of this new model to improve its version of OS and move to WatchOS 6 (the Apple Watch 3 benefits from this update) which includes new features (see below) and the latest fixes.

1 Depending on the model, GPS or GPS + Cellular2 According to the use (18h in watch mode with a little sporting use. 1h in 4G communication)

Features: fall detection, electrocardiogram, walkie-talkie function, noise monitoring and compass!

In terms of functions, the Apple Watch Series 4 differs from previous models by several significant improvements, in particular in terms of health monitoring and well-being functions (see the comparison table below). Find these functions described in more detail in our detailed review and review on the Apple Watch 4. The Series 5 brings an extra compass.

ECG electrocardiogram screen

  • An electrocardiogram (ECG): this is the great novelty of the Apple Watch 4 which will especially interest people who need cardiac monitoring. The ECG application constitutes a miniaturized medical device aimed at detecting an abnormal heart rhythm. The watch, thanks to a new electric heart rate sensor, is capable of providing an “electrocardiogram” and of emitting an alert in the event of a detected problem. The ECG can also be saved in PDF format so that you can show it to a doctor (the problem may arise in a specific situation and not necessarily during a Review carried out in a hospital environment). The application has been certified From novo by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the FDA (Food and Drugs Administration). The function, already available in the United States since the end of 2018, was introduced in France in March 2019 following the approval of the competent authorities. Note that the ECG produced is limited. Learn more: what’s new in Apple Watch 4

  • Fall detection: The Apple Watch 4 is capable of detecting a fall and dialing an emergency number by transmitting the GPS coordinates. The user has 60 seconds to get up or cancel the call. Since Apple Watch 5, the function can be used abroad.

  • The walkie-talkie function: to communicate with other Apple Watch users. Communication takes place via Wi-Fi or the cellular network.

  • A compass : New in the Apple Watch 5, the Compass app helps orient a topographic map. A small compass is also displayed on the plans and maps of the watch.

  • Reinforced and more motivating activity monitoring: in addition to the system of rings to be completed each day (functions to move, train and get up), it is possible to challenge a friend and win trophies, a motivating way to move.

  • Improved sports functions: new types of training have been added, for example yoga and hiking. The runners will benefit from a 6 hour autonomy, the cadence display, the pace on the previous kilometer and rhythm alerts. The watch also detects the start of a workout and issues an alert if the user has forgotten to start recording the activity. The “lost” data is then retroactively recorded. Finally, the watch is compatible with certain fitness equipment, treadmill, stepper, elliptical, speed sensor, etc.).

  • New functions to help you lead a healthy life: Apple Watch 4 teaches you to take good habits like drinking regularly, thinking about taking breaks and moving, encouraging you to relax with breathing exercises, etc.

  • Watch OS 6 and the latest added features: the latest Apple Watch operating system offers menstrual cycle monitoring (menstruation dates, fertile days, etc.), a new Noise app that assesses ambient noise and sends an alert in case of risk to the hearing.

1 4G network available only on the Cellular model2 With an iPhone on nearby for the GPS model (without 4G)3 Via Wi-Fi (GPS model) or cellular connection (Cellular model)

noise app screen, menstrual tracking and compass

Our opinion on Apple Watch 3, 4 and 5. Which one to choose?

The Apple Watch is a smart health connected and sporty watch for athletes and less athletic. Elegant and refined, with its bracelets rich in materials and in color, it will not disappoint unless you want to use it for a regular or intensive practice of a sport (it is better to turn to models dedicated to sport). You also need an iPhone to use it.

Should you choose the Apple Watch 5 and pay even more?

apple watch 5

If you don’t have an Apple Watch yet, want to buy one and if your budget is not limited, we strongly advise you to opt for the latest model, the Apple Watch 5 (read our review detailed and our opinion). It is the prettiest, the most complete and the most efficient (fluidity of apps, more comfortable and permanently lit screen, improved sensors, complete functions for health monitoring). It is certainly more expensive but the improvements made by Apple since the Series 3 are really interesting. Its design is also prettier thanks to the rounded edges and the refined edges around the screen but this is a matter of taste. Note that the price of the watch varies depending on its size (€ 30 difference between the 2 models) and of course depending on whether you choose the Cellular model or not (another € 100 difference).

If your budget is a little tight, the Apple Watch 3 is a great compromise. It remains interesting both in terms of functionality and performance. Apple had installed a new processor making the opening of apps acceptable (compared to the Series 2) and navigation much more fluid. The novelty was especially the introduction of the Cellular model, with the 4G LTE chip but also faster and less energy-consuming components, an improved Siri application (especially speaking), a barometric altimeter. However, this model does not benefit from the technical improvements made to the Series 4 and 5 such as the more comfortable screen and the new functions oriented health and healthy living.

Finally, the Apple Watch 4 is interesting for its characteristics and functionalities almost identical to the Apple Watch 5 but for a reduced price! To date, it has been a very good buying opportunity. But we must hurry because stocks will not be forever …

2 watches with challenge screen

Should we resell our Apple Watch 3 or 4 for an Apple Watch 5?

This is mainly a question of comfort and budget.

The transition from Apple Watch 4 to Apple Watch 5 is not interesting unless you really care about the compass and the display is always on …

Switching from Apple Watch 3 to Apple Watch 5 (or 4) is another matter. If the health functions are important to you, if you are subject to falls or if you exercise alone, or if the new ECG function is likely to interest you (with its limitations nonetheless. This watch will not replace a consultation with a specialist!), then the new model should interest you. Apple can even trade in your old model !

The design and size of the screen (more comfortable because of better definition) can also tip the scales. The new screen, 30% larger, is very welcome. It is more readable and more practical (the number of shortcuts and data displayed increases to 8). The quality of communications is better, both that of sound recording (telephony) and that of the speaker (more audible).

For sports use, the few improvements made to the Apple Watch 4 and 5 are interesting but may not be enough to change the watch. If you are a demanding sportsman, it is better anyway to opt for a sports watch rather than a versatile smart health connected watch (see our comparison of the best current cardio GPS watches).

Should we choose the GPS + Cellular model rather than the GPS model?

It all depends on the intended use. If you want to use your watch to telephone, communicate by email or even go running “light” listening to music in streaming without having to take your iPhone everywhere with you, then it is better to choose the Cellular model which will offer you this freedom. The GPS model offers the same functions but requires, to connect to the network, to have an iPhone nearby or a personal Wi-Fi connection (health home). For music, however, you can listen to the songs stored on your watch.

Should I buy the Apple Watch or another smart health connected watch?

8 fields display

The Apple Watch is a smart health connected watch (it interacts with the outside world) which is versatile, that is to say usable for sport as for everyday life (activity monitoring, advice, encouragement to move, etc. .). Thanks to its beautiful design and its interchangeable bracelets that can match your outfit, it can be worn in town and at work. It is appreciated by non-athletes who want to lead a healthier life or who are looking for motivation to move. It also offers functions for sport. For further sporting use, it is better to invest in a watch dedicated to sport (running watch, hiking watch, triathlon watch, etc.).

The Apple Watch has the advantage of offering very advanced functions that few other watches of this type offer to date. It is now one of the best-selling smart health connected watches in the world. As an interesting alternative, we recommend the Garmin Venu smart health connected watch, released in 2019, with an AMOLED screen as on the Apple Watch (equivalent to the Vivoactive 4 but with a much better display), or the Samsung Galaxy Watch.

Price and availability

The Apple Watch 3, whose price has dropped significantly, is available from € 229 (GPS model) and € 329 (GPS + Cellular model) for the small format (38 mm case) and 30 € more for the large case. The Apple Watch 4 is no longer sold since September 2019 but remains sold in certain brands until stocks are exhausted. Its price is falling. The Apple Watch 5 is available for sale since the end of September 2019 from € 449 (GPS model) and € 549 (Cellular model). 30 € must be added for the large case.

Buy the Apple Watch Series 5

Buy the Apple Watch Series 4

Buy the Apple Watch Series 3