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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchFor most buyers comparing Apple Watch Series 5 vs Series 3, Series 5 is the better-equipped choice: it has an always-on, larger display, ECG capability, fall detection, and a compass. Series 3 may suit basic watch and fitness use if a particular used listing is compelling, but check its condition and compatibility with your iPhone before buying.
Is the Apple Watch Series 5 worth choosing over the Series 3? If you value the newer features, generally yes—but neither model should be judged by old launch prices or assumptions about present-day software support.
Apple Watch Series 5 vs Series 3: comparison
| What to compare | Apple Watch Series 5 | Apple Watch Series 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Display | Always-on Retina LTPO OLED; 40mm and 44mm sizes | Does not have Series 5’s always-on display; 38mm and 42mm sizes |
| Display area | Apple says the display is over 30% larger than Series 3 | Smaller display than Series 5 |
| Health and safety hardware | Electrical heart sensor for ECG, second-generation optical heart sensor, and accelerometer supporting fall detection | No ECG support; Apple says the ECG app is available on Series 4 and later |
| Navigation | Compass and barometric altimeter | Does not have the Series 5 compass |
| Configurations | GPS or GPS + Cellular | GPS or GPS + Cellular |
| Manufacturer battery rating | Up to 18 hours | Up to 18 hours |
| Water resistance | 50 meters; intended for shallow-water activities | 50 meters; intended for shallow-water activities |
Specifications are from Apple’s Series 5 technical specifications, 2019 Series 5 announcement, and Apple Watch Compare. Battery life varies with use and configuration. Apple cautions against scuba diving and high-velocity water sports with these water-resistance ratings.
What Series 5 adds
Always-on display and larger screen
Series 5 has an always-on Retina LTPO OLED display, so the screen can show information without requiring the same interaction as a display that turns off when not in use. Apple lists 40mm and 44mm case sizes and says the display is over 30% larger than Series 3. Series 3 comes in 38mm and 42mm sizes.
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- LEAVE YOUR PHONE AT HOME: Apple Watch Series 6 GPS + Cellular LTE Model lets you call, text, and get directions without your phone present. It offers multiple connectivity options, including: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, and 4G LTE to suit your needs, whatever they might be.
- ALWAYS-ON RETINA DISPLAY: You no longer need to raise your wrist or touch the screen to see the time or other information on your watch face, because the display never sleeps. All you need to do is glance to find the time or your workout metrics right there where you want them.
- ECG ON YOUR WRIST: With the ECG app, Apple Watch Series 6 is capable of generating an ECG similar to a single-lead electrocardiogram. It’s a momentous achievement for a wearable device that can provide data for doctors and peace of mind for you wherever may be during the day.
- WORKOUTS THAT DON'T QUIT: Cycling, yoga, swimming, high-intensity interval training.the list goes on. You me it, Apple Watch measures it. Set workout-specific goals, see full summaries when you’re done, and track how you’re trending over time in the Activity app on your iPhone.
- GET LOST IN YOUR MUSIC: With Apple Music on your wrist, you’ve got 60 million tracks of musical motivation to take you places. You can also catch up on the latest podcasts or listen to an audiobook if that's your thing. Stream everything you need right from your watch, even without your phone.
ECG, heart sensing, and fall detection
Series 5 includes an electrical heart sensor for ECG readings, a second-generation optical heart sensor, and an accelerometer that supports fall detection. The ECG app is available on Series 4 and later, according to Apple, so Series 3 is not in the supported range. Feature availability can depend on region and setup; check Apple’s guidance for your location.
Compass and altimeter
Series 5 adds a compass and barometric altimeter. Apple described these as providing compass heading and current elevation. If those navigation details matter to you, Series 5 is the clear choice between these two models.
Battery, water resistance, and connectivity
Apple rated both models for up to 18 hours of battery life and 50-meter water resistance. These are manufacturer ratings, not a promise of how long a particular used watch will last. Battery condition depends on the individual unit and its history, so ask the seller about battery health and review the return terms.
Both models were offered in GPS and GPS + Cellular configurations. Cellular service requires an eligible plan and carrier support. Confirm which version a listing is selling and whether its cellular configuration will work for you.
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- Blood Oxygen Monitoring: Built-in sensor measures blood oxygen levels to provide additional health and wellness insights.
Used and refurbished buying checks
- Confirm the case size and whether the watch is GPS or GPS + Cellular.
- Ask about battery condition and look for clear disclosure from the seller.
- Check activation status, return terms, and the physical condition of the watch.
- Confirm current watchOS, app, and iPhone compatibility for the exact model before purchase; the research for this comparison did not establish present-day support for either watch.
- Compare current listings rather than relying on historical launch prices.
For context only, Apple’s 2019 US launch announcement listed Series 5 at $399 for GPS and $499 for GPS + Cellular, and Series 3 at $199 for GPS and $299 for GPS + Cellular. Those are historical launch prices, not current used-market prices. Current value depends on the individual listing, condition, and seller terms.
Which should you buy?
Choose Series 5 if you want the always-on and larger display, ECG capability, fall detection, or compass. Consider Series 3 only if its basic watch and fitness functions meet your needs and a specific listing is attractive after you verify condition and compatibility. Neither model’s manufacturer battery rating tells you the health of a used battery.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.FAQ
Which is better, Apple Watch Series 5 or Series 3?
Series 5 has more of the features compared here, including an always-on display, ECG capability, fall detection, and a compass. Series 3 may still be considered for basic use, subject to the condition and compatibility of the individual watch.
Does Apple Watch Series 3 have ECG?
No. Apple’s ECG app support starts with Series 4 and later, which excludes Series 3.
Rank #3
- LEAVE YOUR PHONE AT HOME: Apple Watch Series 6 GPS + Cellular LTE Model lets you call, text, and get directions without your phone present. It offers multiple connectivity options, including: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, and 4G LTE to suit your needs, whatever they might be.
- ALWAYS-ON RETINA DISPLAY: You no longer need to raise your wrist or touch the screen to see the time or other information on your watch face, because the display never sleeps. All you need to do is glance to find the time or your workout metrics right there where you want them.
- ECG ON YOUR WRIST: With the ECG app, Apple Watch Series 6 is capable of generating an ECG similar to a single-lead electrocardiogram. It’s a momentous achievement for a wearable device that can provide data for doctors and peace of mind for you wherever may be during the day.
- WORKOUTS THAT DON'T QUIT: Cycling, yoga, swimming, high-intensity interval training.the list goes on. You me it, Apple Watch measures it. Set workout-specific goals, see full summaries when you’re done, and track how you’re trending over time in the Activity app on your iPhone.
- GET LOST IN YOUR MUSIC: With Apple Music on your wrist, you’ve got 60 million tracks of musical motivation to take you places. You can also catch up on the latest podcasts or listen to an audiobook if that's your thing. Stream everything you need right from your watch, even without your phone.
Do Series 5 and Series 3 have the same battery rating?
Apple rated both for up to 18 hours. Actual battery life varies, and a used watch’s battery condition must be checked separately.
Can I swim with either watch?
Apple lists both as water resistant to 50 meters for shallow-water activities. Apple cautions against scuba diving and high-velocity water sports.
What should I check before buying a used Apple Watch?
Check the exact model and case size, GPS or cellular configuration, battery condition, activation status, return terms, and current compatibility with your iPhone and the apps you need.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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