Huawei has officially launched its latest flagship smartwatch, the Watch 5, at a dedicated event in Berlin. Unlike previous iterations, this year’s lineup does not include a Pro variant, making the Watch 5 the company’s top-tier wearable. The device is compatible with both iOS and Android, with select models offering eSIM support for standalone connectivity.
Design and Build
Available in 46mm and 42mm sizes, the Watch 5 features a premium titanium or stainless steel casing paired with sapphire glass for enhanced durability. The 46mm variant weighs just 58 grams, ensuring comfort despite its larger dimensions. A composite strap in matching colors complements the sleek aesthetic, while the spherical glass display adds a touch of sophistication.
Display and User Experience
The Watch 5 retains the dome-shaped LTPO AMOLED display introduced in its predecessor, now with a peak brightness of 3,000 nits—the highest in Huawei’s wearable lineup. Users can choose from a vast library of watch faces via the Huawei Health app, though animated designs may impact battery efficiency. A unique touch-sensitive feature allows animations to activate with a tap on the side sensor.
Revolutionary Health Monitoring
Huawei’s standout innovation is the X-Tap sensor, a three-in-one system combining pressure detection, ECG, and PPG (photoplethysmogram) capabilities. By pressing a finger against the sensor for 60 seconds, users can access Health Glance, a consolidated app providing nine health metrics, including:
- Heart rate variability (HRV)
- SpO2 levels
- Stress analysis
- Respiratory health (via audio analysis)
While these features are not new to Huawei wearables, their integration into a single, streamlined process sets the Watch 5 apart.
Performance and Battery Life
Powered by HarmonyOS 5, the Watch 5 supports over 100 sports modes, gesture controls, and eSIM functionality. The Dual Battery Mode allows quick switching between Standard and Ultra-Long Battery Life modes, with the latter disabling non-essential features to extend usage.
46mm model: 867 mAh battery (~4 days with typical use)
42mm model: 540 mAh battery (~3 days with typical use)
Ultra-Long Mode: Up to 7 days (with limited tracking)
Wireless charging is supported, though Huawei recommends using the included 10W charger for optimal performance.
Pricing and Availability
The Watch 5 starts at €449 for stainless steel models, with titanium versions priced at €549. Select markets, including Germany and Spain, offer bundled promotions such as FreeBuds 6i, additional straps, or discounts on complementary health devices.
Conclusion
The Huawei Watch 5 delivers a compelling blend of style, functionality, and cutting-edge health tracking. Its refined design, extended battery life, and intuitive health features make it a strong contender in the premium smartwatch segment. For users seeking a more affordable alternative, the Watch Fit 4 Pro remains a viable option.
