- Processor: Series 5 has the S5 chip; Series 3 uses the S3.
- Storage: Series 5 (32GB), Series 3 (8GB).
- Display: Series 5 has an Always-On Display and is larger and brighter.
- Health Features: Series 5 includes ECG, fall detection, and international emergency calling.
- Price: Series 3 (
$169), Series 5 ($299). - Battery: Both last ~18 hours, but the Series 5's Always-On Display uses more power.
- Water Resistance: Both are water-resistant to 50m.
- Fitness Tracking: Both track physical activity and swimming; Series 5 adds an Always-On Display and ECG.
- Connectivity: Both have GPS and a cellular option; full integration with iPhones.
- User Opinion: Series 3 is praised for value for money; Series 5 for its advanced features.
Choosing between the Apple Watch Series 3 and Series 5 is no easy decision. Both offer great features and a genuinely impressive experience. But which one is actually worth it for you? In this post, we compare the differences in design, health features, performance, and more. Read on to find out everything about these two models and make the right choice for your wrist.
What is the difference between the Apple Watch Series 3 and Series 5?
Technical specifications compared
Let's start with the heart of the matter. The Apple Watch Series 5 comes with a faster processor, the S5, while the Series 3 uses the S3 chip. In day-to-day use, this means apps open faster and the watch feels more responsive. The Series 5 also offers 32GB of storage, leaving plenty of room for music, apps, and photos — compared to just 8GB on the Series 3.Key design differences
The Series 5 impresses with its always-on screen, something the Series 3 lacks entirely. You no longer need to raise your wrist to check the time, which is genuinely convenient. The Series 5 display is also larger and brighter, making it easier to read — especially outdoors. Thinner bezels give it a more modern, polished look overall.Series 5 highlights
The Apple Watch Series 5 brings several features missing from the Series 3. The ECG function, for example, allows for more precise heart health monitoring. The Series 5 also includes fall detection and international emergency calling — important safety features for users on the go.Price and value for money
If budget is a concern, the Series 3 is the more accessible choice at around $169, while the Series 5 sits at around $299. Both deliver solid fitness tracking, notifications, and iPhone integration. If the Series 5's additional features aren't a priority for you, the Series 3 remains a cost-effective option without sacrificing the essentials.What health monitoring features do the Apple Watch Series 3 and 5 offer?
Heart rate monitoring
Both the Apple Watch Series 3 and Series 5 offer heart rate monitoring. This feature helps you keep track of your heart during exercise or throughout the day. The Series 3 provides continuous monitoring and alerts for irregular rhythms. The Series 5 goes further, measuring your heart rate at rest, during activity, and in recovery — giving you a clearer picture of your overall cardiovascular health.ECG app on the Series 5
The Apple Watch Series 5 includes an important advancement: the electrocardiogram (ECG) app. This app is unique and FDA-approved. It captures electrical signals from the heart and generates an ECG in 30 seconds — simply open the app and hold the Digital Crown. The result can indicate a sinus rhythm or signs of atrial fibrillation, helping to detect heart problems early.Health improvements
The Series 3's health features are straightforward and effective: calorie tracking, physical activity, and workouts. The Series 5 takes things further with fall detection, high-volume notifications, low heart rate alerts, and international emergency calling — so you can get help wherever you are. Comparing the two, the Series 5 offers more tools for those who take health monitoring seriously. The Apple Watch Series 3 covers the basics at a lower price point. The Series 5, with its ECG and other innovations, is the better choice for comprehensive health tracking.How does the Apple Watch Series 3 performance compare to the Series 5?
Processor and speed
The Apple Watch Series 5 is faster than the Series 3. The difference? The Series 5 uses the S5 processor, while the Series 3 runs the S3. With the S5, apps open more quickly and navigation feels smoother. That makes a real difference in daily use. If you dislike waiting, the Series 5 is the better pick.Storage space
Another area where the Series 5 stands out is storage. It offers 32GB, compared with the Series 3's 8GB. That means more room for apps, music, and photos. If you store a lot of content on your watch, the Series 5 is the clear choice. For a detailed specification comparison, see here.Conclusion
Even with the Series 5's superior performance, the Series 3 remains appealing — especially at its price. It handles the basics and fitness tracking well. But if speed and extra storage matter to you, the Series 5 is the one worth buying.What display features does the Apple Watch Series 3 and Series 5 offer?
Series 5 Always-On Display
The Apple Watch Series 5 has a feature the Series 3 lacks: the Always-On screen. This means you can check the time and your stats without raising your wrist or tapping the display. It's genuinely useful for anyone who'd rather not make obvious gestures in public. Bear in mind that this feature does consume more battery. That said, if you like glancing at your watch and seeing information instantly, the Series 5 is the better fit.Screen size and resolution
Now for screen size and resolution. The Series 5 has a larger, brighter display. With thinner bezels, it delivers a better visual experience — especially when using apps or reading messages. The Series 5 comes in 40mm or 44mm, while the Series 3 offers 38mm or 42mm. The difference may seem minor, but in practice you'll clearly notice more screen real estate and better visibility on the Series 5. Resolution is also superior on the Series 5, making text and images sharper and clearer. This is especially useful outdoors in direct sunlight — it's simply easier to read without any effort. For full technical details, you can check directly on the Apple website. In short, if you value a larger, sharper display, the Series 5 wins outright. But if you're after a more affordable option and can live with a few trade-offs, the Series 3 is still a solid choice.How does the Apple Watch Series 3 battery compare to the Series 5?
Battery life
If you're wondering about battery life, here's the quick answer: the Apple Watch Series 3 lasts around 18 hours — the same as the Series 5. That might sound identical, but the Series 5 has an interesting caveat. The Series 5 comes with an Always-On Display. That feature uses more power and can reduce battery life if left on continuously.Features that affect battery
Certain features on both models affect battery life in different ways. GPS and continuous heart rate monitoring are present on both. However, on the Series 5, the Always-On Display, ECG app, and higher screen brightness all add to battery drain. The Apple Watch Series 3, without ECG or an always-on screen, conserves slightly more energy throughout the day. If you want longer battery life, you can disable some Series 5 features to save power. Ultimately, it comes down to how you use your watch day to day. If you need the always-on screen, the Series 5 may require more frequent charging. Comparing the two, the Series 3 is simpler in terms of power consumption, while the Series 5 offers more features that can drain the battery faster — but with meaningful added benefits. Weigh up your needs carefully before deciding.What fitness tracking capabilities do the Apple Watch Series 3 and 5 offer?
Physical activity tracking
The Apple Watch Series 3 and Series 5 are excellent for anyone who enjoys exercise. Both have built-in GPS to track your runs accurately, and both monitor calories burned, distance covered, and workout duration. If you swim, both are water-resistant. You can wear them in the pool without worry — they count laps, detect stroke type, and measure calories burned in the water. Both the Apple Watch 3 and 5 handle swimming well. For intense training sessions, both models monitor heart rate in real time and alert you if it rises or falls outside a safe range — helping you stay on track towards your fitness goals.Additional features on the Series 5
The Apple Watch Series 5 has a few extra advantages. The always-on display makes it easy to check your stats mid-workout without raising your wrist — useful when running or cycling. Another standout feature on the Series 5 is ECG (electrocardiogram). It analyses your heart rhythm and can help detect cardiac issues earlier — something that could genuinely make a difference to your health. The Series 5 also includes fall detection. If an accident happens, it can send a message to your emergency contacts, providing extra peace of mind during intense or outdoor training. Finally, the Series 5 has a slightly larger and brighter screen than the Series 3, making it easier to read workout data in any lighting condition — whether in the gym or outdoors. In summary, both models are good choices for fitness tracking. But the Series 5 offers several additional features that could make a real difference. For more details, find out more here.What connectivity options are available on the Apple Watch Series 3 and 5?
GPS and cellular options
Connectivity is a strong point for both Apple Watch models. The Apple Watch Series 3 is available in GPS-only and GPS + Cellular variants, and the Series 5 offers the same options. GPS lets you track your activities on a map without carrying your phone. With the cellular version, you can make calls, send messages, and use the internet even when your iPhone isn't nearby. If you like the freedom of going out without your phone, the cellular option is well worth considering. Just bear in mind that more features usually means a higher price — so check your budget and decide what you actually need before committing. See more details in the official comparison.iPhone connectivity
Both models work seamlessly with iPhones. They integrate fully, meaning you can receive notifications, answer calls, and use apps directly on the watch. Compatibility with newer iPhones is worth considering, though. The Apple Watch Series 3 is compatible with iPhone 6s and later. The Series 5 also works with iPhone 6s, but performs better with newer devices. So if you're using a recent iPhone, the Series 5 may offer a smoother, faster experience. It's also worth checking which apps each version supports, as that may influence your decision. Both series cover the essentials — you won't miss any core functionality regardless of which model you choose. So if price is the deciding factor, the Series 3 remains an excellent option with plenty of connectivity for everyday use.How do the Apple Watch Series 3 and 5 perform in terms of water resistance?
Water resistance rating
If you're like most users, you want to wear your Apple Watch during all kinds of activities — including swimming. Both the Apple Watch Series 3 and Series 5 are water-resistant to 50 metres (5 ATM). That means you can wear them in the pool or the sea, and use them for low-speed water sports. They are not, however, suitable for deep diving or high-pressure water activities.Durability testing
Apple tested the durability of both models under real-world conditions, assessing resistance to sweat, rain, and salt water. Both hold up well to daily use with water. The Series 5 feels slightly more reliable, likely due to its more recent build and engineering refinements. When it comes to long-term durability, the Series 5 also appears to maintain its water resistance better over the years. The Series 3 is perfectly fine, but its seals may wear slightly faster over time. If water resistance is a key priority, the Series 5 may be worth the extra investment. The Apple comparison page can help validate these observations and guide you towards the best model for your needs. Both models are great for most everyday activities involving water. Choosing between them may ultimately come down to your budget and how many extra features you want from your smartwatch.What is the price difference between the Apple Watch Series 3 and Series 5?
Current prices
The Apple Watch Series 3 is considerably more affordable than the Series 5. You can currently find the Series 3 for around $169, while the Series 5 typically sells for approximately $299. That substantial price gap could be the deciding factor for many buyers. If saving money is the priority, the Apple Watch Series 3 is certainly worth considering.Value relative to features
Despite the price difference, both models share several core features. Both the Series 3 and Series 5 offer fitness tracking, notifications, and seamless iPhone integration. However, the Series 5 brings extras that can justify its higher price tag. The biggest differentiator is the Always-On Display — on the Series 5, you can check the time and key information without raising your wrist. Another exclusive Series 5 feature is the ECG app, which enables more detailed heart health monitoring. The Series 5 also includes automatic fall detection and international emergency calling — indispensable features for those who prioritise safety. The Series 5 display is another strong point: larger, brighter, and with thinner bezels, making it easier to read information outdoors. Battery management can also be improved by disabling the Always-On feature, giving you more flexibility in daily use. The choice between Series 3 and Series 5 really comes down to how much you're willing to spend and which features matter most to you. If saving money is the goal, the Series 3 offers excellent value. But if you want advanced safety features and a superior user experience, the Series 5 is the better choice.What software updates are available for the Apple Watch Series 3 and Series 5?
Compatibility with the latest watchOS
The Apple Watch Series 3's compatibility with the latest versions of watchOS is quite limited. From watchOS 7 onwards, Series 3 performance began to decline, and updating the system can be troublesome. The Apple Watch Series 5, on the other hand, is compatible with more recent versions of watchOS, including watchOS 8. It delivers a smooth, trouble-free experience with access to all the latest features and security improvements.watchOS features
With each watchOS release, new features are introduced. In watchOS 7, both the Series 3 and Series 5 received updates including sleep tracking and new workout modes. However, watchOS 8 brought more advanced capabilities that the Series 5 makes the most of — including new watch faces, the Mindfulness app, advanced health notifications, and improved messaging. The Series 5 also leverages its hardware more effectively with watchOS 8. ECG functionality and more precise cardiac monitoring, for instance, are exclusive to it. The always-on display also enhances visibility and direct interaction with notifications and information. While the Series 3 covers the basics and supports many watchOS 7 features, it cannot effectively use several of the watchOS 8 improvements. If software updates matter to you, the Series 5 is the recommended choice — access to the latest features and improvements can make a significant difference to your daily experience.What do users think of the Apple Watch Series 3 and Series 5?
User opinions on the Series 3
Users appreciate the Apple Watch Series 3's affordable price. It's ideal for anyone who doesn't want to spend too much but still wants a capable smartwatch. Many praise its fitness tracking and notifications, and some say the iPhone integration is just as seamless as the newer model. A common complaint, however, is the lack of advanced features such as the always-on display and the ECG app. In short, users looking for an affordable yet functional option are generally happy with the Series 3.User opinions on the Series 5
Apple Watch Series 5 users frequently highlight the always-on display as a major selling point. Being able to check the time and stats without raising the wrist is something they value highly. The ECG app is also a big draw for those who want to monitor their heart health. Many appreciate fall detection and emergency calling as a safety net. Users also note the larger, brighter screen, which makes reading information outdoors much easier. Some find the price a little high, but consider it justified by the additional features. Overall, those who want advanced technology and extra safety find excellent value in the Series 5.April 2026 update: are the Apple Watch Series 5 and Series 3 still relevant?
In 2026, both models have left Apple's new lineup but remain attractive as refurbished options. The refurbished Apple Watch Series 5 is the sweet spot for an entry-level purchase with an always-on display; the Series 3 has not received watchOS updates since 2022 (it stopped at watchOS 8) and now functions only as a basic tracker. For any new Apple Watch purchase, the more recent models are the way to go.
In this article
- What is the difference between the Apple Watch Series 3 and Series 5?
- Technical specifications compared
- Key design differences
- Series 5 highlights
- Price and value for money
- What health monitoring features do the Apple Watch Series 3 and 5 offer?
- Heart rate monitoring
- ECG app on the Series 5
- Health improvements
- How does the Apple Watch Series 3 performance compare to the Series 5?
- Processor and speed
- Storage space
- Conclusion
- What display features does the Apple Watch Series 3 and Series 5 offer?
- Series 5 Always-On Display
- Screen size and resolution
- How does the Apple Watch Series 3 battery compare to the Series 5?
- Battery life
- Features that affect battery
- What fitness tracking capabilities do the Apple Watch Series 3 and 5 offer?
- Physical activity tracking
- Additional features on the Series 5
- What connectivity options are available on the Apple Watch Series 3 and 5?
- GPS and cellular options
- iPhone connectivity
- How do the Apple Watch Series 3 and 5 perform in terms of water resistance?
- Water resistance rating
- Durability testing
- What is the price difference between the Apple Watch Series 3 and Series 5?
- Current prices
- Value relative to features
- What software updates are available for the Apple Watch Series 3 and Series 5?
- Compatibility with the latest watchOS
- watchOS features
- What do users think of the Apple Watch Series 3 and Series 5?
- User opinions on the Series 3
- User opinions on the Series 5
- April 2026 update: are the Apple Watch Series 5 and Series 3 still relevant?
- Refurbished Series 5 or Series 6 — which to choose?
- Which watchOS does each model receive in 2026?
- Is the Apple Watch SE worth considering instead of the Series 5?
- Does the Series 3 still work with a new iPhone?
- Where does iOutlet stock these models?
- Conclusion
Refurbished Series 5 or Series 6 — which to choose?
There's a meaningful difference: the Series 6 introduced blood oxygen monitoring (SpO2), the faster S6 chip, and a brighter always-on display. If the budget allows, a refurbished Apple Watch Series 6 or newer is the better buy. The Series 5 still holds its own for notifications, basic fitness tracking, and Apple Pay.
Which watchOS does each model receive in 2026?
Apple Watch Series 5 and SE 1st generation: up to watchOS 10 (inclusive). Series 6 and later: watchOS 11 (released 2024). Series 7 and later: watchOS 12 available. The Series 3 stopped at watchOS 8 — it misses out on recent features such as advanced Sleep Mode, ECG (which it never had), and SpO2.
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Is the Apple Watch SE worth considering instead of the Series 5?
The refurbished Apple Watch SE 2 (released 2022) has the S8 chip — more recent than the Series 5's S5 — but lacks an always-on display, ECG, and SpO2. For those who want something simple but current, it's a strong option; for those who want the always-on display that the Series 5 offers, you'll need to go for Series 5 or higher. Both are available at iOutlet with 24-month warranty and a battery tested using specialist technical software.
Does the Series 3 still work with a new iPhone?
Yes, but with limitations. It pairs with any iPhone running iOS 15 or later (covering iPhone 6s and newer), but some modern apps require watchOS 9+ — which the Series 3 does not support. For casual use (notifications, time, step counting) it works fine; for Apple Pay, advanced fitness tracking, and replying to messages, it falls short.
Where does iOutlet stock these models?
In the refurbished Apple Watch section, the catalogue covers Series 4 through to Series 10 and SE 2, in both GPS and GPS+Cellular configurations. Most customers in 2026 opt for the Series 6, 7, or 8 — offering a good balance of price and features for the next 3–4 years of use.
Conclusion
All things considered, we've compared the Apple Watch Series 3 and Series 5 across design, health monitoring, performance, display, battery life, fitness tracking, connectivity, water resistance, price, software updates, and user opinions. The Series 5 offers notable improvements — including the Always-On Display, ECG app, and stronger overall performance. But the Series 3 remains an excellent choice for value. Understand your priorities and pick the model that best suits your needs. At iOutlet, we stock both with great offers and full support.Diagnostic tools
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