Honor's smartwatch offerings have evolved significantly. The MagicWatch 2 established a strong foundation, but the newer Watch 5 aims to refine the experience. This comparison dissects both devices, focusing on how the Watch 5 builds upon its predecessor, and whether the improvements justify an upgrade or make it the better choice for new buyers.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Honor Watch 5 is the superior choice. While specific details are limited, Honor's typical iterative improvements suggest a more modern sensor suite, potentially improved software, and a refined design. The MagicWatch 2 remains a viable option for budget-conscious buyers, but the Watch 5 likely offers a more complete smartwatch experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | N/A |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | N/A |
| 4G bands | LTE | N/A |
| EDGE | - | No |
| GPRS | - | No |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | No |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | No cellular connectivity |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, September 05 | 2019, November. Released 2019, December |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, September | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, aluminum frame | Glass front, ceramic back, stainless steel frame |
| Dimensions | 45.6 x 39.4 x 11 mm (1.80 x 1.55 x 0.43 in) | 45.9 x 45.9 x 10.7 mm (1.81 x 1.81 x 0.42 in) |
| SIM | eSIM | No |
| Weight | 35 g (1.23 oz) | 41 g (1.45 oz) |
| | - | 50m water resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 390 x 450 pixels (~322 ppi density) | 454 x 454 pixels (~326 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.85 inches | 1.39 inches |
| Type | AMOLED, 1000 nits (peak) | OLED |
| Platform |
|---|
| OS | MagicOS 8 | Proprietary OS |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 4GB | 4GB |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes (46mm only) |
| | - | Only 46mm series support Bluetooth calling |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.2, LE | 5.1, LE, EDR |
| NFC | Yes (market/region dependent) | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | No | No |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, SpO2 | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, barometer, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Si/C Li-Ion 480 mAh | Li-Ion 455 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Gold, Green | Charcoal Black, Flax Brown, Agate Black, Sarkura Gold |
| Models | - | HEB-B19, MNS-B19 |
| Price | About 150 EUR | About 180 EUR |
Honor Watch 5
- Likely improved processor for faster performance
- Potential for more accurate health sensors
- Modern design with slimmer bezels
- Likely higher price point than MagicWatch 2
- Specific specs currently unavailable
Honor MagicWatch 2
- More affordable price point
- Solid battery life (up to 14 days)
- Established track record of reliability
- Older processor may result in slower performance
- Less advanced health tracking features
Display Comparison
Given Honor's trajectory, the Watch 5 likely features an AMOLED display with improved brightness compared to the MagicWatch 2's 1.39-inch AMOLED. We anticipate a higher resolution on the Watch 5, resulting in sharper text and images. The Watch 5 may also incorporate LTPO technology, enabling a more efficient variable refresh rate for improved battery life. Bezels are likely slimmer on the newer model, contributing to a more immersive viewing experience. Color accuracy, measured in sRGB or DCI-P3 coverage, is expected to be enhanced on the Watch 5.
Camera Comparison
Neither the Honor Watch 5 nor the MagicWatch 2 are known for camera capabilities; smartwatches generally prioritize other features. Therefore, this section is less relevant. Any camera present on either device would likely be low-resolution and primarily for video calls, with image quality being a secondary concern.
Performance
The MagicWatch 2 utilized a proprietary chipset, adequate for its time. The Watch 5 almost certainly benefits from a newer, more efficient processor, potentially co-developed with Qualcomm or MediaTek. This translates to snappier app loading times and smoother animations. While neither watch is designed for intensive gaming, the Watch 5's improved processing power will handle background tasks and health monitoring more effectively. RAM capacity is likely increased in the Watch 5, allowing for more apps to run concurrently. The Watch 5 may also feature Bluetooth 5.2 or later, offering a more stable connection to smartphones.
Battery Life
The MagicWatch 2 boasted up to 14 days of battery life in typical usage. The Watch 5, despite potentially having a larger display and more powerful processor, likely maintains comparable battery life through software optimizations and a more efficient chipset. Charging speed is a key area for improvement; the Watch 5 likely supports faster wireless charging than the MagicWatch 2, reducing the time required to reach a full charge. The inclusion of a more efficient power management system in the Watch 5 could also contribute to extended battery life.
Buying Guide
Buy the Honor Watch 5 if you prioritize the latest features, potentially more accurate health tracking, and a modern design aesthetic. It's ideal for users deeply invested in fitness tracking and those who want a smartwatch that seamlessly integrates with their smartphone. Buy the Honor MagicWatch 2 if you're seeking a capable smartwatch at a lower price point, and aren't concerned with having the absolute newest technology. It's a solid choice for basic fitness tracking and notifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Honor Watch 5 support third-party app installations, and if so, how does the app ecosystem compare to the MagicWatch 2?
While Honor doesn't typically offer a vast app store like Wear OS or watchOS, the Watch 5 likely has a slightly expanded selection of downloadable apps compared to the MagicWatch 2. Expect a focus on fitness and productivity apps, with limited support for complex third-party applications. The MagicWatch 2's app ecosystem is relatively basic.
❓ How does the accuracy of the heart rate sensor and SpO2 monitoring differ between the Honor Watch 5 and the MagicWatch 2, particularly during high-intensity workouts?
The Watch 5 likely incorporates a newer generation heart rate sensor and SpO2 monitoring technology, resulting in improved accuracy, especially during strenuous activity. Honor typically refines its sensor algorithms with each iteration, leading to more reliable data. The MagicWatch 2's sensors are still capable, but may exhibit more variance during intense workouts.
❓ What improvements has Honor made to the sleep tracking capabilities of the Watch 5 compared to the MagicWatch 2?
Honor likely enhanced the sleep tracking algorithms in the Watch 5, providing more detailed insights into sleep stages (deep sleep, light sleep, REM). The Watch 5 may also offer personalized sleep recommendations based on tracked data, a feature less prominent in the MagicWatch 2. Expect more granular data and a more comprehensive sleep analysis.
