Apple Watch 5 Vs 4 Is Upgrading Really Worth It For The Always On Display

The Apple Watch Series 4 was a turning point in the smartwatch’s evolution—larger screens, ECG support, and fall detection set a new standard. When the Series 5 arrived just a year later, Apple introduced one headline feature: the always-on display. For many users clinging to their Series 4 models, that single upgrade raised a critical question—was it enough to justify another purchase?

In this deep dive, we’ll dissect the differences between the Apple Watch Series 5 and Series 4, focusing not just on specs but on how those changes affect daily use. We’ll evaluate whether the always-on display delivers meaningful value or if it's merely a flashy addition with hidden trade-offs.

Key Differences at a Glance

The core hardware between the Series 4 and Series 5 is nearly identical. Both run on the S4 chip, have the same screen size options (40mm and 44mm), support ECG and fall detection, and deliver comparable performance in apps and fitness tracking. The most significant change is the always-on retina display, which allows the watch face to remain visible even when your wrist is down.

This feature mimics traditional watches, letting you glance at the time without flicking your wrist or tapping the screen. But behind this convenience lie subtle engineering adjustments—including ambient light sensors and optimizations to reduce power draw—that define the Series 5’s identity.

“Apple managed to add an always-on display without sacrificing battery life—an impressive feat given the constraints of wearable tech.” — David Ng, Wearable Tech Analyst at TechPulse Weekly

How the Always-On Display Works

The Series 5’s display dims significantly when your wrist is down, reducing brightness by up to 70% while keeping essential information visible. Only the time and key complications (like date, activity rings, or heart rate) stay fully legible. When you raise your wrist or tap the screen, it brightens instantly to full clarity.

This behavior preserves battery life—Apple claims up to 18 hours across both models—but introduces a nuanced user experience. Some users report missing notifications more easily because the dimmed screen doesn’t stand out as much in low-light environments. Others appreciate the elegance of checking the time discreetly during meetings or at night.

Tip: Customize your watch face with larger numerals or high-contrast elements to improve readability in dim mode.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Feature	Apple Watch Series 4	Apple Watch Series 5
Display	Retina LTPO OLED (not always-on)	Always-on Retina LTPO OLED
Processor	S4 chip	S4 chip
Battery Life	Up to 18 hours	Up to 18 hours
ECG App	Yes	Yes
Fall Detection	Yes	Yes
Compass	No	Yes (built-in)
International Emergency Calling	No	Yes (cellular models only)
Magnesium Oxide Case Option	No	Yes (for lighter weight)

Note that beyond the display, the Series 5 adds a built-in compass and supports international emergency calling—features that may matter depending on your lifestyle. Hikers, travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts will find the compass particularly useful for navigation and orientation.

A Real-World Example: Daily Use Scenarios

Consider Sarah, a project manager who wears her Apple Watch throughout the workday. She upgraded from a Series 4 to a Series 5 primarily for the always-on display. In meetings, she no longer needs to lift her wrist to check the time—a small gesture, but one that helps maintain professionalism. During early morning runs, she appreciates being able to view her pace and heart rate without pausing to wake the screen.

However, she noticed a slight downside: under direct sunlight, the dimmed display sometimes faded into invisibility unless she tapped it. And while battery life remained consistent, she found herself charging slightly more often when using GPS-heavy workouts combined with background music streaming.

For Sarah, the upgrade was worthwhile—not because of a dramatic leap in performance, but due to the cumulative effect of small, thoughtful improvements that aligned with her routine.

Is the Upgrade Worth It? A Practical Checklist

If you're still deciding whether to upgrade from the Series 4 to the Series 5, ask yourself the following:

• Do you frequently check the time or glance at complications without interacting with your watch?
• Do you spend time outdoors where a compass could be helpful?
• Are you traveling internationally and need emergency SOS functionality?
• Do you value seamless, wrist-down visibility over minimal battery trade-offs?
• Have you already maximized the capabilities of your Series 4 and feel ready for a refresh?

If three or more apply, the Series 5 offers tangible benefits. If not, your Series 4 remains a powerful, future-proof device capable of running the latest versions of watchOS efficiently.

Tip: Before upgrading, ensure your iPhone supports the latest watchOS version required by newer Apple Watch models.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the always-on display drain the battery faster?

Surprisingly, no. Apple optimized the display using low-power LTPO technology and automatic dimming. Battery life remains around 18 hours, matching the Series 4 under typical usage.

Can I turn off the always-on display?

Yes. You can disable it in Settings > Display & Brightness > Always On. This might extend battery slightly and increase privacy, especially in dark rooms.

Is there any performance difference between the two models?

No. Both use the S4 chip and perform identically in app loading, fitness tracking, and responsiveness. Any perceived speed gains are likely due to software updates rather than hardware.

Final Verdict: To Upgrade or Not?

The decision hinges on personal preference and usage patterns. The always-on display isn't revolutionary—it's evolutionary. It enhances convenience, reduces micro-interactions, and brings the Apple Watch closer to the passive utility of analog timepieces.

But if you’re satisfied with waking your Series 4 with a tap or wrist raise, and don’t rely on the compass or emergency features, the upgrade offers limited ROI. Remember, the Series 4 continues to receive full software support and performs admirably in health monitoring, workout tracking, and connectivity.

On the other hand, if subtle refinements in usability elevate your experience—if glancing at your watch without motion feels more natural—then the Series 5 delivers quiet sophistication. It’s less about raw power and more about polish.

“The best tech upgrades aren’t always about speed or storage. Sometimes, it’s about making something you do a hundred times a day just a little easier.” — Leila Chen, Senior Editor at Wearable Insights

Conclusion

The Apple Watch Series 5 improves upon the already excellent Series 4 with thoughtful additions, chief among them the always-on display. While not essential, it enhances usability in ways that accumulate over time. Paired with the built-in compass and global emergency calling, it becomes a more complete package for active users and frequent travelers.

But necessity drives value. If your Series 4 meets your needs and you’re not drawn to the aesthetic or functional nuances of the always-on screen, hold off. There’s no urgency. However, if seamless visibility and refined details matter to you, the upgrade is justified—not for revolution, but for refinement.

💬 Have you upgraded from the Series 4 to 5? What changed in your daily routine? Share your experience and help others decide whether the always-on display lives up to the hype.