Huawei Watch GT 5 series hands-on at Cape Town launch

The Huawei Watch GT 5 series has been launched in South Africa, along with the Watch Ultimate and Watch D2. We had the opportunity to explore the GT 5 series and share our initial impressions. A comprehensive review will follow soon.

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The Huawei Watch GT 5 maintains the octagonal design of its predecessor, the Watch GT 4, but now features high-gloss polished stainless steel. It’s available in two sizes: 46 and 41 millimeters. We tested the larger model. Below is the GT 4 (left) and GT 5 (right) – as you can see they are still very similar.

The round OLED display of the Watch GT 5 measures 1.43 inches and offers a high pixel density for a sharp display. Huawei claims a brightness of up to 1,200 nits.

New features of the Watch GT 5 include the TrueSense sensor, a brighter display, and improved IP certification. Our test model is the 46 mm version with a blue strap.

A Pro model is also available, offering additional health features like ECG measurement and a titanium or ceramic alloy case.

Unlike the Watch GT 4, the case of the Watch GT 5 is no longer coated with titanium alloy but features a mix of matte and shiny stainless steel surfaces. The craftsmanship is excellent, and the display glass is flush with the bezel. The crown on the right-hand side can be rotated and pressed, while the additional button can be customized. The underside is made of a polymer composite material.

The Watch GT 5 is water-resistant up to 5 ATM and IP69K certified, making it dustproof and waterproof. However, extended diving and professional golf mode are reserved for the Pro model. The wristbands have a standard 22 mm quick-release fastener.

The new TruSense 6.0 sensor is designed to improve health data monitoring, with expanded blood oxygen channels and better stray light shielding. The 41 mm version shares the same technical features but is lighter and has a smaller battery.

The Watch GT 5 has both a microphone and a loudspeaker, allowing for calls to be made and received with a paired smartphone. It can track various body measurements automatically, including pulse, heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, stress level, skin temperature, and sleep data. TruSleep also includes comprehensive sleep monitoring.

For certain training activities like outdoor running, the Watch GT 5 can determine VO2Max. The temperature sensor supports cycle calendar predictions. Huawei claims to have improved calorie tracking with a larger database of available products. However, additional analyses and workout plans are hidden behind the Health+ subscription.

Overall, we’re really excited to see where Huawei is taking its wearables devices.