Apple Watch SE vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 is a matchup many health-conscious Kenyans are considering in 2025. With wearable tech becoming more advanced and accessible, choosing the right smartwatch for your lifestyle is more important than ever. Both Apple and Samsung offer reliable health tracking features — but which one actually gives you more value for your fitness journey?
In this detailed comparison, we break down the key differences to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Display
When it comes to design, both watches look sleek and premium. The Apple Watch SE features Apple’s signature square design, while the Galaxy Watch 5 sticks to the classic circular shape.
| Feature | Apple Watch SE | Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Square | Round |
| Sizes | 40mm / 44mm | 40mm / 44mm |
| Display | Retina LTPO OLED | Super AMOLED |
| Build | Aluminum | Aluminum or Sapphire Crystal |
| Water Resistance | WR50 | 5ATM + IP68 |
Although both watches are stylish, the Galaxy Watch 5 has a slightly more rugged build with improved durability. However, Apple’s display feels a bit brighter in outdoor settings.
Health and Fitness Tracking
This is where the real competition begins. Both smartwatches come loaded with essential health features, but they approach tracking a bit differently.
| Health Feature | Apple Watch SE | Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Heart Rate Monitoring | Yes | Yes |
| Sleep Tracking | Basic | Advanced (incl. Sleep Coaching) |
| Blood Oxygen | No | Yes |
| ECG App | No | Yes |
| Stress Monitoring | No | Yes |
| Workout Modes | 20+ | 90+ |
| Body Composition | No | Yes |
Samsung clearly takes the lead in advanced tracking with features like body composition analysis, which is especially useful when paired with smart scales such as the ones reviewed in our Top 5 Digital Smart Scales in Kenya. Apple, however, excels in smooth app integration, especially for iPhone users.
Compatibility and Ecosystem
This is one of the most important factors for most users. The Apple Watch SE only works with iPhones, while the Galaxy Watch 5 is optimized for Android phones.
| Compatibility | Apple Watch SE | Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 |
|---|---|---|
| OS Required | iOS only | Android (best with Samsung) |
| App Store | watchOS | Google Wear OS |
| App Integration | Deep with iPhone | Best with Samsung Health |
| Voice Assistant | Siri | Bixby / Google Assistant |
If you’re already in the Apple ecosystem, the Apple Watch SE works seamlessly. But for Android users, especially Samsung phone owners, the Galaxy Watch 5 is the obvious choice.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life can make or break the experience, especially if you use your smartwatch for sleep tracking or daily workouts.
| Battery Life | Apple Watch SE | Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Average Use | Up to 18 hours | Up to 40 hours |
| Fast Charging | No | Yes |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes |
The Galaxy Watch 5 wins hands down here. You’ll spend less time charging and more time tracking. That’s a major plus for anyone serious about all-day monitoring.
Price and Value in Kenya
Price is always a consideration. Here’s how both smartwatches compare in local Kenyan stores:
| Model | Price in Kenya |
|---|---|
| Apple Watch SE (2022) | From Ksh 42,000 |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 | From Ksh 39,500 |
For just about the same price, the Galaxy Watch 5 offers more health features, better battery life, and greater compatibility with Android phones.
Which One Should You Choose?
Let’s break it down based on your situation:
- Choose the Apple Watch SE if you own an iPhone and prefer a simple, elegant smartwatch with reliable health tracking and great app integration.
- Choose the Galaxy Watch 5 if you want advanced tracking features, longer battery life, and wider compatibility — especially with Samsung smartphones.
If your priority is comprehensive health tracking, then the Galaxy Watch 5 takes the lead. Its advanced tools like stress tracking, ECG, and sleep coaching make it a standout device for fitness-focused users.
Final Thoughts
The Apple Watch SE vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 debate comes down to your phone ecosystem and how deep you want to go with health tracking. Both watches offer accurate fitness tracking, but Samsung edges ahead with its richer feature set and longer battery life.
Wearable technology continues to evolve rapidly. Tools like smartwatches, paired with health gadgets like smart thermometers and fitness trackers, make it easier for everyday users to take control of their wellness. In fact, according to Wikipedia, health-focused wearables are now a core part of preventive healthcare.
You may also want to explore how smartwatch technology has developed over time — especially if you’re interested in long-term upgrades.
So, which one will you be strapping on your wrist this year?
