HONOR Watch 5 Ultra: A Closer Look

When you hear the term "Ultra" in the tech world, it usually suggests something exceptional. For instance, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is known as one of the most advanced smartphones available, while the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is hailed as a premium smartwatch choice. However, when it comes to the HONOR Watch 5 Ultra, there’s some debate about whether it lives up to its name. Let’s examine this smartwatch in detail to see if it truly deserves the “Ultra” title.

HONOR Watch 5 Ultra: Impressive Design

Elegant Build Quality

The HONOR Watch 5 Ultra has a striking appearance that might lead you to think it’s premium, just like its counterparts. It has a large 1.5-inch AMOLED display set within a sturdy octagonal case made from Grade 5 titanium. Covered by sapphire crystal glass, the screen is more scratch-resistant than average but can crack easily if dropped, so handling it with care is important.

• The display is bright, with a brightness level of up to 1,500 nits, ensuring it remains visible even in bright sunlight.

User-Friendly Features

Located on the right side is a textured crown that not only looks elegant but allows you to navigate the watch’s interface smoothly. It has haptic feedback for a satisfying touch experience. Just beneath the crown, there’s a button that opens the activity tracker app but can be customized according to your needs.

• Overall, the design feels robust and can withstand everyday wear. Whether you’re dressed in formal attire or casual clothing, the watch fits right in.

Notable Dimensions

The HONOR Watch 5 Ultra measures 46.3 x 46.3 x 11.4 mm, making it considerately large for a smartwatch. Weighing in at 52g, it’s heavier than many alternatives out there—like the Google Pixel Watch 3, which is notably lighter and smaller.

• If you have a preference for bulkier watches, the HONOR Watch 5 Ultra may be a perfect fit. On the other hand, if you prefer something lightweight and compact, you might want to consider other options.

Water and Swim Resistance

The watch has an IP68 rating and can handle water up to 5ATM. This means you can swim and enjoy water activities without worry, though it’s not suitable for scuba diving.

Color Options and Bands

You have two color choices: a black model featuring a black fluoroelastomer strap and a brown variant with a leather strap. One neat feature is the ease of swapping out the straps; it uses a standard 22mm band, allowing for customization based on your style.

Software: Less Than Expected

Simple Operating System

Despite its impressive hardware, the HONOR Watch 5 Ultra’s software is where it falls short. It runs on a simple operating system called Magic OS, which lacks an app store. This limits you to the pre-installed applications. Unfortunately, this means you won’t have access to the variety and functionality available on more popular platforms like Wear OS.

• The smartwatch does come with useful health-tracking apps, supporting over 100 types of exercises as well as heart rate monitoring and sleep tracking. However, for advanced features like chat apps or smart home controls, the HONOR Watch 5 Ultra will disappoint.

Apps and Storage

You can listen to music directly from the watch with its 8GB of storage, but make sure to compress songs to 128kbps to fit your favorites. This feature is handy when you want to go for a run without carrying your phone.

Battery Life: A Strong Point

One noteworthy advantage is its long-lasting battery. The HONOR Watch 5 Ultra comes with a 480mAh battery, capable of lasting up to an impressive 15 days on a single charge. While actual usage may vary, many users can expect at least a week before needing to recharge, especially with basic features.

• It supports wireless charging, which makes recharging convenient and efficient.

Compatibility

This smartwatch is mostly compatible with Android devices running Android 9 Pie or higher, but iPhone users with iOS 13 or newer can also use it with limited functionality.

Price Point

While models like the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra come with a high price tag and more features, the HONOR Watch 5 Ultra is far more affordable. At around €279 (~$289.53), it’s budget-friendly while still providing a premium look and basic features.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the HONOR Watch 5 Ultra certainly impresses with its stylish design and solid features. However, when it comes to fulfilling the expectations that come with the "Ultra" label, it has limitations, particularly in software and app availability. If you’re simply looking for a good-looking smartwatch with essential features and excellent battery life at a reasonable price, the HONOR Watch 5 Ultra could be a great choice. Otherwise, for those who want the full “Ultra” experience, it may be best to consider alternatives from bigger brands.