Huawei Watch GT5 Pro review: Just a stylish sports watch?

Huawei Watch GT5 Pro review: Just a stylish sports watch?

January 21, 2025 Catherine Williams - Chief Editor Business

Huawei Watch GT5 Pro Review: Pros and Cons in a Premium Package

The Huawei Watch GT5 Pro, the premium version of the GT5, is a statement in both design and functionality, blending traditional watch aesthetics with advanced smartwatch features. Here’s a rundown of its pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.

Pros:

  • Striking Design and Premium Build: Crafted from titanium and ceramic, the GT5 Pro exudes luxury. Its octagonal face and sapphire crystal glass provide a unique, elegant look that stands out on the wrist.
  • Excellent Display: The 1.32-inch (42mm) or 1.43-inch (46mm) AMOLED color screen is vivid and responsive, with sufficient real estate for notifications and apps.
  • Durability and Water Resistance: With a 5ATM / IP69K rating, the GT5 Pro is ready to face daily life’s challenges, whether in the gym or in the swimming pool.
  • Comprehensive Health and Fitness Features: The GT5 Pro tracks heart rate, blood oxygen, stress, sleep quality, and even ECG and arterial stiffness. It also offers dedicated modes for golf, diving, and trail running.
  • Extended Battery Life: Huawei claims up to 14 days of battery life for the 46mm version, and around seven days for the 42mm. In our experience, these estimates are achievable with moderate use.
  • Accurate GPS Tracking: The GT5 Pro’s GPS performance was reliable and accurate, aiding workout tracking and route mapping.

Cons:

  • Price: At £329.99 for the 42mm and £399.99 for the 46mm, the GT5 Pro is a significant investment. Keep in mind it’s only available in the UK, Australia, and China, with no US presence due to Huawei’s ongoing ban.
  • Design May Not Appeal to Everyone: Its traditional design may not appeal to those seeking a more modern, sporty aesthetic.
  • Limited Third-Party App Support: As a Huawei-only smartwatch, the GT5 Pro’s ecosystem is limited compared to platforms like Wear OS or watchOS. This results in fewer available apps and potential functionality.
  • Automatic Exercise Detection: Similar to the GT5, the GT5 Pro’s auto-detection feature is hit-or-miss and can’t be relied upon.

Should You Buy the Huawei Watch GT5 Pro?

If you’re after a premium smartwatch with a unique design, a comprehensive health and fitness feature set, and don’t mind the lack of third-party app support, the Huawei Watch GT5 Pro is worth considering. However, if you’re on a budget or prefer a more sporty look, you might want to explore other options like the Fitbit Luxe or the Suunto Race S.

Buy it if:
You value a premium design and advanced health and fitness features.
You’re comfortable with the Huawei ecosystem and don’t mind limited third-party app support.

Don’t buy it if:
You’re on a tight budget.
You prefer a more modern, sporty design.
You live in the US, as the GT5 Pro isn’t available there.