The Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 is a compelling smartwatch, especially for Android users, offering exceptional battery life, a unique dual-layer display, and robust health tracking powered by Wear OS 3.5. While it delivers on many fronts, including snappy performance thanks to the Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 chip, it does have some limitations, such as the absence of Google Assistant and a design that might be considered bulky by some.

Overall, it’s a strong contender for those prioritizing endurance and a comprehensive Wear OS experience, though potential buyers should weigh its specific features against their individual needs and preferences.

Smartwatch Model	Operating System	Key Features	Battery Life Advertised	Price Range USD
Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5	Wear OS 3.5	Dual-layer display, Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1, 628mAh battery, advanced health tracking	Up to 80 hours Smart Mode	$300 – $350
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic	Wear OS Powered by Samsung	Rotating bezel, BIA sensor, ECG, temperature sensor	Up to 30 hours AOD off	$350 – $400
Google Pixel Watch 2	Wear OS 4	Fitbit integration, cEDA sensor, skin temperature sensor, emergency features	Up to 24 hours AOD on	$350 – $400
Garmin Venu 3	Garmin OS	AMOLED display, robust fitness tracking, Body Battery, sleep coach, wheelchair mode	Up to 14 days Smartwatch mode	$450 – $500
Apple Watch Series 9	watchOS 10	S9 SiP, double tap gesture, blood oxygen, ECG, temperature sensing	Up to 18 hours 36 hours Low Power Mode	$400 – $450
Fitbit Sense 2	Fitbit OS	cEDA sensor for stress management, skin temperature, ECG, GPS	Up to 6+ days	$250 – $300
Amazfit GTR 4	Zepp OS	Dual-band GPS, 150+ sports modes, ultra-long battery life, Bluetooth calling	Up to 14 days typical usage	$200 – $250

Table of Contents

Unpacking the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5: First Impressions and Design Philosophy

The moment you unbox the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5, you get a sense of its robust, purpose-built design.

Mobvoi has consistently aimed for a balance between functionality and durability, and this device continues that tradition. It’s not about sleek, minimalist aesthetics.

It’s about a watch that can take a beating and keep ticking, literally.

This philosophy is evident in its build quality and the sheer size of the device, which might be a bit much for smaller wrists, but for those who appreciate a substantial feel, it hits the mark.

A Design That Means Business

Mobvoi has opted for a singular, purposeful design for the TicWatch Pro 5, moving away from multiple size variants. This simplifies the choice but also means it’s a “one size fits all” approach that might not fit everyone.

Materials: The watch features an aluminum frame, a stainless steel rotating crown, and a high-strength glass front. This combination aims for durability without making it excessively heavy.
Aesthetic: It projects a rugged, almost outdoor-gear aesthetic. This isn’t a watch trying to blend in with a dress shirt. it’s more at home on a hiking trail or in a gym.
Strap: It comes with a comfortable, standard 24mm silicone strap. The good news is that it’s easily interchangeable, allowing for personalization if the default isn’t quite your style.

The Elephant in the Room: Size and Weight

Let’s not mince words: this is a large smartwatch.

Dimensions: It measures approximately 50.1 x 48 x 12.2mm.
Weight: It weighs around 89g with the strap.
Wearability: While substantial, it’s surprisingly comfortable for its size, thanks to good weight distribution. However, if you have particularly small wrists, you’ll definitely notice its presence. This isn’t a subtle piece of wristwear. it’s a statement.

Durability and Water Resistance

Mobvoi has clearly prioritized longevity, making this a reliable companion for active individuals.

MIL-STD-810H Certified: This means it’s passed a series of tests for environmental stress, including high and low temperatures, drops, and vibrations. While not indestructible, it certainly adds a layer of confidence for everyday bumps and scrapes.
5ATM Water Resistance: This rating means it’s suitable for swimming and showering. You can take it into the pool without a second thought, though serious divers will need something purpose-built.
Gorilla Glass: The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass, offering decent scratch resistance.

The overall design of the TicWatch Pro 5 is a testament to Mobvoi’s commitment to creating a workhorse smartwatch.

It’s not the most fashionable device on the market, but its focus on durability, practical features, and a distinctive look sets it apart for users who value function over form.

The Dual-Layer Display: Innovation or Gimmick?

One of the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5’s most distinctive features, and arguably its most significant selling point for some, is its dual-layer display technology. This isn’t just a fancy marketing term. Acer Swift Go 16 Review

It’s a genuinely unique approach designed to address one of the biggest pain points of smartwatches: battery life.

But is it a true innovation, or just a clever trick that falls short in daily use?

How It Works: The FSTN Layer

At its core, the dual-layer display consists of two distinct screens overlaid on top of each other:

Layer 1: Ultra-low-power FSTN Film Compensated Super Twisted Nematic LCD: This is the transparent, monochrome display that sits on top. It’s incredibly energy-efficient and shows essential information like time, date, steps, heart rate, and even a compass.
Layer 2: Vivid AMOLED Display: Beneath the FSTN layer is a standard 1.43-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels. This is your full-color, high-resolution smartwatch display that kicks in when you interact with the watch, launch apps, or need richer visuals.

Benefits of the Dual-Layer Display

The primary advantages of this hybrid approach revolve around power efficiency and visibility.

Unparalleled Battery Life: This is the big one. The FSTN display consumes a minuscule amount of power, allowing the watch to stay on for days, even weeks, showing crucial information without draining the battery. When the AMOLED is off, you’re essentially running on a traditional digital watch’s power consumption. Mobvoi claims up to 80 hours in Smart Mode and 45 days in Essential Mode, which heavily relies on the FSTN screen.
Always-On Readability in Bright Sunlight: Unlike AMOLED displays that can become washed out in direct sunlight, the FSTN layer acts much like a traditional LCD or e-ink display. It’s incredibly legible outdoors, making it easy to check the time or your stats without needing to shield the watch or activate the full display.
“Essential Mode” Enhancement: This mode leverages the FSTN display almost exclusively, turning off Wear OS and most smart features, but still tracking basic health metrics like steps, heart rate, and sleep. It essentially transforms the smartwatch into a basic fitness tracker with insane battery life when you don’t need full smartwatch functionality.
Color Backlight for Health Zones: A neat feature on the FSTN display is the colored backlight that indicates your heart rate zone. For instance, blue for light, green for fat burn, yellow for aerobic, and red for anaerobic. This provides a quick, glanceable indicator during workouts without needing to fully wake the AMOLED screen.

Potential Drawbacks and Limitations

While innovative, the dual-layer display isn’t without its quirks.

Aesthetic Preference: Some users might find the FSTN layer visually distracting when the AMOLED display is active. It adds a slight gray tint or haze over the vibrant AMOLED colors, though this is minor and quickly forgotten in daily use.
Limited Information in FSTN Mode: While it shows essentials, you’re not getting notifications, app interactions, or detailed graphics on the FSTN layer. It’s strictly for quick glances.
Not a True “Always-On Display” for AMOLED: While the FSTN layer is always on, if you prefer the vibrant, full-color always-on display of a traditional AMOLED smartwatch, you’ll still be subject to standard battery drain when that’s active. The real battery gains come from using the FSTN layer extensively.

Ultimately, the dual-layer display on the TicWatch Pro 5 is more than a gimmick.

It’s a functional innovation that directly addresses the battery life Achilles’ heel of many smartwatches.

For users who value multi-day battery life and excellent outdoor visibility, it’s a must.

For those who prioritize the absolute best visual fidelity and full-color always-on displays, it might be a slight compromise, but the power savings are undeniable.

It’s a pragmatic solution for real-world usage, rather than just a showy feature. Crystal Water Monitor Review

Performance and Software Experience: Wear OS 3.5 and Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1

The Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 is one of the first smartwatches to feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 platform, paired with Google’s Wear OS 3.5. This combination is crucial for the device’s overall performance and user experience.

The Powerhouse: Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1

Qualcomm’s W5+ Gen 1 chip is specifically designed for wearables, focusing on efficiency and performance.

Architecture: It uses a hybrid architecture, combining a 4nm main processor with a 22nm always-on co-processor. This allows for extremely low power consumption for background tasks and the essential FSTN display, while delivering high performance for demanding applications.
Improved Performance: Compared to older Snapdragon Wear chips, the W5+ Gen 1 offers significantly faster app loading, smoother animations, and more responsive interactions. Mobvoi claims a 50% improvement in performance and 30% reduction in power consumption over previous generations.
Seamless Operation: Navigating through menus, launching apps like Google Maps or Spotify, and switching between different watch faces feels fluid and snappy. There’s very little lag or stutter, which is a huge leap forward for Wear OS devices.

Wear OS 3.5: What It Brings

The TicWatch Pro 5 runs Wear OS 3.5, which is Google’s latest iteration of its smartwatch operating system though Wear OS 4 is now available on Pixel Watch 2.

Streamlined Interface: Wear OS 3.x brought a more refined and intuitive user interface compared to its predecessors. Swipes are consistent, notifications are handled better, and the overall navigation feels more cohesive.
Google App Integration: You get access to core Google services:
- Google Maps: Turn-by-turn navigation directly on your wrist.
- Google Wallet: Tap-to-pay functionality NFC required, which the Pro 5 has.
- Google Play Store: Access to thousands of Wear OS apps, expanding the watch’s capabilities.
Enhanced Notifications: Notifications are well-managed, allowing for quick replies and actions directly from the watch.
Mobvoi’s Customizations: While it’s Wear OS, Mobvoi has layered some of its own apps and services, notably their Mobvoi Health suite for fitness tracking. This creates a slightly customized experience, which generally blends well with the core Wear OS features.

The Rotating Crown: A Tactile Advantage

Mobvoi has incorporated a physical rotating crown, which significantly enhances the user experience.

Intuitive Navigation: The crown allows for smooth scrolling through lists, zooming in/out, and adjusting settings without constantly touching the screen. This is especially useful during workouts or when your fingers are wet.
Haptic Feedback: The crown provides satisfying haptic feedback with each turn, making interactions feel precise and deliberate. It’s a tangible improvement over purely touch-based navigation.
Multi-Function Button: The crown also acts as a button, typically serving as a home button or app switcher depending on the context.

Missing Features and Software Quirks

Despite the strong performance, there are a couple of notable omissions and points to consider.

No Google Assistant: This is perhaps the biggest head-scratcher. While Wear OS 3.5 supports Google Assistant, Mobvoi has opted not to include it on the TicWatch Pro 5. This means no voice commands for setting timers, checking weather, or controlling smart home devices directly from your wrist, which is a significant drawback for a modern smartwatch.
Lack of iPhone Support: The TicWatch Pro 5, like many Wear OS 3+ devices, does not support pairing with iPhones. It’s strictly an Android-compatible smartwatch. This narrows its potential user base considerably.
Mobvoi Health vs. Google Fit/Fitbit: While Mobvoi Health provides good tracking, users might prefer tighter integration with Google Fit or Fitbit, which requires additional setup or data export. This is a common point of contention with Wear OS devices that have their own health platforms.

In summary, the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 delivers a genuinely fast and fluid Wear OS 3.5 experience, largely thanks to the new Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 chip.

The rotating crown is a welcome addition, making navigation a breeze.

However, the inexplicable absence of Google Assistant and the lack of iPhone compatibility are significant oversights that might deter some potential buyers.

For Android users prioritizing raw performance and a smooth UI, it’s an excellent choice, but be aware of its specific limitations.

Health and Fitness Tracking: Comprehensive Metrics and Features

The Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 positions itself as a robust health and fitness companion, integrating a suite of sensors and software features to provide comprehensive tracking. Sony Bravia 75 Inch Class X93L Xr 75X93L Review

From heart rate monitoring to sleep analysis and blood oxygen saturation, it covers many essential metrics.

Let’s dive into the specifics of its health and fitness capabilities.

Core Health Metrics

The watch comes equipped with the necessary sensors to track a wide array of health data.

Heart Rate Monitoring: Continuous 24/7 heart rate tracking is standard. It provides real-time data during workouts and resting heart rate throughout the day. Mobvoi highlights its “1-Tap Measure” feature, which quickly checks five vital signs simultaneously: heart rate, blood oxygen, respiratory rate, stress level, and heart health via IHB/AFib detection.
Blood Oxygen SpO2 Monitoring: Measures your blood oxygen saturation levels, which can be an indicator of overall respiratory and circulatory health. It offers both on-demand and background monitoring.
Sleep Tracking: Monitors sleep stages light, deep, REM, sleep duration, and wake-ups. It also provides a sleep score and insights into sleep quality, including a new sleep breathing rate feature.
Stress Monitoring: Estimates stress levels based on heart rate variability. The watch provides a stress score and can prompt guided breathing exercises when high stress is detected.
Skin Temperature Sensor: While present, its primary use case is often integrated into sleep tracking for more accurate sleep insights or for detecting potential changes from baseline, rather than providing raw temperature readings for fever detection.

Fitness Tracking and Sports Modes

The TicWatch Pro 5 aims to be a versatile fitness tracker for a variety of activities.

100+ Professional Sports Modes: It supports a vast number of outdoor and indoor activities, including running, cycling, swimming, hiking, elliptical, rowing, and more. Each mode is tailored to provide relevant metrics for that specific activity.
Built-in GPS: Features built-in GPS GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, Beidou for accurate tracking of outdoor activities without needing your phone. This is crucial for runners and cyclists who want to map their routes and track pace/distance accurately.
VO2 Max: Estimates your VO2 Max, a key indicator of cardiovascular fitness, for certain activities like outdoor running.
Recovery Time and Training Load: While not as advanced as some dedicated sports watches e.g., Garmin, it offers basic insights into recovery time needed after workouts and an overview of your training load, helping you prevent overtraining.
Barometer: Useful for activities involving elevation changes, such as hiking or climbing, to track altitude.

Mobvoi Health App and Data Analysis

All the health and fitness data collected by the watch is synced to the Mobvoi Health app on your smartphone.

Dashboard Overview: The app provides a comprehensive dashboard with an overview of your daily, weekly, and monthly activity, heart rate trends, sleep patterns, and more.
Detailed Analytics: You can dive into detailed graphs and historical data for each metric. For example, you can see your heart rate zones during a run, or detailed sleep architecture from the night before.
Synchronization: Data can often be synced with third-party apps like Strava, Google Fit, or Apple Health, depending on the specific integration capabilities Mobvoi offers, allowing users to consolidate their health data in one preferred platform.
Health Summary: The new “Health Snapshot” feature similar to the 1-Tap Measure on the watch allows you to quickly get a comprehensive health report within the app.

Accuracy and Reliability

While Mobvoi employs standard sensors, the accuracy of smartwatch health tracking can vary.

Heart Rate: Generally reliable for resting and moderate activity. High-intensity interval training or activities with a lot of wrist movement can sometimes challenge optical heart rate sensors. For critical accuracy, a chest strap is usually recommended.
GPS: The multi-constellation GPS generally provides good accuracy for route tracking, comparable to other smartwatches in its class.
Sleep Tracking: Provides a good general overview of sleep patterns, though medical-grade sleep studies are far more detailed.

The Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 offers a robust and comprehensive suite of health and fitness tracking features.

For the average user looking to monitor their daily activity, workouts, and general well-being, it provides a solid foundation.

The integrated “1-Tap Measure” and the wealth of sports modes make it a versatile tool for staying on top of your health goals.

While not a medical device, it serves as an excellent companion for proactive health management and fitness enthusiasts. Humble Bundle For Pc Review

Battery Life: The TicWatch Pro 5’s Crowning Achievement

When it comes to smartwatches, battery life is often the Achilles’ heel.

Most devices struggle to last more than a day or two, forcing users into a nightly charging ritual.

This is where the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 truly shines, delivering multi-day endurance that few, if any, Wear OS smartwatches can match. This exceptional longevity isn’t accidental.

It’s a direct result of Mobvoi’s innovative dual-layer display technology and the efficiency of the Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 chip.

The Power of the Dual-Layer Display

As discussed, the FSTN display is the secret sauce behind the Pro 5’s marathon battery life.

Ultra-Low Power Consumption: The monochrome FSTN layer consumes significantly less power than the AMOLED display. By default, it’s always on, showing critical information like time, steps, and heart rate without waking the power-hungry AMOLED screen.
Smart Mode Optimization: In “Smart Mode,” the watch intelligently switches between the FSTN and AMOLED displays. When you’re not actively interacting, the FSTN layer takes over, preserving battery. This dynamic switching is key to achieving Mobvoi’s impressive claims.

Endurance Claims vs. Real-World Performance

Mobvoi advertises some bold battery life figures, and surprisingly, the TicWatch Pro 5 largely lives up to them.

Smart Mode: Up to 80 Hours: This is the most impressive claim, translating to over 3 days of typical smartwatch usage. This includes notifications, some app usage, and a moderate amount of fitness tracking. Many reviews confirm that achieving 3-4 days on a single charge is very feasible for most users.
Essential Mode: Up to 45 Days: This mode strips back all Wear OS functionality, relying almost exclusively on the FSTN display. It still tracks time, date, heart rate, and steps. This is perfect for extending battery life when you only need basic watch functions and activity tracking, or when you’re away from a charger for an extended period.
Comparison to Competitors:
- Google Pixel Watch 2: Around 24 hours with AOD on.
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic: 30-40 hours.
- Apple Watch Series 9: 18 hours 36 in Low Power Mode.
- The TicWatch Pro 5 clearly stands head and shoulders above its Wear OS and watchOS rivals in terms of raw endurance.

Factors Affecting Battery Life

While impressive, actual battery life will always depend on individual usage patterns.

GPS Usage: Heavy use of GPS for outdoor activities will consume battery significantly faster. An hour of GPS tracking can typically shave off a good chunk of battery.
Always-On Display AMOLED: If you manually force the full AMOLED display to be always-on, your battery life will drop considerably, bringing it closer to the performance of other Wear OS watches.
App Usage: Frequent use of power-intensive apps e.g., streaming podcast, complex watch faces will also accelerate battery drain.
Notifications: Receiving a high volume of notifications can contribute to battery consumption.
Connectivity: Constant use of Wi-Fi or LTE if available, though the Pro 5 is Wi-Fi only drains more power than Bluetooth-only operation.

Charging Speed

Mobvoi hasn’t just focused on discharge rates. they’ve also made charging efficient.

Fast Charging: The TicWatch Pro 5 supports fast charging. You can get a significant charge in a short amount of time:
- 65% in 30 minutes: This is incredibly useful for a quick top-up before heading out.
- Full charge in ~70 minutes: A complete charge takes just over an hour.
Proprietary Charger: It uses a proprietary magnetic charging cable, which is standard for most smartwatches. Losing it means you’ll need a replacement from Mobvoi.

In essence, the battery life of the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 is its killer feature.

For users tired of charging their smartwatch every day, this device offers a genuine multi-day experience that is simply unmatched in the Wear OS ecosystem. Arlo Pro 5S 2K Review

It removes the anxiety of running out of juice mid-day and makes the smartwatch a more reliable and less demanding companion.

This alone is a compelling reason for many to consider the TicWatch Pro 5.

Value Proposition and Target Audience

Understanding the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5’s value proposition means looking beyond its features and considering who it’s truly built for.

In a crowded smartwatch market, it carves out a specific niche by emphasizing durability, battery life, and a robust Wear OS experience for a particular segment of users.

Who is the TicWatch Pro 5 For?

This watch isn’t for everyone, but for its target audience, it offers significant advantages.

Android Users: This is critical. Given its lack of iPhone support, the TicWatch Pro 5 is exclusively for those tethered to an Android smartphone.
Battery Life Prioritizers: If you’re tired of daily charging and want a smartwatch that genuinely lasts for days, even with smart features enabled, this is arguably the best Wear OS option available.
Active Individuals and Outdoor Enthusiasts: With its MIL-STD-810H durability, 5ATM water resistance, and accurate GPS, it’s well-suited for gym-goers, hikers, and anyone who needs a watch that can withstand a bit of rough and tumble.
Wear OS Aficionados: For those who appreciate the Google ecosystem on their wrist – Google Maps, Google Wallet, and access to the Play Store – the Pro 5 offers a smooth and powerful Wear OS 3.5 experience.
Those Who Value Function Over Form: While not unattractive, its bulky, rugged design is less about sleek fashion and more about practical utility. If you prefer a more substantial watch, this fits the bill.

Competing Smartwatches and Their Value

To truly assess the Pro 5’s value, it’s helpful to compare it against its main rivals.

Smartwatch Model	Key Differentiator	Best For	Price Range USD
Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5	Battery life, Dual-Layer Display, Durability	Android users prioritizing endurance and ruggedness	$300 – $350
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic	Rotating Bezel, Samsung Ecosystem, Sleek Design	Samsung phone users, those wanting a more traditional watch look	$350 – $400
Google Pixel Watch 2	Tight Fitbit Integration, Google Ecosystem, Sleek Design	Google Pixel phone users, those deeply invested in Fitbit ecosystem	$350 – $400
Garmin Venu 3	Advanced Fitness/Sports Tracking, Multi-Week Battery	Serious fitness enthusiasts, long-distance runners, outdoor adventurers	$450 – $500
Apple Watch Series 9	Deep iOS Integration, Best App Ecosystem, Health Features	iPhone users seeking the most comprehensive smartwatch experience	$400 – $450

Price Point Analysis

The TicWatch Pro 5 typically retails in the $300-$350 range.

Compared to premium Wear OS: It’s competitively priced against the likes of the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic and Pixel Watch 2, especially when considering its superior battery life.
Compared to Apple Watch: Significantly less expensive than the latest Apple Watch models, though it’s important to remember the ecosystem lock-in.
Compared to Dedicated Sports Watches: Cheaper than many high-end Garmin or Polar watches, but doesn’t offer the same depth of training metrics for elite athletes.

Where Mobvoi Could Improve

While strong, there are areas where the Pro 5 could enhance its value.

Google Assistant: The omission is a puzzling drawback. Integrating Google Assistant would significantly boost its utility for many users.
LTE Option: An LTE variant would cater to users who want true phone-free independence, though this would naturally impact battery life.
Wider Ecosystem Integration: While it syncs with some, deeper and more seamless integration with popular health and fitness platforms beyond Mobvoi Health would be beneficial.
Design Variety: Offering a smaller size option or more refined aesthetic choices might broaden its appeal beyond the rugged-first audience.

The Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 offers excellent value for its specific target audience.

It’s a reliable, durable, and exceptionally long-lasting Wear OS smartwatch for Android users who prioritize endurance and a solid, snappy performance. Samsung Galaxy A54 5G Review

If you fit this profile, its price tag feels justified for the peace of mind its battery life offers and the smooth Wear OS experience it delivers.

Common Criticisms and Limitations: No Smartwatch is Perfect

No device, regardless of how well-engineered, is without its flaws or areas for improvement.

The Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5, while excelling in many crucial areas, faces its share of criticisms and comes with certain limitations that potential buyers should be aware of.

Understanding these can help you determine if its strengths outweigh its weaknesses for your specific needs.

1. Lack of Google Assistant

This is arguably the most significant and perplexing omission.

The Issue: Despite running Wear OS 3.5, which supports Google Assistant, Mobvoi has chosen not to implement it on the TicWatch Pro 5.
Impact: Users cannot use voice commands to set timers, ask questions, check weather, control smart home devices, or send messages hands-free. This removes a key “smart” feature that many have come to expect from Wear OS devices.
Why It’s a Problem: For a watch designed to be a comprehensive smart companion, the absence of a voice assistant feels like a step backward and limits convenience for many users. It’s particularly odd given the integration of other Google services.

2. No iPhone Compatibility

This is a hard line in the sand for potential buyers.

The Issue: The TicWatch Pro 5 and indeed, most Wear OS 3+ watches not named Pixel Watch cannot be paired with an iPhone. It requires an Android phone.
Impact: This immediately cuts off a massive segment of the smartphone market from considering the watch, regardless of its other merits.
Why It’s a Problem: It restricts the addressable market and forces iPhone users to look elsewhere, typically towards the Apple Watch, or older Wear OS models that still support iOS, albeit with limited functionality.

3. Bulky Design

While robust, its size isn’t universally appealing.

The Issue: The watch is relatively large and thick, measuring around 50.1 x 48 x 12.2mm and weighing 89g with the strap.
Impact: For users with smaller wrists, it can feel cumbersome and visually overpowering. It doesn’t lend itself to a sleek, minimalist aesthetic.
Why It’s a Problem: This is subjective, but for those who prefer a more discreet or fashion-forward smartwatch, the Pro 5’s utilitarian design might be a deterrent. There’s no smaller size option.

4. Proprietary Charging Cable

A minor inconvenience, but one worth noting.

The Issue: Like most smartwatches, it uses a proprietary magnetic charging cable.
Impact: If you lose or damage the cable, you can’t just use any USB-C or micro-USB cable lying around. You’ll need to purchase a specific replacement from Mobvoi.
Why It’s a Problem: While standard for smartwatches, it adds a layer of dependency and potential hassle for travelers or those prone to misplacing chargers. Wireless charging Qi standard would offer more convenience, though it might impact charging speed and cost.

5. Mobvoi’s Software Overlay and Updates

While Wear OS 3.5 is good, Mobvoi’s layer can introduce complexities.

The Issue: Mobvoi adds its own Mobvoi Health app and services on top of Wear OS. While generally well-integrated, it means you’re relying on Mobvoi for software updates, not directly on Google.
Impact: This can lead to slower updates compared to Google’s first-party devices like the Pixel Watch or Samsung’s, which have a tighter relationship with Wear OS development.
Why It’s a Problem: Timely software updates are crucial for security, bug fixes, and new features. Users might wait longer for new Wear OS versions or specific Google features to arrive on their TicWatch Pro 5.

6. No LTE Option

The TicWatch Pro 5 is a Wi-Fi/Bluetooth only device. Netvue Birdfy Feeder Ai Review

The Issue: There is no cellular LTE variant available.
Impact: This means you always need your phone nearby to make calls, send texts, or use data-dependent apps if you’re out of Wi-Fi range.
Why It’s a Problem: For users who want true phone-free independence for runs, quick errands, or emergencies, the lack of LTE is a significant limitation.

While the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 excels in battery life and performance, these limitations are real and should be considered.

The absence of Google Assistant and iPhone compatibility are particularly notable, potentially making it a non-starter for certain users.

For others, its core strengths will comfortably overshadow these drawbacks.

Longevity and Future-Proofing: A Wear OS Investment?

Investing in a smartwatch isn’t just about the here and now.

It’s also about anticipating how well the device will hold up over time in terms of performance, software support, and relevance.

Hardware Longevity: Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1

The choice of the Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 chip is a significant factor in the Pro 5’s potential lifespan.

Cutting-Edge Processor: At the time of its release, the W5+ Gen 1 was the latest and most powerful processor for Wear OS devices. This means it has ample processing power to handle current apps and should be well-equipped for future software demands.
Efficiency for Future Features: The chip’s dual-processor architecture, with its efficient co-processor, ensures that new features or background processes added in future Wear OS updates can run without excessively draining the battery.
RAM and Storage: With 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage, it aligns with current premium Wear OS devices, offering sufficient space for apps and smooth multitasking. This helps prevent performance bottlenecks as more apps are installed.

Software Updates: The Wear OS Ecosystem and Mobvoi’s Role

This is where the future-proofing becomes a bit more nuanced.

Wear OS 3.5 Base: The watch launched with Wear OS 3.5, which is a solid, modern foundation. Google has since released Wear OS 4 e.g., on Pixel Watch 2.
Mobvoi’s Update Track Record: Historically, Mobvoi’s update cadence for major Wear OS versions has been slower compared to Google’s first-party devices or Samsung’s Galaxy Watch line. While they do eventually deliver updates, they often lag. This means you might not get the latest Wear OS features or security patches as quickly as on other devices.
Dependency on Mobvoi: Unlike some other smartwatches that have a more direct update path from Google or a major phone manufacturer, the TicWatch Pro 5’s software updates are entirely dependent on Mobvoi adapting and rolling them out.
Google Assistant Omission: The current lack of Google Assistant despite Wear OS 3.5 supporting it raises questions about Mobvoi’s willingness to integrate all standard Wear OS features, which could affect future feature parity.

Wear OS Ecosystem Growth and App Support

The health of the Wear OS ecosystem directly impacts the relevance of the TicWatch Pro 5.

Google’s Renewed Focus: Google’s renewed investment in Wear OS, with major updates and the introduction of its own Pixel Watch line, bodes well for the long-term viability of the platform. This means continued app development and platform improvements.
App Availability: The Google Play Store for Wear OS continues to grow, offering a wide range of apps for fitness, navigation, productivity, and more. The TicWatch Pro 5, with its powerful hardware, can run these apps effectively.
Third-Party Integration: As long as Wear OS remains a viable platform, developers will continue to build for it, ensuring that the TicWatch Pro 5 retains its utility and access to new services.

Durability for Physical Longevity

Beyond software, the physical build quality contributes to how long a device will realistically last.

Robust Build: The MIL-STD-810H certification and 5ATM water resistance mean the watch is built to endure daily wear and tear, and even some harsher environments. This physical resilience contributes significantly to its longevity.
Replaceable Strap: The use of standard 24mm straps means you can easily replace a worn-out band, extending the watch’s usability and allowing for aesthetic refreshes.

In conclusion, the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 is well-positioned for several years of relevant use, primarily due to its advanced and efficient Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 processor and robust build quality. Hp Z6 G5 Review

Its battery life gives it a unique advantage that will remain relevant for a long time.

The main variable for its long-term future-proofing lies in Mobvoi’s commitment to timely Wear OS software updates.

If Mobvoi can improve its update cadence and consistently bring new Wear OS versions and features to the device, the TicWatch Pro 5 represents a solid and enduring investment for Android users seeking a powerful and long-lasting smartwatch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 worth buying?

Yes, the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 is worth buying for Android users who prioritize exceptional battery life, a robust and durable design, and a smooth Wear OS 3.5 experience, especially if they can overlook the lack of Google Assistant.

What operating system does the TicWatch Pro 5 use?

The TicWatch Pro 5 runs on Google’s Wear OS 3.5.

Does the TicWatch Pro 5 have good battery life?

Yes, the TicWatch Pro 5 has excellent battery life, offering up to 80 hours over 3 days in Smart Mode and up to 45 days in Essential Mode, thanks to its dual-layer display.

Can I use the TicWatch Pro 5 with an iPhone?

No, the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 is not compatible with iPhones. It can only be paired with Android smartphones.

Does the TicWatch Pro 5 have Google Assistant?

No, surprisingly, the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 does not include Google Assistant, despite running Wear OS 3.5 which supports it.

Is the TicWatch Pro 5 waterproof?

Yes, the TicWatch Pro 5 has a 5ATM water resistance rating, making it suitable for swimming and showering.

What processor is in the TicWatch Pro 5?

The TicWatch Pro 5 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 wearable platform. Fujifilm Fujinon Xf 8Mm F35 R Wr Review

Does the TicWatch Pro 5 have GPS?

Yes, the TicWatch Pro 5 has built-in multi-constellation GPS GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, Beidou for accurate outdoor activity tracking.

How durable is the TicWatch Pro 5?

The TicWatch Pro 5 is quite durable, featuring an aluminum body, stainless steel rotating crown, and MIL-STD-810H certification, meaning it’s tested for various environmental stressors.

What is the dual-layer display on the TicWatch Pro 5?

The dual-layer display consists of a low-power FSTN monochrome LCD layer on top for always-on essential info, and a vibrant AMOLED display underneath for full smartwatch functionality, designed to optimize battery life.

Can I make calls on the TicWatch Pro 5?

Yes, you can make and receive calls on the TicWatch Pro 5 when it’s connected to your smartphone via Bluetooth. There is no LTE version for standalone calling.

Does the TicWatch Pro 5 track sleep?

Yes, the TicWatch Pro 5 offers comprehensive sleep tracking, monitoring sleep stages, duration, and providing insights into sleep quality.

Can the TicWatch Pro 5 measure blood oxygen SpO2?

Yes, the TicWatch Pro 5 can measure your blood oxygen saturation levels SpO2.

Does the TicWatch Pro 5 have NFC for payments?

Yes, the TicWatch Pro 5 supports NFC and Google Wallet for contactless payments.

How long does it take to charge the TicWatch Pro 5?

The TicWatch Pro 5 supports fast charging, reaching 65% in 30 minutes and a full charge in approximately 70 minutes.

What kind of health tracking does the TicWatch Pro 5 offer?

It offers heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen, stress tracking, sleep analysis, and a unique “1-Tap Measure” feature for quick vital sign checks.

Does the TicWatch Pro 5 support third-party apps?

Yes, as a Wear OS device, it supports thousands of third-party apps available on the Google Play Store for Wear OS. Tcl 75 Inch Q7 Class Tv 75Q750G Review

Is the rotating crown useful on the TicWatch Pro 5?

Yes, the rotating crown provides intuitive and tactile navigation through menus, lists, and app interfaces, with satisfying haptic feedback.

How much RAM and storage does the TicWatch Pro 5 have?

The TicWatch Pro 5 comes with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage.

Does Mobvoi update the TicWatch Pro 5 software regularly?

Mobvoi provides software updates, but their cadence for major Wear OS versions can sometimes lag behind Google’s first-party devices.

Can I change the watch bands on the TicWatch Pro 5?

Yes, the TicWatch Pro 5 uses standard 24mm interchangeable watch bands.

What colors does the TicWatch Pro 5 come in?

The TicWatch Pro 5 typically comes in a single color option, often black or obsidian, with the default silicone strap.

Does the TicWatch Pro 5 track stress levels?

Yes, it can estimate and track your stress levels based on heart rate variability.

Can I stream podcast from the TicWatch Pro 5?

Yes, with its 32GB of storage, you can download podcast from services like Spotify for offline listening or stream podcast when connected to Wi-Fi.

Is the TicWatch Pro 5 bulky on the wrist?

Yes, the TicWatch Pro 5 is a relatively large and thick smartwatch, which might feel bulky on smaller wrists.

Does the TicWatch Pro 5 have a barometer?

Yes, it includes a barometer for tracking atmospheric pressure and assisting with altitude measurements during activities.

Can the TicWatch Pro 5 estimate VO2 Max?

Yes, for certain outdoor activities like running, the TicWatch Pro 5 can estimate your VO2 Max, which is an indicator of cardiovascular fitness. Lenovo Legion Y32P 30 Review

What is Essential Mode on the TicWatch Pro 5?

Essential Mode is a power-saving mode that heavily utilizes the FSTN display, extending battery life significantly up to 45 days by turning off most Wear OS functions while still tracking basic health metrics.

Does the TicWatch Pro 5 have an always-on display?

Yes, the FSTN layer of the dual-layer display acts as an always-on monochrome display.

The AMOLED display can also be set to always-on, but this will reduce battery life significantly.

What are the main advantages of the TicWatch Pro 5 over competitors?

Its primary advantages are its industry-leading battery life for a Wear OS watch, robust durability, the unique dual-layer display technology, and the smooth performance from the Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 chip.

Mobvoi Ticwatch Pro 5 Review