Huawei Watch GT5 Pro review: still the same problem

© Robin Sabbadini for Presse-citron

Huawei persists and signs. With its new Watch GT5 Pro, the giant Chinese promises record autonomy, impeccable finishes and advanced health monitoring. On paper, this watch has everything to seduce, but in use, the observation is more mixed. Deciphering a watch paradox.

© Robin Sabbadini for Presse-citron

© Robin Sabbadini for Presse-citron

© Robin Sabbadini for Presse-citron

Right out of the box, the Watch GT5 Pro is impressive. Its octagonal titanium case gives it a look that is both futuristic and sophisticated. Available in 42 mm and 46 mm, it fits most wrists, although its generous size may put off the thinnest.

The 1.43-inch AMOLED screen is a feast for the eyes. Bright, contrasted and perfectly readable in direct sunlight, it highlights the few dials offered. Better still, it will enhance the photos that can be used as a background. Navigation is done via the touch screen and a crown, supplemented by a customizable quick access button.

This has been Huawei's trump card for years and the GT5 Pro is no exception. With an announced battery life of 14 days in normal use, it far outclasses the competition. According to our tests and even with intensive use such as GPS tracking and always-on screen activated, it easily lasts a week.

This exceptional endurance is a game changer in everyday life. No more stress about a flat battery, no more nighttime charging or no more moments when you find yourself with a simple inert bracelet on your wrist. A real plus for those who want to enjoy sleep tracking without constraints.

© Robin Sabbadini for Presse-citron

© Robin Sabbadini for Presse-citron

The GT5 Pro doesn't skimp on sensors. Heart rate, blood oxygenation, stress level, skin temperature…It covers a wide range of measurements, with overall accuracy. Sleep monitoring is particularly advanced, with sleep apnea detection as a bonus.

On the sports side, more than 100 activities are recognized. The integrated GPS, now multi-band, ensures precise monitoring of outdoor courses. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the dedicated mode, while divers will benefit from a Free Diving mode exclusive to the Pro version.

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© Robin Sabbadini for Presse-citron

That's where the problem lies. Despite its technical prowess, The GT5 Pro still suffers from the same problem: the lack of a decent app ecosystem. It is impossible to install Spotify, Tidal, Strava, or any third-party app. A cruel lack for a watch of this standing.

The absence of Google Maps is cruelly felt, Huawei's Petal Maps solution being extremely far from the quality of the latter. As for contactless payments, they are limited to China. Suffice to say that in Europe, this function, which is nevertheless essential for a connected watch, has been left aside.

© Robin Sabbadini for Presse-citron

The app Huawei Health, the nerve center of the experience, does the job of visualizing its data and configuring the watch. Unfortunately, it does not compensate for the general lack of flexibility of the system.

© Robin Sabbadini for Presse-citron

With a price of 379 euros, the GT5 Pro is well positioned on this point compared to the competition. Its finishes are impeccable and its autonomy impressive. But can -we really can do without Google Maps, third-party apps or a payment system in 2024 ?

For users looking only for a tracker 'hyper-endurance activity, Huawei's proposition remains relevant. But For those who want to fully exploit the potential of a modern smartwatch, the alternatives are more compelling.

© Robin Sabbadini for Presse-citron

Using the Huawei Watch GT5 Pro is frustrating. On the one hand, it shines with its refined design, record-breaking battery life and advanced health functions. On the other, it suffers cruelly from its closed ecosystem and the absence of essential services.

In a market where software integration is as important as the hardware, Huawei is shooting itself in the foot without necessarily having a choice to the contrary. The GT5 Pro could have been a must-have reference.

For fans of the brand or those who value autonomy at all costs, it remains an attractive option. However, investing in a watch without third-party apps and contactless payments is an aberration in 2024.

Huawei proves once again its mastery of hardware. Now we can only hope that the firm quickly finds a solution to make up for its software delay. Otherwise, its future models risk suffering the same fate: that of beautiful technological objects condemned to remain second choices.

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