One device does one thing very well; the other does everything reasonably well. Whoop 5.0 now includes SpO2 and temperature sensors in a smaller package.
Comparison Overview
| Category | Whoop 5.0 | Apple Watch |
|---|---|---|
| HRV Analysis | Recovery score with deep insights ✓ | Basic HRV data in Health app |
| Whoop interprets HRV data better | ||
| Training Load | Strain score, daily/weekly load ✓ | Rings, workout summaries |
| Whoop tracks exertion more precisely | ||
| Sleep Tracking | Detailed sleep coach and staging ✓ | Basic sleep stages |
| Whoop is more sleep-focused | ||
| Smartwatch Features | None—no screen | Notifications, apps, payments, music ✓ |
| Apple Watch is a full smartwatch | ||
| GPS/Workouts | Phone GPS via app | Built-in GPS, workout modes ✓ |
| Apple Watch is standalone | ||
| Price Model | $30/month subscription | $400-800 one-time |
| 3 years: Whoop $1080, Apple ~$700 | ||
| Third-party App Support | Closed ecosystem | Many HRV apps available ✓ |
| Apple Watch has more HRV app options | ||
The Bottom Line
Choose Whoop if recovery and training optimization are your sole focus and you want excellent strain/recovery analysis without smartwatch distractions. Choose Apple Watch if you want a versatile smartwatch that does HRV tracking adequately—pair with Athlytic or HRV4Training for better analysis.
Detailed Reviews
Whoop 5.0
Best for serious athletes who want completely passive tracking and don't mind paying monthly. The training load and...
Full reviewApple Watch
Convenient if you already wear one, but not recommended as a primary HRV device. The native Health app provides...
Full review