The wearables market is saturated with fitness trackers and smartwatches that promise to do it all, yet still tether you to your smartphone. Enter the Honor Watch 5 Ultra — a smartwatch that not only challenges premium design conventions but also goes one step further by embracing eSIM technology, letting you truly leave your phone behind.

Launched as part of Honor’s flagship lineup, the Watch 5 Ultra brings sophistication, durability, and intelligent health tracking into one sleek titanium package. But it’s the integration of standalone cellular connectivity that makes this watch a standout.

Built for the Outdoors, Styled for the City

First impressions matter, and the Honor Watch 5 Ultra nails them. Crafted from Grade 5 titanium and protected with sapphire crystal glass, it has the looks of a luxury watch and the toughness of a hiking companion. The 1.5-inch AMOLED LTPO display dazzles with its brightness and clarity, adapting its refresh rate intelligently to preserve battery life.

But the elegance isn’t just skin-deep. This smartwatch is built to withstand extremes — from freezing cold to desert heat — meeting military-grade durability standards. Whether you’re trekking across mountain ranges or navigating a busy workday, the Watch 5 Ultra fits in effortlessly.

Go Phone-Free with eSIM Connectivity

What truly sets the Honor Watch 5 Ultra apart is its eSIM functionality — something few smartwatches outside Apple or Samsung offer reliably.

Once activated through the Honor Health app, the eSIM transforms the watch into a fully independent communication device. You can make and receive calls, send messages, and even stream music over a cellular connection—no smartphone is needed. For runners, cyclists, or anyone who prefers to travel light, this is a game-changer.

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The watch supports 4G LTE bands and operates seamlessly in most major markets, though exact compatibility may vary by carrier and region. That said, unlike many Android smartwatches that still rely on Bluetooth tethering, the Watch 5 Ultra allows you to leave your phone at home — and not miss a thing.

Battery That Outlasts the Competition

Despite its cellular capabilities, battery life is one area where the Honor Watch 5 Ultra continues to impress. With typical use, it delivers up to 15 days of battery life. Activate eSIM and it still manages a respectable 10 days, while full standalone mode gives you around 3 days — which, in the world of LTE smartwatches, is a solid result.

Honor has also introduced reverse wireless charging, so you can top up the watch using your smartphone when you’re on the move — a thoughtful touch for travelers and adventurers.

Smart Health Monitoring and Sports Tracking

Honor doesn’t cut corners on health features. The Watch 5 Ultra includes:

• Heart rate and SpO₂ monitoring
• ECG sensor (though availability may vary by market)
• Wrist temperature tracking
• Sleep analysis with snore detection
• Over 100 workout modes
• Dual-band GPS for precision tracking

These features are enhanced by Honor’s AI algorithms, which provide actionable insights for recovery, training load, and more. Whether you’re training for a marathon or managing daily wellness, the Watch 5 Ultra keeps you in the loop.

Where It Falls Short

For all its strengths, the Honor Watch 5 Ultra does have limitations. Unlike Wear OS devices, it doesn’t support third-party app installations. There’s no voice assistant, no smart reply options for messages, and no support for mobile payments despite the presence of NFC.

If you’re coming from an Apple Watch or a Samsung Galaxy Watch, you might find the software ecosystem a bit restrictive. However, if your priority is long battery life, standalone connectivity, and robust health tracking, the trade-off may be worth it.

Final Verdict: A Premium eSIM Smartwatch That Delivers

The Honor Watch 5 Ultra isn’t just another fitness watch — it’s a rare example of a true LTE smartwatch that brings premium materials, thoughtful design, and genuine phone-free freedom to Android users.

Its eSIM functionality puts it in a league with Apple and Samsung but with better battery life and a more rugged build. For frequent travelers, fitness enthusiasts, and those who value being connected without being tethered, this watch is one of the most exciting wearables of 2025.

Price: Starting around €279, it’s competitively positioned — especially considering what it offers.

Who it’s for: If you want a durable smartwatch with independent LTE connectivity and great health features, the Honor Watch 5 Ultra deserves a spot on your wrist.