Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra vs. Apple Watch Ultra 2
In the ever-evolving world of smartwatches, Samsung and Apple remain at the forefront, continually pushing the boundaries of technology and design. The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra and the Apple Watch Ultra 2 are the latest offerings from these tech giants, both vying for the top spot in the high-end smartwatch market. This comprehensive review will delve into every aspect of these two flagship devices, providing a detailed comparison to help you decide which watch is the best fit for your lifestyle and needs.

Design and Build Quality
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra marks a significant departure from its predecessors. This is Samsung’s first foray into the Ultra lineup for smartwatches, and it shows. The watch boasts a square design with a notable bezel surrounding a circular display. This choice of design helps Samsung retain its familiar user interface, avoiding the need for a complete UI overhaul.
- Materials: The watch features a sapphire crystal display and a durable titanium case, built to withstand the rigors of endurance sports and outdoor activities.
- Size and Weight: The Galaxy Watch Ultra is slightly thicker than its Apple counterpart, which adds to its durability but might feel bulkier on the wrist. Despite its thickness, the watch’s sleek design ensures it remains stylish and contemporary.
- Durability: Designed for triathletes and endurance athletes, the watch is built to handle extreme conditions, from high-impact sports to underwater adventures. The enhanced durability makes it a reliable companion for those who push their limits in various sports and outdoor activities.

Apple Watch Ultra 2
Apple continues its tradition of sleek and functional design with the Apple Watch Ultra 2. This iteration improves upon the already popular Apple Watch Ultra, with subtle enhancements that make a significant difference in user experience.
- Materials: Like the Galaxy Watch Ultra, it features a sapphire crystal display and a titanium case, ensuring maximum durability. Apple has meticulously crafted the watch to meet the demands of users who require a robust yet elegant device.
- Size and Weight: The Apple Watch Ultra 2 maintains a sleek profile, with a slightly smaller form factor compared to the Galaxy Watch Ultra, making it more comfortable for everyday wear. Its lightweight design ensures it doesn’t become a burden, even when worn all day.
- Durability: Known for its robustness, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is designed to withstand a variety of harsh environments, from deep dives to mountain trails. Apple’s rigorous testing processes ensure that the watch can handle whatever you throw at it.
Design Comparison Table
Feature | Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra | Apple Watch Ultra 2 |
---|---|---|
Display | Circular | Rectangular |
Case Material | Titanium | Titanium |
Screen Material | Sapphire Crystal | Sapphire Crystal |
Size | Thicker and bulkier | Sleeker and lighter |
Durability | High (for extreme sports) | High (for varied environments) |
Display and User Interface
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
The Galaxy Watch Ultra features a circular AMOLED display with vibrant colors and deep blacks, offering excellent visibility in various lighting conditions. The significant bezel around the display serves both as a protective measure and a design element.
- Display Size: The circular display is slightly larger, providing more screen real estate for apps and notifications. This larger display makes it easier to interact with the watch, whether you’re checking messages or tracking your workout stats.
- User Interface: Samsung’s One UI Watch, based on Wear OS, is intuitive and easy to navigate. The circular design ensures compatibility with the existing UI, avoiding the need for a redesign. Samsung has optimized the interface to take full advantage of the watch’s hardware, providing a seamless user experience.
Apple Watch Ultra 2
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 sports a rectangular Retina LTPO OLED display, known for its sharpness and color accuracy. The display seamlessly integrates with the watchOS, providing a cohesive and fluid user experience.
- Display Size: The rectangular display offers ample space for a variety of watch faces and complications, making it highly customizable. Users can personalize their watch to suit their preferences, whether they prioritize fitness tracking, notifications, or aesthetic appeal
- User Interface: Apple’s watchOS is known for its user-friendly interface and smooth performance. The S9 chip enhances responsiveness and allows for on-device Siri support.

Display and UI Comparison Table
Feature | Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra | Apple Watch Ultra 2 |
---|---|---|
Display Type | AMOLED | Retina LTPO OLED |
Display Shape | Circular | Rectangular |
UI | One UI Watch (Wear OS) | watchOS |
Customizability | High | Very High |
Responsiveness | Excellent | Exceptional (with S9 chip) |
Fitness and Health Tracking
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
Samsung has packed the Galaxy Watch Ultra with an array of sensors and features aimed at fitness enthusiasts and professional athletes. This watch is designed to be a comprehensive fitness tracker.
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Improved accuracy with additional sensors, now totaling 13, ensuring precise heart rate tracking even during high-intensity workouts.
- GPS Tracking: Dual-band GPS enhances accuracy, especially in urban environments with tall buildings.
- New Features: Energy score for assessing readiness, detailed sleep tracking with sleep apnea detection, and advanced metrics for cycling and running.
Apple Watch Ultra 2
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 continues to excel in fitness and health tracking, with a focus on accuracy and user engagement.
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Enhanced sensors for better heart rate accuracy, crucial for zone-based workouts.
- GPS Tracking: Dual-band GPS similar to the Samsung model, ensuring precise tracking in various environments.
- New Features: Advanced sleep tracking, improved workout tracking with new algorithms, and a robust set of health metrics including ECG and blood oxygen levels.
Fitness and Health Tracking Comparison Table
Feature | Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra | Apple Watch Ultra 2 |
---|---|---|
Heart Rate Sensors | 13 | Advanced sensors |
GPS | Dual-band | Dual-band |
Sleep Tracking | Comprehensive (with apnea) | Advanced |
Cycling Metrics | Extensive | Robust |
Health Metrics | Energy score, detailed sleep analysis | ECG, blood oxygen levels |
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor for any smartwatch, especially for those who rely on it for continuous fitness and health tracking.
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
- Battery Performance: On a full charge, the Galaxy Watch Ultra can last up to two days with regular use. This includes continuous heart rate monitoring, GPS tracking, and notifications.
- Charging: Fast charging capabilities ensure you can get back to full power quickly.
Apple Watch Ultra 2
- Battery Performance: The Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers slightly better battery life, often extending beyond two days with regular use.
- Charging: Apple’s fast charging ensures minimal downtime.
Battery Life Comparison Table
Feature | Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra | Apple Watch Ultra 2 |
---|---|---|
Battery Life | Up to 2 days | Over 2 days |
Fast Charging | Yes | Yes |
Software and Ecosystem
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
- Operating System: The Galaxy Watch Ultra runs on Wear OS with Samsung’s One UI Watch overlay. This provides a familiar experience for Samsung users and integrates well with Samsung’s ecosystem.
- App Availability: A wide range of apps available through the Google Play Store, with specific optimizations for Samsung devices.
Apple Watch Ultra 2
- Operating System: The watchOS is designed to work seamlessly with Apple devices, offering an unmatched user experience.
- App Availability: The App Store offers a vast selection of apps tailored for the Apple Watch, ensuring high-quality and optimized performance.
Software and Ecosystem Comparison Table
Feature | Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra | Apple Watch Ultra 2 |
---|---|---|
Operating System | Wear OS with One UI Watch | watchOS |
App Store | Google Play Store | Apple App Store |
Ecosystem Integration | Excellent with Samsung devices | Seamless with Apple devices |
Price and Value
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
- Price: The Galaxy Watch Ultra is priced at a premium, reflecting its high-end features and robust build quality.
- Value Proposition: Offers extensive fitness and health tracking features, making it a great value for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Apple Watch Ultra 2
- Price: The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is also positioned in the premium segment, with a price tag that reflects its advanced capabilities and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem.
- Value Proposition: Ideal for those deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem, offering unparalleled user experience and app support.
Price and Value Comparison Table
Feature | Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra | Apple Watch Ultra 2 |
---|---|---|
Price | Premium | Premium |
Value for Money | High for fitness enthusiasts | High for Apple users |
Conclusion
Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness (EEAT)
When it comes to choosing between the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra and the Apple Watch Ultra 2, both devices bring a wealth of features and capabilities to the table. Here’s a summary based on EEAT principles:
- Expertise: Both Samsung and Apple have extensive experience in wearable technology, continually innovating and improving their products.
- Authoritativeness: Samsung’s expertise in hardware design and Apple’s prowess in software integration make both watches authoritative in the smartwatch market.
- Trustworthiness: Both brands have a strong reputation for quality and reliability, ensuring that you’re getting a top-notch product regardless of your choice.
Final Thoughts
If you are an athlete or fitness enthusiast looking for a robust and feature-rich smartwatch, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra offers a compelling package with its advanced sensors, durable build, and comprehensive health tracking.
On the other hand, if you are deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem and value seamless connectivity, user-friendly interface, and premium app support, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 remains the top choice.
Ultimately, your decision will come down to your specific needs and preferences. Both the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra and the Apple Watch Ultra 2 are exceptional devices that cater to different aspects of the smartwatch experience. Whether you choose Samsung’s innovation or Apple’s integration, you are investing in a device that enhances your lifestyle and keeps you connected, healthy, and informed.