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Rugged Smartwatch Battle: Ultra 2 vs. Ultra 3
26 Jul
Summary
- Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 offers a lower price point.
- Both watches boast impressive durability and dive ratings.
- Apple Watch Ultra 3 leads in app availability and connectivity.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 and Apple Watch Ultra 3 are closely matched in the premium rugged smartwatch market.
The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, priced at $699.99, features a 47mm titanium case and a newer Snapdragon Wear Elite processor. It offers Bluetooth and LTE connectivity. While it saw a $50 price increase from its predecessor, it remains nearly $100 cheaper than Apple's offering.
The Apple Watch Ultra 3, costing $799, sports a larger 49mm titanium case and includes Bluetooth, 5G, and satellite connectivity. It utilizes the older S10 chip but performs admirably with snappy responsiveness.
Durability is a tie, with both watches receiving EN13319 certification for diving and robust ratings for water immersion and dust resistance. Both are designed to withstand extreme environments and water sports.
In terms of health and fitness, both offer extensive features like heart health monitoring, blood oxygen tracking, and activity logging. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 excels in lifestyle features, particularly with its broader app ecosystem and 5G connectivity. Its built-in satellite communication provides a critical safety net for emergencies in remote areas.
Battery life and screen brightness remain areas for further testing and comparison, with initial estimates favoring Samsung on paper but Apple historically exceeding expectations in real-world usage.
