Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra vs. Apple Watch Ultra 2: Which One's the Best for You?

Wearable technology has made tremendous leaps, and two of the most cutting-edge smartwatches currently dominating the market are the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra and Apple Watch Ultra 2. 

Both of these powerhouse devices promise to be more than just smartwatches—they claim to be your ultimate fitness companion, adventure tracker, and even an extension of your phone. But when it comes to choosing the right one, the decision isn't easy. So, let's break it down and see which one might be the better fit for your needs.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra vs. Apple Watch Ultra 2: The Verdict

Let’s cut straight to the point. Here's how these two smartwatches stack up based on key criteria.

Best by Price: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 

If you’re budget-conscious, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra edges ahead. While neither of these watches is cheap, Samsung offers a slightly more affordable option without skimping on core features.

Best for Fitness & Health Monitoring: Apple Watch Ultra 2

When it comes to health monitoring, Apple Watch Ultra 2 pulls out the big guns. Apple’s integration of health features like heart rate monitoring, ECG, blood oxygen, and advanced sleep tracking is simply more comprehensive. Additionally, Apple’s ecosystem of health-related apps, including automatic fall detection, keeps it ahead of the competition.

Best by Battery Life: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra

Battery life can be a dealbreaker for many, and Samsung delivers more longevity. With a beefier battery that can last several days (even up to 80 hours under optimal settings), it far surpasses the Apple Watch Ultra 2, which averages around 36 hours with moderate usage.

Overall Best: Apple Watch Ultra 2 

Ultimately, if you’re looking for an all-in-one device that integrates effortlessly with your lifestyle, particularly if you already own Apple devices, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the better choice. Its seamless software experience, refined health features, and premium build make it the top performer overall.

That said, there are plenty of nuances between the two—so let’s dive into the details!

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra vs. Apple Watch Ultra 2: Detailed Comparison

Now, let’s dig deeper into the specifics that set these two watches apart, feature by feature.

Design & Build Quality

When it comes to design, both the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra and the Apple Watch Ultra 2 have been engineered to withstand the rigors of active lifestyles, but they cater to slightly different aesthetics and user preferences.

• Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra sports a more traditional round watch face, which might appeal to those who prefer the classic look of an analog timepiece. It has a rugged, yet sleek design, with materials like titanium for extra durability and sapphire crystal for scratch resistance. A standout feature is Samsung's rotating bezel, which not only gives the watch a tactile, mechanical feel but also serves as a practical way to navigate through menus without smudging the screen. This is a big win for users who want a mix of style and functionality in an active setting, particularly if you're into outdoor sports like hiking or climbing.
• On the other hand, Apple Watch Ultra 2 retains its signature square face, but with a more robust and bulkier build than the standard Apple Watch models. Its frame is crafted from aerospace-grade titanium, giving it a premium feel while ensuring it can take a beating. What sets it apart is the 49mm screen, the largest and brightest Apple Watch display yet, designed to remain clearly visible in direct sunlight—perfect for outdoor adventures. While it doesn’t feature a rotating bezel, the digital crown and haptic feedback make for smooth navigation, with a level of precision Apple users have come to expect.

Winner: This largely boils down to personal taste. If you favor a more traditional, round watch face with tactile features, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra might be your pick. But if a larger, modern display optimized for bright outdoor conditions is more your style, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 has the edge.

Performance & Operating System

The core of any smartwatch is how seamlessly it performs in your daily routine, and here we see a clear distinction between ecosystems.

• Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra runs on Wear OS 4, with Samsung's custom One UI layered on top. This combination offers a snappy, intuitive user experience. Samsung users will especially enjoy the tight integration with the Galaxy ecosystem—whether you’re connecting it with a Galaxy smartphone or controlling Samsung smart home devices directly from your wrist. One of the perks of Wear OS is that it's customizable and works well with both Android and iOS, but iPhone users may notice some limitations, such as fewer app options and less fluid notifications.
• Apple Watch Ultra 2 is powered by WatchOS 10, which is a smooth, feature-rich operating system built around Apple’s ecosystem. For those who already use an iPhone, the integration is flawless. You can answer calls, reply to messages, and even unlock your MacBook without skipping a beat. The synergy between Apple devices is a huge selling point here—everything from seamless syncing with iCloud to integration with Apple Fitness+, and even using Siri for hands-free commands, makes it a joy for dedicated Apple users.

Winner: For anyone immersed in the Apple ecosystem, Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the clear winner. It offers unmatched synergy and simplicity. However, for Android users, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra delivers a more versatile experience.

Health & Fitness Features

Both watches shine in the fitness department, but there are differences in how they approach health tracking.

• Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is loaded with fitness-oriented tools. It offers detailed tracking for a variety of workouts, including running analysis, hiking modes, and sleep tracking with detailed metrics on sleep stages. Its bioactive sensor is one of its main attractions, measuring heart rate, body composition (such as muscle mass and body fat percentage), and even blood oxygen levels. For outdoor enthusiasts, the watch includes a barometer and altimeter, making it a great companion for hikes or climbing trips.
• Apple Watch Ultra 2 steps it up with an even broader range of health-tracking features. In addition to the basics like heart rate and steps, Apple’s health suite includes more advanced options like ECG monitoring, blood oxygen tracking, and temperature sensors that can provide data on changes related to ovulation cycles. Its fall detection feature has saved lives by automatically calling emergency services if a hard fall is detected, and the health app integration makes it easy to monitor trends and share data with healthcare providers. The backtrack feature for hikers, which retraces your steps, makes it a top choice for explorers.

Winner: While both are incredibly feature-rich, Apple Watch Ultra 2 edges ahead with its broader health ecosystem and advanced monitoring, making it ideal for those who prioritize in-depth health data.

Battery Life

Battery life is a critical factor for anyone considering a smartwatch, and here Samsung pulls ahead.

• Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra comes equipped with a significantly larger battery. Under normal usage, it can last up to 80 hours, and in power-saving mode, it can extend even further. This means you can go several days without needing to charge it, a feature outdoor enthusiasts or heavy users will appreciate. It’s ideal for long weekends away or multi-day hikes where charging options may be limited.
• Apple Watch Ultra 2 has improved on its predecessors but still offers around 36 hours of battery life with moderate usage. With low power mode, you can extend this, but it still pales in comparison to the Galaxy Watch Ultra. That said, Apple has optimized its battery for quicker charges, which means you can top up faster if you're running low.

Winner: For those who hate charging their devices frequently, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is the obvious choice, with almost double the battery life.

Price

No matter how impressive the features, price is often the deciding factor, and neither of these devices is cheap.

• Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra tends to be priced slightly lower than the Apple Watch Ultra 2, making it the more affordable option of the two. While pricing can vary based on sales and promotions, Samsung consistently offers a better value-for-money proposition. You're still getting premium build quality and a full suite of fitness and health features, but at a more accessible price point.
• Apple Watch Ultra 2 commands a higher price tag. That said, Apple products typically hold their value better over time, and for Apple enthusiasts, the premium is worth it for the seamless ecosystem experience and superior app integration.

Winner: Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra takes the crown here for being the more budget-friendly option, but if you’re already in the Apple ecosystem and appreciate the additional health features, Apple Watch Ultra 2 could justify the higher price.

3 Alternatives to Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra and Apple Watch Ultra 2 That Might Fit Better to Your Needs

Maybe neither the Galaxy Watch Ultra nor the Apple Watch Ultra 2 tick all your boxes. Perhaps you're after something unique or an under-the-radar option. Here are a few alternatives worth considering:

Aether X

Aether X Powered by Tiktik isn’t just a smartwatch—it’s a statement. If you're someone who values design as much as functionality, the Aether X might be a perfect match. It's a limited-edition designer smartwatch with customizable faces, interchangeable bands, and a focus on style that the mainstream giants can't offer. While it may not pack quite the same health features as the Ultra duo, its unique aesthetics and sleek performance make it stand out in a world of tech-heavy options.

Garmin Fenix 7

If you’re more about rugged durability and extreme outdoor functionality, consider the Garmin Fenix 7. It's built for hiking, trekking, and off-grid adventures, with up to 18 days of battery life in smartwatch mode. While it doesn’t have the ultra-polished feel of an Apple Watch, it’s got GPS accuracy, weatherproofing, and fitness tracking in spades, making it a favorite for hardcore adventurers.

Fitbit Sense 2

The Fitbit Sense 2 is perfect for those who want all the essential health and fitness tracking without breaking the bank. It doesn’t have the high-end polish of the Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, but it covers the basics with heart rate, ECG, stress management, and sleep tracking—all at a more affordable price point.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra and the Apple Watch Ultra 2 boils down to what you prioritize most. If you’re already in the Apple ecosystem and want unbeatable health monitoring and smooth software integration, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a no-brainer. However, if battery life and a slightly more affordable price point are your top concerns, then the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is a fantastic choice.

Still not convinced either way? The alternatives we’ve suggested might be a better fit if you’re after a stylish design, superior outdoor functionality, or a cost-effective health tracker. At the end of the day, the best smartwatch for you depends on your personal needs and preferences.