Apple Watch Ultra 2 vs Ultra 3 – Which Should You Buy?
As an Amazon Associate, I Earn from Qualifying Purchases. Read Disclaimer
Choosing the right smartwatch often depends on your lifestyle, fitness goals, and technology preferences. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Ultra 2 are built for those who want the most advanced features and durability for extreme activities, but they differ in important ways. The Ultra 3 introduces new performance upgrades and enhancements that make it more future-ready, while the Ultra 2 remains a strong choice for those who want a premium experience at a slightly lower cost. This article will highlight the key differences to help you choose the right watch.
Side By Side Comparison
| Feature | Apple Watch Ultra 3 | Apple Watch Ultra 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 49mm Always-On Retina LTPO OLED, up to 3000 nits brightness, improved power efficiency | 49mm Always-On Retina LTPO OLED, up to 3000 nits brightness |
| Processor | Newer S10 SiP with Neural Engine, faster and more efficient | S9 SiP with Neural Engine |
| RAM | 2GB optimized for multitasking | 2GB |
| Battery Life | Up to 36 hours normal use, 72 hours in Low Power Mode, slightly better endurance due to efficiency gains | Up to 36 hours normal use, 72 hours in Low Power Mode |
| Connectivity | Precision dual-frequency GPS, faster Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.3 | Precision dual-frequency GPS, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Sensors | Heart rate, ECG, SpO₂, temperature, depth gauge, water temperature, new motion sensors for better crash detection | Heart rate, ECG, SpO₂, temperature, depth gauge, water temperature |
| Durability | 100m water resistant, EN13319 certified dive computer, MIL-STD 810H, stronger sapphire crystal coating | 100m water resistant, EN13319 certified dive computer, MIL-STD 810H |
Detailed Feature Comparisons
Design and Construction: The Ultra 3 retains the rugged 49mm titanium case and flat sapphire front crystal but offers slightly improved scratch resistance. The Ultra 2 already has excellent durability and meets MIL-STD 810H standards, so casual users may not notice much difference.
Display Quality: Both models feature a 49mm Always-On Retina LTPO OLED display with 3000 nits brightness. The Ultra 3 improves power efficiency, which means the screen stays bright longer under heavy use without draining the battery as quickly.
Performance: The Ultra 3 uses the new S10 SiP, offering faster app loading and smoother animations. This can be noticed during multitasking, such as switching between workout tracking and maps. The Ultra 2’s S9 chip is still fast but slightly behind in responsiveness.
Battery Life: Both watches offer up to 36 hours of normal use and 72 hours in Low Power Mode. Thanks to the improved efficiency of the S10 chip, the Ultra 3 may stretch beyond this in lighter use scenarios, which is useful for multi-day hikes.
Fitness and Health Tracking: Both models include advanced tracking for heart rate, ECG, SpO₂, temperature sensing, and diving metrics. The Ultra 3 adds improved motion sensors for more accurate crash detection and fall detection scenarios.
Connectivity: The Ultra 3 includes upgraded Wi-Fi with faster transfer speeds, which helps with quicker software updates and syncing large workout files. Both models offer dual-frequency GPS and Bluetooth 5.3 for reliable connections with accessories.
Software Experience: Both watches run watchOS 11 and support the same features, including Smart Stack widgets and new workout metrics. The Ultra 3’s newer processor ensures that these features run a bit smoother, with less lag over time.
Durability: Both are highly rugged with 100m water resistance, EN13319 dive computer certification, and resistance to extreme temperatures. The Ultra 3 slightly improves sapphire crystal hardness, which may help prevent scratches during rock climbing or rough sports.
FAQ
Is the Apple Watch Ultra 3 worth the upgrade from Ultra 2?
The Ultra 3 is worth upgrading if you value faster performance, improved efficiency, and slightly better durability. If you already have the Ultra 2 and are happy with its speed, you may not notice dramatic differences.
Do both watches have the same display brightness?
Yes, both feature a 3000-nit Retina display, but the Ultra 3 uses improved power efficiency so it stays bright longer without draining the battery as quickly.
Which model is better for battery life?
Both claim 36 hours of normal use and 72 hours in Low Power Mode, but the Ultra 3 may last slightly longer due to its more efficient processor.
Are there any new health sensors on the Ultra 3?
The Ultra 3 does not introduce new core sensors but enhances motion sensors for more precise crash and fall detection.
Do they both support watchOS 11?
Yes, both models run watchOS 11 and get the same software features, but the Ultra 3 may feel smoother thanks to the S10 chip.
Is the Ultra 3 heavier than the Ultra 2?
No, both watches have the same weight and dimensions, keeping the rugged but comfortable feel consistent.
Which model is better for athletes?
Both are excellent for athletes, but the Ultra 3’s faster processor and slightly better endurance make it a bit more appealing for extreme sports or multi-day training sessions.
Can you dive with both watches?
Yes, both are EN13319 certified and rated for recreational diving up to 40 meters, making them suitable for water sports and scuba activities.
Do both models support precision dual-frequency GPS?
Yes, both support precision dual-frequency GPS for accurate tracking in challenging environments like cities or mountains.
Which should I buy if I am on a budget?
The Ultra 2 is the better value since it offers nearly all of the same features at a lower price, making it an excellent choice if you don’t need the latest chip.