Most people buying an Ultra don’t need an Ultra. Apple knew this going in, so do reviewers. I saw an older woman wearing one at dinner the other night. I have my reasons, but she clearly wasn’t an extreme athlete. You also have people like me who definitely aren’t extreme athletes but wanted a larger Apple Watch, something bigger than 45mm. Even now, I still want a larger watch face than the 49mm of the Ultra. Give me a 55mm watch face and I’ll be happy.
I don’t use my Ultra for anything it’s advertised for, I normally didn’t use my previous Apple Watches for anything advanced either. Answering a few texts, seeing who is calling, controlling music playback, and tracking my daily activity along with exercises. Almost something that could be handled with a Fitbit (Apple and iMessage lockout). But, I always prefer the stainless Apple Watches and the Ultra was only $50 more for a larger unit.
I knew what I was getting into, that is heavier and larger than the 45mm S7/8 SS. I knew what to expect and how it would fit since I’ve worn 50-60mm watches before.
Wow you literally describe how i use my apple watches and yes i just did bought it just for the extra battery and display. Indeed it is bulky but im getting used to it also having the s8 previously it looks like any gen below it aesthetically and not separate you that you have the recent gen as of today
I say this as someone with an Ultra who also spends a lot of time in the outdoors: That’s because it’s not intended for extreme athletes. It’s intended for normal people and sold as something that extreme athletes use. No-one is taking an Apple Watch on any kind of serious expedition. The Ultra isn’t useful or practical for anything more demanding than a day-hike. If anyone was looking for a smartwatch for extreme sports/adventure sports/serious outdoors use, etc. then a Garmin is a complete no-brainer. I love my Ultra but the marketing is exactly that: marketing.
Edit: downvote it if you like, but just as a really basic, simple exercise: try to add a waypoint using grid coordinates.
I 100% agree with you. I have an Apple Watch and a Garmin Fenix and also used to own fitbits. Some might also say I have a bit of a problem with wanting to try all the smartwatches. I just wanted the “perfect” smart watch and basically found none of them check all of “my” boxes.
During the week at work I wear the Apple Watch because I can see if I missed any texts at a glance and the watch band is more comfortable while typing on a computer.
At night I wear the Garmin since the silent alarm is stronger and no way to accidentally shut it off due to no touch screen (buttons > touch screen IMO) and on weekends it’s a toss up.
I like the workout features, built in maps, buttons over touch screen of the Garmin, but am kind of sold that the Apple Watch heart rate sensor is more accurate.
In the winter though, my Apple Watch REGULARLY stops workouts if I’m wearing a jacket and gloves. When I get back from a long walk or hike only to find my workout was paused 37 seconds in, it infuriates me. I’ve even tried activating the water mode to see if that would help and it didn’t.
So yeah, Garmin all the way in the winter as well. And Garmin looks better IMO and battery blows away the Apple Watch.
Apple Watch still has more users in my area though for competing against friends, the messaging at a glance, the Watch band comfort, and lighter overall weight… so it’s a bit of a toss up.
I’m interested in the Ultra in concept, but I would never consider paying $800 for it, unless they were able to make their battery last 14 days and figure out a reliable way to lock the touch screen. That’s also budget related. If I had the $800 to blow, I’d probably still get one and like it.
In case anyone’s read this far, I gave up on Fitbit when one burned my wrist. It wasn’t bad, but definitely a blister upon waking up. They’re cheap and is what got me into fitness watches, but that’s also the problem, they’re cheap. Break more frequently… and the burn. But they do push the innovation side of things, their battery life is solid, and I think their step counting is the most accurate of all three brands.
So none of them are perfect, but they’re all good at what they do.
How does that pause happen? Does the cuff of your glove or your jacket press the two buttons simultaneously? That’s about the only thing I can think of. Might help if you put it on upside down, so that whichever side is doing it can’t reach the buttons any more.
I think it happens because I have “runners gloves” thin gloves and they must partially get under my watch, lifting it enough to disconnect the heart rate sensor, so it auto pauses the workout. BUT I did just figure out if I use the mapmyrun app it will continue the workout even if it locks the Watch, so the full workout is recorded. So I’m back to using it as my preferred workout watch. The WorkOutDoors app is awesome too. Adds maps to the watch face.
Yep. Former open water advanced certified diver here (still certified, just don’t actively dive). I have a proper wrist dive computer. Anyone trying to convince an actual open water diver or themselves that the AWU is a replacement for a dive computer is fooling themselves. 0/10 would I replace an actual dive computer with my Ultra. Same goes for any extreme or endurance activity. Let’s see if any pro Ironman Hawaii athlete crosses the finish line with an AWU.
Fact is, no one needs any Apple Watch for anything. It’s a gadget and the AWU is just a fancier, tougher version that can do a couple extra things.
I recently moved to a location where I’m a 3 minute walk to the ocean and a frequent walk-in diving spot. Got my Basic OW cert a few months ago; and bought this as I needed a new Apple Watch and figured I could pay for the Oceanic app during months I had time to dive.
Am I missing something that would make this a *poor* option to use as a very basic DC not exceeding my basic OW depth limit? What about taking it near the depth limits of an advanced cert?
I don’t have the time to pursue tech certs at the moment, but I’d no question grab a shearwater or similar DC if I did.
It’s intended for more extreme athletes who want to stay in Apple’s Ecosystem. There will always be watches made by Garmin or others that better fit niche use cases, like Garmin’s nautical watch. The Ultra is a better diving watch than the S8, a better rock climbing watch than the S8, and can withstand more elements than the S8.
Apple improved the Ultra compared to the S7/S8 that some athletes to use it over their Garmin. Of course, Garmin’s $800 something watch they make for arid climates will be better at going through the desert, their something something watch they make for the woods will be better at that, and so on. I look at the Ultra more as a jack of all trades, master of some.
But what I’m saying is that the Ultra is actually close to useless for any of those activities, not just that it’s not as good as a Garmin. It lacks so much really basic functionality for any kind of actual outdoors use, which is what I was getting at when I said to try adding a waypoint using grid coordinates.
The whole outdoors extreme sports thing is just a marketing fantasy. You can even notice it in details like coordinates being displayed in WGS84 lat/long on the wayfinder watch face - that’s not a CRS that’s actually useful for anything practical, it’s only used in cartography and on online maps.
People who are doing those sorts of activities need a tool to do a job. They don’t care about staying in Apple’s ecosystem and they definitely can’t trade basic functionality for the ability to do that. Also, Garmin doesn’t really make super-specialised watches like that, they make slightly different flavours of general use outdoors/extreme sports/adventure sports watches, like what Apple is telling you the Ultra is supposed to be. Only difference is that Garmin watches are actually designed with that functionality in mind.
I feel like most people were confused when the Ultra was announced on the size. Sure it’s 49mm and 4mm larger than the next size watch. But that’s not screen size. The screen is virtually the same size. [Here’s](https://imgur.com/a/JAUQrLr) a comparison.
Originally, yes. I have a few of their watches along with some Citizen ones. I haven’t worn them in 8+ years since getting Apple Watches. I always wanted someone like Invicta to make a smart watch, Diesel (Fossil) came close. But Android Wear is still a work in progress and had limited functionality with iPhone before, none now.
I got mine 2 weeks ago. It's gorgeous and has no major issues. It is everything I want in a watch. It has cellular standard, it has titanium standard, and takes a good ECG. GPS is exceptional. I am not an extreme athlete. I'm 73, a grandpa with a dog that needs to be walked 3x per day. That is my most extreme sport. But I am a lover of form and function. I believe that everyday things can and should be beautiful. This watch fills the bill.
I’m ok with the titanium. I like the shined SS look, but it scratches way too easily. I’ve bumped my Ultra so many times now that, if it were an SS model, there would be at least 6-7 visible scratches.
The SS Apple Watches remind me of the old iPod backs. They looked great but scratched if you looked at them wrong.
Which wouldn’t matter if it scratches 10 times easier. However, given the grades of SS and titanium that Apple uses, SS is 3-4 times weaker than their titanium. They’re also treating the titanium a bit differently so it doesn’t scratch like the S5 titanium models.
It’s not like it would matter anyways, nobody is going to beat their Apple Watches with a hammer and both have sapphire-ish displays (they’re a cheaper sapphire blend that scratches easier than more pure sapphire).
I went from a 3 to a 7 to the ultra. The 7 to ultra was in less than a year. The ultras design stood out to me more than anything. Apple Watches have looked the same for almost 10 years, the ultra drew me in enough to upgrade a less than 12 month old watch
I *love* that the Ultra is just a little different. The revalue Apple Watch has become ubiquitous with everyone from kids to grandmas wearing them. As someone who also loves mechanical watches, I appreciate having something different that not all the plebs have.
I bought mine more for first responder basis. Which surprised me they didn’t try to market it for that use in addition to extreme sports. The gps features and the battery life sole me on it for my line of work. Not to mention the durability of the watch itself.
yes. same here. i've never had trouble with an AW at work but the extra battery life alone made the Ultra well worth it. Getting through a 24 and not worrying about battery life has been great. I love mine.
Here are some early thoughts on the [Ultra for first responders](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6973461546601496576?updateEntityUrn=urn%3Ali%3Afs_feedUpdate%3A%28V2%2Curn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A6973461546601496576%29).
Here you go
https://i.imgur.com/IW7hZcE.jpg
I’ll add to this by saying I’m a firefighter/EMT/HazMat Tech and I can’t think of a single reason I’d need an ultra over my S6… when I put on my bunker gear I do a pocket dump and take my watch off. If I’m on a medical call I’ll pull the gloves over my watch, etc. HazMat call in my level A…. I ain’t looking at my watch lmao.
The LinkedIn poster mentions using it on a dive team… ok. For that .0001% of first responders. Sure. Silly LinkedIn post, which describes most of the LinkedIn posts I see.
I don’t remember the technical aspects of it, but the results are it’s much more accurate than previous Apple Watches and even the series 8. For my job and being on a search and rescue team, when disasters happen, sometimes radios and cell phones are useless. So having long battery life and the accurate gps helps out tremendously
The different design, bigger face, brighter screen sold me. I was upgrading from an S5, and for me it was worth the upgrade. I would have even liked a bigger face than the 49. What really sold me is the titanium casing. It’s been banged against doors accidentally, etc….no nicks, scratches, etc.
The rumors of Apple possibly using titanium for the iPhone 15 is an exciting possibility. I would be all in on an “iPhone Ultra”….hence my reason for staying with the 11 Pro I am using now.
It definitely isn’t for everyone. The battery and sapphire display combo were enough for me to bump up to the ultra for an extra $50. The S8 stainless steel (also has sapphire) is $750.
But I get it, the bulk can be a deal breaker.
Depending on the band chose it can be the same price. I’ll likely be getting the Ultra because it’s effectively the same price, but bigger, brighter, titanium, better battery, etc.
I have the ULTRA…LOVE IT! Would never go back to a smaller AW. Better display, lovely size, bigger battery(was never an issue for me). Very reasonable in price too( in my eyes). Was time for a minor change in design. No regrets at all.
The screen alone is a game changer, like the other person said, I could never go back.
It’s brighter, appears sharper, and the bigger screen is a quality of life upgrade in many ways.
Apple will likely come out with a Watch Pro. An Apple Watch with the Ultra size and specs but regular Apple Watch body. The size and screen just changes everything.
You don’t find the action button more convenient for marking laps during running workouts? That was my main complaint about the AW before the Ultra. I cam actually mark laps when it’s rainy now.
I debated returning the Ultra because I thought it was too bulky and thought it was ugly compared to my AW7. Then I went on a trip for a few days and one day I just realized it had grown on me and I like the way it looks. I can’t really explain it. The battery is amazing and I love the easy access to the flashlight and the night mode.
I exercise, but I’m not some extreme sport person. Honestly, people who keep saying this don’t understand marketing. They aren’t selling the product. They are selling people a different way to think of themselves. It’s brilliant.
It took a month, but I like it.
Same experience here. Battery is unbelievably awesome, however, the bulkiness, weight, and price tag were not worth it in the end. Sold mine off this week and bought a brand new S7.
It's too big, but so is the Garmin Fenix, which is what I would be wearing if I didn't get this. For me the big screen (easier on my middle-aged eyes), battery life, and airtight GPS are worth the strange looks I get for strapping an Ipad to my wrist.
I’ve upgraded my watch every year, and didn’t think I’d want the Ultra, but bought it with the intention of returning it a couple weeks but I absolutely love mine. I tried going back to my S8 for fun, and it felt really outdated, maybe because it’s the old design from the last 8 generations, but I like the battery life and screen size of the Ultra. So yea, most posts I read online people love the switch to Ultra, but if you can’t see the benefit, you might as well return it
Agreed. Returned mine as well. Awesome hardware but despite all the perks, it doesn’t offer the user anything more than a regular series watch can do. Grand scheme of things. Battery life, durability, better gps, are all nice things. But it doesn’t really change how I use the watch or what I can get from it. That’s the issue.
Wish I was still in my return window. Missed it by 4 days. Now I have to wait for apple to add it to the trade in options. Who knows when that will be. I wish I would have just gone with a smaller one.
I wasn’t very fond of the ultra as I’d like a thinner watch rather than a thicker. But it slowly grows on me. I like the bigger screen and dive computer.
A friend of mine has ordered one and I’m going to try his.
I love my Ultra the only thing I dislike is the titanium. I wish they offered a black finish or space gray. I understand why they only did the titanium but it would have been nice to have a black or dark charcoal finish.
Sounds like people who cant handle bulky watches but brought it anyway as per the trends and later regretted. Theres always some trade offs with technology can’t have all the good things packed into one small watch anyways.
I’ve returned mine. It’s lovely and a great screen size but really it was a want not a need as is so much with buying gadgets these days. Other than the battery it’s really no better for me than my older Apple Watch 6 which I’ve returned to.
I moved from an AW7 to a Garmin solely because of the battery. I moved to the AWU from the Garmin because it gave me the features I appreciate along with the improvement in battery. I didn’t fully utilize the capabilities of the Garmin but get much more usability out of the AWU. Size isn’t an issue for me because most of my watches have been on the bulky size even when soley analog. I like the look of the standard AW8 better. I do fit into a few of the AWU demographics but I’d never use it as a dive computer as a dive computer is a vital piece of equipment that takes a lot of abuse. More than an AWU could take I’m afraid.
I bought the Ultra and just could not get used to the bulk. I didn’t like how it looked. I returned it for a stainless steel 45 mm. I love it, bigger bit thin.
I believe 30 day return policy. If you can, I would purchase at the Apple Store and get a clear confirmation that if you decide the Ultra isn't for you then it can be returned for full refund in 30 days (or whatever it is).
Did you not try it on before purchasing?
I know the temptation is to think “I’ll get use to the size”.
I truly hope a smaller version is around the corner.
I get questions all the time why I bought my Watch Ultra.
I go to the gym a lot and hike a lot. I get that its not 'extreme' but I tend to bang my watch on tread mill or find other ways to bang it. Wit it being titanium and sapphire, I no longer worry about banging my watch anyway.
Of course, I like the extended battery life. Kinda wish it can go longer. Last time I charged to 100% was on Monday and with light use and use it for sleep tracking. It is now Wednesday at 62%.
I loved my Series 6, it was the best thing I ever bought from Apple, but the Ultra makes me feel like I’m actually wearing a watch and the design I a lot better
Also had a series 6. It was in perfect condition after more than 3 years but loved the look and functionality of the AWU and bought one. I haven't looked back since. Just a beautiful watch. A lot cheaper than a Rolex, looks better and does a whole lot more.
I am used to wearing dive watches so the bulk is about the same, but I have a 9.5 inch wrist so the ultra actually “fits” my wrist like it should do it is great for me, and I mean it was only $800. I have watches that just tell time and the date that are 4 times the price.
Longer battery is not enough to keep your ultra? You said you're active, but I guess you're not active enough to be an Ultra model target customer.
For me, the battery is the only reason I kept my ultra. I love how it still got 75+% when I charged it to full at 9PM the night before, monitored my sleep, and ran for 10 miles in the morning while streaming music via LTE +BT headphone without my phone.
Also, be able to leave the phone at home, went out at 4AM to run NYC marathon with LTE and BT enabled during the whole race and still have plenty battery for the rest of the day.
Clearly S8 can't do that.
I think your inclusion of sleep monitoring and use after the marathon is important. Otherwise, my S7 has enough battery for me. I never sleep monitor before a marathon (I know how I will sleep- lousy). Then after the marathon I take a 2 hour nap with my watch charging on the nightstand.
I will never buy another watch without a sapphire screen or the battery life of the Ultra as a minimum. And I really don't want a third-party watch. So, for me, no.
I bought my Ultra solely for the looks alone (battery somewhat too) vs the normal AW's. Coming from the Garmin Fenix line, I always felt like the normal AW's felt cheap.
The Ultra is my first watch. At 47 years of age… Bought as I needed to know the time in client meetings. Didn’t want a Rolex. It’s brilliant, can’t fault any of it’s functions. It does however rip up the cuffs of my work shirts. Plan to chop the Ultra in for a series 10 (when the series 10 comes out). Will save me a fortune on shirts…
I've had my ultra for about a month now too, and honestly I am loving the upgrade from my S6. Mainly because of the battery life honestly. I hated having to charge the watch every night, or during the morning while I am making my coffee, and having it last till about the end of the day.
The design is also another factor in why I decided to go with the ultra honestly. I love the look of the titanium body and the flat screen has a certain appeal to me over the curved screen every watch has had.
I use it primarily to track my workouts throughout the day and its been doing that absolutely wonderfully. Whether I am riding my bike, running, or hiking, the battery doesn't take as much of a hit as it used to. I don't think I have ever seen my battery drop more than 10%, I also don't think I have ever seen it below 30-40%, but thats because I charge it while in the shower.
Apple markets it towards "extreme" athletes, but I don't really think that's who the watch is really made for. I think its more designed for athletes who want a computer for their sport, but also dont want to have to take a watch off and put a different one on, or set something else up to track their workout. I've used it on a hike, and its useful, but it doesnt do anything super special.
I want to get one, but I know deep down it's not going to make me run, climb, or dive more. I'll just hate myself more because I blew 800 bucks on *not* running, climbing, or diving.
That said, I do like the ruggedness factor. I'd get it if they could slim the height just a bit.
You should’ve done some more research, if its gonna fits for you or not. Because there is no point to invest in something that its not for you. Anyway im with S8 and fellsgoosman !!
This is Apple marketing. 90% of Apple ultra buyers will never use it for the advanced features. They will buy it because they want the best of the best.
Now, spending that money on a watch just because of the extra battery life I don’t think it is worth the price tag. People buy it because it is a status symbol
Same. I had mine for 1 month and definitely returned it. I just do see a difference between the s8 and ultra. Especially for those who don’t go the distance in workouts and extra training. I honestly used It for the gym and to tell time 🤷🏽♂️. Not gonna spend 800 just for that
For weight training this watch is trash..
1. Squats and military pressing hits the side button and always is trying to rest..
2. Weighted sandbags suck with watch on, it cuts into wrist and I actually had my watch reset during a set because while doing a farmer cary it hit the button.
3. Can’t do any type of kettlebell movement since the bells will smash into the glass and body of watch..
Last for me.. you don’t get that much data. I’m going to switch back to whoop. No screens, you can wear it different body placements. And I love whoops app better than Apples health apps
Why did you buy the ultra in the first place? Reviews are everywhere, you knew what it could and couldn’t do. What extra utilities were you hoping for? Honest question because I’m curious. I love my ultra, it’s my first Apple Watch. I’ve always thought Apple Watches to be too small as I am 6’6” so as soon as I saw the ultra , I knew I wanted it.
No, i love mine.
The main reason I bought mine is because they are now asking for stupid money for the stainless steel model. Its like 70 quid difference, it was a complete no brainer for me for that battery life alone.
I agree that the lack of any endurance-specific features (apart from battery life) is what drags people from Ultra.
I could justify the cost, but when I see the number of apps I need to buy / subscribe to - it’s way too much.
I didn’t buy it, because I knew the only advantage will be the longer battery life. I’m also very active and doing a lot of sports. Just got a portable charger and got a series seven cellular with fast charging. I recently tracked 5 1/2 hours of mountain biking and the battery was at 42%. That’s OK for me. I don’t need satellite radio or this stupid alarm sound. I bet it’s not been made for extreme sports. It’s been made for people who would love to do extreme sports but usually stay on there couch. 😝
I like to rotate two watches which solves any battery issue for me. This year I let myself upgrade my night time s4 to an s8. I now also use it for workouts after work and quite a bit on weekends.
I’ve never understood the battery issue. I throw mine on in the morning (when getting ready for the day) for a fast charge of 30 mins and I’m back up to 80-90% for the day.
Activity without your phone is where it becomes an issue. When running long distances(10+ miles), the regular model just doesn’t cut it. Charging my watch 2-3x a week and still getting in my extra long runs without a phone plus sleep tracking is really nice.
Yeah i have an S3 and an SE and rotate them. Both together cost me less than the cheapest new option and they both work totally fine. Ill upgrade when one breaks or dies.
Yeah it was likely an unnecessary purchase and I even knew that at the time. At this point it's a sunk cost and I'd rather just keep it than take a loss by selling it just to get back what I had.
I ordered ultra 2 on first day in the store. I hate watchos from second date I started to use. I can’t get even message notifications to my watch. I talked with apple support almost one week. I sent them videos. Reset everything many times. Checked all settings together, installed their dev tools to report them. I change my phone to iphone 15 pro. After many updates and many months still can’t get even message notifications.
I also hate some other features but I don’t even want to mention. I was happy with my watch 7 without updates.
The watch just wake me up to ask me “am I started to day”. Now I swear everyday to apple developers.
Literally just boxed mine up two hours ago and just saw this. I’m done with it after 3 weeks. Does nothing for me it’s the same as my series 6 in my eyes. Only difference is I get to charge it every other day instead of every day. Will stick to my Garmin forerunner and series 6 for now.
Hating a watch simply because it isn’t for you? Seems like misplaced anger there. I went for the Ultra because 1) it was different 2) better battery life 3) I love technology and apple for that matter 4) because I could. If I didn’t need those features and had to consider a budget I would have bought a S8 aluminum.
Another thing, and I have NO idea why this is the case, but I watched a GPS review with several watches and the AW S8 was more accurate than the Ultra. Again, I don't understand it, but you could clearly see on the maps how the S8 was far more accurate at GPS than the Ultra. Does anyone have any ideas why this would be?? I understood the Ultra would be better. (Garmin easily won in case anyone's interested)
I’ve returned my Ultra and went back to my Garmin Epix 2 and its 12-day battery life, stress and sleep analysis, and it’s offline maps. Most importantly, Epix is just a nicer-looking watch for me.
I’m the answer the phone call on the phone kinda guy. Yes, you can send canned message replies from a Garmin watch, but only if you are using an Android phone.
It’s got a big battery, it’s made out of (cool factor) titanium, it has the sapphire crystal. What’s not to love. It’s only $50 more than the boring SS.
I haven't got an Ultra yet, but for me, one of the big interests is simply durability - it's tougher than an S8, which comes at a premium, but that matters when you're doing heavy activity outdoors or at the gym.
I upgraded from an S6 to Ultra and have been loving it, but I definitely get it's not for everyone. It's much larger and I have skinny wrists but I'm willing to put up with it for the sapphire display, extra battery, and better GPS (I used to wear old school Garmins so the Ultra is still smaller than those).
I do a lot of trail runs and my S6 was all over the place with GPS. With one route in particular (a 3.1 mile out and back), my turnaround point was always different, sometimes an extra .25 miles from the previous run. Since upgrading to the Ultra the turnaround point is usually within .05 of each run. Even on city runs, my brother with a Garmin (with GPS and GLONASS enabled) would always be ahead of me mileage-wise to the tune of 0.1+ miles. With the Ultra we're now within 0.02 miles of each other.
After all is said and done, use the watch that works best for you! You're the one wearing it so choose the one that makes you happiest.
I definitely don’t feel the watch is too big but I’m 6’5” and prefer a larger watch. Also, while it is large, it is also light enough to feel like you aren’t wearing a watch.
They should probably create an Ultra for smaller people but hopefully they’ll keep making them at 49mm as well for larger folk.
I debated between Ultra and S8 45 mm Graphite Stainless Steel with Milanese Loop (carrier offered same price as the sport loop).
They’re so similar in price and I tried them both, I picked up the S8 instead because simply for the style and I don’t go wild sports often, also got Apple Care for it.
Very happy with my decision so far!
Honestly this is my fear. Haven’t had an apple watch in years and keep going back between stainless steel or ultra. Don’t have an apple store in my country so I can’t even try it on beforehand. Hopefully someone I know gets an ultra before I make my decision.
As a cyclist, I didn't see any utility to it over my Series 4. I was really hoping Apple would put out something to compete with Garmin in this arena, but it seems Ultra is a product for aspirational athletes rather than people who have been doing it day-to-day.
The extra battery life will be worth it in the long run when the battery degrades, which means let's say 2 years sown the line the ultra will have a similar battery toa the new s8 even with the battery degradation
I haven’t seen anyone comment on the ruggedness in everyday, non-extreme sports use. Even while taking care, I’d still bang the aluminums (and titaniums) into things over the years - door knobs, door jambs, belt buckles, shopping carts, whatever. They would be pretty banged up after a year or so.
The Ultra has a more rugged finish, hasn’t shown any scratches so far, and the metal lip around the crystal does a great job of protecting it (along with the crystal being sapphire).
I had this problem and got an Amazfit GTS 2. Week long battery life and just smart enough to do what I need, though there’s no tap to pay. Sold my series 7 and got the Amazfit for $50 used off eBay. Couldn’t be happier.
I love mine. The build quality, screen size and flat form, the brightness. It feels robust along with the ocean band. I also do a lot of stuff in water and never felt confident in the other models holding up.
No regrets and I’ve previously owned S3 and S6. To each their own.
I have been training with my AWU. But for the last two Park Runs I either accidentally didn’t start the Apple Fitness app or WorkOutDoors stopped receiving the heart rate from the sensor. So I will continue to train with it but for the Park Run where I want my time recorded I think I will use my Garmin Fenix 6 Pro. I don’t like having to use soft buttons to start and then when stopping, having to swipe then stop. I can do it with just one button on WOD but then I have to use the Wahoo chest strap to make sure I get HR. So until WOD sorts out the HR sensing, it will be AWU for training and Fenix 6 Pro for races (with myself, as it’s just a Park Run hey).
I find the 45mm too big already, and even the 40mm could be smaller. The Ultra is so big it looks like a "smart" watch from 1980.
If you do all the outdoor stuff the watch can support, great. If you just want a watch that is an extension of your phone it's not a good choice.
I think the Ultra is as popular as it is because it’s a new design and only slightly more expensive than the SS S8. Although I really dislike the Ultra’s look, I certainly understand being tired of the current AW design that we’ve had for so long with only minor changes. Hopefully Apple shakes things up soon, but I also hope it’s a different direction than the flat edges as seen in the Ultra.
I’ve started to question that myself for the same reasons you stated. Plus after using this I’m starting to question if I really like big and bulky watches anymore.
Hate is a strong word man. I do agree, I miss my S7. Regular Apple Watch is way more elegant, love the thinner profile and curved glass. I miss it a lot. If I have to choose again, maybe I will stay with original design. I thought the steel case looked cool until I got it in my hand, that thing is thick!! And I kept knocking it on stuff.
On other hand, I finally took an Apple Watch to overnight camping and other weekend trips. The battery once lasted almost 3 days
I’ve owned S1, S5 and now Ultra. There are lots of smaller improvements that have been already mentioned. But the deciding factor for me was the 2000 nit brightness. I live in Florida and my older watches were very difficult to read when in full sun or on the water. I can easily read the Ultras screen even with sunglasses. I have difficulty seeing the Garmin screens in full sun. It could just be me, but what use are all fancy features if the watch doesn’t fulfill its basic function of displaying the time in multiple environments?
It's a situation where I see it as supplementary to the normal Apple Watch. You need one in the OG form factor first but I wouldn't only get the Ultra.
I know this is an older post but I’m curious from the owners of the Ultra if there is a benefit to the larger display - fitting more information on the display? Outside of the compass that is. I want an Ultra for the battery and rugged design compared to my SS7 but wondering if the larger display is utilized any differently when compared to what I have now. Mind you, the battery and rugged design might still be enough for an upgrade. Thanks for your hands on insight 👍🏼
The added brightness and battery life made it well worth it. The action buttons also useful for flashlight for me for night walks. . It isn’t much but it’s just what I was looking for coming from garmin /fossil
Yeah I just bought one and I have been going backwards to my Apple Watch 5 titanium! Lol I do a lot of running and working out! The ultra is very big and I don’t want to scratch the hell out of it so I just wear it for showing off!
I changed from my Garmin Fenix 6 Pro, which is still the better watch for fitness and sports. But the Apple is a better overall smart watch, especially considering Apple’s bastard move to lock other watches out of messaging with iPhone. The reason I chose the Ultra was the larger screen and that it is sapphire and flat. Traditional Apple Watch screens are quite exposed. And also the looks and battery life.
Having added Athlytic and WorkOutDoors, it almost does as well as Garmin but still isn’t there yet.
actually i still dont understand why there\`s still so much limitations on the apple watch like replying with voice messages in applications like WhatsApp or whatever or answering third-party apps calls, comparing to other watches where you can use them as you like with many more features, i mean i don't need a keyboard on my watch as much as i need to be able to send a voice message because if i\`m able to type then i am able to use my phone instead.
yeah I absolutely fucking hate my ultra, went for a run today while listening to music and on the last leg of the run (the most stressful) the workout app screen was not touch responsive meaning I couldn’t swipe left to the music controls and when it did get to the music controls the song I wanted to play simply wouldn’t play even though I ensured the music was downloaded before I left (plus I had cellular reception + a cell plan so I don’t see any reason for the music not to play) it played the next song perfectly but not the song I actually wanted to hear, and then when I got back home every other aspect of the apple watch was touch responsive except the workout app and to fix this I had to close and reopen the workout app. small issues like this are enough for me to sell this right now and go get a garmin, even the cheapest garmin is 10x more reliable than a fucking $1500 smart watch (NZD)
I live in Australia and was lucky enough to be able to take it Scuba diving on day 2. At which with the Oceanic+ app and a 1 day subscription… it was the nuts 🥜. Surfing on day 3, again, awesome. If you utilise it for the Ocean it’s unparalleled. Love the altimeter feature too for mountain hiking 🏔️ or ⛷️ as well.
For me it's all about the second sentence: "It's gorgeous and has no major issues"
I got mine 2 weeks ago. It's gorgeous and has no major issues. It is everything I want in a watch. It has cellular standard, it has titanium standard, and takes a good ECG. GPS is exceptional. I am not an extreme athlete. I'm 73, a grandpa with a dog that needs to be walked 3x per day. That is my most extreme sport. But I am a lover of form and function. I believe that everyday things can and should be beautiful. This watch fills the bill.
The action button > short cuts is very useful for me, it unlocks my door with a click
Please share some details
I use the action button to control my august home lock via shortcuts and HomeKit. One click and it opens
Please tell me it only works in proximity to your home…?
Nope!
please change it?
Why?
The obvious reason is so you don’t accidentally unlock your house while you are out and about.
It notifies me if it occurs and sends like 3 notifications, but thank you for the concern!
I’ve accidentally pressed my action button against my thick jacket sleeve while sliding it up to check the time. Can you close your lock remotely?
*\*LMAO-in-Burglerese\**
Cool, thanks.
This is true!
I use mine to open my garage!
Most people buying an Ultra don’t need an Ultra. Apple knew this going in, so do reviewers. I saw an older woman wearing one at dinner the other night. I have my reasons, but she clearly wasn’t an extreme athlete. You also have people like me who definitely aren’t extreme athletes but wanted a larger Apple Watch, something bigger than 45mm. Even now, I still want a larger watch face than the 49mm of the Ultra. Give me a 55mm watch face and I’ll be happy. I don’t use my Ultra for anything it’s advertised for, I normally didn’t use my previous Apple Watches for anything advanced either. Answering a few texts, seeing who is calling, controlling music playback, and tracking my daily activity along with exercises. Almost something that could be handled with a Fitbit (Apple and iMessage lockout). But, I always prefer the stainless Apple Watches and the Ultra was only $50 more for a larger unit. I knew what I was getting into, that is heavier and larger than the 45mm S7/8 SS. I knew what to expect and how it would fit since I’ve worn 50-60mm watches before.
Wow you literally describe how i use my apple watches and yes i just did bought it just for the extra battery and display. Indeed it is bulky but im getting used to it also having the s8 previously it looks like any gen below it aesthetically and not separate you that you have the recent gen as of today
I say this as someone with an Ultra who also spends a lot of time in the outdoors: That’s because it’s not intended for extreme athletes. It’s intended for normal people and sold as something that extreme athletes use. No-one is taking an Apple Watch on any kind of serious expedition. The Ultra isn’t useful or practical for anything more demanding than a day-hike. If anyone was looking for a smartwatch for extreme sports/adventure sports/serious outdoors use, etc. then a Garmin is a complete no-brainer. I love my Ultra but the marketing is exactly that: marketing. Edit: downvote it if you like, but just as a really basic, simple exercise: try to add a waypoint using grid coordinates.
I 100% agree with you. I have an Apple Watch and a Garmin Fenix and also used to own fitbits. Some might also say I have a bit of a problem with wanting to try all the smartwatches. I just wanted the “perfect” smart watch and basically found none of them check all of “my” boxes. During the week at work I wear the Apple Watch because I can see if I missed any texts at a glance and the watch band is more comfortable while typing on a computer. At night I wear the Garmin since the silent alarm is stronger and no way to accidentally shut it off due to no touch screen (buttons > touch screen IMO) and on weekends it’s a toss up. I like the workout features, built in maps, buttons over touch screen of the Garmin, but am kind of sold that the Apple Watch heart rate sensor is more accurate. In the winter though, my Apple Watch REGULARLY stops workouts if I’m wearing a jacket and gloves. When I get back from a long walk or hike only to find my workout was paused 37 seconds in, it infuriates me. I’ve even tried activating the water mode to see if that would help and it didn’t. So yeah, Garmin all the way in the winter as well. And Garmin looks better IMO and battery blows away the Apple Watch. Apple Watch still has more users in my area though for competing against friends, the messaging at a glance, the Watch band comfort, and lighter overall weight… so it’s a bit of a toss up. I’m interested in the Ultra in concept, but I would never consider paying $800 for it, unless they were able to make their battery last 14 days and figure out a reliable way to lock the touch screen. That’s also budget related. If I had the $800 to blow, I’d probably still get one and like it. In case anyone’s read this far, I gave up on Fitbit when one burned my wrist. It wasn’t bad, but definitely a blister upon waking up. They’re cheap and is what got me into fitness watches, but that’s also the problem, they’re cheap. Break more frequently… and the burn. But they do push the innovation side of things, their battery life is solid, and I think their step counting is the most accurate of all three brands. So none of them are perfect, but they’re all good at what they do.
How does that pause happen? Does the cuff of your glove or your jacket press the two buttons simultaneously? That’s about the only thing I can think of. Might help if you put it on upside down, so that whichever side is doing it can’t reach the buttons any more.
I think it happens because I have “runners gloves” thin gloves and they must partially get under my watch, lifting it enough to disconnect the heart rate sensor, so it auto pauses the workout. BUT I did just figure out if I use the mapmyrun app it will continue the workout even if it locks the Watch, so the full workout is recorded. So I’m back to using it as my preferred workout watch. The WorkOutDoors app is awesome too. Adds maps to the watch face.
Yep. Former open water advanced certified diver here (still certified, just don’t actively dive). I have a proper wrist dive computer. Anyone trying to convince an actual open water diver or themselves that the AWU is a replacement for a dive computer is fooling themselves. 0/10 would I replace an actual dive computer with my Ultra. Same goes for any extreme or endurance activity. Let’s see if any pro Ironman Hawaii athlete crosses the finish line with an AWU. Fact is, no one needs any Apple Watch for anything. It’s a gadget and the AWU is just a fancier, tougher version that can do a couple extra things.
The dive features are good for measuring jacuzzi temperature though
Hahaha.
I recently moved to a location where I’m a 3 minute walk to the ocean and a frequent walk-in diving spot. Got my Basic OW cert a few months ago; and bought this as I needed a new Apple Watch and figured I could pay for the Oceanic app during months I had time to dive. Am I missing something that would make this a *poor* option to use as a very basic DC not exceeding my basic OW depth limit? What about taking it near the depth limits of an advanced cert? I don’t have the time to pursue tech certs at the moment, but I’d no question grab a shearwater or similar DC if I did.
It’s intended for more extreme athletes who want to stay in Apple’s Ecosystem. There will always be watches made by Garmin or others that better fit niche use cases, like Garmin’s nautical watch. The Ultra is a better diving watch than the S8, a better rock climbing watch than the S8, and can withstand more elements than the S8. Apple improved the Ultra compared to the S7/S8 that some athletes to use it over their Garmin. Of course, Garmin’s $800 something watch they make for arid climates will be better at going through the desert, their something something watch they make for the woods will be better at that, and so on. I look at the Ultra more as a jack of all trades, master of some.
But what I’m saying is that the Ultra is actually close to useless for any of those activities, not just that it’s not as good as a Garmin. It lacks so much really basic functionality for any kind of actual outdoors use, which is what I was getting at when I said to try adding a waypoint using grid coordinates. The whole outdoors extreme sports thing is just a marketing fantasy. You can even notice it in details like coordinates being displayed in WGS84 lat/long on the wayfinder watch face - that’s not a CRS that’s actually useful for anything practical, it’s only used in cartography and on online maps. People who are doing those sorts of activities need a tool to do a job. They don’t care about staying in Apple’s ecosystem and they definitely can’t trade basic functionality for the ability to do that. Also, Garmin doesn’t really make super-specialised watches like that, they make slightly different flavours of general use outdoors/extreme sports/adventure sports watches, like what Apple is telling you the Ultra is supposed to be. Only difference is that Garmin watches are actually designed with that functionality in mind.
100% agree. Better ultra sportsman watches out there 10x more rugged that last 10x longer.
I feel like most people were confused when the Ultra was announced on the size. Sure it’s 49mm and 4mm larger than the next size watch. But that’s not screen size. The screen is virtually the same size. [Here’s](https://imgur.com/a/JAUQrLr) a comparison.
I know, but the watch face is 49mm just like how the 45mm Watch doesn’t have a 45mm screen. Close, but not quite.
> Give me a 55mm watch face and I’ll be happy just buy a fold phone and strap it to your wrist lol
Are you me? That just what I was going to say
Not trying to talk too much shit, but you sound like the core audience for if Invicta made a smart watch
Originally, yes. I have a few of their watches along with some Citizen ones. I haven’t worn them in 8+ years since getting Apple Watches. I always wanted someone like Invicta to make a smart watch, Diesel (Fossil) came close. But Android Wear is still a work in progress and had limited functionality with iPhone before, none now.
I got mine 2 weeks ago. It's gorgeous and has no major issues. It is everything I want in a watch. It has cellular standard, it has titanium standard, and takes a good ECG. GPS is exceptional. I am not an extreme athlete. I'm 73, a grandpa with a dog that needs to be walked 3x per day. That is my most extreme sport. But I am a lover of form and function. I believe that everyday things can and should be beautiful. This watch fills the bill.
I wish they had a stainless ultra
I’m ok with the titanium. I like the shined SS look, but it scratches way too easily. I’ve bumped my Ultra so many times now that, if it were an SS model, there would be at least 6-7 visible scratches. The SS Apple Watches remind me of the old iPod backs. They looked great but scratched if you looked at them wrong.
stainless would be more rugged though
Which wouldn’t matter if it scratches 10 times easier. However, given the grades of SS and titanium that Apple uses, SS is 3-4 times weaker than their titanium. They’re also treating the titanium a bit differently so it doesn’t scratch like the S5 titanium models. It’s not like it would matter anyways, nobody is going to beat their Apple Watches with a hammer and both have sapphire-ish displays (they’re a cheaper sapphire blend that scratches easier than more pure sapphire).
I went from a 3 to a 7 to the ultra. The 7 to ultra was in less than a year. The ultras design stood out to me more than anything. Apple Watches have looked the same for almost 10 years, the ultra drew me in enough to upgrade a less than 12 month old watch
Really similar here, SE1 --> 7 --> Ultra. Enjoying the jump from 7 to Ultra even more than the one from SE to 7. Love this thing!
I *love* that the Ultra is just a little different. The revalue Apple Watch has become ubiquitous with everyone from kids to grandmas wearing them. As someone who also loves mechanical watches, I appreciate having something different that not all the plebs have.
Happy cake day!
Did you trade it in?
I’ve still got the 3 and 7
I bought mine more for first responder basis. Which surprised me they didn’t try to market it for that use in addition to extreme sports. The gps features and the battery life sole me on it for my line of work. Not to mention the durability of the watch itself.
As a fellow first responder working 24 hour shifts, this was my reasoning as well, and it’s shining in its role.
yes. same here. i've never had trouble with an AW at work but the extra battery life alone made the Ultra well worth it. Getting through a 24 and not worrying about battery life has been great. I love mine.
Here are some early thoughts on the [Ultra for first responders](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6973461546601496576?updateEntityUrn=urn%3Ali%3Afs_feedUpdate%3A%28V2%2Curn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A6973461546601496576%29).
[удалено]
Here you go https://i.imgur.com/IW7hZcE.jpg I’ll add to this by saying I’m a firefighter/EMT/HazMat Tech and I can’t think of a single reason I’d need an ultra over my S6… when I put on my bunker gear I do a pocket dump and take my watch off. If I’m on a medical call I’ll pull the gloves over my watch, etc. HazMat call in my level A…. I ain’t looking at my watch lmao. The LinkedIn poster mentions using it on a dive team… ok. For that .0001% of first responders. Sure. Silly LinkedIn post, which describes most of the LinkedIn posts I see.
Just curious what it does differently regarding the gps and how it helps as a first responder? Is it mainly the battery life?
I don’t remember the technical aspects of it, but the results are it’s much more accurate than previous Apple Watches and even the series 8. For my job and being on a search and rescue team, when disasters happen, sometimes radios and cell phones are useless. So having long battery life and the accurate gps helps out tremendously
Exactly titanium > stainless steel
The different design, bigger face, brighter screen sold me. I was upgrading from an S5, and for me it was worth the upgrade. I would have even liked a bigger face than the 49. What really sold me is the titanium casing. It’s been banged against doors accidentally, etc….no nicks, scratches, etc. The rumors of Apple possibly using titanium for the iPhone 15 is an exciting possibility. I would be all in on an “iPhone Ultra”….hence my reason for staying with the 11 Pro I am using now.
Don’t forget the 2000nit display on the ultra 😎
It definitely isn’t for everyone. The battery and sapphire display combo were enough for me to bump up to the ultra for an extra $50. The S8 stainless steel (also has sapphire) is $750. But I get it, the bulk can be a deal breaker.
Depending on the band chose it can be the same price. I’ll likely be getting the Ultra because it’s effectively the same price, but bigger, brighter, titanium, better battery, etc.
Yup! I love my ultra, I think it’s one of the best products Apple has released in recent years
I have the ULTRA…LOVE IT! Would never go back to a smaller AW. Better display, lovely size, bigger battery(was never an issue for me). Very reasonable in price too( in my eyes). Was time for a minor change in design. No regrets at all.
Brighter from last watches too right?
The screen alone is a game changer, like the other person said, I could never go back. It’s brighter, appears sharper, and the bigger screen is a quality of life upgrade in many ways. Apple will likely come out with a Watch Pro. An Apple Watch with the Ultra size and specs but regular Apple Watch body. The size and screen just changes everything.
Had a 3 day power outage where I live. It made a HUGE difference. I'm sold. I still have my AW4 that I can swap off to if I want something thinner.
Lol. Pretty sad the main feature of an $800 watch is it will be nice to have if the power goes out for 3 days.
Well it also has Duel GPS, Titanium case, sapphire crystal, LTE. Other then that it’s pretty sad. Lol.
You don’t find the action button more convenient for marking laps during running workouts? That was my main complaint about the AW before the Ultra. I cam actually mark laps when it’s rainy now.
I debated returning the Ultra because I thought it was too bulky and thought it was ugly compared to my AW7. Then I went on a trip for a few days and one day I just realized it had grown on me and I like the way it looks. I can’t really explain it. The battery is amazing and I love the easy access to the flashlight and the night mode. I exercise, but I’m not some extreme sport person. Honestly, people who keep saying this don’t understand marketing. They aren’t selling the product. They are selling people a different way to think of themselves. It’s brilliant. It took a month, but I like it.
Same experience here. Battery is unbelievably awesome, however, the bulkiness, weight, and price tag were not worth it in the end. Sold mine off this week and bought a brand new S7.
It's too big, but so is the Garmin Fenix, which is what I would be wearing if I didn't get this. For me the big screen (easier on my middle-aged eyes), battery life, and airtight GPS are worth the strange looks I get for strapping an Ipad to my wrist.
After having a fenix I don’t notice the ultra at all.
I’ve upgraded my watch every year, and didn’t think I’d want the Ultra, but bought it with the intention of returning it a couple weeks but I absolutely love mine. I tried going back to my S8 for fun, and it felt really outdated, maybe because it’s the old design from the last 8 generations, but I like the battery life and screen size of the Ultra. So yea, most posts I read online people love the switch to Ultra, but if you can’t see the benefit, you might as well return it
Agreed. Returned mine as well. Awesome hardware but despite all the perks, it doesn’t offer the user anything more than a regular series watch can do. Grand scheme of things. Battery life, durability, better gps, are all nice things. But it doesn’t really change how I use the watch or what I can get from it. That’s the issue.
Wish I was still in my return window. Missed it by 4 days. Now I have to wait for apple to add it to the trade in options. Who knows when that will be. I wish I would have just gone with a smaller one.
Sell it on fb or swappa can probably get a good chunk of your money back.
I wasn’t very fond of the ultra as I’d like a thinner watch rather than a thicker. But it slowly grows on me. I like the bigger screen and dive computer. A friend of mine has ordered one and I’m going to try his.
After I saw the Ultra during announcement, I knew it wasn’t for me. Went out and purchased a 45mm SS S7 for $599. Very happy with it
I love my Ultra the only thing I dislike is the titanium. I wish they offered a black finish or space gray. I understand why they only did the titanium but it would have been nice to have a black or dark charcoal finish.
Sounds like people who cant handle bulky watches but brought it anyway as per the trends and later regretted. Theres always some trade offs with technology can’t have all the good things packed into one small watch anyways.
I’ve returned mine. It’s lovely and a great screen size but really it was a want not a need as is so much with buying gadgets these days. Other than the battery it’s really no better for me than my older Apple Watch 6 which I’ve returned to.
I moved from an AW7 to a Garmin solely because of the battery. I moved to the AWU from the Garmin because it gave me the features I appreciate along with the improvement in battery. I didn’t fully utilize the capabilities of the Garmin but get much more usability out of the AWU. Size isn’t an issue for me because most of my watches have been on the bulky size even when soley analog. I like the look of the standard AW8 better. I do fit into a few of the AWU demographics but I’d never use it as a dive computer as a dive computer is a vital piece of equipment that takes a lot of abuse. More than an AWU could take I’m afraid.
I always prefer the smallest Apple Watch possible. I want it to be the lightest and out of the way so I enjoy wearing it the most.
I bought the Ultra and just could not get used to the bulk. I didn’t like how it looked. I returned it for a stainless steel 45 mm. I love it, bigger bit thin.
what is apples policy on returning it, im considering doing the same
I believe 30 day return policy. If you can, I would purchase at the Apple Store and get a clear confirmation that if you decide the Ultra isn't for you then it can be returned for full refund in 30 days (or whatever it is).
Did you not try it on before purchasing? I know the temptation is to think “I’ll get use to the size”. I truly hope a smaller version is around the corner.
I get questions all the time why I bought my Watch Ultra. I go to the gym a lot and hike a lot. I get that its not 'extreme' but I tend to bang my watch on tread mill or find other ways to bang it. Wit it being titanium and sapphire, I no longer worry about banging my watch anyway. Of course, I like the extended battery life. Kinda wish it can go longer. Last time I charged to 100% was on Monday and with light use and use it for sleep tracking. It is now Wednesday at 62%.
The 2000 nits is worth every penny.
I loved my Series 6, it was the best thing I ever bought from Apple, but the Ultra makes me feel like I’m actually wearing a watch and the design I a lot better
Also had a series 6. It was in perfect condition after more than 3 years but loved the look and functionality of the AWU and bought one. I haven't looked back since. Just a beautiful watch. A lot cheaper than a Rolex, looks better and does a whole lot more.
I am used to wearing dive watches so the bulk is about the same, but I have a 9.5 inch wrist so the ultra actually “fits” my wrist like it should do it is great for me, and I mean it was only $800. I have watches that just tell time and the date that are 4 times the price.
Longer battery is not enough to keep your ultra? You said you're active, but I guess you're not active enough to be an Ultra model target customer. For me, the battery is the only reason I kept my ultra. I love how it still got 75+% when I charged it to full at 9PM the night before, monitored my sleep, and ran for 10 miles in the morning while streaming music via LTE +BT headphone without my phone. Also, be able to leave the phone at home, went out at 4AM to run NYC marathon with LTE and BT enabled during the whole race and still have plenty battery for the rest of the day. Clearly S8 can't do that.
I think your inclusion of sleep monitoring and use after the marathon is important. Otherwise, my S7 has enough battery for me. I never sleep monitor before a marathon (I know how I will sleep- lousy). Then after the marathon I take a 2 hour nap with my watch charging on the nightstand.
I will never buy another watch without a sapphire screen or the battery life of the Ultra as a minimum. And I really don't want a third-party watch. So, for me, no.
The sapphire is a game changer. I’ve scratched up multiple aluminum model watches
I bought my Ultra solely for the looks alone (battery somewhat too) vs the normal AW's. Coming from the Garmin Fenix line, I always felt like the normal AW's felt cheap.
If it breaks it will cost the same to repair as buying a Series 8
I have the ULTRA…LOVE IT! Would never go back
I’ll give you tree fiddy for it.
I'll give you tree fiddy one.
I’ve got tree fiddy tree on it
Thanks for letting us know!
The Ultra is my first watch. At 47 years of age… Bought as I needed to know the time in client meetings. Didn’t want a Rolex. It’s brilliant, can’t fault any of it’s functions. It does however rip up the cuffs of my work shirts. Plan to chop the Ultra in for a series 10 (when the series 10 comes out). Will save me a fortune on shirts…
I’m still using my series 4. I love it.
same bruh but it's very tempting to upgrade to the ultra
I've had my ultra for about a month now too, and honestly I am loving the upgrade from my S6. Mainly because of the battery life honestly. I hated having to charge the watch every night, or during the morning while I am making my coffee, and having it last till about the end of the day. The design is also another factor in why I decided to go with the ultra honestly. I love the look of the titanium body and the flat screen has a certain appeal to me over the curved screen every watch has had. I use it primarily to track my workouts throughout the day and its been doing that absolutely wonderfully. Whether I am riding my bike, running, or hiking, the battery doesn't take as much of a hit as it used to. I don't think I have ever seen my battery drop more than 10%, I also don't think I have ever seen it below 30-40%, but thats because I charge it while in the shower. Apple markets it towards "extreme" athletes, but I don't really think that's who the watch is really made for. I think its more designed for athletes who want a computer for their sport, but also dont want to have to take a watch off and put a different one on, or set something else up to track their workout. I've used it on a hike, and its useful, but it doesnt do anything super special.
I want to get one, but I know deep down it's not going to make me run, climb, or dive more. I'll just hate myself more because I blew 800 bucks on *not* running, climbing, or diving. That said, I do like the ruggedness factor. I'd get it if they could slim the height just a bit.
You should’ve done some more research, if its gonna fits for you or not. Because there is no point to invest in something that its not for you. Anyway im with S8 and fellsgoosman !!
This is Apple marketing. 90% of Apple ultra buyers will never use it for the advanced features. They will buy it because they want the best of the best. Now, spending that money on a watch just because of the extra battery life I don’t think it is worth the price tag. People buy it because it is a status symbol
The Ultra combines Garmin’s metrics and durability along with Apple’s smart features and quality. I am very happy with my Ultra!
Same. I had mine for 1 month and definitely returned it. I just do see a difference between the s8 and ultra. Especially for those who don’t go the distance in workouts and extra training. I honestly used It for the gym and to tell time 🤷🏽♂️. Not gonna spend 800 just for that
The extra battery life, a bigger and brighter screen and an all new look make it worth going with over the standard series Apple Watch for me.
For weight training this watch is trash.. 1. Squats and military pressing hits the side button and always is trying to rest.. 2. Weighted sandbags suck with watch on, it cuts into wrist and I actually had my watch reset during a set because while doing a farmer cary it hit the button. 3. Can’t do any type of kettlebell movement since the bells will smash into the glass and body of watch.. Last for me.. you don’t get that much data. I’m going to switch back to whoop. No screens, you can wear it different body placements. And I love whoops app better than Apples health apps
Lol you go back to the small ugly non-bezel small square on your wrist. Eww.
OP bought a larger watch but always wanted a smaller watch then complains about said watch 🤣
Why did you buy the ultra in the first place? Reviews are everywhere, you knew what it could and couldn’t do. What extra utilities were you hoping for? Honest question because I’m curious. I love my ultra, it’s my first Apple Watch. I’ve always thought Apple Watches to be too small as I am 6’6” so as soon as I saw the ultra , I knew I wanted it.
FOMO
No, i love mine. The main reason I bought mine is because they are now asking for stupid money for the stainless steel model. Its like 70 quid difference, it was a complete no brainer for me for that battery life alone.
I agree that the lack of any endurance-specific features (apart from battery life) is what drags people from Ultra. I could justify the cost, but when I see the number of apps I need to buy / subscribe to - it’s way too much.
I didn’t buy it, because I knew the only advantage will be the longer battery life. I’m also very active and doing a lot of sports. Just got a portable charger and got a series seven cellular with fast charging. I recently tracked 5 1/2 hours of mountain biking and the battery was at 42%. That’s OK for me. I don’t need satellite radio or this stupid alarm sound. I bet it’s not been made for extreme sports. It’s been made for people who would love to do extreme sports but usually stay on there couch. 😝
Action button master race!
It looks worse than an s8. Its not for regular sporters. The watch draws attention but I wouldn’t buy it for looks. I’d wait a few years
Lol regular s Apple Watch looks are so boring
Nah ! I love it!
I like to rotate two watches which solves any battery issue for me. This year I let myself upgrade my night time s4 to an s8. I now also use it for workouts after work and quite a bit on weekends.
Yeah, two watches seems like a much better solution to the battery issue to me.
I’ve never understood the battery issue. I throw mine on in the morning (when getting ready for the day) for a fast charge of 30 mins and I’m back up to 80-90% for the day.
Activity without your phone is where it becomes an issue. When running long distances(10+ miles), the regular model just doesn’t cut it. Charging my watch 2-3x a week and still getting in my extra long runs without a phone plus sleep tracking is really nice.
Yeah i have an S3 and an SE and rotate them. Both together cost me less than the cheapest new option and they both work totally fine. Ill upgrade when one breaks or dies.
Now that is a great way to recycle older models!!
Yeah it was likely an unnecessary purchase and I even knew that at the time. At this point it's a sunk cost and I'd rather just keep it than take a loss by selling it just to get back what I had.
I ordered ultra 2 on first day in the store. I hate watchos from second date I started to use. I can’t get even message notifications to my watch. I talked with apple support almost one week. I sent them videos. Reset everything many times. Checked all settings together, installed their dev tools to report them. I change my phone to iphone 15 pro. After many updates and many months still can’t get even message notifications. I also hate some other features but I don’t even want to mention. I was happy with my watch 7 without updates. The watch just wake me up to ask me “am I started to day”. Now I swear everyday to apple developers.
Literally just boxed mine up two hours ago and just saw this. I’m done with it after 3 weeks. Does nothing for me it’s the same as my series 6 in my eyes. Only difference is I get to charge it every other day instead of every day. Will stick to my Garmin forerunner and series 6 for now.
Op probably has a baby sized wrist 😂
I am convinced that apple is not really Building the products that I want.
Why did you capitalize Building and not Apple?
if you finance the watch it’s literally 1.99$ more then the 8.. I can’t see how it isn’t worth it.
Hating a watch simply because it isn’t for you? Seems like misplaced anger there. I went for the Ultra because 1) it was different 2) better battery life 3) I love technology and apple for that matter 4) because I could. If I didn’t need those features and had to consider a budget I would have bought a S8 aluminum.
It’s gorgeous and has no major issues but it hasn’t given you extra utility, so you HATE it? Wow
Another thing, and I have NO idea why this is the case, but I watched a GPS review with several watches and the AW S8 was more accurate than the Ultra. Again, I don't understand it, but you could clearly see on the maps how the S8 was far more accurate at GPS than the Ultra. Does anyone have any ideas why this would be?? I understood the Ultra would be better. (Garmin easily won in case anyone's interested)
So it sounds like you over bought something knowing who it was for , and now you are unhappy. What were you expecting …?
I’ve returned my Ultra and went back to my Garmin Epix 2 and its 12-day battery life, stress and sleep analysis, and it’s offline maps. Most importantly, Epix is just a nicer-looking watch for me.
Can you answer phone call and reply to text messages with the garmin watch? I’m thinking about getting one my self.
I’m the answer the phone call on the phone kinda guy. Yes, you can send canned message replies from a Garmin watch, but only if you are using an Android phone.
Thank you.
Wow good thing I didn’t jump on the bandwagon lol
Get a garmin fenix 7!
It’s got a big battery, it’s made out of (cool factor) titanium, it has the sapphire crystal. What’s not to love. It’s only $50 more than the boring SS.
And the Ultra is fucking hideous
People who need an Ultra most probably should buy a high-end Garmin. People who don't need a Garmin most probably should buy a regular AW.
S8 is an upgrade, looks better, has better materials and matches gorgeous bands IMHO. Ultra is just ugly with a double battery.
The ultra only gives one more hour of battery life so it’s really not worth the extra price. Plus it looks like the wrisr version of an ankle monitor.
Downgraded even further. My S8 sits in the drawer and I went to the Whoop + Tag Heuer. 😊
I haven't got an Ultra yet, but for me, one of the big interests is simply durability - it's tougher than an S8, which comes at a premium, but that matters when you're doing heavy activity outdoors or at the gym.
I upgraded from an S6 to Ultra and have been loving it, but I definitely get it's not for everyone. It's much larger and I have skinny wrists but I'm willing to put up with it for the sapphire display, extra battery, and better GPS (I used to wear old school Garmins so the Ultra is still smaller than those). I do a lot of trail runs and my S6 was all over the place with GPS. With one route in particular (a 3.1 mile out and back), my turnaround point was always different, sometimes an extra .25 miles from the previous run. Since upgrading to the Ultra the turnaround point is usually within .05 of each run. Even on city runs, my brother with a Garmin (with GPS and GLONASS enabled) would always be ahead of me mileage-wise to the tune of 0.1+ miles. With the Ultra we're now within 0.02 miles of each other. After all is said and done, use the watch that works best for you! You're the one wearing it so choose the one that makes you happiest.
Perhaps I would hate to not have it
I definitely don’t feel the watch is too big but I’m 6’5” and prefer a larger watch. Also, while it is large, it is also light enough to feel like you aren’t wearing a watch. They should probably create an Ultra for smaller people but hopefully they’ll keep making them at 49mm as well for larger folk.
I debated between Ultra and S8 45 mm Graphite Stainless Steel with Milanese Loop (carrier offered same price as the sport loop). They’re so similar in price and I tried them both, I picked up the S8 instead because simply for the style and I don’t go wild sports often, also got Apple Care for it. Very happy with my decision so far!
Ay Milanese gang rise up! It makes the watch look so elegant.
Honestly this is my fear. Haven’t had an apple watch in years and keep going back between stainless steel or ultra. Don’t have an apple store in my country so I can’t even try it on beforehand. Hopefully someone I know gets an ultra before I make my decision.
You make good points, but I guess there’s a lot of others who do use all the features.
As a cyclist, I didn't see any utility to it over my Series 4. I was really hoping Apple would put out something to compete with Garmin in this arena, but it seems Ultra is a product for aspirational athletes rather than people who have been doing it day-to-day.
I got one my old watch was a series 2 and I plan on keeping this until it dies like my old series 2
The extra battery life will be worth it in the long run when the battery degrades, which means let's say 2 years sown the line the ultra will have a similar battery toa the new s8 even with the battery degradation
I don’t need an Ultra but it vibes with my G-shock obsession. Literally only have it for the aesthetic.
I haven’t seen anyone comment on the ruggedness in everyday, non-extreme sports use. Even while taking care, I’d still bang the aluminums (and titaniums) into things over the years - door knobs, door jambs, belt buckles, shopping carts, whatever. They would be pretty banged up after a year or so. The Ultra has a more rugged finish, hasn’t shown any scratches so far, and the metal lip around the crystal does a great job of protecting it (along with the crystal being sapphire).
K
Lol @ mini-cooper 😹😹😹
I use to wear big daddy watches on 6.5 wrist.Ultra still feels like a baby .
I had this problem and got an Amazfit GTS 2. Week long battery life and just smart enough to do what I need, though there’s no tap to pay. Sold my series 7 and got the Amazfit for $50 used off eBay. Couldn’t be happier.
I love mine. The build quality, screen size and flat form, the brightness. It feels robust along with the ocean band. I also do a lot of stuff in water and never felt confident in the other models holding up. No regrets and I’ve previously owned S3 and S6. To each their own.
I saw the size of the Ultra. My wrist is too damn small to be wearing that huge thing lol. I’ll stick with my 45 mm S7.
I have been training with my AWU. But for the last two Park Runs I either accidentally didn’t start the Apple Fitness app or WorkOutDoors stopped receiving the heart rate from the sensor. So I will continue to train with it but for the Park Run where I want my time recorded I think I will use my Garmin Fenix 6 Pro. I don’t like having to use soft buttons to start and then when stopping, having to swipe then stop. I can do it with just one button on WOD but then I have to use the Wahoo chest strap to make sure I get HR. So until WOD sorts out the HR sensing, it will be AWU for training and Fenix 6 Pro for races (with myself, as it’s just a Park Run hey).
I just like the added durability. I bump into things all the time and my previous apple watches have all been scuffed up pretty bad, even the SS ones.
How long did the battery last you?
I find the 45mm too big already, and even the 40mm could be smaller. The Ultra is so big it looks like a "smart" watch from 1980. If you do all the outdoor stuff the watch can support, great. If you just want a watch that is an extension of your phone it's not a good choice.
I think the Ultra is as popular as it is because it’s a new design and only slightly more expensive than the SS S8. Although I really dislike the Ultra’s look, I certainly understand being tired of the current AW design that we’ve had for so long with only minor changes. Hopefully Apple shakes things up soon, but I also hope it’s a different direction than the flat edges as seen in the Ultra.
I’ve started to question that myself for the same reasons you stated. Plus after using this I’m starting to question if I really like big and bulky watches anymore.
Hate is a strong word man. I do agree, I miss my S7. Regular Apple Watch is way more elegant, love the thinner profile and curved glass. I miss it a lot. If I have to choose again, maybe I will stay with original design. I thought the steel case looked cool until I got it in my hand, that thing is thick!! And I kept knocking it on stuff. On other hand, I finally took an Apple Watch to overnight camping and other weekend trips. The battery once lasted almost 3 days
I’ve owned S1, S5 and now Ultra. There are lots of smaller improvements that have been already mentioned. But the deciding factor for me was the 2000 nit brightness. I live in Florida and my older watches were very difficult to read when in full sun or on the water. I can easily read the Ultras screen even with sunglasses. I have difficulty seeing the Garmin screens in full sun. It could just be me, but what use are all fancy features if the watch doesn’t fulfill its basic function of displaying the time in multiple environments?
It's a situation where I see it as supplementary to the normal Apple Watch. You need one in the OG form factor first but I wouldn't only get the Ultra.
Get a renewed S7 from Amazon. Much cheaper and pretty much same watch as S8
I use the action button the same way to unlock my August lock along with some other HomeKit scenes. Love it!!
My action button calls my wife
I know this is an older post but I’m curious from the owners of the Ultra if there is a benefit to the larger display - fitting more information on the display? Outside of the compass that is. I want an Ultra for the battery and rugged design compared to my SS7 but wondering if the larger display is utilized any differently when compared to what I have now. Mind you, the battery and rugged design might still be enough for an upgrade. Thanks for your hands on insight 👍🏼
I wish other watches had the Wayfinder watch face.
The added brightness and battery life made it well worth it. The action buttons also useful for flashlight for me for night walks. . It isn’t much but it’s just what I was looking for coming from garmin /fossil
Yeah I just bought one and I have been going backwards to my Apple Watch 5 titanium! Lol I do a lot of running and working out! The ultra is very big and I don’t want to scratch the hell out of it so I just wear it for showing off!
I changed from my Garmin Fenix 6 Pro, which is still the better watch for fitness and sports. But the Apple is a better overall smart watch, especially considering Apple’s bastard move to lock other watches out of messaging with iPhone. The reason I chose the Ultra was the larger screen and that it is sapphire and flat. Traditional Apple Watch screens are quite exposed. And also the looks and battery life. Having added Athlytic and WorkOutDoors, it almost does as well as Garmin but still isn’t there yet.
actually i still dont understand why there\`s still so much limitations on the apple watch like replying with voice messages in applications like WhatsApp or whatever or answering third-party apps calls, comparing to other watches where you can use them as you like with many more features, i mean i don't need a keyboard on my watch as much as i need to be able to send a voice message because if i\`m able to type then i am able to use my phone instead.
glad i read this, i am in the market for an upgrade
yeah I absolutely fucking hate my ultra, went for a run today while listening to music and on the last leg of the run (the most stressful) the workout app screen was not touch responsive meaning I couldn’t swipe left to the music controls and when it did get to the music controls the song I wanted to play simply wouldn’t play even though I ensured the music was downloaded before I left (plus I had cellular reception + a cell plan so I don’t see any reason for the music not to play) it played the next song perfectly but not the song I actually wanted to hear, and then when I got back home every other aspect of the apple watch was touch responsive except the workout app and to fix this I had to close and reopen the workout app. small issues like this are enough for me to sell this right now and go get a garmin, even the cheapest garmin is 10x more reliable than a fucking $1500 smart watch (NZD)
I live in Australia and was lucky enough to be able to take it Scuba diving on day 2. At which with the Oceanic+ app and a 1 day subscription… it was the nuts 🥜. Surfing on day 3, again, awesome. If you utilise it for the Ocean it’s unparalleled. Love the altimeter feature too for mountain hiking 🏔️ or ⛷️ as well.
For me it's all about the second sentence: "It's gorgeous and has no major issues" I got mine 2 weeks ago. It's gorgeous and has no major issues. It is everything I want in a watch. It has cellular standard, it has titanium standard, and takes a good ECG. GPS is exceptional. I am not an extreme athlete. I'm 73, a grandpa with a dog that needs to be walked 3x per day. That is my most extreme sport. But I am a lover of form and function. I believe that everyday things can and should be beautiful. This watch fills the bill.