Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 review: Android's toughest smartwatch is improved in nearly every way
The toughest full-featured smartwatch for Android just got even better. The new Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is better-built, longer-lasting, smarter, and even comfier than its predecessor. Here are my takeaways after two weeks wearing it.
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 review: Android's toughest smartwatch is improved in nearly every way
Samsung has released the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, a rugged, full-featured smartwatch aimed at outdoor enthusiasts. The latest model adds better battery life, more health and fitness insights, a brighter screen, and improved water resistance, all while maintaining its familiar design. But can it keep up with the Apple Watch Ultra 4 and top Garmin watches in tracking activities like mountain biking and hiking?
Key upgrades for the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 include a larger 1.52-inch AMOLED display with a maximum brightness of 5,000 nits, up from 4,000 nits on the previous model. This results in better visibility in direct sunlight. The device also boasts an 800 mAh battery, a 35% capacity increase over the original model, and an average daily drain of roughly 25%.
The new watch also features a new Vitals dashboard displaying heart rate, HRV, SpO2, body temperature, and breath rate, as well as a new Heart Health score and Cardio Load insights.
Design-wise, the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is nearly identical to its predecessor, with a slightly thinner 10mm case and the same dimensions and weight. Its water resistance has been improved to 100 meters, making it fully dive-ready with the ability to function as a diving computer using the Mares app. The watch also features a more flexible strap and maintains its chunky feel on the wrist.
The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is priced at $699, $50 more than its predecessor but still $100 less than the Apple Watch Ultra 4. In comparison, the latest Galaxy Watch 9 models range from $379 to $459. Overall, the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 offers excellent value for its price and outperforms competitors in terms of battery life, display brightness, and water resistance.
Written by urgent.news from Tom's Guide's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
