{
  "id": 15136655,
  "title": "I ran a half marathon with the Apple Watch Ultra 4 and Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 — here's the one that came out on top",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/17/i-ran-a-half-marathon-with-the-apple-watch-ultra-4-and-samsung-galaxy",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-17T05:30:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Tom's Guide",
    "slug": "tom-s-guide",
    "url": "https://www.tomsguide.com/wellness/smartwatches/i-ran-a-half-marathon-with-the-apple-watch-ultra-4-and-samsung-galaxy-watch-ultra-2-heres-the-one-that-came-out-on-top"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "I recently put the Apple Watch Ultra 4 and Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 to the test by running a half marathon with each smartwatch strapped to my wrist. After comparing the results, it's clear which device came out on top. The Apple Watch Ultra 4 and Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 are both rugged smartwatches with large cases (49mm and 47mm respectively), built-in GPS, and the ability to track various health metrics. Both devices have a starting price of $699, with the Apple Watch Ultra 4 priced at $799.\n\nWhen it came to GPS accuracy, both watches performed equally well, accurately recording my distance as 13.23 miles for the Apple Watch Ultra 4 and 13.21 miles for the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2. My heart rate, measured in comparison to my Oura Ring 5 baseline, was also very similar, with the Apple Watch Ultra 4 showing an average of 159 beats per minute and the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 at 160 beats per minute.\n\nThe elevation gain recorded by the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 was slightly lower than the actual course elevation gain of 311 feet, while the Apple Watch Ultra 4 recorded 342 feet. In terms of comfort and usability, both watches felt rather bulky on my petite wrist, but the Apple Watch Ultra 4's screen was larger and easier to see in direct sunlight. The Apple Watch Ultra 4 also offers an advantage for iOS users, as it is compatible with iPhones, whereas the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 only works with Android or Galaxy devices.\n\nIn conclusion, the Apple Watch Ultra 4 emerged as the winner in this half marathon showdown, thanks to its superior GPS accuracy, compatibility with iPhones, and larger, easier-to-see screen. However, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is still a formidable contender, particularly for Android users and those who value its plethora of apps and features. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and whether you prefer the iOS or Android ecosystem.",
  "summary": "We wore both smartwatches for a half marathon race to see which came out on top",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}