**Apple Watch Ultra vs. Apple Watch Ultra 2: Which One Should You Go For?**
The first-generation **Apple Watch Ultra** made a significant impression, providing a tough, durable style, impressive battery longevity, and features designed specifically for serious sports enthusiasts, whether your passion lies in diving, hiking, or running. The **Apple Watch Ultra 2** enhances this foundation, but just how different is it? Let’s explore the main differences to assist you in deciding whether to remain with the initial model or upgrade to the newest version.
### Pricing Overview
The **Apple Watch Ultra 2** begins at **$799**, available from retailers such as **T-Mobile**. However, if you’re hunting for bargains, the original **Apple Watch Ultra** is worth considering. Although it’s no longer available as new, you can discover refurbished options on sites like **Amazon**, **Best Buy**, and **eBay**, sometimes for less than **$500**. If you locate a trustworthy seller, this could be an incredible deal.
### Specifications: What’s New?
The **Apple Watch Ultra 2** is equipped with an enhanced **S9 dual-core processor**, a second-generation ultra-wideband chip, and **64GB of storage**—twice as much as the original Ultra, which features the **S8 processor** and **32GB of storage**. While this is a significant upgrade, most users might not perceive a considerable difference in performance.
Other attributes, including water and dust resistance, the customizable action button, and various health and fitness sensors, have not changed between the two versions. Both watches are speedy, but the **Ultra 2** provides a touch more speed and storage.
A notable feature of the **Ultra 2** is its support for **Apple’s Double Tap gesture**, which allows you to control the watch via a simple hand movement. However, not every user finds this feature beneficial, and some may not even use it beyond the initial excitement.
### Aesthetic Appeal: Mirror Images
In terms of design, the **Apple Watch Ultra** and **Ultra 2** are almost identical. Both boast a **410×502 pixel resolution**, but the **Ultra 2** offers a significantly brighter display—**3,000 nits** compared to the **Ultra 1’s 2,000 nits**. This results in the **Ultra 2** being more user-friendly in bright sunlight, a major advantage for outdoor adventurers.
Furthermore, the **Ultra 2** introduces a new **jet black titanium** variant, alongside fresh band options like the **Alpine Loop**, **Trail Loop**, **Ocean Band**, and **Titanium Milanese Loop**.
### Health and Fitness Monitoring: Minor Yet Significant Variations
Both the **Ultra** and **Ultra 2** monitor vital health indicators such as heart rate, sleep, water depth, and temperature. They also encompass crash and fall detection. However, the **Ultra 2** adds **sleep apnea detection**, a feature the original model lacks. This could be crucial if sleep tracking is a priority for you.
Interestingly, the initial **Apple Watch Ultra** has a slight edge: it includes a **blood-oxygen sensor**, which the **Ultra 2** does not have available in the U.S. due to ongoing legal disputes between Apple and medical tech firm **Masimo**.
### Battery Performance: A Minor Enhancement
Both versions provide a standard battery life of **36 hours**, but the **Ultra 2** extends its battery life in **Low Power mode** to **72 hours**, compared to the **Ultra 1’s 60 hours**. Although this isn’t a major upgrade, it could be beneficial for those often undertaking extended hikes or long-duration races.
### To Upgrade or Not?
At **$799**, the **Apple Watch Ultra 2** has a competitive price point, especially when compared to other top-tier sports watches like those from **Garmin** or **Suunto**, which frequently exceed $1,000. However, if you manage to locate a refurbished **Apple Watch Ultra** for under **$500**, it remains an excellent option, given how alike the two models are.
If features such as **sleep apnea detection** or the new **jet black titanium** finish catch your interest, or if you desire the latest technology, the **Ultra 2** is your best bet. Otherwise, the original **Apple Watch Ultra** continues to be a reliable choice, especially if you can secure a good price on a refurbished model.
### Final Thoughts
Both the **Apple Watch Ultra** and **Ultra 2** are outstanding devices, providing robust functionalities for outdoor lovers and athletes. The **Ultra 2** brings some incremental enhancements, but the original **Ultra** still remains strong, particularly if you’re after a more economical option. Ultimately, the decision hinges on whether you prioritize the updated features and design.