Deciding between Apple’s latest smartwatches, the Apple Watch Series 10 and the Apple Watch Ultra 2, requires understanding their distinct features and how they align with your needs. In Apple’s 2024 fall product lineup, while the anticipated Apple Watch Ultra 3 did not make an appearance, the new Satin Black Ultra 2 case offers a sleek alternative. Here’s a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed choice.
Specifications Comparison
Price and Availability
The Apple Watch Ultra 2, launched in September 2023, comes with a price tag starting at $799. The Series 10, released in September 2024, starts at $399 for the 42mm model and $429 for the 46mm version. Preorders for the Series 10 are currently open, with availability set for September 20. Notably, while the Ultra 2 includes cellular connectivity by default, the Series 10 offers it as an optional extra for $100 regardless of size.
Design and Durability
Both watches exhibit unique design features. The Ultra 2 excels in water resistance, rated at 100 meters compared to the Series 10’s 50 meters. Its display is also brighter, reaching 3,000 nits versus the Series 10’s 2,000 nits, making it more visible in bright conditions. The Ultra 2 includes a programmable Action Button, a feature absent in the Series 10, and is crafted from durable titanium, contrasting with the Series 10’s aluminum.
On the flip side, the Series 10, especially in its larger model, offers a marginally bigger screen compared to the Ultra 2, though this difference is subtle. The Series 10 is also thinner and lighter, with a new wide-angle OLED screen that enhances readability at various angles.
Wearability
For those prioritizing comfort, the Series 10 stands out. It is significantly lighter—half the weight of the Ultra 2—and thinner by 4.7mm. Among current full-featured smartwatches, it is one of the thinnest and lightest, offering a more comfortable fit.
Battery Life
Battery performance is a clear differentiator. The Ultra 2 provides 36 hours of battery life per charge, which is double the 18 hours offered by the Series 10. Both watches can extend battery life with low-power mode, but the Series 10 has not seen improvements in this area since its inception.
Health Features
Both models come equipped with comprehensive health and workout tools, including heart rate monitoring, body temperature tracking, sleep analysis, and menstrual health tracking. They can both detect irregular heart rhythms and abnormal heart rates. However, the Series 10 introduces a sleep apnea detection feature, utilizing the onboard accelerometer to identify potential breathing irregularities. This feature is still awaiting FDA approval in the U.S. but may be available at launch in other regions.
Smart Features
In terms of smart functionalities, both the Series 10 and Ultra 2 run on the latest watchOS 11. This includes new features like the Check In safety function, a translation app supporting 20 languages, and the ability to pause activity rings. In this category, both watches are evenly matched.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Apple Watch Series 10 and the Apple Watch Ultra 2 boils down to your priorities. If budget and comfort are your main concerns, the Series 10 is the more affordable and comfortable option. Conversely, if you seek superior durability, extended battery life, and don’t mind spending extra, the Ultra 2 is the better choice.
