Apple Watch Ultra 2 Review: The Ultimate Rugged Smartwatch That Still Reigns Supreme

When Apple first unveiled the Apple Watch Ultra 2 in 2023, it immediately set a new standard for what a premium sports smartwatch could be. Now, after extensive daily use and testing against newer models, my initial impression has only grown stronger—this isn’t just another smartwatch; it’s the definitive choice for those who demand uncompromising performance in a wearable.

Design and Build Quality: Built Like a Tank

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 maintains the same commanding 49mm titanium case that made its predecessor so distinctive. This isn’t a subtle accessory—it’s a statement piece that screams capability. The titanium construction provides exceptional durability while keeping weight manageable, and the sapphire crystal display resists scratches that would mar lesser watches.

I’ve worn this through countless outdoor adventures, gym sessions, and daily activities, and the watch shows virtually no wear. The physical action button and customizable programmable button offer tactile feedback that digital controls simply cannot match, making it perfect for use with gloves or in wet conditions.

Display Excellence: 3,000 Nits of Pure Brilliance

The most noticeable upgrade from the original Ultra is the display brightness. At 3,000 nits, the Ultra 2’s screen remains perfectly visible even in direct sunlight—a crucial feature for trail running, cycling, or any outdoor activity. While the difference might not be dramatic in indoor settings, take it outside and you’ll immediately appreciate the extra visibility.

The always-on display technology means you never have to twist your wrist or tap the screen to check the time or your stats. Information is instantly available, which is essential when you’re navigating challenging terrain or monitoring your performance during intense workouts.

Performance and Battery Life: All-Day Power

Powered by the S9 chip, the Ultra 2 delivers snappy performance across all applications. App launches are instantaneous, animations are smooth, and multitasking feels effortless. The doubled internal storage (from 32GB to 64GB) means you can store more music, apps, and offline maps without worrying about space.

Battery life is where the Ultra 2 truly shines. While Apple claims 36 hours of normal use, I consistently achieve 48+ hours with typical usage patterns. Enable the new low-power mode, and you can extend this to multiple days—essential for extended backpacking trips or multi-day adventures where charging opportunities are limited.

Health and Fitness Tracking: Comprehensive and Accurate

The Ultra 2 excels as a health and fitness companion. The heart rate sensor provides continuous monitoring with impressive accuracy, while the ECG app can detect signs of atrial fibrillation. The blood oxygen sensor adds another layer of health monitoring, though it’s worth noting this feature has faced some regulatory scrutiny.

For fitness enthusiasts, the workout tracking is comprehensive. Whether you’re swimming, running, cycling, or engaging in more niche activities like scuba diving or backcountry skiing, the Ultra 2 has dedicated modes with specific metrics. The GPS tracking is remarkably accurate, and the barometric altimeter provides precise elevation data—crucial for hikers and climbers.

Software Experience: WatchOS 11 Elevates Everything

Running WatchOS 11, the Ultra 2 benefits from the latest software optimizations. The new training load feature helps prevent overtraining by analyzing your workout intensity and duration, while the Vitals app provides a comprehensive overview of your key health metrics.

The Mindfulness app has become a surprisingly integral part of my daily routine. The Reflect and Breathe utilities offer quick mental health check-ins that genuinely help reduce stress. On the Ultra’s larger display, these features feel more immersive and effective than on smaller models.

Outdoor Features: Built for Adventure

The Compass app has received meaningful upgrades, now showing waypoints for your last-detected cellular and emergency SOS locations. This feature alone could be lifesaving if you find yourself in an area with poor reception. You can mark camping spots, parking locations, or any other important waypoints with ease.

While mapping capabilities still lag behind dedicated outdoor GPS devices, the addition of offline maps support (when paired with an iPhone running iOS 17 or later) significantly improves utility for backcountry adventures. The cellular connectivity means you can stream music, receive notifications, or even make calls when you’re away from your phone—provided you have cellular coverage.

The Flashlight Feature: Practical Innovation

Apple’s approach to the flashlight functionality demonstrates thoughtful design. By allowing you to increase brightness through the digital crown when the flashlight is active, they’ve created a practical tool for finding your way in the dark. While it doesn’t match the raw power of dedicated LED flashlights on some Garmin watches, it’s infinitely more useful than the previous iteration for everyday situations.

Comfort and Wearability: Surprisingly Manageable

Despite its size, the Ultra 2 is surprisingly comfortable for all-day wear. The weight distribution is excellent, and the premium materials prevent the watch from feeling bulky or cumbersome. The new carbon-neutral watch bands, particularly the Trail Loop, offer exceptional comfort with easy adjustability through the Velcro system.

Who Should Buy the Apple Watch Ultra 2?

If you already own the original Apple Watch Ultra, this isn’t a necessary upgrade. The improvements, while welcome, don’t fundamentally change the experience. However, if you’re buying an Ultra for the first time, this is absolutely the model to get.

For outdoor enthusiasts, serious athletes, or anyone who wants the absolute best smartwatch experience available, the Ultra 2 delivers without compromise. The combination of rugged durability, comprehensive health tracking, excellent battery life, and premium materials makes it worth every penny of its $779 price tag.

Current Deal Alert

At the time of writing, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is available at Best Buy for $549—a substantial $250 discount. This represents one of the best values in the premium smartwatch market, especially considering the watch’s capabilities and build quality.

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 isn’t just the best smartwatch Apple makes—it’s the best smartwatch you can buy, period. It successfully bridges the gap between a luxury timepiece and a serious outdoor tool, delivering an experience that’s both premium and practical. Whether you’re summiting mountains or just want the best health and fitness tracking available, the Ultra 2 delivers on every promise.

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