Apple Watch Ultra 2 [GPS + Cellular 49mm] Smartwatch – Pros and Cons Review

The Ultimate Adventure Smartwatch

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 (2025) is Apple’s flagship wearable, designed for athletes, adventurers, and iPhone users seeking a rugged, feature-packed smartwatch. With a titanium case, vibrant display, and advanced health and fitness tools, it builds on the original Ultra’s success. Running watchOS 11, it’s a powerhouse for outdoor enthusiasts. Here’s a review highlighting its pros and cons, with an emphasis on its strengths.

PROS

Rugged, Premium Design: The 49mm corrosion-resistant titanium case, now in satin black alongside natural titanium, is both stylish and durable, meeting MIL-STD 810H standards. At 61.4g, it’s hefty yet comfortable, with a sapphire crystal front and 100m water resistance (EN13319-certified for diving up to 40m). The large Digital Crown and customizable Action button enhance usability for gloved hands or quick controls.

Stunning Retina Display: The 1.92-inch Always-On Retina OLED (502×410, 3,000 nits) is Apple’s brightest, ensuring readability in harsh sunlight during hikes or dives. The 1Hz refresh rate in always-on mode shows seconds, and new watch faces like Explorer optimize data visibility for outdoor activities.

Unmatched Fitness Tracking: The Ultra 2 excels with 40+ workout modes, including advanced metrics for running (form analysis, track detection), cycling (Functional Threshold Power, cadence via Bluetooth accessories), and diving (depth and water temperature). The S10 chip and dual-frequency GPS (L1+L5) deliver pinpoint accuracy, rivaling dedicated sports watches like the Garmin Fenix 8.

Robust Health Monitoring: FDA-authorized sleep apnea detection (after 10 nights), ECG, heart rate, SpO2, and temperature sensors provide comprehensive health insights. The Vitals app tracks overnight metrics like respiratory rate, while Training Load and Effort Rating optimize workout intensity. These features make it a wellness powerhouse.

Seamless Connectivity and Safety: The cellular model enables calls, texts, and streaming (Apple Music, Podcasts) without an iPhone. Offline maps, Compass Waypoints, and Backtrack aid hikers, while Fall Detection, Crash Detection, and Emergency SOS ensure safety. Siri, Apple Pay, and 64GB storage enhance smart functionality.

Extended Battery Life: With a 564mAh battery, the Ultra 2 lasts ~36 hours under normal use (real-world tests: 30-34 hours) and up to 72 hours in Low Power Mode. Fast charging reaches 80% in ~45 minutes, ideal for multi-day adventures, though it trails budget options like the Amazfit Bip 6.

CONS

High Price Point: The Ultra 2 is significantly pricier than the Apple Watch Series 10 or Samsung Galaxy Watch 8, making it a premium investment. Discounts are rare, and the cost may deter casual users. BUY NOW ON A DISCOUNT PRICE!

iPhone-Only Compatibility: Like all Apple Watches, it’s limited to iPhone (XS or later, iOS 18), excluding Android users. Competitors like the Galaxy Watch 8 offer broader compatibility, limiting the Ultra 2’s market.

SpO2 Disabled in U.S.: Due to a patent dispute with Masimo, the blood oxygen sensor is disabled in the U.S., reducing its health tracking value compared to global models or rivals like the Fitbit Versa 4.

FINAL VERDICT

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a top-tier smartwatch for adventurers, boasting a rugged design, stunning display, unmatched fitness tracking, robust health tools, and seamless connectivity. Its battery life and safety features make it ideal for extreme sports and daily use. However, the high price, iPhone-only compatibility, and disabled SpO2 are notable drawbacks. For iPhone users seeking a premium outdoor watch, it’s unmatched.