Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs Ultra 2: What’s New and Should You Upgrade?
Apple has officially unveiled the Apple Watch Ultra 3 (2025), the successor to the Ultra 2 (2023). While the Ultra 2 was already a powerhouse for adventurers, divers, and athletes, the new Ultra 3 brings meaningful upgrades in performance, health tracking, and connectivity. Let’s break down the differences between the two rugged smartwatches to see if the Ultra 3 is worth the upgrade.
Release Date
- Apple Watch Ultra 3: Announced on September 9, 2025.
- Apple Watch Ultra 2: Released in September 2023.
The Ultra 3 arrives two years after its predecessor, giving Apple plenty of time to refine its top-tier wearable.
Design, Dimensions & Build
Both models keep the 49 mm titanium case, maintaining the rugged design Apple introduced with the first Ultra. The Ultra 3 is reported to have the same size and weight as the Ultra 2 (61.4–61.8 g), but features a slightly more edge-to-edge display for a modern look.
- Ultra 3: Rugged titanium build, sustainability boosted with 40% recycled materials and 3D-printed titanium.
- Ultra 2: Titanium build with IP6X dust resistance, WR100 water resistance, and MIL-STD 810H military-grade durability.
Apple hasn’t detailed certifications for the Ultra 3 yet, but it’s expected to match or exceed the Ultra 2’s durability standards.
Display
- Ultra 3: Slightly larger, edge-to-edge OLED panel. Brightness not confirmed, but likely around 3,000 nits.
- Ultra 2: 1.92″ Always-On Retina LTPO OLED display, 502×410 resolution, up to 3,000 nits.
The difference is subtle, but the Ultra 3’s more immersive screen may enhance usability outdoors and during workouts.
Chipset & Performance
- Ultra 3: Powered by the new Apple S10 SiP, expected to deliver faster performance, better efficiency, and more advanced AI-driven features.
- Ultra 2: Runs on the Apple S9 SiP, already smooth and capable, with 64 GB storage and Neural Engine support.
The S10 upgrade means quicker app launches, smoother animations, and likely longer battery optimization.
Battery Life
- Ultra 3: Up to 42 hours of battery life, stretching to 72 hours in Low Power Mode.
- Ultra 2: Up to 36 hours in normal use, with the same 72 hours in Low Power Mode.
A six-hour boost may not sound huge, but for long hikes, marathons, or camping trips, the extra time can make a big difference.
Connectivity
This is one of the biggest upgrades:
- Ultra 3: Adds 5G support and satellite connectivity, making it a lifeline in remote areas without cellular coverage.
- Ultra 2: Supports LTE but lacks 5G and satellite features.
For outdoor adventurers, the Ultra 3’s connectivity could be a game-changer.
Health & Sensors
- Ultra 3: Introduces hypertension detection and Sleep Score insights through watchOS 26. These features bring more focus on preventive health and sleep quality.
- Ultra 2: Comprehensive tracking suite, including heart rate, ECG, blood oxygen (SpO₂), skin temperature, depth gauge, compasses, and altimeter.
The Ultra 3 builds on an already impressive sensor lineup with a sharper focus on long-term wellness.
Also Read: Apple Most awaited iPhone 17 series Launched along with Watches and AirPods
Sustainability
Apple continues to push its eco-friendly initiatives:
- Ultra 3: Built with 40% recycled materials, including recycled titanium crafted using 3D printing techniques.
- Ultra 2: 30% recycled materials with 95% recycled titanium.
The Ultra 3 is Apple’s most sustainable rugged smartwatch yet.
Verdict: Should You Upgrade?
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it does refine the Ultra experience with a faster chip, longer battery, satellite connectivity, and advanced health features.
- If you already own an Ultra 2, the upgrade is worth considering if you need satellite safety features, hypertension tracking, or extra battery life.
- If you’re coming from an older Apple Watch or buying your first Ultra, the Ultra 3 is the clear choice for future-proof performance.
Apple Watch Ultra 2 remains an excellent adventure smartwatch, but the Ultra 3 takes durability, health, and connectivity to the next level.