Starting at $799, the Apple Watch Ultra is no exception to Apple's steep "Pro" pricing. But is it worth the high price tag, or are you better off with a less expensive model? Here's how the Ultra compares to the Series 8 and the Apple Watch SE.
Comparing Apple Watch Models
Each Apple Watch model was designed with a specific user in mind, and that's part of what makes Apple so good at crafting a seamless product experience. Here's how the current lineup compares.
Apple Watch SE – $249
The Apple Watch SE is a budget-friendly entry point into Apple's line of smartwatches. It gives you all the essential features like fitness and health tracking, but lacks some of the more premium features like blood oxygen sensors, temperature tracking, and screen improvements. Top selling points:
- Heart rate sensor
- Sleep stage monitoring
- Workout tracking
- Emergency features
- Up to 18 hours of battery life
- 50m water resistance
Apple Watch Series 8 – $399
What do you get for an extra $150? The Series 8 has extra features that can easily justify the price. Most people will find the additional features useful in their everyday lives and during outdoor activities:
- Always-On Retina display
- Larger screen sizes
- Temperature tracking
- Blood oxygen tracking
- IP6X dust resistance
Apple Watch Ultra – $799
The newest addition to Apple's smartwatch lineup wasn't designed with the majority of people in mind. It was made for adventurers — intense hikers, divers, long-distance runners, and extreme sports athletes. Here's what paying $400 more than the Series 8 gets you:
- Bigger and brighter screen
- Louder speakers
- Up to 36 hours of battery life
- Customizable Action Button
- Increased durability
- Dual-frequency GPS
- 100m water resistance
So, Should You Buy the Apple Watch Ultra?
That depends. If you don't need the Ultra's extended functionality, it probably isn't worth the price — the Apple Watch Series 8 and SE are more than enough for most people and offer all the functionality you could want from a smartwatch.
On the other hand, if you find yourself at the top of a mountain in below-freezing temperatures, in the searing heat of a desert, or 60m underwater, the Ultra is a watch you can't pass up. Those who fit this category will supremely benefit from the improved screen, durability, and battery life.
