The Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs. Apple Watch Ultra 2: two heavyweights compared

In today's article, our team at Back Market has shared a comparison of the Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs. Apple Watch Ultra 2 to break down the features that matter most. We aim to help you determine which is most suitable for your lifestyle and your budget.

Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs. Apple Watch Ultra 2 compared

✨Apple's Ultra 3 and Ultra 2 watches may look like twins, but the little details make a big difference. If you spend long stretches off the grid, care about your health, and need better battery life, the Ultra 3 is the safer bet. If saving money matters more, and you want a solid all-rounder for everyday health tracking that looks good, the Ultra 2 is still a fantastic buy, especially refurbished. In the end, it comes down to what matters most to you: price or perks.

Why you can trust this comparison

According to Studio Hertstrom,

“Back Market is reshaping the way consumers buy technology. As the leading marketplace for refurbished tech, their mission is to reduce e-waste and extend the lifespan of electronics—making tech more sustainable and affordable.”

To solidify this viewpoint, Back Market states:

“Our mission is to create a world that does more with what we already have by prolonging the lifespan of electronic devices through circularity and repair.”

This means that we spend our days testing, repairing, and reselling refurbished technology to promote a more sustainable future and provide our clients with high-quality products.

It also means that we have firsthand experience with loads of tech, including Apple's products, including different models of the Apple Watch. We have the expertise to separate Apple's marketing promises from what the products actually deliver, and we do this in our comparison of the two heavyweight smartwatches, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and the Apple Watch Ultra 2.

Although the Apple Watch Ultra 3 hasn’t officially been released, based on Apple’s official announcements and what we’ve learned from years of repairing and testing Ultra 2s, we can analyze and compare what’s new in the Ultra 3.

We can give you an honest viewpoint of how they stack up when placed side by side because we’re not just focusing on shiny launch specs. We’re looking at the big picture surrounding their real-world performance and long-term value to ensure you make the right decision and get more for your money.

Product specs for the Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs. the Apple Watch Ultra 2

Below, we have shared insights into the Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs. Apple Watch Ultra 2 specifications. This should give you a snapshot of what to expect from both options.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 vs Apple Watch Ultra 3

Here’s a look at the main similarities and differences you can expect between the Apple Watch Ultra 2 vs Apple Watch Ultra 3:

✨ Key takeaway: The Ultra 2 still holds its own with durability and core features, but the Ultra 3 refines that foundation with faster charging, longer battery life, satellite connectivity, and expanded health tools that make it better suited for endurance and adventure.

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs. the Apple Watch Ultra 2 compared: Pros and cons

What makes the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 worthwhile, and why might someone choose one over the other? Since you’ve had a look at the specs, it's now time to quickly check out the pros and cons of each model.

This should help give you a better idea of who would benefit from one model over the other, even more so than the specs. Let’s have a look before we dive into our in-depth comparison.

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 pros and cons

✨ Key takeaway: The Ultra 2 is the better choice for budget-conscious buyers who still want durability.

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 pros and cons

✨ Key takeaway: The Ultra 3 is built for endurance and safety, not just looks.

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs. Apple Watch Ultra 2: In-depth comparison

Now that you know the pros and cons of each model, let’s dive into the differences between the features of each model.

Display changes: Subtle, but easier on the eyes

At first glance, the Ultra 3 and Ultra 2 look almost identical. There was some speculation that the Apple Watch Ultra 3 would feature a significantly slimmed-down casing to 12mm. This got many buyers’ hopes up, with one Redditor saying:

“The Ultra 3 has slimmed down from 14.4 mm (Ultra 2) to just 12 mm. That’s a pretty big deal on the wrist – it makes the watch feel noticeably less like a 'brick.”

Unfortunately, this is not the case. It was later revealed to be a typo on Apple's end when advertising the new model. The only significant difference is the display borders, with the Ultra 3 expected to offer 5% more usable screen area.

Although this might not seem like much, it means you would get to enjoy much larger text on the screen. If you’re someone who relies on quick glances at your watch face for insights into altitude, pace, or heart rate during training, it's a game-changer.

But other, smaller changes might earn the Apple Watch Ultra 3 more favor in your eyes than the Ultra 2. The viewing angle changes, the constantly refreshing display, and the addition of a second hand are just a few of these. It’s believed that the Apple Watch Ultra 3 will feature Apple’s wide-angle LTPO3 OLED, and this is specifically designed to keep colors and sharpness intact when viewed off-axis. On the other hand, the Ultra 2 features Apple’s TPO2 panel.

Although this panel remains bright and, for many, is more than suitable, the watch has been known to lose contrast if you tilt your wrist while moving. With the Ultra 3, this isn’t a problem. Now, in terms of brightness levels, the Ultra 3 is no different from the Ultra 2, with both presenting 3,000 nits of peak brightness. This is nothing to scoff at, considering this brightness level is still among the best of any smartwatch currently available on the market.

One Redditor even said of the Ultra 2:

“Oh my goodness, it’s so bright and even in the direct blazing sun in Mexico at noon, I can see everything clearly. Three thousand nits is incredibly bright and makes the flashlight even more useful now. Being an OLED, the colors are super vibrant and alive, and blacks are truly deep. It’s big and easy to use, even with the keyboard feature, and it runs at 60 fps, so everything you do is smooth, unlike other smartwatches.”

These points are all true for the Ultra 3, too.

✨ Key takeaway: The Ultra 3’s screen refinements don’t reinvent the wheel, but they make it easier to view outdoors and while moving. The Ultra 2 remains excellent, though it feels slightly less forgiving during activity.

Battery and connectivity: A safer bet for long days

When the Ultra 2 came out, many people were well pleased with its battery life, with one Redditor even saying:

“battery alone is worth it for me. I charge every 3 days,” and another Redditor saying they “couldn't agree more. Although mine only lasts 2 days.”

At the time of its release, the Ultra 2 lasted 36 hours on a single charge, and this was and is still impressive.

However, when you compare this to the Apple Watch Ultra 3’s more advanced capabilities, it might be enough to convince you that the newer model is better. With the Ultra 3, you will get a whopping 42 hours on a single charge alongside faster charging. Unlike the Ultra 2, which can take closer to an hour to reach 80% charge, the Ultra 3 could get there in 45 minutes.

The six-hour difference and faster charge times might not seem that impressive, but that time margin could be the difference between making it through a weekend trip on a single charge or scrambling for a cable at a time that might not be the most convenient.

Additionally, it's believed that the Ultra 3 could offer half a day of coverage after only 15 minutes of charging. This could mean the difference between a flat watch halfway through a fitness activity or actually getting to log your whole run with GPS.

It's also worth noting that battery life matters for sleep trackers. With the Ultra 3, you’re more likely to get to wear the watch over a two-day period on a single charge. This allows you to track your sleep stats while still being able to use your watch for most of the third day before another charge is needed.

Besides bringing improved battery life to the table, the Ultra 3’s connectivity improvements further widen the gap between the two models. Although both watches feature GPS and LTE, the Ultra 3 introduces 5G and complete satellite SOS capabilities.

Yes, that’s right — an “oohhh” is appropriate, considering the SOS capabilities reassure you when mobile coverage drops out. So, no matter if you love sailing, driving remote routes, or hiking through the wilderness, an Ultra 3 will not only last longer but also offer peace of mind when the signal dips out on you.

✨ Key takeaway: The Ultra 3 improves day-to-day reliability with longer run time, faster charging, and safety features that matter most when conditions get unpredictable.

Performance: Smoother when you push it

Performance-wise, there is no denying (yes, even you naysayers have to agree) that the Ultra 2 is still an excellent performer.

“Honestly, the Ultra 2 is still a powerhouse that handles everything you'd want from a high-end smartwatch. The differences feel more like nice-to-haves than must-haves for most users,”

saidone Redditor. The Ultra 3 builds on this already exceptional performance and refines it to better suit users' needs.

Although both models feel quick during everyday use when it comes to music, calls, and notifications, the gap starts to show when you layer on demanding tasks. With multitasking, for example, the Ultra 3’s S10 processor allows it to feel far steadier and stutter-free when streaming music, running GPS, and tracking health stats simultaneously.

Besides the Ultra 3’s extra headroom thanks its improved processing power, its updated software also makes it less likely that the system will experience any hiccups in the long run. Sadly, we can’t say the same for the Ultra 2, as it's possible that, should Apple follow its usual trend, the Ultra 2 will not receive software updates for as long. And we’re not the only ones thinking this. A concerned Redditor said:

“The Ultra 3 will likely get software support for about a year longer than the Ultra 2, and that matters more than most realize.”

It's expected that, like the Ultra 2, the Ultra 3 will also run watchOS 26, but the S10 chip positions the Ultra 3 for future updates. The Ultra 2 will still receive features like Sleep Score and hypertension alerts, but the Ultra 3 processes them better, and over time, this means the Ultra 3 will feel newer for longer.

✨ Key takeaway: The Ultra 2 is quick enough for everyday use, but the Ultra 3 is the model you want if you push your watch harder or plan to keep it for several years.

Health and fitness: Extra safety, smaller gaps

If your main reason for considering an Apple Watch Ultra 3 is for its fitness and health features, the watch may or may not be a disappointment depending on what you need. Unfortunately, some believe the Ultra 2 and 3 aren’t as impressive as other fitness watches like those released by competitors like Garmin. One Redditor even said,

“I just went to Garmin from the AWU2 and didn’t realize how much I was missing out on fitness tracking and health stats, it’s insane. The Apple Watch is a toy that keeps getting a new layer of lipstick every year. Garmin is mind-blowing.”

However, this is not to say the Ultra 2 and 3 are far inferior. Both models cover the basics with heart rate monitoring, SpO2, ECG, and workout tracking, but between the two, the Ultra 3 takes it a step further. This model is expected to offer hypertension alerts (pending FDA approval) and a more advanced Sleep Score.

These features will help users like you gain more insight into your cardiovascular health and recovery, which can aid in achieving fitness and lifestyle goals. This aligns with what Apple’s Vice President of Hardware Engineering Eugene Kim said:

“Apple Watch Ultra is our most advanced Apple Watch, designed to take users from sports and adventure to the rest of their life.”

Additionally, it's worth noting that the Ultra 2 may receive these features through software updates. But (now this is important to know) the Ultra 3 comes with the necessary hardware to ensure accuracy and consistency. The Ultra 3’s GPS improvements are also a standout when it comes to safety.

The Ultra 3’s dual-frequency GPS reduces interference in dense areas like cities with tall buildings or wooded trails with heavy cover. For runners, cyclists, and hikers, this means maps and pace data are more trustworthy and safer.

The Ultra 2 comes equipped with GPS, too, but it can lose signal, especially in noticeably challenging environments. So, although the Ultra 2 works well for most users, the Watch Ultra 3 may be a better fit if you find yourself off the beaten path more often than the normal fitness fanatic.

The Ultra 3 will also have emergency SOS via satellite, crash detection, fall detection, a built-in siren, Medical ID, and a check-in feature that allows you to notify someone when you reach your destination. The Ultra 2 can still handle fall detection and emergency calls, but only where there’s a signal.

✨ Key takeaway: The Ultra 3 closes gaps in GPS accuracy and adds safety layers that matter to explorers, while the Ultra 2 remains fully capable for general fitness and everyday health tracking.

Shopping tips: Make a smarter buy

Before you head out and get your hands on the Apple Watch Ultra 3 when it releases, it's worthwhile to keep a few shopping tips in mind. Now, we don’t claim to be shopping experts, as our forte is tech, but we can give you a few shopping tips when it comes to buying tech.

Have a quick look below for a few of our best tips when you’re weighing the decision of an Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs. Apple Watch Ultra 2:

• Decide if SOS functionality matters to you: For many people, the new SOS satellite feature is the main draw for choosing the Apple Watch Ultra 3 over the Ultra 2. If this is true for you, it's essential to check that satellite SOS is available in your region, as it is not available everywhere.

• Consider your battery life needs: You need a smartwatch that can keep up with your sleep tracking, day-to-day fitness tracking, and everyday use for calling and music. The Ultra 3 offers 42 hours of usage and faster charging capabilities, while the Ultra 2 provides only 36 hours. Both are pretty impressive, but it's an important consideration when deciding between the two of them.

• Make up your mind on features: Both the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and 3 offer similar features, or they will once the Ultra 2 receives the software update after the release of the Ultra 3. However, there are a few features unique to the Ultra 3. It is up to you to decide which features you want, need, and cannot live without. Knowing this will help you make the right decision on which smartwatch is better for you in the long run.

• Consider buying refurbished over new: If you’re leaning more toward an Ultra 2, then you should consider buying refurbished over new. Often, when purchased from places like Back Market, Verified Refurbished models offer excellent value at a fraction of the price, typically coming with a warranty. Plus, when you buy refurbished, you don't need to wait for deals since pricing is lower than the price of new year-round.

✨ Key takeaway: Match your purchase to your real-world needs. For example, consider SOS availability for the Ultra 3, and condition and warranty for the Ultra 2 refurbished.

Why refurbished makes sense

When it comes to buying refurbished, this decision makes sense primarily for three reasons: cost, condition, and sustainability.

Often buying refurbished with us at Back Market allows you to save between 15% and 30% compared to buying new. This is a significant savings when you consider the fact that buying a new Ultra 2 can cost over $500.00, and a new Ultra 3 will cost almost $900.00 when it is released.

Choosing to buy refurbished doesn’t mean you’ll be buying an inferior product, as we’ve mentioned. Since the Ultra 2 is built from titanium and sapphire glass, it holds up well over time. This means that Verified Refurbished units in “excellent” condition as rated on our site often look amazingand can cost hundreds of dollars less. If you don’t believe us, believe this review from a customer of ours:

“I received a used but excellent condition AWU2 in perfect working order. It looks brand new, not a scratch, dent, or blemish whatsoever. Also, the battery was at 100% maximum capacity. I have bought a few items and traded in at times, and I have never been disappointed.”

Then, when it comes to sustainability, choosing refurbished means you’re extending the lifespan of premium hardware, and this helps to reduce e-waste which is important to us at Back Market.

✨ Key takeaway: Refurbished Ultras are smart for both your wallet and the planet. They offer premium hardware at a lower cost and with a smaller carbon footprint.

Trade –in your old tech: Cut the cost of upgrading to an Ultra watch

We might be biased, but we feel that trade-in programs are the best way to reduce the upfront cost of switching to an Apple Watch Ultra model. Back Market accepts a wide range of Apple Watch trade-ins, and the value can be applied toward either an Ultra 2 or Ultra 3 when it becomes available.

By participating in our simple three-step trade-in process, you’re maximizing your savings since you’re using your credit for old tech towards your new tech. For many, this credit can help bridge the price gap between the Ultra 2 and Ultra 3 when the time comes for you to upgrade.

Price check: New and refurbished Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs. Apple Watch Ultra 2

Here is a look at the prices of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and 3, new vs. refurbished.

Final thoughts: Which one is worth it?

Although the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is an evolution of the Ultra 2, there is no denying that Apple didn’t do anything revolutionary with its new smartwatch. However, this doesn’t mean it isn’t an improvement, as you now know based on our side-by-side comparison.

In our humble opinion, even though the Ultra 3 simply builds upon the Ultra 2, improving its battery, introducing SOS capabilities, and offering advanced GPS and safety features like hypertension monitoring, it remains a worthwhile investment.

Yet, we understand that these features are not necessarily that important to everyone. That’s why our advice is to choose the model that best meets your needs and budget.

We also recommend considering buying refurbished over new if you want to do your part for the environment and save money. And if neither Ultra feels right to you, we’ve got plenty of other great smartwatches to explore.