If you’re looking to get an Apple Watch and you’re coming for the original Apple Watch Ultra, then the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is the upgrade the rugged smartwatch finally deserves, and here’s why.
Apple introduced the Apple Watch Ultra in September 2022, which featured a rugged titanium design that’s made for the most intensive workouts and for extreme adventures. Apple did announce the Apple Watch Ultra 2 in September 2023, which brought a few solid improvements, such as the S9 chip, which brought substantial performance gains, but nothing else that substantial. However, things became odd back in September 2024 when Apple did not introduce a third-generation Ultra, but instead, Apple simply introduced an additional black color option as well as Hermès models for the Apple Watch Ultra as more of a “stopgap” product, if you will. Even stranger, Apple introduced the Apple Watch Series 10, which brought a much-improved LTPO3 display that allows for enhanced always-on display mode and speakers that enabled media playback. Additionally, the 46mm Series 10 had a display that was slightly larger than that of the Ultra 2 in terms of display area (1220 sq mm on 46mm Series 10 vs. 1185 sq mm on Ultra 2). As you can see, the Ultra 2 was lagging behind in some features.
But thankfully, Apple finally came out with the Apple Watch Ultra 3, and it brought even more features besides playing catch-up with the main Series models. Not only does the Ultra 3 finally have the improved LTPO3 display and speakers that enable media playback, but the Ultra 3 actually now has the largest display in any Apple Watch in terms of display area. In case you didn’t know, Apple was able to put in a larger display on the Ultra 3 without increasing the physical dimensions of the Ultra, which means you should see slightly slimmer bezels on the Ultra 3 compared to the older Ultra models. Other new features include 5G cellular and satellite connectivity for both faster download speeds on the go as well as staying connected while off the grid, not to mention longer battery life of up to 42 hours. With all these new features, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 stays at the same starting price of $799, but you may save more when you purchase on Amazon. All in all, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is now the best Apple Watch to get for the ultimate, rugged experience.
