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Head-to-head · Best Smartwatches

Apple Watch SE 3 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Apple Watch SE 3 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.4 vs 4.0). Apple Watch SE 3 is best for: Budget-conscious users wanting Apple ecosystem. Read the strengths below before deciding.

Apple Watch SE 3
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Smartwatches
Apple Watch SE 3
1 source$219as of Oct 14

The Apple Watch SE 3 represents the most improved iteration since the last generation, offering a compelling balance of affordability and functionality. It features an Always-On Retina display, S10 chip, and enhanced speaker capabilities while maintaining the older design aesthetic. While it lacks some advanced health metrics found in higher-tier models, it provides solid performance and is recommended as the go-to option for most users seeking an Apple Watch.

Strengths
  • — Features Always-On Retina display with 1000 nits brightness and 2 nits dimming capability, per AppleInsider
  • — Includes media playback speakers with adjustable volume for on-wrist audio
  • — Utilizes strengthened Ion-X glass that is 4X crack-resistant compared to previous generation, according to Cult of Mac
Watch-outs
  • — Design retains 2018 facelift with thicker bezels and outdated body profile, per Wareable
  • — Limited color options with only Midnight and Starlight available
$219 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2
Ranked #9 in Best Smartwatches
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2
2 sources$680.48as of Oct 11

The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 offers a significant upgrade in battery life and processing power, making it a compelling choice for users seeking a rugged, feature-rich smartwatch. Its 800 mAh battery delivers up to 50 hours of use with always-on display, while the Snapdragon Wear Elite processor enhances AI interactions like hands-free Gemini. However, its premium price point and some missing features like dive mode and trail map search at launch may deter some buyers. The watch is best suited for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals who value durability and long battery life over everyday convenience.

Strengths
  • — 50-hour battery life with always-on display enabled, per CNET
  • — Fast Snapdragon Wear Elite processor improves AI features like hands-free Gemini
  • — Durable titanium design with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal
Watch-outs
  • — Expensive at $700 ($50 more than previous gen), per CNET
  • — Trail map search not functional at launch
  • — Dive mode unavailable at launch
$680.48 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →

How they stack up

Apple Watch SE 3

The Apple Watch SE 3 offers an updated design and Always-On Retina display, which the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 and Apple Watch Series 11 don't match, but it lacks the advanced health features of the Garmin Venu 4 and Apple Watch Ultra 3. While it provides better value than the Apple Watch Series 11, it doesn't offer the same level of smart features as the OnePlus Watch 3 or Xiaomi Watch 5. The Google Pixel Watch 4 offers more battery life but lacks the ecosystem integration that the SE 3 provides.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2

The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 stands out with its 50-hour battery life and titanium design, but unlike the Apple Watch Series 11, it lacks 5G support and doesn't offer the same level of integration with iOS ecosystems. While the Garmin Venu 4 provides more advanced fitness metrics, the Ultra 2's Snapdragon Wear Elite processor gives it an edge in AI features like hands-free Gemini. However, its high price point and missing dive mode at launch make it less appealing compared to the OnePlus Watch 3, which offers five-day battery life at a more competitive price.

Specs side-by-side

SpecApple Watch SE 3Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2
Display TypeLTPO OLEDSuper AMOLED
Connectivity5GLTE; eSIM; Wi-Fi 4; BT 6.0; NFC
OSwatchOS 26Android Wear OS 7, One UI Watch 9
CompatibilityiPhoneAndroid phones only
Material100% recycled aluminumTitanium case
Water Resistance50m (swimproof)IP68/IP69K; 100m/10ATM; 40m swimproof/diving
BatteryBuilt-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery800 mAh
Dimensions9.4 x 3 x 1.2 inches41.7mm x 45.7mm, 46mm x 49mm
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