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 and Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 score essentially the same (4.2 vs 4.2). Pick the one whose trade-offs match your priorities — the strengths and watch-outs below are where they actually differ.

Ranked #6 in Best Smartwatches

Apple Watch SE 3

4.2

6 sources2 derived$219as of Aug 22

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
— Powered by S10 chip matching Apple Watch Series 11 for performance and features like on-device Siri
— Includes media playback speakers with adjustable volume for on-wrist audio

Watch-outs

— Design retains 2018 facelift with thicker bezels and outdated body profile
— Limited color options with only Midnight and Starlight available

$219 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #4 in Best Smartwatches

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2

4.2

7 sources1 derived$699.99as of Aug 22

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
— 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)
— Trail map search not functional at launch
— Dive mode unavailable at launch

$699.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

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

Spec	Apple Watch SE 3	Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2
Display Type	LTPO OLED	Super AMOLED
Connectivity	5G	LTE; eSIM; Wi-Fi 4; BT 6.0; NFC
OS	watchOS 26	Android Wear OS 7, One UI Watch 9
Compatibility	iPhone	Android phones only
Material	100% recycled aluminum	Titanium case
Water Resistance	50m (swimproof)	IP68/IP69K; 100m/10ATM; 40m swimproof/diving
Battery	Built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery	800 mAh
Dimensions	9.4 x 3 x 1.2 inches	41.7mm x 45.7mm, 46mm x 49mm

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