The 2025 Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra was a quiet refresh: the same rugged titanium watch as the 2024 original, with double the storage and a new Titanium Blue color. That small change left many buyers wondering whether they paid for an upgrade that barely existed. In October 2026 the picture has shifted again, because Samsung now sells the Galaxy Watch Ultra2. Here is what each model offers, what it costs, and who should skip the Ultra altogether.
Galaxy Watch Ultra models explained
The first Ultra, launched at $649.99 with 32GB of storage and LTE built in.
Same hardware, but 64GB of storage and a Titanium Blue option, at the same price.
A true successor released August 7, 2026, priced at $699.99.
The key point for anyone who bought the 2025 Ultra: apart from storage and color, it is the same watch as the 2024 model. New software features arrived through updates rather than new hardware, and many of them reached the older model too. If you own a 2024 Ultra, there was never a strong reason to buy the 2025 version.
Galaxy Watch Ultra vs Ultra2 specs
| Spec | Galaxy Watch Ultra (2025) | Galaxy Watch Ultra2 |
|---|---|---|
| US price | From $649.99 | $699.99 |
| Size | 47mm only | 47mm only |
| Chip | Samsung 3nm processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear Elite |
| Battery | 590mAh | 800mAh |
| Peak brightness | Up to 3,000 nits | Up to 5,000 nits |
| Storage | 64GB | 64GB |
| Durability | 10ATM, IP68, military standard 810H | 10ATM, IP69K, military standard 810H |
| LTE | Included | Included |
Samsung says the Ultra2 is 12 percent thinner than the previous Ultra while carrying a battery about 35 percent larger. It runs Wear OS 7 with One UI 9 Watch and adds Ultra only features such as Trail Run and diving tools, alongside health features shared with the Galaxy Watch9, including FDA cleared sleep apnea detection, Vitals and a Heart Health Score.
Pros and cons of the Galaxy Watch Ultra
What it does well:
- Titanium case, sapphire crystal glass and water resistance to 100 meters make it far tougher than a typical smartwatch.
- LTE is included at no extra hardware cost, so you can leave your phone at home and still take calls or stream music with a carrier plan.
- Dual frequency GPS improves location accuracy in cities and under tree cover.
- A programmable Quick Button and a large, bright display suit outdoor sports.
Where it falls short:
- One 47mm size only, which is big and heavy on smaller wrists.
- It works with Android phones only; iPhone owners cannot use it.
- Some of the best features work best or only with Samsung Galaxy phones.
- Battery life is good for a smartwatch but well short of dedicated multisport watches built for expeditions.
Alternatives and who should skip it
- Galaxy Watch9: starts at $379.99 for Bluetooth or $429.99 with LTE, comes in 40mm and 44mm, and shares most health features. Best for everyday wear and smaller wrists.
- Google Pixel Watch 5: available in 41mm and 45mm, with tight Google and Fitbit integration for Android users who do not need a rugged design.
- Apple Watch Ultra 4: the equivalent rugged pick for iPhone owners, since Galaxy watches do not pair with iPhones.
- Garmin outdoor watches: the better choice if you care most about multiday battery life and training analytics over apps.
Skip the Galaxy Watch Ultra if you own an iPhone, prefer a lighter watch, rarely exercise outdoors, or already own a 2024 or 2025 Ultra that still holds a charge well.
FAQ
What is the difference between the 2024 and 2025 Galaxy Watch Ultra?
The 2025 model doubles storage to 64GB and adds a Titanium Blue color. The rest of the hardware is the same.
Is the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 worth upgrading to?
From a 2024 or 2025 Ultra, it is a meaningful step thanks to the larger battery, brighter screen and new chip, but your current watch still works well if battery life is not a problem.
Does the Galaxy Watch Ultra work with iPhone?
No. Current Galaxy watches require an Android phone.
Does the Galaxy Watch Ultra come in a smaller size?
No. Both the original Ultra and the Ultra2 come only in 47mm. Choose the Galaxy Watch9 for a smaller case.
The verdict
The 2025 Galaxy Watch Ultra was a minor refresh that disappointed buyers expecting new hardware. In October 2026, the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 is the rugged Samsung watch to buy at full price, the older Ultra is only worth it on a clear discount, and most people who just want health tracking will be happier and save money with the Galaxy Watch9.
Updated October 2026: rewritten as a neutral buyer guide covering the 2024, 2025 and Ultra2 models, prices, alternatives and who should skip it.
Featured photo: Daniel Romero on Unsplash.
About this article: GeekBlog covers U.S. technology news, AI, phones, smartwatches and gaming. Every story is written and checked under our Editorial Policy. Spotted a mistake or have a story tip? Contact our editors.
