Apple launched its first Apple Watch Ultra in 2022, targeting the outdoor adventure market where Garmin dominates. The latest version of the watch brings some minor internal improvements, as well as a new strap color, with continued software updates to make it more attractive. Garmin also listened to its user base and launched its flagship GPS sports watch in 2023, featuring a brilliant AMOLED display, LED flashlight and more.
I’ve been reviewing and testing these watches and it’s really interesting to see that each is finally coming close to the expertise of the other. Apple brings more advanced sports tracking capabilities while Garmin provides improvements to smartphone connected experiences.
Although this article pits Apple’s latest against Garmin’s best GPS sports watch, the Epix Pro, I’ve reviewed enough less expensive but high-performing Garmin watches to recommend them to your consideration as well. For now, and based on specs and features alone, here are the clear cut reasons to buy one over the other.
Technical specifications of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Garmin Epix Pro
Garmin Epix Pro (Sapphire and 51 mm version)
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Screen : 1.4 inches Resolution 454×454 pixels, AMOLED sapphire glass - Materials : Fiber-reinforced polymer case with titanium bezel and back
- Storage : 32 GB of internal storage
- Waterproofing : 10 ATM (100 meters)
- Connectivity : WiFi, Bluetooth, ANT+, multi-band and dual-frequency GNSS
- Sensors : Optical HR, barometer, compass, altimeter, Pulse Ox
- Battery : Up to 31 days as a smartwatch, 82 hours with GPS tracking
- Dimensions : 51 x 51 x 15.0mm and 88 grams
- Price : 1150 €
Apple Watch Ultra 2
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Screen : Touch screen 49 mm 410×502 LTPO OLED sapphire glass - Materials : Titanium case and three strap options
- Storage : 32 GB of internal storage
- Waterproofing : 100 meters
- Connectivity : 4G, WiFi, Bluetooth, ANT+, multi-band and dual-frequency GNSS
- Sensors : Optical HR, Barometer, Compass, Altimeter, Pulse Ox, Skin Temperature, Water Temperature, Depth Gauge
- Battery : Up to 36 hours
- Dimensions : 49 x 44 x 14.4mm and 61.3 grams
- Price : 900 €
You should buy the Garmin Epix Pro (2nd Gen) if…
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1. Very high autonomy is essential
The Garmin Epix Pro has the longest battery life of any Garmin watch with an AMOLED display. The Epix Pro, 51mm model, can last up to 31 days in smartwatch mode, up to 82 hours with GPS, up to 62 hours with all satellite systems and up to 17 hours in GPS mode with the music. There are options for even longer battery life by maximizing GPS modes for less frequent intervals.
Although the Apple Watch Ultra 2 has significantly increased battery life compared to existing watch models, 36 hours of battery life is still quite low compared to the Epix Pro. We’ll have to check if the battery life in use matches Apple’s claims.
2. You Need Expanded Customizable Data Fields
The latest version of Apple’s WatchOS includes several new options for data fields, including running power, but Garmin is known for its comprehensive support for customizable data fields across ALL sports. There are even third-party data fields available through the Garmin Connect store to expand options for athletes beyond the sports and modes the company provides by default.
If you want to improve your fitness, you can include these measurements in your Garmin watch. Additionally, users can display multiple fields on the main watch face to tailor the workout experience to their needs.
3. On-board mapping is desired
One of the most compelling features of the Garmin Epix Pro is the support for topographic maps, including the NextFork that guides you to the right trail during your outdoor adventures. The touchscreen and buttons make mapping easy, while the Epix Pro’s large AMOLED display allows navigation directly on the watch. This is clearly the best sports GPS watch for wrist mapping.
You should buy the Apple Watch Ultra 2 if…
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1. Connectivity and security are your priority
First of all, remember that the Apple Watch Ultra 2 only connects to the iPhone, Android phone users, move on. However, if you’re using an iPhone, Apple has taken connectivity to the next level with cellular support provided by default. This means it supports the new Collision Detection, Fall Detection and Emergency SOS functions. You can call and text, stream music, get directions, and gather information through Siri.
Also note that the Apple Watch Ultra 2 has an 86 decibel siren designed to attract attention in the event of a problem on the trail.
2. Smartwatch functions are vital
At its core, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is an Apple Watch. All the smartwatch features that make the Apple Watch the best smartwatch available are therefore present on the Ultra 2. It supports many third-party apps, offers seamless connectivity with Apple’s iPhone and much more.
All the health and wellness features that are part of the Apple Health ecosystem are present on the Ultra 2, so this watch offers what you love about the Apple Watch in a larger format.
3. You go scuba diving
Garmin only offers a few watches focused on scuba diving. So it was interesting to see how far Apple could go in supporting the Apple Watch Ultra 2 in this niche market. The Ultra 2 serves as a complete dive computer in combination with the app Oceanic Plus. Air status, ascent and descent tracking, among others, are provided in a simple, easy-to-understand format. The design of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is robust and its Ocean bracelet is suitable for aquatic environments. Dive session logs are also available on the Watch Ultra 2.
Source: “ZDNet.com”