Apple Watch Ultra 2 Price Analysis : Is it worth the upgrade?

YEET MAGAZINE

Sep 21, 2023 • 3 min read

Thinking of upgrading to the Apple Watch Ultra 2 ? Find out if it's worth It. When it comes to the Apple Watch Ultra 2, it's important to consider if the upgrade is worth it.

The original Apple Watch Ultra made a bold entry into a somewhat niche market, catering to outdoor enthusiasts engaged in activities like hiking, ultramarathon running, and diving.

While this might not be a massive market segment, it's not entirely underserved, as companies like Garmin have thrived in this space.

Apple could have taken a more cautious approach by simply expanding its app partnerships on the standard Watch line, but the Apple Watch Ultra stands out for its fearless commitment. It's a sizable and robust device designed to excel in challenging environments that most people prefer to avoid.

When the first Ultra was unveiled, it received mixed reactions, primarily because tech reviewers, who often evaluate gadgets, weren't typically ultramarathon runners.

This raised questions about the size of the market Apple was targeting with this product. Nonetheless, there are extreme athletes who genuinely appreciate such gadgets.

However, devices built for these purposes tend to be bulky and complex. The Apple Watch Ultra's advantage lies in its core identity as an Apple Watch. It benefits from years of smartwatch development and refinement, avoiding the issues often associated with purpose-built devices.

Design also played a significant role in the Ultra's appeal. Its large, sturdy metal body, while not universally loved, found a dedicated fan base. Some users, even those not involved in ultramarathons, chose the Ultra over the standard Apple Watch simply because of its industrial design.

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is not a revolutionary overhaul, as substantial resources were invested in the first Ultra.

The second iteration builds upon a platform that Apple has refined over a decade. Many of the enhancements found in the Ultra 2 can also be seen in the Series 9.

Unlike the iPhone/iPhone Pro division, where one gets exclusive features that trickle down to the other, Apple has adopted a more unified approach for its watch line.

Both models receive similar upgrades, with a few exclusives tailored to specific user needs reserved for the higher-end unit.

One of the standout features is the significantly brighter display, peaking at 3,000 nits and dimming down to a single nit when needed. Storage capacity has doubled to 64GB by default.

Ultimately, neither the new Ultra nor the Ultra 2 represents a massive leap over their predecessors. If you already own the previous generation, it's challenging to justify an upgrade. This is especially true for the Ultra, given its starting price of $799.

With the new model on the horizon, you can now find the original at a substantial discount. It already boasts distinguishing features like a rugged case and impressive battery life (36 hours of standard use, 72 in low power mode).

However, opting for the older model means missing out on welcome upgrades.

Features like Double Tap, allowing one-handed interaction during activities like running, and the new S9 chip, which brings enhanced speed and efficiency, are worth considering. If these improvements align with your needs, then investing a bit more in the Ultra 2 may be a wise choice.

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