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If you're always on the go, managing work meetings, social engagements, and gym sessions, a smartwatch can be a valuable tool in your arsenal. In the exciting world of wearable tech, Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 are style-savvy sidekicks. Each boasts cool features to help you keep track of appointments, messages, and fitness goals. While they may look similar, these Apple Watches are more different than you think.
It’s no secret that Apple Watches are among the best wearables in the market. But the Series 9 and Ultra 2 have significantly improved a lot of existing features. Explore the individual features of the Series 9 and Ultra 2—from design to smart features—to find which one is just right for you.
Design and Build
As far as durability goes, the Ultra 2's titanium case is more hardwearing than the Series 9. But the latter’s aluminum and stainless steel material is still durable.
The Ultra 2 also has a slightly larger display, though most users claim the difference is negligible. But the Ultra 2’s standout feature is its programmable action button, which you can format to activate any app shortcut.
Winner: Ultra 2
Battery Life
Do you frequently forget your Apple Watch charger at home? Then this category has an easy winner. While Apple Watch Series 9’s battery life lasts up to 18 hours on a full charge and 36 hours in low-power mode, Apple Watch Ultra 2's battery life is twice as long. It lasts 36 hours by default and 72 hours in low-power mode, making it ideal for users who are frequently on the go and don’t have time to charge their phone.
Winner: Ultra 2
Health and Fitness Tracking
Which Apple Watch has the better health and fitness tracking features will ultimately depend on what you need it for. If you’re a hiker or athlete, Apple Watch Ultra 2 makes the perfect companion. Still, Apple Watch Series 9 boasts an impressive range of fitness-related features.
Both watches support blood oxygen monitoring, temperature sensing, ECG, sleep tracking, and heart rate notifications for enhanced health monitoring on your wrist. These features let you keep a closer eye on vital health metrics crucial for the early detection of potential health issues.
The Ultra 2 and Series 9 have identical workout features, save for the Ultra 2’s ability to support deeper swims. While the Ultra 2 surprisingly lacks a scuba diving activity, you can download third-party apps for your seasonal dives.
Winner: Tie
Outdoor Features and Functionalities
If you're among the Ultra 2's target audience of outdoor adventurers, it might be the ideal choice for you. The Action button is perfect for programming fitness shortcuts and activating different workout modes, so you won’t spend too much time fidgeting with your settings.
The Wayfinder is an exclusive feature of the Ultra 2. This high-contrast digital compass boasts extreme accuracy and a design meant for hiking. Another standout feature of the Ultra 2 is the Modular Ultra, a cool new watch face that does a lot. It tells the time, weather, altitude, and several other measurables fit for a backpacker.
The Ultra 2's new S9 chip enables new functionalities like the Double Tap. This lets you interact with your Apple Watch one-handed by tapping your index finger and thumb together. Use it to stop timers, control music, answer calls, snooze alarms, and more even when your hands are full.
If you’ve always wanted to go on an outdoor adventure, the Ultra 2’s features will equip you with everything you need.
Winner: Ultra 2
Price and Value
As expected, the Series 9 is significantly more budget-friendly than the Ultra 2. The Series 9 is almost half the price of the Ultra 2, starting at ₱26,490, whereas the latter starts at ₱54,990.
All Apple watch straps are compatible with both products, but if you like to switch it up regularly, the Series 9 will save you more money.
Winner: Series 9
Kid-Friendliness
If you’re looking for the best Apple Watch for kids, the Series 9 is generally better for smaller wrists. It also has a smaller screen and is far less chunky than the Ultra 2.
While buying Apple Watch for kids without a phone may seem counterintuitive, you can set up their Apple Watch using another family member's iPhone. They can still enjoy music, news, calls, texts, photos, and maps on the watch.
Winner: Series 9
The Bottom Line
While the Ultra 2 stands out as the most advanced Apple Watch to date, the Series 9 is an excellent choice for its simplicity and ease of use. Both models offer unique features to match different lifestyles and preferences, making them essential devices for a wide range of activities.
Are you looking for a new wearable to be your daily sidekick? Get the Apple Watch that best suits your lifestyle with your GPlan!
