Apple Watch Ultra: The Premium Watch Most Users Don't Actually Need

By Fernando Silva | January 17, 2026

As an Apple Watch Ultra owner since its 2022 debut, currently using the Black Titanium Ultra 2 model, I've worn this device nearly daily for four years. My initial attraction was straightforward: extended battery life, the larger display, and premium titanium construction. Apple positions the Ultra as its most capable wearable - but after extensive daily use, I've concluded it's simultaneously the best Apple Watch ever made and one that most people don't actually require.

What Defines the Ultra Experience

The Ultra distinguishes itself through several hardware enhancements:

• 49mm titanium case offering greater durability
• Action Button for quick function access
• 3000-nit display (brighter than Series models)
• Extended 36-hour battery life
• Built-in cellular connectivity
• Specialized sensors for depth gauges and dual-frequency GPS

These features create a device clearly designed for extreme environments - diving expeditions, mountain treks, and wilderness exploration. Yet internally, the Ultra shares identical processing power with standard Apple Watches. Both the Ultra 3 and Series 11 run Apple's S10 SiP, delivering equivalent performance for everyday tasks.

Daily Reality vs. Marketing Imagery

My actual usage reveals a significant gap between Apple's adventurous marketing and practical application:

1. Fitness Tracking: Perfect for workouts and activity rings
2. Sleep Monitoring: Nightly wear provides valuable recovery data
3. Health Alerts: Vitals app detected early flu symptoms
4. Ecosystem Features: Camera remote, biometric authentication
5. Wake Alarms: Gentle vibration alerts

These core functions work identically on any recent Apple Watch. Meanwhile, the Ultra's specialty features remain unused: I've never activated the depth gauge, required emergency SOS, or utilized advanced GPS waypoints. The Action Button? Programmed to shortcuts I could access through other means.

The sole tangible benefit becomes the extended battery life - convenient, but not essential with nightly charging habits.

The Value Dilemma

At its $799 retail price, the Ultra represents a significant premium over the $399 Series 11. For most users, that price difference buys capabilities they'll never utilize. My realization: The regular Apple Watch handles everything in my routine.

However, market dynamics shift the equation. Amazon currently offers the Ultra 2 at $549 - just $30 more than a cellular-equipped Series 11. At this price point, the Ultra's superior build quality and battery become compelling advantages.

Final Assessment

The Ultra excels as engineering achievement. Its titanium construction feels substantial, the display remains best-in-class, and battery life impresses. But unless you regularly climb mountains or dive coral reefs, a standard Apple Watch delivers identical core functionality. The Ultra becomes hardware overkill - exceptional technology searching for problems most users don't have.

What's your experience? Does the Ultra's adventure focus justify its price for your lifestyle? Share your perspective below.