These are the two highest-powered versions, the newest versions, and the ones that are ultimately worth your investment. You might think about saving some money by buying a previous gen model -- but if you're investing in a new tech device, I always recommend getting the current generation. You'll be able to use it longer, even if you're not updating every year; in the era of planned obsolescence, you'll want the gadget that will be supported by software updates for as long as possible.
These two Apple Watch models look a lot different at first glance. The Ultra is massive and rugged, while the Series 10 is sleek and much smaller. Since they're running the same software, however, the user experience for most functions (app use, fitness tracking, smart notifications, etc.) will be largely the same. That's one of the major draws for the Apple Watch line: The tech giant has streamlined its wearable experience so if users have owned one model, they'll have a good idea about how the next one will work.
Still, there are features and aspects of each model that will appeal to different types of people. We'll break down the pros and cons of each -- and determine exactly which Apple Watch is best for you.
The Series 10 and the Ultra 2's biggest differences come in their casings and material.
The Series 10 looks much like every other Apple Watch that has come before it at first glance, with rounded edges, a button, and a knob (called the digital crown) to navigate the UI. There are two sizes, 42 mm and 46 mm, and two materials, aluminum and titanium (the latter replaces stainless steel as the elevated option for the standard Watch line). Most Series 10 buyers will likely opt for the aluminum version, given the additional cost for the more premium material ($399 vs. $699). You can choose between three colors for each of those (jet black, rose gold, and silver aluminum, or slate, gold, and "natural" titanium). Regardless of the make, the Series 10 is the thinnest wearable Apple has ever made, at 9.7 mm, and the aluminum version weighs just 36.4 grams. I noticed a stark difference between this slim device and other chunkier watches I've worn recently -- the Series 10 almost doesn't register on my wrist, especially the lighter aluminum version.
The Ultra 2 is bigger, heavier, and heftier than the standard Watch line. It's got a 49 mm titanium casing, and only two color options: silver (which the brand calls "natural" and was the sole choice until this product cycle), or the new black. There's also an extra Action button on the left side of the casing, which you can program for shortcuts to your favorite features. The Ultra 2 weighs 61.4 grams (natural) or 61.8 grams (black), almost twice the Series 10, and it's 14.4 mm thick.
Which is better is a personal preference. I would rather have a heavy-duty timepiece on my wrist, so I err toward the Ultra 2. For people who don't love that feeling or who have smaller wrists, however, the Series 10 will be a better choice. Both are hardy, dependable devices that wear well.
Winner: Tied
The Ultra 2 is the bigger one, so it has the better display, right? Not this year. The Ultra 2 can go brighter -- up to 3,000 nits vs. the Series 10's 2,000 -- but it's more important how you use the device.
The Series 10 was redesigned to fit even more viewable space onto the screen, the largest of any of its wearables. The new display is called a wide-angle OLED, and Apple claims it's 40 percent brighter than previous generations when viewed at an angle.
I noticed this difference right away when I put on the Series 10 for the first time at the product demo in Cupertino. I could see more of the screen at a glance, out of the corner of my eye -- the exact quick movement that spurred the change. Chalk up the W to the Series 10 in this department.
Winner: Apple Watch Series 10
There aren't a ton of differences between the two devices when it comes to the bells and whistles. They each feature Apple's ECG app, high and low heart rate notifications, irregular rhythm notifications, low cardio fitness notifications, sleep tracking and sleep apnea notifications, and the new Vitals app.
Where the Ultra 2 stands out is in its adventure-ready pedigree. The dual-band GPS works better for navigation than the Series 10 standard GPS, especially in potentially tough-to-map areas (think out in the woods or the middle of Manhattan surrounded by tall buildings). The Ultra 2 works better in water, too -- it's rated as water resistant up to 100 meters, compared to the Series 10's 50, and is designed to be used for scuba diving up to 40 meters (not something I've had the opportunity to try).
Tracking workouts wearing the Ultra 2 can be a bit more challenging than with the Series 10 simply due to its bulk, but I've never had an issue if I shift the watch face to the inside of my wrist.
Winner: Apple Watch Ultra 2
Battery life is the biggest knock most users have against Apple's wearables, since they're relatively short compared to some other smartwatches. When considering the two models at hand, however, one is clearly superior.
Apple estimates that the Series 10 can get about 18 hours of battery life per charge, the same number it's provided for the last few iterations of the device. My testing was actually much better than that rating, as I consistently made it beyond the 24-hour mark before having to top off the power even when I tracked activities. Still, it's a short time to go between charges. Thankfully, the Series 10 charges faster than its predecessors (up to 80 percent from zero in 30 minutes, according to Apple), so topping off the battery before sleep or during some downtime at work usually provides enough power to make it through the day.
The Ultra 2 packs more battery in its larger casing, and the difference is notable. Apple estimates that the device should last for 36 hours (or 72 hours on Low Power). I usually find myself charging the Ultra 2 every three days or so, depending on tracking usage. I try to use a fast charger as much as possible rather than the standard cables (check here for more details), which makes the process much quicker.
Winner: Apple Watch Ultra 2
Wearing both the Series 10 and the Ultra 2 will remind you that unsurprisingly, Apple makes the best smartwatch for iOS users. There's a seamless connection between the wearable on your wrist and the smartphone in your pocket that other device makers can't match -- when I test other watches, I find myself reaching to my wrist to use Apple Pay, then huffing as I'm forced to reach for my phone or wallet instead. That's a small movement, but it's a sign that this piece of tech is useful, not just a shiny gadget.
Functionally, there's no difference between these two devices since they run on the same operating system (watchOS 11, at this point), so the winner will again be a toss-up, with the deciding factor being user preference.
Winner: Tied
This one is simple. The standard aluminum Series 10 starts at $399 (or you can upgrade to titanium for $699). The Ultra 2 is $799. Even if you level up the Series 10, you'll pay less.
Winner: Apple Watch Series 10
Choosing between the Apple Watch Series 10 and Ultra 2 isn't as simple as one device being better than the other. What you want and need from a smartwatch is really important here -- since both wearables run on the same software, watchOS 11 (and will continue to receive updates as Apple pushes out new versions in the future), and have most of the same sensors, the features and daily use will be nearly identical for all but the most extreme use cases (i.e., the outdoor adventurer type who needs a tool, not just a gadget).
The right Apple Watch for you comes down to a fairly simple analysis of cost, fit, and function. Is $799 too much for your budget? The Series 10 is your pick. Do you have small wrists? Again, the Series 10. Do you prefer a bigger, more substantial wristwatch for an old-school feel? Ultra 2 is for you. Ditto if you're looking for a more rugged device for outdoor activities, elevated GPS tracking, and a long(er) lasting battery.
Either way, the Apple Watch line will be the top smartwatch pick for most iOS users. The seamless connection to the smartphones and integration of its functions within the Apple ecosystem is superior to devices from other companies for daily use, which can sometimes be difficult to sync. Upgrade to one of these smartwatches, and you'll be getting the best wearable experience available.