Apple Watch Ultra 4 vs Ultra 2: Key Upgrades and Price Comparison
The Apple Watch Ultra 4, launching three years after the Ultra 2, adds satellite connectivity, a larger display, new health sensors, and longer battery life. It starts at $799, while the discontinued Ultra 2 is available refurbished from $589. The comparison highlights differences in chip, RAM, display size, and workout tracking endurance.
The Ultra 4's display grows to 1,245 square millimeters, a 5% increase over the Ultra 2, while the case weight rises slightly to 63 grams. Charging is quicker, reaching 80% in about 45 minutes compared to an hour for the older model. The newer watch also drops GLONASS satellite support from its dual-frequency GPS array.
Workout endurance improves substantially, with standard outdoor tracking extending from 12 to 18 hours, and extended modes reaching 25 and 45 hours respectively. The Ultra 2 remains viable through watchOS 27 and Siri AI support, though it is no longer sold new. Refurbished units start at $589, a $210 savings over the Ultra 4's $799 entry price.
The Ultra 4's deeper health monitoring and longer battery could shift how athletes and frequent travelers rely on wearable data, potentially reducing dependence on phone charging during multi-day excursions. Satellite connectivity may offer genuine safety benefits for hikers and remote workers, though the $210 premium over refurbished Ultra 2 units could limit adoption among casual users. The broader trend toward always-on health sensing may also raise expectations for future wearable devices across the industry.