Should You Move From the Original Apple Watch Ultra to the Ultra 4?
A buyer's guide compares the first-generation Apple Watch Ultra with the Ultra 4, which arrives four years later. The newer model adds a brighter and larger display, satellite connectivity, updated health sensors, faster chips, and longer battery life while keeping the 49mm titanium case and dive features. The Ultra 4 starts at $799, whereas the original was discontinued in 2023 and cannot run the latest major watchOS version.
The original Ultra arrived four years before the Ultra 4, and Apple stopped selling it in 2023. Because it cannot install the newest major watchOS, owners may face app and feature limits over time. The Ultra 4 costs $799 at launch.
Both devices share a 49mm titanium body, Action button, siren, dual-frequency GPS, and 40-meter dive rating. The newer model adds a bigger, brighter screen, satellite emergency messaging, refreshed health sensors, faster silicon, more memory/storage, and longer runtime.
The Ultra 4 could matter most to hikers, divers, athletes, and health-conscious users who value longer battery life, satellite emergency options, and newer sensors. Existing first-generation owners may feel pressure to upgrade as software support fades, while budget-minded buyers might stay put or choose cheaper models. The $799 price may limit adoption, but improved safety and health features could make the device more appealing to frequent outdoor users.