Samsung's latest foray into the premium smartwatch market, the Galaxy Watch Ultra, has made waves with its bold design and impressive features. However, after extensive testing, it's clear that while the device pushes boundaries in some areas, it also leaves users longing for a beloved feature from previous models.
A Commanding Presence
The Galaxy Watch Ultra makes an immediate impression with its sizeable 47mm case and robust titanium construction. At 12.1mm thick and weighing 60.5 grams, it's a substantial piece of technology that commands attention on the wrist. This heft may not suit all users, particularly those seeking a discreet wearable or comfortable sleep tracking option.
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| The Galaxy Watch Ultra's large and robust design captures attention on any wrist |
Display Dominance
One area where the Ultra truly shines is its display. The 480x480 pixel screen boasts an impressive 335 ppi, outclassing even the Apple Watch Series 9 in terms of resolution and clarity. The seamless integration between the display and bezel creates a striking visual effect, with watch faces that can easily be mistaken for high-end analog timepieces.
Innovation in Navigation
Samsung has implemented a novel touch bezel system on the Ultra, which proves to be both intuitive and satisfying to use. This digital interpretation of a chronograph bezel allows for easy navigation through the watch's features with haptic feedback. However, some users may find themselves missing the tactile experience of Samsung's previous physical rotating bezels.
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| The intuitive interaction with the Galaxy Watch Ultra's digital bezel showcases its innovative navigation system |
Battery Life That Goes the Distance
One of the Ultra's standout features is its exceptional battery life. Users can expect multiple days of use on a single charge, even with regular usage. This longevity is a significant advantage for those who engage in extended outdoor activities or simply dislike frequent charging.
The Missing Link
Despite its many advancements, the Galaxy Watch Ultra noticeably lacks Samsung's signature rotating bezel. This omission is particularly felt given the watch's premium positioning and price point. The physical bezel, a hallmark of Samsung's higher-end smartwatches, offered both aesthetic refinement and practical benefits for navigation, especially in challenging conditions like outdoor adventures or post-workout interactions.
Pricing and Availability
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is positioned as a premium offering, with a price tag to match. It retails for $649 in the US, £599 in the UK, and AU$1,299 in Australia.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra represents a bold step forward in smartwatch design and functionality. Its impressive display, innovative touch bezel, and exceptional battery life make it a compelling option for tech enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. However, the absence of the beloved rotating bezel and its substantial size may give some potential buyers pause. As Samsung continues to refine its ultra-premium smartwatch lineup, it will be interesting to see how they balance innovation with user-favorite features in future iterations.
