Apple Watch 9 vs. Apple Watch Ultra 2 – What differences did we find?

Every time Apple announces a new release, we are among those who can’t wait to try it and compare it with its previous models. And it really is such a hermetic and exclusive brand (in the good sense of the word) that it is more difficult to compare with other competing models than with those in its own range. Therefore, we want to show you a comparison that will interest you if you are looking for a high-end smartwatch: Apple Watch 9 vs Apple Watch Ultra 2. 

As a summary, we can tell you that both the Apple Watch 9 and the Apple Watch Ultra 2 are versions that greatly improve their previous models. Likewise, they share numerous similarities (more than we thought at first, to tell the truth), such as the built-in processor, the increase in storage capacity compared to previous models, or the IP6X resistance level, among other issues.

However, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is one step above the Apple Watch 9. Why do we say that? Above all, because it optimizes autonomy much better, and achieves a screen brightness of up to 3000 nits, really difficult to see on most smartwatches on the market. In addition, it is a smartwatch more suitable for water sports, because it can withstand up to 100 meters of depth, twice as deep as the Apple Watch 9. However, we are going to tell you all the details and differences between these two smartwatches below, so, take note!

Apple Watch 9 vs Apple Watch Ultra 2 – Comparison table

Do you want to know what the most important differences are between the two Apple smartwatches? Take a look at our comparison table and see the most relevant changes!

A design with few changes

The design line is very similar in the two smartwatches, there are no significant changes beyond the colors. The Apple Watch 9 can be purchased in eye, white, black, blue, pink, clay, silver; while the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is available in olive green, indigo and blue. In addition to the color, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is slightly larger, since its case is 49 mm. Instead, the Apple Watch 9 has two sizes to choose from: 41 and 45 mm, both smaller than the Ultra 2. This also makes the Apple Watch 9 lighter when held.

Leaving aside the size, we look at the screen. Both smartwatches have an LTPO OLED screen, although the one on the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a little larger. A difference that responds to the larger size of the case, but that, in practice, is not very noticeable. However, the difference in resolution and, above all, in brightness is more noticeable. The Apple Watch 9 already has a maximum brightness of 2000 nits, which far exceeds most models on the market. But, in this sense, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 goes up a level and goes up to 3000 nits, no less. 

Battery life is another difference

One of the aspects in which we find the most difference between both smartwatches is the battery life. In standard use, this lasts up to 18 hours on the Apple Watch 9, and up to 36 on the Apple Watch Ultra 2. This same difference is if we activate the energy saving mode, in which case it doubles the 36 hours on the Watch 9 at 72 hours on the Ultra 2. Therefore, Apple has achieved better battery performance on the Apple Watch Ultra 2. Of course, both have fast charging.

What performance differences are there?

You already know that the processor is one of the key parts in smartwatches, because it determines the internal performance. And, in this sense, we were delighted to see that the two new Apple smartwatches have the S9 SiP processor, the updated version of the processor that the previous watches in the range had.

An update that brings with it a small change with respect to previous smartwatches, and that is that the protagonists of this review go from having 32 GB to 64 GB of internal storage. The truth is that Apple had not updated its storage capacity for years.

Physical and sports monitoring

Returning to the improvement of the processor, in turn, it means that both have the same sensors to monitor health: heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, sleep control, menstrual cycle tracking, temperature sensor, etc. On the other hand, they share the IP6X resistance grade, which determines that they have the maximum possible resistance to dust.

But what if we talk about sports? Here we find another reason why the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is one step ahead of the Apple Watch 9, despite the fact that both are high-end. Especially if you practice water sports. The Ultra 2 is capable of submerging up to 100 meters, while the Apple Watch 9 goes up to 50 meters. In this regard, it is worth noting that the Apple Watch Ultra 2 also has a slight improvement in GPS accuracy (hard to notice, really), which makes it more reliable for checking routes if you are going cycling. , hiking or any other outdoor activity.

What other technological features do they have?

Now that you know what the differences are between the two Apple smart watches, you may be wondering if there are changes in terms of connectivity and technology. Let us tell you, not many. What’s more, both smartwatches are compatible with NFC, the technology that enables contactless payments.

Likewise, they support Bluetooth version 5.3, and both integrate an internal microphone with which to transmit voice commands. Yes, there is a small difference in the speakers, which are dual in the Apple Watch Ultra 2, when the Apple Watch 9 has a single speaker. However, we already warned you that it is not a substantial difference on which to base your decision.

Apple Watch 9 vs Apple Watch Ultra 2: Which smartwatch do we choose?

After having analyzed in detail all the differences and similarities between the two smart watches, we reaffirm the hunch we had at the beginning of the comparison. Both the Apple Watch 9 and the Ultra 2 are two of the most complete high-end smartwatches of the moment, and being an Apple brand, we have a quality guarantee. However, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is at a higher level, especially when it comes to autonomy and sports optimization capabilities.

In fact, when asked which smartwatch to choose, we would tell you that the answer is that it depends. It depends on whether you usually practice outdoor or water sports or not, since that is the main reason we would give you to opt for the Apple Watch Ultra 2. This watch allows you to optimize performance much better for these sports, although its price is higher.

Otherwise, the Apple Watch 9 is an excellent option that already ensures better performance than previous smartwatches. However, we must also recognize that we expected the price difference to be greater, but it is not that high. This makes many users consider, for a little more money, buying a smartwatch that, regardless of the sport you practice, offers more autonomy. As we always tell you, it all depends on you.