Apple Watch Series 9 vs. Apple Watch Ultra 2: Which is Better?

Gone are the days when watches were just a way to tell time. With the addition of heart rate monitors, large screens for texting, and speakers for taking calls, they've become miniature mobile phones. But can these features be improved? Let's compare the latest Apple Watch Series 9 vs. the Apple Watch Ultra 2.

With the recent launch of new Apple devices, the already confusing choice between Apple Watches has become even more confusing. To make the choice clearer, let's take a look at all the new features offered in the new Apple Watches, followed by a detailed comparison between the Apple Watch Series 9 and the Apple Watch Ultra 2. Let's get started.

APPLE WATCH SERIES 9 VS. APPLE WATCH ULTRA 2: Specifications

Before we start comparing the new Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2, let's take a look at the specifications of both devices.

Let's discuss these features in detail and see which Apple Watch might be best for you.

What's new in Apple WATCH SERIES 9 and Apple WATCH ULTRA 2?

Before we compare the features of the Apple Watch Series 9 vs. Apple Watch Ultra 2, we'll briefly examine some of the newly introduced features shared by both devices.

1. Double-tap gesture

A highly functional feature, Double Tap on Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 allows you to take actions without touching the watch screen. To use this feature, simply double-tap your index finger and thumb on the hand you wear your Apple Watch.

As Apple explains, you can use this feature to answer or end calls, silence reminders, and much more, even when your hands are otherwise occupied.

2. Processor

The Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 are powerful devices, all thanks to the dual-core S9 chip. The S9 SiP, newly introduced with a 64-bit dual-core processor, features a quad-core Neural Engine that helps improve overall performance. The S9 chip also helps enable new features like double-tap gestures and Siri on the device.

On the other hand, the quad-core Neural Engine is useful when performing machine learning tasks, making both watches up to 2x faster than their predecessors. It also helps provide efficient battery performance.

3. Siri + On-device health inquiries

A poor internet connection can cause Siri to not work properly on your Apple Watch. To address this issue, Apple has made Siri processing information on-device on the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2. This not only makes the process more efficient but also enhances the privacy of your data.

Additionally, you can also ask Siri on Apple Watch for your health data, such as the quality of your sleep last night. This feature will be available by the end of this year.

4. Find the resolution for your iPhone

Although the option Test your iPhone connection from your Apple Watch It's not new, but Apple has improved it. You can now pinpoint your iPhone's location by getting the approximate distance and direction on your Apple Watch, along with helpful haptic feedback to guide you along the way. This can be incredibly useful if you (like me) are constantly misplacing your iPhone and want more help finding it.

5. Live Activity on iPhone

Certain apps on your iPhone can launch the Live Activity feature, allowing you to track real-time updates from your Lock screen. But with Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2, any task that triggers it, such as switching to Cycling mode, automatically opens.  Live Activities on your iPhone To sync data and give you a better view of your progress.

6. Carbon neutral

With Apple's pledge to become carbon neutral by 2030, it's no surprise that Apple products are now manufactured using recycled materials to help reduce their carbon footprint. In line with this, certain versions of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 are 100% carbon neutral, a first for Apple.

APPLE WATCH SERIES 9 VS. APPLE WATCH ULTRA 2: DIFFERENCES

Now that we know what new features have been introduced to the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2, let's take a quick look at some of the key specifications that distinguish both devices.

1. Size and weight

If you're looking for a watch with a large display and don't mind the extra weight, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is perfect for you. The 49mm titanium case is large enough to display information clearly even when outdoors. However, this size makes it a bit bulky, weighing in at 61.4 grams.

If you don't like large, bulky watches and want something lightweight, the Apple Watch Series 9 is the right choice. It's more compact in its 45mm and 41mm variants and relatively lighter, weighing between 31.9g and 42.3g, depending on the variant.

2. Battery life

The battery life of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 has been greatly improved. Under normal conditions, it can last up to 36 hours. If you use it in Low Power Mode, it extends to 72 hours. However, the battery life of the Apple Watch Series 9 is less than ideal, at just 18 hours, or up to 36 hours in Low Power Mode.

While 18 hours may be considered sufficient, this time may be reduced when used with certain other apps or services. In this case, you can enable Low Power Mode or monitor your device usage. Alternatively, if you're frequently outdoors for longer periods and don't always have access to charging points, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is your best bet.

3. Brightness

While you can reach as low as 1 nit on the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2, it's a different story when you try to increase the brightness. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers an always-on Retina display of up to 3000 nits. It also has provisions for low-light detection and Night Mode accordingly.

The Apple Watch Series 9, with its always-on Retina display, can only reach 2000 nits. It may not be as bright as the Ultra 2, but it's an improvement. Compared to Apple Watch Series 8.

4. Durability

Designed for outdoor use, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is water resistant to 100 meters. It can also be used for recreational diving up to 40 meters. This, combined with EN13319 certification, depth sensors, and a hydrometer, makes it the perfect choice for outdoor enthusiasts. It is also dust resistant.

On the other hand, the Apple Watch Series 9 has the same dust resistance rating but is only water resistant to a depth of 50 meters. There is no water gauge or depth sensor. So, if you're an outdoor enthusiast, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is definitely more suitable for your needs. For routine wear, the Apple Watch Series 9 works just as well.

5. Speaker and microphone

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 features dual speakers and a three-microphone array with beamforming. This helps deliver clear, crisp audio. It also features wind noise reduction. The Apple Watch Series 9 features a second-generation primary speaker with a microphone setup, which is sufficient for everyday communication.

6. Health and SOS features

While both watches feature the latest blood oxygen and electrical heart sensors, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 takes it a step further by including a depth sensor for diving and an alarm that can be heard from up to 600 feet away if you get lost. The Ultra 2 also uses GPS (GPS) Dual frequency precision for more accurate direction and location data.

While the addition may not seem like a big deal, it's a welcome step in enhancing the security features already available on Apple Watch. This could prove useful for activities like extreme sports, hiking, and more.

7. Customize the action button

With the introduction of the customizable action button on iPhone 15 ProIt's no surprise that this feature is also being added to the Apple Watch. This will give you more control over the Action Button and can be extremely useful for launching any frequently used app or feature. However, this feature is currently exclusive to the Apple Watch Ultra 2.

8. Color options

Forget the different colors. The Apple Watch Series 9 comes in two different material options. If you're looking for a more tactile finish, you can opt for the stainless steel variant, which comes in three colors: gold, silver, and graphite. The standard aluminum variant has relatively more color options, such as Midnight, Starlight, Silver, Rose Gold, and Product (RED).

On the other hand, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 only comes in a Titanium version with one standard color choice, namely Natural.

9. Price

One of the most important factors when deciding on a product is the final price. While the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is certainly feature-packed, it retails for a hefty $799. On the other hand, the Apple Watch Series 9 is relatively affordable at $399 for the base GPS model. However, this price will increase if you're looking for more functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1. When can you order Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2?
The answer: Pre-orders are now open for Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 on Apple websiteThe watches will ship starting September 22, 2023. Although delivery may take a little longer depending on your location.

Q2. Are there different versions of the Apple Watch Series 9?
The answer: Apple has partnered with Hermès to release a special edition Apple Watch Series 9 Hermès Edition. Additionally, you can also get your Apple Watch Series 9 with custom Nike Sport Bands.

APPLE WATCH ULTRA 2 VS. APPLE WATCH 9: Which one should you choose?

In the Apple Watch Series 9 or Apple Watch Ultra 2 debate, the winner depends entirely on your activity level. If you're a sports enthusiast and don't mind spending the extra money, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is an excellent and clear choice. However, if you're looking for a watch for everyday use or are on a budget, the Apple Watch Series 9 is a great contender.