The smartwatch market is heating up, and two titans clash: Samsung's rugged Galaxy Watch5 Pro and Apple's adventure-focused Watch Ultra. Both promise premium features and robust performance, but which one truly delivers? This comprehensive comparison will break down every aspect to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Apple Watch Ultra boasts superior performance, a brighter display, and faster charging. However, the Galaxy Watch5 Pro offers longer battery life and broader compatibility. For Apple users deeply integrated into the ecosystem, the Ultra is the clear winner; otherwise, the Watch5 Pro provides excellent value and versatility.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 - International, China, HK |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 39, 40, 41, 66 - International, China, HK |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 25, 26, 39, 40, 41, 66 - USA, LATAM, Canada |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, August 10 | 2022, September 07 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, August 26 | Available. Released 2022, September 23 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front (Sapphire crystal), titanium frame | Sapphire crystal front, ceramic/sapphire crystal back, titanium frame |
| Dimensions | 45.4 x 45.4 x 10.5 mm (1.79 x 1.79 x 0.41 in) | 49 x 44 x 14.4 mm (1.93 x 1.73 x 0.57 in) |
| SIM | eSIM | eSIM |
| Weight | 46.5 g (1.66 oz) | 61.3 g (2.15 oz) |
| | MIL-STD-810H compliant*
50m water resistant (IP68)
Compatible with standard 20mm straps
ECG certified
Blood pressure monitor
*does not guarantee ruggedness or use in extreme conditions | IP6X certified
100m water resistant (WR100)
40m swimproof/diving (EN13319)
MIL-STD 810H certified
ECG certified (region dependent SW application; HW available on all models) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Sapphire crystal | Sapphire crystal glass |
| Resolution | 450 x 450 pixels (~321 ppi density) | 502 x 410 pixels (~338 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.4 inches | 1.92 inches |
| Type | Super AMOLED | Retina LTPO OLED, 2000 nits (peak) |
| | Always-on display | Always-on display |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Dual-core 1.18 GHz Cortex-A55 | Dual-core |
| Chipset | Exynos W920 (5 nm) | Apple S8 |
| GPU | Mali-G68 | PowerVR |
| OS | Android Wear OS 4, One UI Watch 5 | watchOS 9.0, upgradable to watchOS 26.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 16GB 1.5GB RAM | 32GB |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with dual speakers (86-decibel) |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP, LE | 5.3, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | No | No |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, barometer, thermometer (body temperature) | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, barometer, always-on altimeter, compass, SpO2, VO2max, temperature (body), temperature (water) |
| | Natural language commands and dictation
Samsung Pay | Temperature sensing (0.01˚ accuracy)
Depth gauge (±1m accuracy)
Natural language commands and dictation (talking mode)
Ultra Wideband (UWB) support |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wireless | Wireless, 0-80% in 60 min |
| Type | Li-Ion 590 mAh | Li-Ion 542 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black Titanium, Gray Titanium | Titanium |
| Models | SM-R925F | A2684, A2622, A2859, watch6,18 |
| Price | About 110 EUR | About 550 EUR |
| SAR EU | - | 0.35 W/kg (head) 0.60 W/kg (body) |
Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro
- Exceptional battery life
- Durable titanium case and sapphire crystal glass
- Wear OS with broad app compatibility
- Advanced fitness tracking features
- Route tracking with GPS
- Slightly less powerful processor than Apple Watch Ultra
- Design may be too bulky for some
- Wireless charging is slower
Apple Watch Ultra
- Blazing-fast performance with the S8 chip
- Incredibly bright and clear display
- Advanced features for divers and extreme athletes
- Seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem
- Faster wireless charging
- Limited compatibility with Android devices
- Shorter battery life compared to the Watch5 Pro
- Premium price tag
Display Comparison
The Apple Watch Ultra features a significantly brighter display (up to 2000 nits) compared to the Watch5 Pro, making it easier to read in direct sunlight. While the Watch5 Pro's display is vibrant, the Ultra's visibility is a clear advantage. Both utilize excellent screen technology, but the Ultra's brightness is a game-changer.
Camera Comparison
Neither watch includes a dedicated camera. This is a consistent trend in premium smartwatches, relying on smartphone integration for photography.
Performance
The Apple S8 chip in the Watch Ultra provides noticeably faster performance than the Exynos W920 in the Watch5 Pro. App loading times are quicker, and the overall user experience feels smoother on the Ultra. While the Watch5 Pro is capable, the Ultra's processing power is undeniable.
Battery Life
The Galaxy Watch5 Pro excels in battery life, typically lasting 2-3 days on a single charge, while the Apple Watch Ultra offers around 36-48 hours. The Watch5 Pro's larger battery capacity gives it a significant edge in longevity.
Buying Guide
Who should buy the Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro? Android users seeking a durable smartwatch with excellent fitness tracking and longer battery life. Who should buy the Apple Watch Ultra? iPhone users prioritizing top-tier performance, a stunning display, and advanced features for extreme sports and outdoor adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Apple Watch Ultra compatible with Android?
No, the Apple Watch Ultra is exclusively compatible with iPhones.
❓ Which watch is better for fitness tracking?
Both offer excellent fitness tracking, but the Watch5 Pro has more advanced route tracking and GPS features, while the Ultra excels in water sports and diving.
❓ How long does it take to charge each watch?
The Apple Watch Ultra charges significantly faster, reaching 80% in 60 minutes. The Galaxy Watch5 Pro's wireless charging is slower.
❓ Which watch is more durable?
Both are very durable, but the Watch Ultra's titanium case and flat sapphire crystal offer exceptional protection against impacts and scratches.
