Apple Watch SE vs Ultra – Which Should You Buy?
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Choosing the right Apple Watch depends on your lifestyle, needs, and budget. The Apple Watch Ultra and Apple Watch SE sit at opposite ends of Apple’s smartwatch lineup. One is built for adventure, loaded with high-end features, and designed to handle extreme conditions. The other offers essential tools at a much more accessible price. Whether you’re tracking workouts, staying connected on the go, or monitoring your health, both options deliver real value. This comparison breaks down the key differences to help you decide which model is the smarter choice for you.
Side By Side Comparison
| Feature | Apple Watch Ultra | Apple Watch SE |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 1.92-inch Always-On Retina (2000 nits) | 1.57 or 1.78-inch Retina (No Always-On, 1000 nits) |
| Case Material | Titanium, flat sapphire front crystal | Aluminum, Ion-X glass |
| Durability | WR100, IP6X, MIL-STD 810H | WR50, no dust resistance |
| Processor | S8 SiP dual-core | S5 SiP dual-core |
| Battery Life | Up to 36 hrs (60 hrs Low Power Mode) | Up to 18 hrs |
| Health Features | ECG, Blood Oxygen, Heart Rate, Crash Detection | Heart Rate, Fall Detection |
| GPS/Navigation | Dual-frequency GPS (L1 + L5) | Standard GPS |
| Buttons | Digital Crown + Side + Action Button | Digital Crown + Side Button |
| Cellular Support | All models include cellular | Optional (only on SE GPS + Cellular model) |
| Speaker/Mic | Dual speakers, triple-mic array | Single speaker, standard mic |
Detailed Feature Comparisons
Design and Construction
The Apple Watch Ultra is designed for durability and performance with a rugged titanium case and flat sapphire glass. The SE (1st Gen) uses lightweight aluminum and Ion-X glass, offering a slim, casual design that feels light on the wrist. The Ultra looks bold and premium, while the SE is simpler and more modest.
Display Quality
The Ultra’s large 1.92-inch Retina display is bright and always on, with peak brightness of 2000 nits. The SE lacks an Always-On display and maxes out at 1000 nits. The SE screen is still easy to read indoors, but the Ultra is better in bright sun or active use outdoors.
Battery Life
Apple Watch Ultra easily outpaces the SE with up to 36 hours of battery life and extended low-power options. The SE runs up to 18 hours, which means daily charging. For long trips or outdoor use, the Ultra offers more reliability.
Performance and Processor
The Ultra features the S8 chip, offering improved power efficiency and performance. The SE uses the older S5 chip, which still runs smoothly but can feel slower when handling newer apps or updates. If future-proofing is important, the Ultra is ahead.
Health and Fitness Features
The Ultra includes advanced sensors for ECG, Blood Oxygen, and even skin temperature. The SE focuses on core features like heart rate tracking and fall detection but lacks the premium health metrics. The Ultra is better for users monitoring health more closely.
Durability and Water Resistance
The Ultra is rated for WR100, IP6X dust resistance, and meets military standards. It’s also suitable for diving. The SE is swim-proof with WR50 but lacks dust and impact resistance, making it less rugged for tough environments.
Navigation and Outdoor Use
The Ultra includes dual-frequency GPS for better accuracy in dense areas, plus a new Compass app and waypoint/backtrack features. The SE has standard GPS and is better suited for basic tracking. Outdoor athletes will prefer the Ultra’s extras.
Buttons and Controls
With an additional Action Button, the Ultra allows quick access to workouts, waypoints, or apps. The SE sticks with the standard digital crown and side button, which work fine for everyday use but don’t offer customization.
Audio and Microphone Quality
The Ultra includes dual speakers and a three-microphone system for improved voice clarity in noisy areas. The SE has a basic speaker and mic setup that works for most calls but doesn’t match the Ultra’s clarity and volume.
FAQ
Can you swim with both the Apple Watch Ultra and Apple Watch SE?
Yes, both models are water-resistant, but the Apple Watch Ultra is far more capable. The Ultra is rated for WR100 and supports recreational scuba diving up to 40 meters. It also has an EN13319 depth gauge certification. The Apple Watch SE is rated for WR50, which means it’s safe for swimming in pools or shallow water but not suited for diving or high-pressure water activities.
Is the Apple Watch Ultra too large for small wrists?
The Apple Watch Ultra has a 49mm case, which is noticeably larger and bulkier than the SE’s 40mm or 44mm sizes. For users with smaller wrists, it may feel oversized and heavier. While it offers more screen space and durability, comfort may be a concern for those who prefer a compact and light watch.
Does the Apple Watch SE have an Always-On display like the Ultra?
No, the original Apple Watch SE does not have an Always-On display. The screen turns off when not in use and lights up when you raise your wrist or tap it. The Ultra, on the other hand, features an Always-On Retina display that remains visible at all times, which is more convenient for quick glances.
What health features are missing from the Apple Watch SE?
The SE lacks advanced health sensors like ECG (electrocardiogram), Blood Oxygen monitoring, and skin temperature tracking. These are included in the Apple Watch Ultra. The SE focuses on essential health tools such as heart rate monitoring, fall detection, and emergency SOS, making it a basic option for fitness tracking.
Is there a difference in GPS accuracy between the two models?
Yes, the Apple Watch Ultra includes dual-frequency GPS (L1 + L5), which offers more accurate location tracking, especially in urban areas or dense environments like forests and mountains. The Apple Watch SE uses a single-frequency GPS system, which is fine for general tracking but not as precise for advanced outdoor use.
Can you make calls and send messages without your iPhone nearby?
Only if the watch has cellular capability. The Apple Watch Ultra includes built-in cellular by default, allowing you to make calls, send texts, and stream music without your iPhone. The Apple Watch SE only supports this if you purchase the GPS + Cellular version. The standard SE model (GPS only) needs to stay connected to your iPhone.
How does the battery life compare between the two models?
The Apple Watch Ultra offers significantly longer battery life, up to 36 hours of regular use and up to 60 hours in Low Power Mode. The Apple Watch SE provides up to 18 hours, which typically requires daily charging. For users who need extended battery performance, especially for travel or workouts, the Ultra is much better.
Do both watches support watchOS updates?
Yes, both the Apple Watch Ultra and the Apple Watch SE (1st Gen) support watchOS updates, including many of the latest features Apple releases. However, because the SE uses an older processor (S5), it may not receive long-term software support as long as the Ultra, which runs on the newer S8 chip.
Are the bands interchangeable between the Ultra and SE?
Yes, most bands are interchangeable as long as the sizes match. The Apple Watch Ultra uses 44mm and 45mm compatible bands. The SE 44mm model can use the same bands. If you have the 40mm SE, you’ll need bands compatible with 38mm or 40mm cases.
Which one is better for kids or first-time users?
The Apple Watch SE is the better choice for kids or first-time smartwatch users. It’s more affordable, simple to use, and still offers safety features like Emergency SOS and Fall Detection. The Ultra is better suited for outdoor athletes, professionals, or users who want advanced health tracking and durability.