The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra2 is a sleek and stylish smartwatch, but it's more than just a pretty face. With a slimmer profile and enhanced features, it's a step up from its predecessor. However, it's not without its flaws. Let's dive into the details and explore what makes this watch tick (or not).
Design and Build
At first glance, the Ultra2 looks similar to its predecessor, with a circular display atop a square-ish body. But looks can be deceiving. The real standout feature is the reduced thickness, going from 12.1mm to 10.7mm. This subtle change makes a big difference in how the watch feels on your wrist, making it more compact and comfortable. Despite the increased battery capacity, the weight remains relatively unchanged at 61.5 grams.
The build quality is top-notch, with a sapphire crystal front, ceramic and sapphire back, and grade 4 titanium frame. The watch is also IP69K-rated, meaning it can withstand extreme conditions, including 40-meter submersion. This is a welcome addition to the already impressive list of standards, including MIL-STD-810H.
However, the band is a mixed bag. The default Marine band is lighter and softer, but it feels a bit rough and tight. The older soft-touch silicone band was a better option. Luckily, Samsung offers two other band styles, Peakform and Trail, which are more comfortable and adjustable.
Controls and Navigation
The watch's controls are intuitive, but the lack of a rotating bezel is a missed opportunity. The 'touch bezel' functionality is a convenient substitute, but it's not as precise as a physical bezel. The haptic motor provides good feedback, but it's not as accurate as the hardware 'click'.
The Quick Button, introduced in the previous Ultra, is a handy feature for quick actions and switching between activities. However, its placement is a bit awkward, and you might find yourself accidentally pressing it. The Home and Back buttons are also a bit cramped, making them harder to access.
Style and Customization
The Ultra2 comes in two color options: Titanium Silver and Titanium Gray. The Silver model is shown in the pictures. The bands are also customizable, with various colors available for the Peakform and Trail bands. The dynamic lug system makes it easy to swap bands, but it's a bit of a trade-off, as standard straps won't fit.
Overall Impression
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra2 is a solid upgrade, with a slimmer design and enhanced features. However, it's not perfect. The band options are limited, and the controls could be improved. In my opinion, the watch is a step in the right direction, but it still has room for improvement. It's a solid choice for those seeking a premium smartwatch, but it's not without its quirks. Personally, I think it's a great option for divers and outdoor enthusiasts, but it's not for everyone. What makes this particularly fascinating is the attention to detail in the build quality and the innovative band system. However, I find the lack of a rotating bezel and the cramped button placement to be a bit of a letdown. If you take a step back and think about it, the Ultra2 is a solid smartwatch, but it's not without its flaws. This raises a deeper question: is it worth the upgrade from the previous model?
