Apple Watch Ultra is here and I’ve just unboxed mine. Follow along for my first impressions of the 49mm titanium wearable from Apple that features an all-new design, larger screen, and much more. I’ll dig into what it feels like size-wise compared to the 45mm Apple Watch, weight, buttons, the Alpine Loop, and more.
Top comment by Charles Nordlander
I really like my Ultra and I'm going to keep it, but I have to say that the faux larger screen is pretty disappointing. Yes, it measures larger, but the extra millimeters are all bezel. I jumped right to the Infograph face that I use on my Series 7, thinking that an XL version of that complication-dense face would be nice to have on the Ultra screen... only to find that it's no bigger than on my Series 7 45mm. Even the exclusive to Ultra face, Wayfinder, doesn't make full use of the screen size. In effect, the larger screen size serves no useful purpose other than to make the Ultra look bigger.
While I really like the orange Alpine loop, it's a little too loud as a daily driver color, plus I don't like putting a "Steal Me" sign on anything expensive that I'm wearing on the streets. So I went with the Starlight alpine loop which looks great with the titanium Ultra. Very happy with that choice. It's insane that Apple is charging $100 for the new fabric and polymer bands that launched with the Ultra--there is nothing that special about them vs Apple bands that sell for half the price, not to mention 3rd party versions which are even cheaper.
I've switched to Wayfinder as my full time face, since it supports as many complications as Infograph, plus can switch instantly to night mode in all red. I'm finding that to be really useful, not just a flashy gimmick.
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• For reference, I have a smaller wrist that measures about 6.5 inches around and I’m coming from the 45mm Apple Watch Series 7 •
Apple Watch Ultra first impressions:
Overall
- It’s noticeably larger and blockier than the 45/44mm Apple Watch and I love it 😁
- With that comes a really solid feel
- I enjoy it most with a band that connects directly to the Ultra vs a strap/band with lugs (Solo Loop vs Alpine Loop)
- The flat screen edge adds to the large feel but that also offers a wonderful display experience – it really draws you in visually
- It’s impressively light!
- The side button is very clicky – much clickier than my Series 7 or any other previous Apple Watch
- Digital Crown is nicely protected but also takes a bit to get used to
- The new Action button is really handy, such a great add!
Alpine Loop
- Softer on the inside than I expected
- Titanium hardware is super light and naturally matches the Ultra perfectly
- Lots of loops make sure you get a precise fit
- Love the bright orange color
- Exterior lugs make it a bulkier fit – especially for those with smaller wrists
- Careful of the metal clasp as it can scratch things when you rest your wrist on your laptop, etc.
Tidbits
- Braided watch charging cable is very nice with a metal accent on the puck itself
- Box and Ultra booklet is beautiful
- Watch faces really pop on the huge display
- New Wayfinder watch face has neat animation when you raise your wrist to look
- Digital Crown spin to quickly access the red dark mode is really handy
- I also really like the clean fit with Apple’s Solo Loop sport band
What do you think about Apple Watch Ultra? Did you get one too? Or are you thinking about picking one up or are you definitely skipping? Share your thoughts in the comments!
For a detailed breakdown of the new Apple Watch lineup, check out our full guide and more coverage:
- Apple Watch Ultra vs Series 8, SE: In-depth comparison of the new lineup
- PSA: Apple Watch Ultra dive computer functionality not yet available
- Here’s a look at the Apple Watch Ultra with some of the most popular bands [Video]
And here’s a nice unboxing from our friend and developer of Widgetsmith, David Smith:
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