Apple Watch 11 vs Ultra 3: Which Should You Buy?
▼ Summary
– Two new Apple Watch models, the Series 11 and Ultra 3, are expected to launch on September 9th.
– The Series 11 will likely start at $399, while the Ultra 3 is anticipated to debut at $799, maintaining a significant price gap.
– The Ultra 3 may feature a larger display, higher brightness (up to 4,000 nits), and better water resistance than the Series 11.
– Both models are rumored to include new health features like blood pressure detection and a daily sleep score, but satellite messaging may be exclusive to the Ultra 3.
– The Ultra 3 is expected to have superior battery life compared to the Series 11, continuing its advantage from previous models.
The upcoming Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3 are poised to offer distinct experiences for different types of users, with pricing, design, and specialized features setting them apart. While both models are expected to share core health and wellness capabilities, the Ultra 3 is likely to cater to adventurers and athletes with enhanced durability and extended battery performance.
When it comes to cost, the Apple Watch Series 11 is anticipated to start at $399 for the base model, maintaining Apple’s consistent pricing strategy for its mainstream wearable. In contrast, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is expected to debut at $799, reflecting its premium positioning and rugged construction. External factors like tariffs could influence final pricing, but the significant gap between the two models will likely remain.
Design-wise, the Series 11 may retain the slimmer, lighter form factor introduced with the Series 10, featuring a bright OLED display optimized for wide viewing angles. Rumors suggest its maximum brightness could reach 3,000 nits, putting it on par with competitors like the Pixel Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 8. The Ultra 3, on the other hand, might see a larger screen and even higher brightness, potentially up to 4,000 nits, while possibly adopting a thinner case. Both models are expected to continue their respective water resistance ratings, with the Ultra 3 maintaining its 100-meter depth capability.
Health and fitness innovations could include blood pressure monitoring, a highly anticipated feature that may debut on both new Apple Watches. Sleep scoring, offering a daily rating out of 100, is also rumored to be introduced across the lineup, bringing Apple in line with rivals like Garmin and Amazfit.
Where the Ultra 3 may truly distinguish itself is in safety and connectivity. It is widely expected to include emergency satellite messaging, a feature that demands cellular connectivity and aligns with the Ultra series’ outdoors-oriented ethos. This capability likely won’t be available on the Series 11, where cellular remains an optional upgrade.
AI functionality is another area of differentiation, or lack thereof. While Apple Intelligence features like live translation and smart replies will be supported on both models, the company still lags behind Google and Samsung in offering a full AI assistant directly on the watch. The AI-powered Workout Buddy fitness coach will be accessible, though it may still require pairing with a recent iPhone.
Battery life continues to be a major differentiator. The Series 11 will likely offer around 18 hours of typical use, extendable to 36 hours in low-power mode. The Ultra 3, however, is expected to deliver 36 hours normally and up to 72 hours with battery saver enabled, making it the clear choice for users who need all-day endurance.
Ultimately, the decision between the Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra 3 will come down to individual needs and budget. The Series 11 offers excellent value with a strong feature set for everyday use, while the Ultra 3 justifies its higher price with superior battery life, enhanced durability, and exclusive safety tools like satellite messaging. Both models are shaping up to be compelling options in the smartwatch market.
(Source: Tom’s Guide)
