Review Jan 25, 2026

Our verdict on Apple Watch Ultra 3

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 delivers satellite messaging, a 3,000-nit display, and 42 hours of battery life at $799. First-time buyers get Apple's most capable watch ever. Ultra …

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Overview

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is Apple's flagship adventure smartwatch, featuring satellite connectivity, a 3,000-nit LTPO3 display, 42-hour battery life, and titanium construction with 100-meter water resistance.

Key Features

  • Two-way satellite messaging for off-grid communication
  • 3,000 nits LTPO3 always-on display
  • 42-hour battery life (72 hours in Low Power Mode)
  • Titanium case with 100m water resistance
  • Precision dual-frequency GPS
  • 5G cellular connectivity

Description

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 builds on its predecessor with satellite connectivity for emergency SOS and two-way messaging, a larger and brighter display, extended battery life, and 5G cellular. It remains the definitive choice for iPhone users who demand maximum capability from their smartwatch.

Specifications

Battery

Battery Life 42 hours
Low Power Mode 72 hours
GPS Workout 14 hours
Fast Charging 80% in 45 minutes

Connectivity

Cellular 5G + LTE
Satellite Emergency SOS, messaging, Find My
GPS Dual-frequency (L1+L5)
Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n 2.4GHz + 5GHz
Bluetooth 5.3

Display

Display Type Always-On Retina OLED LTPO3
Display Size 1.98 inches
Resolution 422 x 514 pixels
Peak Brightness 3000 nits
Protection Sapphire crystal

Physical

Case Size 49 mm
Case Material Titanium
Case Back Ceramic
Water Resistance 100 m
Dust Resistance IP6X
Military Standard MIL-STD 810H

Sensors

Heart Rate Third-gen optical sensor
Blood Oxygen Yes
ECG Yes
Temperature Wrist temperature sensor
Depth Gauge Yes
Water Temperature Yes
Compass Yes
Altimeter Always-on

Software

Processor Apple S10 SiP
Storage 64 GB
Operating System watchOS 26
Compatibility iPhone 11 or later, iOS 26

What Critics Say

Outdoor Gear Lab 85/100

"Ranked #3 of 18 GPS watches tested. Best for everyday smartwatch users who want adventure capability."

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Mark Ellis Reviews 9/10

"An excellent smartwatch with rock-solid build after 2 months of real-world use."

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DC Rainmaker N/A

"Worth it for satellite features if you need off-grid communication."

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TechRadar 4.5/5

"A Garmin-rivaling powerhouse for adventurers, and a lovely daily driver."

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Tom's Guide 4.5/5

"The ultimate smartwatch just got better with upgrades that matter."

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Wareable 5/5

"The best overall smartwatch money can buy."

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