Apple recently unveiled its newest smartwatch lineup, featuring the high-end Apple Watch Ultra 4 and the more accessible Watch Series 12. These devices cater to different user needs, with distinctions in pricing, physical dimensions, and specialized functionalities, though they share many core health and fitness tracking capabilities. This analysis aims to highlight their differences and similarities, assisting potential buyers in making an informed decision, even before full reviews become available.
Both the Apple Watch Ultra 4 and Series 12 are now available for purchase, having been launched at Apple's latest hardware presentation. The Watch Series 12 presents a more budget-friendly option, with its 42mm, GPS-only version starting at approximately $399. In contrast, the Apple Watch Ultra 4 carries a higher price tag, beginning at around $799.
A notable distinction lies in their physical design. The Apple Watch Series 12 offers two case sizes, 42mm and 46mm, providing display areas of 970 sq mm and 1196 sq mm, respectively. The Ultra 4, however, is exclusively available in a larger 49mm case, boasting a display area of 1245 sq mm. While the larger screen size might appeal to some, it's crucial to consider wrist compatibility; the Ultra 4 is designed for wrists between 130 and 210mm, whereas the 46mm Series 12 accommodates wrists up to 245mm.
In terms of health and fitness monitoring, both models are remarkably similar, utilizing Apple's advanced S11 chip. This processor is touted as the brand's most powerful for wearables, promising superior step tracking accuracy. Both devices integrate the Health Sensing System, which features enhanced optical and electrical heart sensors for precise heart rate monitoring and improved ECG functionality through better skin contact. Furthermore, a new readiness score feature has been introduced to both, offering personalized advice on whether to prioritize rest or exercise based on recent physiological data. Standard Apple Watch tracking tools, such as Hypertension and Sleep Apnea notifications, and cycle tracking, are also present, alongside access to the optional Apple Fitness Plus subscription.
Water resistance is another area where the Ultra 4 distinguishes itself significantly. The Apple Watch Series 12 offers a 5ATM rating, suitable for submersion up to 50 meters. The Ultra 4, however, boasts an impressive 10ATM rating, allowing it to withstand depths of up to 100 meters. This makes the Ultra 4 particularly well-suited for water sports enthusiasts, supporting not only swimming and snorkeling like the Series 12 but also offering advanced tracking for other water activities and scuba diving, thanks to its 40-meter depth gauge.
Battery life also varies between the two models. While neither matches the extended longevity of some specialized fitness trackers, the Apple Watch Series 12 provides up to 24 hours of use under typical conditions, extendable to 38 hours in low power mode. The Ultra 4 offers a more robust battery performance, lasting up to 50 hours with regular use and an impressive 84 hours in low power mode, though activating this mode will limit certain functionalities. Both watches support rapid charging, with a 15-minute charge providing 12 hours of power for the Series 12 and 18 hours for the Ultra 4. A mere 5-minute charge can also provide 10 hours of sleep tracking for both devices.
For those seeking enhanced safety features, the Ultra 4 is designed with adventurers in mind. While the Series 12 includes essential safety tools like Emergency SOS, Fall Detection, and Crash Detection, the Ultra 4 elevates this with Emergency SOS via satellite. This allows users to contact emergency services even without cellular signal, provided their paired iPhone also supports this feature. Additionally, the Ultra 4 is equipped with a built-in siren for alerting others in emergency situations.
While definitive verdicts await comprehensive reviews, it is evident that the Apple Watch Ultra 4 is engineered for rugged use and adventurous pursuits, offering superior durability, water resistance, and advanced safety features. The Apple Watch Series 12, conversely, is positioned as an ideal everyday smartwatch, catering to the needs of most users with its balanced feature set and more approachable price point.
