Samsung’s Galaxy Watch Ultra Bespoke Edition AI represents a significant leap forward in wearable technology. With its powerful AI-driven features, premium build, and deep customization options, it’s designed to cater to professionals, athletes, and tech enthusiasts alike. But how does it compare to rivals like the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and the Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2)? More importantly, is it a substantial upgrade over previous Galaxy Watch models like the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro? After using this smartwatch extensively, here’s a deep dive into its strengths and real-world performance.
Design & Build: Luxury Meets Durability
The Galaxy Watch Ultra Bespoke Edition AI is a marvel of engineering, blending style with rugged durability. The watch features a corrosion-resistant titanium case, ensuring lightweight strength, while the sapphire crystal glass display offers unmatched scratch resistance. This combination makes it one of the most durable smartwatches on the market, comparable to the Apple Watch Ultra 2 but with a more refined aesthetic.
What truly sets it apart is the Bespoke Edition customization, allowing users to select from over 50 case and strap combinations. From fluoroelastomer for sportiness to genuine leather for a premium feel, every wearer can create a personalized look.
The 1.5-inch Super AMOLED display is stunning, delivering deep blacks, sharp contrasts, and vibrant colors. Thanks to Samsung’s adaptive brightness technology, visibility remains clear even under direct sunlight, a crucial feature for outdoor adventurers.
Performance & AI Capabilities: A Smarter Experience
Powered by the Exynos W1000 chipset with 2GB RAM and 32GB storage, this watch outperforms its predecessor, the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, with a 40% faster response time and enhanced energy efficiency. The upgraded chipset ensures a lag-free experience, whether switching between apps, tracking workouts, or interacting with AI-driven features.
The AI integration takes personalization to a new level:
- Energy Score: This AI-powered feature analyzes sleep, heart rate, and stress levels to offer daily optimization tips.
- AI Fitness Coach: Provides real-time feedback and dynamically adjusts workout intensity based on progress.
- Smart Assist: A voice-activated AI assistant that can schedule meetings, respond to messages, and adjust smart home devices.
Health & Fitness Tracking: Precision and Innovation
The Galaxy Watch Ultra Bespoke Edition AI sets a new standard in health monitoring with the most advanced sensors available. It includes:
- ECG & Blood Oxygen Monitoring: Continuous tracking for heart health insights and oxygen saturation levels.
- AI-Driven Stress Management: Detects stress levels and provides guided breathing exercises to maintain balance.
- Advanced Sleep Tracking: Offers detailed breakdowns of light, deep, and REM sleep, with personalized tips for improvement.
- Body Composition Analysis: Measures body fat percentage, muscle mass, and hydration levels to fine-tune fitness plans.
- Expedition Mode: Optimizes GPS and battery for outdoor adventures, providing detailed topographical maps.
- Depth Gauge: Ideal for divers, measuring underwater depth and tracking dive sessions.
Battery Life: A Step Forward, but Still Behind Garmin
Battery life is one of the most crucial factors in a smartwatch, and while Samsung improves in this area, it still doesn’t match Garmin’s endurance-focused models.
- Up to 2 days of regular use (significant improvement over the Apple Watch Ultra 2’s 36-hour battery).
- 100-hour battery in power-saving mode, making it reliable for multi-day outdoor activities.
While this is a welcome upgrade from the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, which lasted about 3 days on a single charge, Garmin’s Epix Pro (Gen 2) remains the undisputed champion with 16-day battery life.
Connectivity: Seamless Integration and Advanced Features
Samsung has ensured that the Galaxy Watch Ultra AI excels in connectivity. The watch supports 5G LTE, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.3, delivering faster data speeds, stable connections, and improved energy efficiency.
Key connectivity features include:
- Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology for precise location tracking and seamless integration with Samsung SmartThings.
- Multi-device pairing with Samsung’s ecosystem, allowing easy switching between smartphones, tablets, and Galaxy Buds.
- Google Assistant & Bixby support, providing hands-free voice control and smart home management.
- eSIM compatibility, enabling standalone cellular usage without needing a phone nearby.
How It Compares to Competitors and Past Samsung Models
| Feature | Galaxy Watch Ultra AI | Galaxy Watch 5 Pro | Apple Watch Ultra 2 | Garmin Epix Pro (Gen 2) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $699 | $449 | $799 | $899 |
| Display | 1.5-inch Super AMOLED | 1.4-inch AMOLED | 1.92-inch Retina LTPO OLED | 1.4-inch AMOLED |
| Material | Titanium case, sapphire crystal | Titanium case, sapphire crystal | Titanium case, sapphire crystal | Titanium case, sapphire crystal |
| Processor | Exynos W1000 | Exynos W920 | Apple S9 | Qualcomm Snapdragon W5+ |
| RAM & Storage | 2GB RAM, 32GB storage | 1.5GB RAM, 16GB storage | 2GB RAM, 64GB storage | 2GB RAM, 32GB storage |
| Battery Life | Up to 2 days (100-hour power-saving) | Up to 3 days | Up to 36 hours | Up to 16 days |
| Operating System | Wear OS with One UI Watch | Wear OS with One UI Watch | watchOS 10 | Garmin OS |
| Connectivity | 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, UWB, eSIM | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.3, UWB | Bluetooth, GPS |
| Health Features | ECG, blood oxygen, stress monitoring, body composition | ECG, blood oxygen | ECG, blood oxygen, temperature sensing | Pulse oximeter, heart rate monitoring |
| Navigation | GPS, Expedition Mode, Depth Gauge | GPS | GPS, diving capabilities | Multi-band GPS, topo maps, altimeter |
Overall Pros and Cons
Pros:
✔️ Premium build with durable titanium and sapphire crystal ✔️ AI-powered features enhance fitness and health tracking ✔️ Customizable design with Bespoke Edition ✔️ Faster performance with Exynos W1000 chipset ✔️ 5G, Wi-Fi 6, and UWB for superior connectivity ✔️ Improved battery life compared to previous Samsung models ✔️ Increased storage capacity (32GB) for apps and music
Cons:
❌ Battery life still falls short compared to Garmin competitors ❌ AI features require a learning period for full effectiveness ❌ Works best within Samsung’s ecosystem, limiting cross-platform functionality ❌ Expensive, especially with additional customization options
Where to Buy ?
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra AI has quickly become one of the most sought-after smartwatches on the market, thanks to its advanced AI-powered features and rugged design. Whether you’re looking to buy a brand-new model or searching for a second-hand option, here’s everything you need to know about where to purchase it and how much it costs.
Samsung officially launched the Galaxy Watch Ultra AI in late 2024, and it is now widely available through various retailers. If you’re in the United States, you can purchase the watch from:
- Samsung’s Official Website (www.samsung.com)
- Major Retailers such as Best Buy, Walmart, and Target
- E-commerce Platforms like Amazon and eBay
- Cellular Carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile (for LTE-compatible models)
Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and any promotional discounts available at the time of purchase.
Is There a Used Version Available?
For those looking to save money, buying a used or refurbished Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra AI could be a great option. You can find pre-owned versions on platforms like:
- Amazon Renewed – Offers certified refurbished products with warranties.
- Best Buy’s Geek Squad Certified Refurbished – Ensures quality and functionality.
- eBay – Individual sellers may list used models at competitive prices.
- Swappa – A trusted marketplace for used electronics with verified listings.
- Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist – Local sellers may offer second-hand watches, but buyers should be cautious and verify authenticity.
When purchasing a used smartwatch, check for warranty coverage, battery life, and any potential damage before finalizing the transaction.
How Much Does It Cost?
The retail price for a new Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra AI varies based on the model and features:
- Base Model (Bluetooth/Wi-Fi only) – Around $699 – $799
- LTE Version (Cellular Connectivity) – Ranges from $799 – $899
- Special Editions or Premium Straps – Can cost up to $1,000
Used or refurbished models generally cost between $500 – $700, depending on their condition and whether they include the original accessories.
Final Verdict: The Best Android Smartwatch Yet?
The Galaxy Watch Ultra Bespoke Edition AI delivers a compelling mix of style, intelligence, and functionality. Compared to previous Samsung models, it boasts superior AI features, improved durability, and better outdoor capabilities.
For $699, it’s the most advanced and customizable Samsung smartwatch to date, making it a worthy upgrade for serious smartwatch users.
