Galaxy Watch Ultra2 review: 5000-nit display and titanium, but is it worth upgrading
Samsung launched the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 in July, calling them the most advanced smartwatches in its lineup. The new model features a titanium case, an AMOLED display with a peak brightness of 5000 nits, and a fresh Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear Elite chip. The key question, however, is whether upgrading from the original Watch Ultra makes sense, or if the base Galaxy Watch9 can handle the same tasks.
The device remains bulky: a 47-millimeter case and 10.7-millimeter thickness. The company claims the case is 12% thinner than its predecessor, but this barely affects the overall impression. The watch looks massive, has three buttons, and is unlikely to fit naturally with a classic shirt.
The case comes in gray and black titanium finishes. The package includes a fluoroelastomer strap with two rows of holes for size adjustment. Samsung says the strap features air cavities for moisture wicking, but in practice the effect is barely noticeable — the wrist under the wide synthetic strap sweats both day and night.
Protection meets IP69K and 10 ATM standards. The main load-bearing frame is made of titanium, while intermediate parts contain plastic inserts. Sapphire glass sits on the back, against the wrist, and the same material covers the display. The watch feels pleasant to touch, but you need to get used to its weight and size: 61.5 grams without the strap and 86.5 grams with it. Subjectively, the model suits a male wrist better.
The display is one of the standout features. The 1.52-inch AMOLED panel is 0.5 inches larger than the first generation, and peak brightness jumped from 3000 to 5000 nits. In its marketing, Samsung calls this screen "the brightest in the world," based on an analysis of the current market. It is noted, however, that 5000 nits are only achievable on certain areas, and brightness may vary across the panel. In practice, there is plenty of headroom: even under direct August sunlight, small text on the screen remains legible.
