Ditched Garmin smartwatch for the discounted Apple Ultra 2 during Amazon Prime Day, having been an avid Apple enthusiast since the initial iPhone launch
The Apple Watch Ultra 2, marketed as the ultimate sports and adventure watch, is now available, offering a unique blend of smart features and advanced capabilities tailored for cycling.
Key Features of the Apple Watch Ultra 2
The Ultra 2 comes with cellular connectivity, allowing you to access calls, texts, and apps without the need for a connected iPhone. It also offers GPS + Cellular and a variety of strap choices and colors to suit your style. One of its standout features is its seamless integration with AirPods, providing a satisfying chime upon syncing.
The Ultra 2 is designed for multi-sport use, with a workout app that includes various sports and an automatic alert system for forgotten workouts. The watch's Siri function enables hands-free control, a useful feature while cycling. The Ultra 2's rugged design, with a titanium case, adds to its adventure-ready look.
Advanced Cycling Capabilities
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 works well for cycling, with advanced features tailored to cycling needs. It automatically displays all Spotify playlists and podcasts on its touchscreen for easy control. The watch's advanced workout tracking includes auto-pause, cycling heart rate zones, intervals by power or heart rate, and precise dual-frequency GPS for accurate distance and route mapping.
Pricing and Availability
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 Cellular is currently available for $649.99 in the US, a savings of $150 from the original price of $799. In the UK, the Ultra 2 Cellular is available for £659, a discount of 18% from the original price of £799. During Amazon Prime Day, the Ultra 2 is available at a further discounted price in both the US and the UK.
Comparison with Garmin Fenix 7
For Apple users interested in smartwatches optimized for cycling, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and the Garmin Fenix 7 offer distinct advantages. While the Fenix 7 typically excels in longer battery life, built-in detailed maps and navigation, and specialized cycling features, the Ultra 2 provides a better integrated experience within the Apple ecosystem and advanced smart features suitable for cycling.
Direct Comparison Highlights
| Feature | Apple Watch Ultra 2 | Garmin Fenix 7 | |--------------------------|-----------------------------------|-----------------------------------| | Ecosystem | Exclusive to iPhone, deep integration, runs watchOS 26 with AI coaching and Siri | Compatible with iOS and Android, Garmin OS | | GPS and Maps | Very accurate dual-frequency GPS; maps require phone download, no preloaded maps | Preloaded detailed maps, offline navigation | | Battery Life | Up to 3 days | Typically 1+ week | | Smart Features | AI workout coaching, voice assistant (Siri), double-tap gesture | No voice assistant, strong training metrics | | Safety | Crash detection, fall detection, emergency siren | Incident detection alerting contacts | | Durability | Aerospace-grade titanium, water and dust resistant | Rugged design, sport-focused | | Best For | Apple users wanting integration and smart features | Multi-sport athletes wanting long battery and detailed navigation |
Recommendation
For Apple users, particularly cyclists who want tight app integration, smart AI workout coaching, and convenience features like Siri, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is typically the better choice despite its shorter battery life compared to Garmin. Its improved GPS accuracy, workout tracking, and usability enhancements like the Action button and Double Tap gesture make it well-suited for cycling. However, if battery endurance and offline mapping without phone dependency are top priorities, the Garmin Fenix 7 remains a strong alternative but with less ecosystem synergy.
The Apple Watch Ultra 2's integration with smart-home devices such as AirPods and its seamless collaboration with the iPhone's ecosystem make it a gadget worth considering for tech enthusiasts. Due to its advanced cycling capabilities, including auto-pause, cycling heart rate zones, and precise dual-frequency GPS, technology lovers who enjoy cycling will find the Ultra 2 an excellent addition to their gadget collection.
