| Apple Watch Ultra | Suunto Race | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| Starting price | $799 | $499★ |
| Subscription | ✓ None | ✓ None |
| Hardware | ||
| Weight | 62g | 60g★ |
| Water resistance | 100m | 100m |
| Battery | 1.75 days | 16 days★ |
| Always-on display | ✅ | ✅ |
| GPS | ✅ | ✅ |
| Cellular | ✅★ | ❌ |
| Platform | iOS only | iOS & Android |
| Tier | Sports GPS | Sports GPS |
| Buy timing | ||
| Released | Sep 19, 2025 | Aug 27, 2025 |
| Cycle advice | neutral | good★ |
| Deals advice | neutral | neutral |
| Next model | Apple Watch Ultra 4 (Expected fall 2026) | — |
The Ultra 3 nearly doubles the Series 11 battery life, and satellite emergency SOS works even without cellular or WiFi coverage.
More precise GPS tracking in urban canyons and dense forests — critical for trail running, mountaineering, and triathlon.
The 49mm titanium case and 3000-nit display make this watch usable in full direct sunlight and water depths up to 100m (EN13319 certified for diving).
The redesigned optical HR sensor on Race 2 delivers far more reliable readings during high-intensity sessions — a notable weak point of the original Race that has been addressed.
Dual-frequency L1+L5 multi-constellation GPS for sub-meter precision in urban areas and dense forests, with 55 continuous GPS hours on a single charge.
The display grows to 1.5" at 2000 nits while the case slims to 12.5mm and drops to 76g — more readable in sunlight and easier to wear day-to-day than its predecessor.
The right pick depends on what you optimize for.
$499 vs $799 over 3 years · no required subscription.
16 days vs 1.75 days battery.
12 sensors.
60g · no required subscription.
Serious athletes, trail runners, triathletes, and outdoor adventurers who need the most durable, most accurate GPS watch Apple makes. Also for iPhone users who simply want the best Apple Watch regardless of sport, and value the extra battery life over the Series 11.
Full details →Competitive road and trail runners who want Suunto's precise multi-band GPS tracking and a vivid AMOLED display in a lighter, thinner package. A strong alternative to Garmin for athletes who prefer Suunto's clean interface and ecosystem.
Full details →