Apple has shared its latest device, the Apple Watch Ultra, and has made it clear that they want to appeal to triathletes, runners, and outdoor adventures. A market that Garmin has dominated for years.
The general consensus is that this new device is an exciting development but has left us wondering how well it fares against the Fenix 7 and Epix 2. We took a look at all three devices and have shared our findings so that you can buy the best watch for your needs!
Which Has the Best Design – Apple Watch Ultra Vs. Garmin?
When it comes to design, Apple is renowned for creating stunning watches that look amazing and are easy to navigate. This is definitely true for the Apple Watch Ultra! The device is 49mm and comes with three different wrist strap sizes for all types of users. The display is bright, easy to read, and has super simple navigation to get you to the desired feature.
The actual display is flat on the Ultra rather than the traditional rounded edge, and this helps to make the device more durable than ever before. It weighs in at a meager 61.3g (73g with the straps), meaning that it will be lightweight on the wrist and easy to wear during all your activities.
Interestingly, the Garmin Fenix 7 weighs just 50g for the case. Still, when you add the straps, it weighs 73g like the Apple Ultra, meaning there is no difference between the devices. The overall winner for weight is the Epix 2, coming in at just 70g with the straps included.
Both Garmin devices have a rounded display and AMOLED screen that are easy to read and use. All in all, the display of each of these three devices comes with a lot to offer!
Which Has the Best Fitness Features?
When considering buying one of these three devices, you are sure to be focused on getting the best fitness results from every run, workout, or endurance activity.
The good news is that each of them has a lot of sensors and features to help you make the most of your efforts. Take a look at the table below to get a sense of what is included in each model:
| Apple Ultra | Garmin Fenix 7 | Garmin Epix 2 | |
| GPS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Heart Rate | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Sp02 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Temperature | Yes | Yes | |
| Altimeter | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Accelerometer | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Compass | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Barometer | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Tracking | Bread crumb trails | Bread crumb and heat maps | Bread crumb and heat maps |
| Safety | Fall detection and safety siren | Fall detection | Fall detection |
| Personalized Workout Suggestions | No | Yes | Yes |
| Cellular | Yes | No | No |
| Music Playback | Yes | Yes | Yes |
It’s clear to see that each of these devices has a comparable amount of features and sensors. However, while Apple’s music feature is unparalleled, Garmin still holds the lead for the best tracking features.
This only goes to show just how close the two rivals are getting in terms of what they have to offer users. And this makes the endurance sports market a much more exciting place to be if you are a smartwatch manufacturer!
![Apple Watch Ultra [GPS + Cellular 49mm] Smart Watch w/Rugged Titanium Case & Orange Alpine Loop...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51XGrwhczrL._SL160_.jpg)
Which Has the Best Battery Life?
One of the most important features of an endurance watch is how long the battery can last before needing to be plugged in. Apple has made strides forward in this area but not enough to rival Garmin!
The Apple Watch Ultra can last up to 36 hours which is double the amount their other devices offer and yet still not enough to support someone who wants to head out on a multi-day adventure. The good news is that a new option will be released later in the year, offering up to 60 hours of battery, making the Ultra a real threat to Garmin.
Garmin’s Epix 2 comes with a 16-day battery when used in smartwatch mode and a massive 6 days in the Always On mode – leaving the Apple Ultra behind with ease. Also, the Fenix 7 will run for up to 136 hours on GPS mode and 40 days on expedition mode!
Which Offers the Best Price?
Spending money on a watch with these kinds of capabilities will always result in a hefty bill!
The Fenix 7 starts at approximately $700*, and the Epix 2 starts at approximately $800*. Interestingly, the Apple Ultra is priced at just $799, showing us just how serious Apple is about winning a brand new audience for its new fitness device.
When you compare the Ultra to other Apple devices, you will find that it is priced the same as the Apple Watch 8. However, it offers much more for those interested in improving their fitness and endurance.
*Prices correct on Amazon US as of 19/09/22
Which Should You Buy – Apple Watch Ultra Vs. Garmin Fenix 7 & Epix 2?
Ultimately, we think that while Apple Watch Ultra is a giant leap forward into the fitness market, it’s not quite there. Especially for athletes that want to enjoy triathlon, ultra-running, or more long-winded fitness adventures.
This doesn’t mean it is not worth investing in, but if you want something that will last longer than a marathon, the Garmin Fenix 7 has to be the best overall option.
However, it’s a triumphant entrance into the world of endurance sports. And we don’t think it will be long until Apple comes up with something that can rival even the best Garmin devices. Marking the brand’s determination to impress a new market.
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Last Updated on December 10, 2022
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