Samsung’s new Galaxy Watch Ultra claims a competitive edge over Apple’s Ultra model in everyday use, thanks to a brighter screen, more responsive alerts, and a more comfortable strap, according to a hands-on run test.
Samsung’s latest Galaxy Watch Ultra model is being positioned as a direct rival to Apple’s premium Ultra smartwatch, and one hands-on comparison suggests it has a real advantage in everyday use. In a 10-kilometre run for Tom’s Guide, reviewer Jeff Parsons said Samsung’s watch came out ahead on three practical points: display visibility, haptic feedback and strap comfort.
The biggest difference was the screen. Samsung’s watch uses a 1.52-inch Super AMOLED panel rated at up to 5,000 nits, which Samsung says makes it the brightest display ever fitted to a Galaxy Watch. That level of brightness is designed to keep workout data readable in strong sunlight and other difficult lighting conditions. By contrast, Apple’s Ultra model uses a 3,000-nit LTPO OLED display, which Parsons said made some fitness metrics look smaller and harder to follow while running.
Parsons also found Samsung’s alerts easier to feel and hear on the move. He said the vibration feedback from the Galaxy Watch Ultra was more pronounced on his wrist than the haptics on Apple’s watch, and that the watch’s audio cues were loud enough to be useful without constantly checking the screen. Samsung’s software also handled interval and pace prompts during the run, adding another layer of feedback for users who prefer not to rely on visual cues alone.
The final advantage was the Marine Band supplied with the watch. Parsons said it sat more securely and stayed more comfortable through the run, with a design that helped with sweat management and airflow. Samsung describes the band as lightweight and breathable, with a structure intended for high-intensity exercise and water use. Tom’s Guide noted that Apple still has the stronger physical control in the form of the Digital Crown, especially in wet weather or when wearing gloves, but on balance the Samsung watch looked like the more convincing runner’s device in that test.
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