Compared Biking Journey of 13 Miles Between Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 - Undeniably, One Outshines the Other
In a recent comparison, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic were put to the test during a 13-mile bike ride with significant elevation gain. The results showed that the Apple Watch Ultra 2 demonstrated more accurate distance, elevation, maximum speed, and average speed data[1].
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 showed better precision in tracking distance and elevation, which are critical for cycling and outdoor workouts[1]. Heart rate and calorie tracking were similarly accurate between both watches, indicating parity in those metrics[1].
Battery life differs between the two watches. The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic offers up to 40 hours, while the Apple Watch Ultra 2 provides about 36 hours, extendable to 72 hours in low-power mode[1][3]. The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic features a rotating bezel and Google's Gemini AI, offering unique interaction and assistance but slightly less fitness tracking accuracy compared to the Ultra 2[1][4].
Neither watch was paired with a smartphone for the bike test to avoid any piggybacking off of location, elevation, speed or pace data. Both watches weigh similarly, with the Watch 8 Classic at 62.5 g and the Ultra 2 at 61.9 g[2].
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 and the Galaxy Watch 8 were tested during a 75-minute bike ride with Strava on an iPhone 12 mini. Both Strava and the Galaxy Watch 8 noted the same average moving speed of 11.7 mph. However, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 measured a slightly shorter distance compared to Strava's calculation (13.20 miles), and the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 measured a slightly lower elevation gain compared to the actual elevation gain (774 feet)[2].
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 likely undercounted the elevation gain by 50-plus feet (726 feet), and its max speed during the bike test was considerably less than the other two (18.2 mph). Apple's average moving speed during the bike test was 10.5 mph[2].
Both watches are equipped with their respective brands' latest/greatest holistic sensor array, multi-band GPS, and altimeters for elevation tracking[2]. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is taller, 49mm versus 46mm, and the Galaxy Watch is wider, 46mm versus 43mm[2].
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 costs $649 at Best Buy (was originally $799), while the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic is priced at $499 at Best Buy[2][5]. With its superior fitness tracking accuracy and advanced features, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the superior choice for those seeking the most accurate fitness tracking. However, both watches remain excellent options for tracking workouts, with slight trade-offs in user interface and battery considerations[1][4].
[1] Comparison data sourced from TechRadar
[2] Testing data sourced from CNET
[3] Apple Watch Ultra 2 battery life data sourced from Apple
[4] Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic features data sourced from Samsung
[5] Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Classic pricing data sourced from Best Buy
The Apple Watch Ultra 2, with its advanced technology and superior fitness tracking accuracy, provided more precise data for distance and elevation during outdoor activities such as cycling. For those interested in health and fitness gadgets, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 stands out as an exceptional wearable with its latest sensor array and holistic fitness features.
