Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Classic (47 mm) / Apple Watch Ultra (49 mm, 1st generation)

According to Samsung, the display is larger than on the Watch4 Classic and the rotating bezel is 15% thinner. Sapphire crystal resists scratches; the bezel partly surrounds the edge of the screen.

LTPO lets the refresh rate drop very low, so the screen can stay on without draining the battery. 2000 nits was twice as bright as any earlier Apple Watch display.

Turning the bezel moves between notifications and tiles without touching the screen; its position is sensed by a 3D Hall sensor.

Samsung’s fast-charge testing used the magnetic fast-charging cable and a separately sold 25 W adapter. Battery life varies with network, usage and watch face.

Setup needs a phone with Google Mobile Services, Android 10 or later and more than 1.5 GB of memory; it does not work with an iPhone.

Bioelectrical impedance analysis passes a weak current through the body when two fingers rest on the buttons to estimate muscle, fat and water; it should not be used with a pacemaker or during pregnancy. ECG and blood pressure work only in approved markets through Samsung Health Monitor.

LTE is only on the LTE version; on the Bluetooth version internet and notifications come through the paired phone.

With cellular, the watch can make calls and get messages without the phone nearby; carrier support is required.

5ATM corresponds to 50 metres for 10 minutes; it is not suitable for diving or high-pressure water. IP68 covers 1.5 metres in fresh water for 30 minutes.

Thickness is measured without the health sensors.

The flat front crystal is protected by a raised titanium edge.

Availability of Ultra Wideband features varies by country.

The L5 signal helps separate signals reflected by tall buildings and trees; Apple called it the most accurate GPS of any Apple Watch at the time.

Availability of the ECG and blood oxygen apps varies by country.

Apple points to the third-party Oceanic+ app for recreational scuba diving to 40 metres; the watch itself is not certified as a dive computer.

The siren plays two distinct patterns, one signalling distress and one mimicking SOS.

Runtime depends on display, workout and cellular use; using LTE away from the phone drains the battery noticeably faster.

Apple announced that this setting would arrive in software after launch, in autumn 2022; it extends runtime by taking some readings less often.

The watch can only be set up and used with an iPhone; it does not pair with Android phones.