Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra first impressions

The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is a statement piece that immediately draws attention with its design. The circular dial within a square design language is unique and adds a touch of distinctiveness, setting it apart from other smartwatches on the market. The build quality feels robust and gives off a sense of class, contributing to a high-end feel when worn on the wrist. However, the overall aesthetic might appeal more to those who appreciate bold design choices.

Available in Titanium White, Titanium Gray, and Titanium Silver, the Galaxy Watch Ultra provides a range of options to suit different tastes. Each colour variant carries its own appeal, though some might find the choices a bit conservative. The wristbands, which are both soft and sturdy, are a highlight in terms of comfort and durability. They enhance the watch’s premium feel.

The display is where the Galaxy Watch Ultra truly excels. The 3.73 cm Super AMOLED display is bright and clear, performing well in various lighting conditions. Whether you are outdoors under direct sunlight or indoors, the display remains easy to read, which is a crucial feature for any smartwatch. The smoothness of the display while swiping through menus is commendable.

Durability is another strong point for the Galaxy Watch Ultra. With an IP68 rating, it’s resistant to dust and water, which is expected at this price point. The MIL-STD-810H certification further enhances its rugged appeal, ensuring it can withstand extreme temperatures ranging from -20 degrees Celsius to 55 degrees Celsius. This makes it a solid choice for those who need a watch that can endure harsh conditions.

The new Quick button is a notable addition to the watch’s interface. It provides direct access to the workout menu, making it easier for users to start their exercise routines without navigating through multiple screens. This feature will be appreciated by fitness enthusiasts.

Powered by the 3nm Exynos W1000 processor, along with 2 GB of memory and 32 GB of storage, the Galaxy Watch Ultra offers solid performance. The watch runs on Wear OS 5, which supports a variety of apps, including those from Samsung, Google, and third-party developers. During initial tests, the watch handled calls and messaging efficiently, with clear sound quality even in noisy environments.

The 590 mAh battery appears to offer decent longevity based on initial usage, but a more definitive assessment will require further testing from our end. Battery life is a crucial factor for any smartwatch, and it will be interesting to see how the Galaxy Watch Ultra performs over time, particularly when using all of its features to their fullest extent.

In terms of sensors, the Galaxy Watch Ultra is well-equipped, tracking a wide range of metrics from heart rate to environmental conditions. This makes it a versatile tool for fitness and health tracking, although it remains to be seen how these sensors perform in more rigorous, long-term tests.

At Rs. 59,999, the Galaxy Watch Ultra is positioned as a premium device with a powerful feature set. It is impressive in several areas. My first impressions are positive, though not without reservations, and a more comprehensive review will come soon on Techlusive to fully understand the watch’s capabilities and limitations.