The Apple Watch Ultra continues to set a high standard for premium smartwatches with its rugged design, advanced health features, and seamless Apple ecosystem integration. However, not everyone may find it the perfect fit, whether due to price, platform compatibility, or specific feature preferences. Luckily, 2025 offers a range of compelling alternatives that deliver excellent performance, durability, and style across different budgets and needs. Here’s a detailed look at the best alternatives to the Apple Watch Ultra this year.
1. Garmin Fenix 7X Solar
For outdoor enthusiasts and athletes, the Garmin Fenix 7X Solar is a top contender. It boasts exceptional GPS accuracy, solar-powered battery life lasting up to 28 days, and rugged durability with military-grade construction. The watch supports multi-sport tracking, advanced health metrics, and even offers mapping features, making it ideal for hikers, runners, and adventurers who want a watch that thrives off the grid.
2. Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
If you’re an Android user looking for a premium smartwatch, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic offers a sophisticated design and powerful functionality. Featuring a rotating bezel for easy navigation, comprehensive fitness tracking, and an intuitive Wear OS interface, it supports cellular connectivity and health features like ECG and blood pressure monitoring. It’s a great alternative for those who want an Apple Watch-like experience without the Apple ecosystem.
3. Fitbit Sense 2
For users prioritizing health and wellness, the Fitbit Sense 2 is a strong competitor. It delivers detailed sleep analysis, stress management tools, heart rate variability tracking, and an ECG app. With a sleek design and excellent battery life of up to 6 days, it’s perfect for anyone focused on holistic health monitoring with a user-friendly interface and wide compatibility with both iOS and Android.
4. Suunto 9 Peak Pro
The Suunto 9 Peak Pro is a rugged multisport GPS watch built for extreme conditions and long adventures. Its robust titanium case, extended battery life, and extensive sport modes cater to triathletes and outdoor professionals. Suunto’s focus on precision and durability makes this a compelling choice for those seeking a tough watch that can handle intense training and harsh environments.
5. Withings ScanWatch Horizon
For those who want a hybrid watch with a classic look but modern health features, the Withings ScanWatch Horizon stands out. It combines traditional analog hands with a discreet digital display that tracks ECG, blood oxygen, and activity. Its elegant design and long battery life appeal to users looking for a smartwatch that doesn’t sacrifice style for function.
6. Coros Vertix 2
The Coros Vertix 2 is a premium adventure watch aimed at endurance athletes and explorers. Offering dual-frequency GPS, 60+ hour battery life in full GPS mode, and comprehensive health monitoring, it rivals the Apple Watch Ultra in performance but with a focus on extreme outdoor use. Coros’ platform also provides detailed training analytics for serious athletes.
7. Amazfit T-Rex Pro 3 Ultra
If budget and ruggedness are your priorities, the Amazfit T-Rex Pro 3 Ultra delivers impressive durability at a fraction of the cost. It meets military-grade standards for toughness, supports long battery life, and offers solid GPS and health tracking features. It’s a practical alternative for users wanting a durable smartwatch without the premium price tag.
Conclusion
While the Apple Watch Ultra remains a powerhouse in the smartwatch arena, 2025 offers diverse alternatives that cater to different preferences, ecosystems, and budgets. From Garmin’s rugged outdoor models to Samsung’s Android-friendly designs and Fitbit’s health-focused watches, there’s an option for everyone. When choosing your next smartwatch, consider your primary needs—whether that’s adventure durability, health tracking, platform compatibility, or style—to find the best fit beyond the Apple Watch Ultra.
