Apple Watch Ultra (1st Gen) vs Withings ScanWatch 2
The Verdict
Apple Watch Ultra 1st Gen dominates in performance and features with its powerful S8 processor, vibrant LTPO OLED display, and comprehensive connectivity including cellular and GPS. Health tracking capabilities are nearly identical, both offering ECG, SpO2, and skin temperature monitoring. However, the Ultra's 36-hour battery (60 hours in Low Power Mode) significantly trails the ScanWatch 2's impressive 30-day endurance. Withings targets lifestyle-conscious users prioritizing battery longevity and minimalist design, while Apple caters to fitness enthusiasts and those deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem. Build quality favors the Ultra with titanium construction versus stainless steel. At $799 versus $349, the price disparity is substantial. Choose the Apple Watch Ultra for advanced fitness tracking, seamless iOS integration, and powerful features. Select the ScanWatch 2 if extended battery life and classic watch aesthetics matter more than cutting-edge performance.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple Watch Ultra (1st Gen) if…
- →Titanium case is exceptionally durable for extreme sports and diving
- →36-hour battery life (60 hrs in Low Power Mode) is longest for Apple Watch
- →2000-nit peak brightness is readable in any outdoor condition
Buy the Withings ScanWatch 2 if…
- →30-day battery life is unmatched — charge monthly, not daily
- →Looks like a luxury analog watch — no one will know it's smart
- →Medical-grade ECG, SpO2, and respiratory rate monitoring
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple Watch Ultra (1st Gen)
Pros
- Titanium case is exceptionally durable for extreme sports and diving
- 36-hour battery life (60 hrs in Low Power Mode) is longest for Apple Watch
- 2000-nit peak brightness is readable in any outdoor condition
- Dual-frequency L1+L5 GPS provides precise tracking even in canyons
- Action Button is customizable for workouts, compass, and more
Cons
- 49mm case is very large — may be too bulky for smaller wrists
- Heavy at 61.3 g compared to standard Apple Watch models
- $799 is expensive for a first-generation product
- S8 chip is the same as Series 8 — no processing advantage
- Only one 49mm size option with no smaller variant
Withings ScanWatch 2
Pros
- 30-day battery life is unmatched — charge monthly, not daily
- Looks like a luxury analog watch — no one will know it's smart
- Medical-grade ECG, SpO2, and respiratory rate monitoring
- Skin temperature tracking for early illness detection
- Stainless steel build is genuinely elegant
Cons
- No GPS — phone required for route tracking
- Tiny OLED sub-display limits notification readability
- No NFC for contactless payments
- No third-party apps — health tracking only
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple Watch Ultra (1st Gen) | Withings ScanWatch 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | watchOS 9 (upgradable to watchOS 11+) | Withings OS |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 61.3 g | 39 g |
| Case material | Titanium | Stainless steel |
| Water resistance | WR100, EN13319 (certified for recreational scuba diving to 40m) | 5ATM |
| Health & Sensors | ||
| ECG | ||
| SpO₂ | ||
| Skin temperature | ||
| Heart rate | ||
| Sleep tracking | ||
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 36 hours (60 hrs in Low Power Mode) | Up to 30 days |
| Display | ||
| Size | 49mm | 42 mm |
| Type | LTPO OLED Always-On Retina | Hybrid analog + OLED |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 410 x 502 | Hybrid analog with OLED sub-display |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | Apple S8 SiP | Withings proprietary |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.0 |
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This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in smartwatches, see all Apple products or all Withings products. View full details for the Apple Watch Ultra (1st Gen) or the Withings ScanWatch 2.