Garmin Epix Pro Gen 2 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
Garmin's Epix Pro Gen 2 excels in battery longevity with an impressive 16-day smartwatch mode, making it ideal for users prioritizing extended wear time. Samsung's Galaxy Watch Ultra counters with a superior 1.5-inch Super AMOLED display (480 x 480 resolution, 3000 nits brightness) and more comprehensive health features including ECG capability. Battery performance differs significantly: Epix Pro manages 42 hours GPS versus Galaxy Watch Ultra's 60 hours in power-saving mode. Software matters here—Wear OS 5 offers broader app compatibility and customization compared to Garmin's closed ecosystem. Galaxy Watch Ultra includes cellular connectivity and military-grade durability (MIL-STD-810H), while Epix Pro relies on smartphone tethering. Both offer excellent health tracking with SpO2 and skin temperature sensors, though Samsung adds ECG analysis. At $649.99 versus $899, the Galaxy Watch Ultra delivers better value with superior display technology, more health features, and broader ecosystem support, making it the stronger choice for most users.
Full Specifications
| Spec | Garmin Epix Pro Gen 2 | Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Garmin OS | Wear OS 5 with One UI Watch 6 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 63 g | 60.5 g |
| Case material | Titanium | Titanium Grade 4 |
| Water resistance | 10 ATM | 10ATM + IP68 + MIL-STD-810H |
| Health & Sensors | ||
| ECG | ||
| SpO₂ | ||
| Skin temperature | ||
| Heart rate | ||
| Sleep tracking | ||
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 16 days smartwatch mode, 42 hrs GPS | Up to 60 hours in Power Saving mode (590 mAh) |
| Display | ||
| Size | 1.4 inch | 47mm (1.5") |
| Type | AMOLED | Super AMOLED with Sapphire Crystal glass, up to 3000 nits |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 454 x 454 | 480 x 480 |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | Garmin proprietary | Samsung Exynos W1000 (3nm, 5-core) |
| RAM | — | 2 GB |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 |
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Garmin Epix Pro Gen 2
Pros
- Built-in LED flashlight is a genuinely useful safety feature for night runs
- Titanium case with sapphire lens for maximum durability
- Comprehensive multi-sport tracking with advanced running and cycling metrics
- Bright AMOLED display is readable in all lighting conditions
- Extensive multi-band GPS accuracy for trail and expedition use
Cons
- Very expensive at $899 — hard to justify over the Forerunner 965
- No ECG or cellular connectivity despite the premium price
- Heavy at 63 g for prolonged daily smartwatch wear
- Garmin OS limits third-party app options
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
Pros
- Premium titanium build with 10ATM water resistance and MIL-STD durability
- Bright 3000-nit Super AMOLED display with sapphire crystal protection
- Dual-frequency GPS (L1 + L5) for precise outdoor tracking
- Big 590 mAh battery delivers up to 100 hours in Power Saving mode
- Customizable Quick Button for fast access to workouts and apps
Cons
- Very expensive at $649 — Samsung's priciest watch yet
- Only one 47mm size, too large for smaller wrists
- BioActive sensor and BP/ECG features require Samsung phone
- Design closely mimics Apple Watch Ultra
- Limited third-party app ecosystem versus Apple Watch
Related Comparisons
Explore more in smartwatches, see all Garmin products or all Samsung products. View full details for the Garmin Epix Pro Gen 2 or the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra.