Apple Watch Ultra 4 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2: Which Is Better for Running?

Choosing a smartwatch for running is no longer simply about notifications and apps. Modern premium watches can track GPS distance, heart rate, elevation, workouts, recovery and other fitness metrics, making accuracy an important factor for serious runners.

To see how two of the newest rugged smartwatches perform during an actual race, the Apple Watch Ultra 4 and Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 were tested during a half marathon. The 13.1-mile run provided a real-world opportunity to compare GPS tracking, heart-rate measurements, elevation data, comfort and overall usability. 

Apple Watch Ultra 4 vs Galaxy Watch Ultra 2

The two watches are designed for different smartphone ecosystems.

The Apple Watch Ultra 4 requires an iPhone, while the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 is designed for Android users. Both offer built-in GPS, workout tracking, sleep monitoring and other health and fitness features.

The Apple Watch Ultra 4 has a 49mm case, while the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 uses a 47mm case. The Apple model is also positioned at a higher price, with a listed price of $799 compared with $699.99 for the Samsung model in the test. 

GPS Accuracy During the Half Marathon

GPS accuracy is one of the most important features for runners because even small errors can affect recorded distance and pace.

During the half marathon, both watches performed extremely well. The official race distance was 13.1 miles, while the Apple Watch Ultra 4 recorded 13.23 miles and the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 recorded 13.21 miles.

The slight difference is not necessarily a sign of inaccurate GPS. During an actual race, runners frequently weave around other participants and cannot always follow the shortest possible racing line. 

Based on the test, both watches delivered highly similar GPS results.

Heart-Rate Tracking

Heart-rate accuracy was another important part of the comparison.

The runner used an Oura Ring 5 as a reference point. It recorded an average heart rate of 163 beats per minute during the race.

The Apple Watch Ultra 4 reported an average of 159 beats per minute, while the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 recorded 160 beats per minute.

That makes the two watches extremely close in this particular test, with neither producing a major advantage over the other. 

However, a single race shouldn't be considered definitive proof that one device has universally better heart-rate accuracy. Fit, wrist movement and individual physiology can all affect optical heart-rate sensors.

Elevation Tracking

Elevation measurements were also compared during the race.

The official course had approximately 311 feet of elevation gain, while the Apple Watch Ultra 4 recorded about 342 feet.

The difference can be caused by several factors, including GPS drift, altimeter sensitivity and movement around other runners. Similar variations can occur with many GPS-enabled fitness watches.

Which Watch Is More Comfortable?

Both watches are relatively large, rugged devices.

For a smaller runner, the size can become noticeable during a long race. The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 felt slightly wider, while the Apple Watch Ultra 4 offered a somewhat larger display.

Both watches also include physical controls, which can be useful during exercise because pressing a button is easier than trying to operate a touchscreen with sweaty fingers.

Their bright displays were also easy to read outdoors, including under direct sunlight. 

Apple Watch Ultra 4 or Galaxy Watch Ultra 2?

The answer largely depends on which smartphone you already use.

If you own an iPhone, the Apple Watch Ultra 4 is the natural choice because the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 isn't compatible with iPhones.

Android users, meanwhile, have a much stronger reason to consider Samsung's offering.

For running performance, the half-marathon test showed that both watches were highly capable, with very similar GPS and heart-rate results. 

The Apple Watch Ultra 4 has advantages including its rugged design, larger display and Apple ecosystem integration, while the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 provides a strong alternative for Android users.

Final Verdict

The Apple Watch Ultra 4 and Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 both proved capable during a demanding 13.1-mile half marathon.

The Apple Watch recorded 13.23 miles compared with 13.21 miles on the Samsung, while their heart-rate readings were also remarkably close. That means the real deciding factor may not be basic running accuracy but rather which smartphone ecosystem you use, the watch's design, battery requirements and preferred software experience.