Apple Watch Ultra 2 vs. Garmin Vivoactive 5: A Detailed Comparison

Top Compras Updated: January 8, 2025

Apple Watch Ultra 2

7.8/10
Apple Watch Ultra 2
$719.99
Exceptionally bright display (up to 3000 nits)
New S9 chip for faster processing
Double tap feature for convenient interaction
vs

Garmin Vivoactive 5

7.8/10
Garmin Vivoactive 5
$238
Vibrant AMOLED display
Good balance of features for the price
New sleep metrics like Sleep Coach and nap tracking

Quick Overview

A detailed comparison between the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and the Garmin Vivoactive 5, highlighting their features, pros, and cons.
## Apple Watch Ultra 2 vs. Garmin Vivoactive 5: Detailed Comparison

Choosing between the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Garmin Vivoactive 5 is a tough decision, because different needs and tastes dictate different conditions. Let’s do a detailed comparison to help you make the right choice.

Display and Build

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 boasts an extremely bright display with up to 3000 nits of brightness. This makes it incredibly comfortable to read even in direct sunlight. The titanium case and sapphire crystal display make it a durable and reliable choice.

The Garmin Vivoactive 5 watch, on the other hand, features a bright AMOLED display that is also bright and colorful and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. However, it lacks the Ultra 2’s durability, and some users find the plastic buttons a bit clunky.

Performance and Features

Under the hood of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a new S9 chip that delivers faster processing and improved performance. An innovative dual-touch feature is also included for convenient interaction, and the Ultra 2 comes equipped with features like a siren, underwater computer and dual-frequency GPS, making them ideal for outdoor activities. However, the new US models have the blood oxygen sensor disabled.

The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is less powerful but offers balanced features for its price, including new sleep metrics like Sleep Coach and sleep tracking, accurate GPS tracking, and autonomous music playback. However, it lacks a barometric altimeter and uses an outdated heart rate sensor.

Battery Life

Battery life is an important factor for many users, and the Apple Watch Ultra 2 lasts longer than other Apple Watches - up to two days with normal use. This is a big plus for those who don’t like to charge their devices often.

The Garmin Vivoactive 5 watch is different in this regard, with a battery life of 7-8 days with normal use and 3-4 days with the display always-on feature enabled. This makes it an ideal choice for those who need a watch that can be used for long periods of time without the need for constant recharging.

User Experience

In terms of user experience, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 seamlessly integrates into the Apple ecosystem. The dual-touch feature is revolutionary and makes it easy to operate the watch without touching the screen. However, some users find the size and bulk of the Ultra 2 uncomfortable.

The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is lighter and more comfortable for everyday use. It doesn’t have the same level of integration as Apple’s ecosystem, but it offers a user-friendly interface and a number of useful features.

Pros and Cons

Apple Watch Ultra 2 Pros:

  • Display: Very bright display (up to 3000 nits) that can be read even in direct sunlight.
  • Performance: Faster processing and improved performance thanks to the new S9 chip.
  • Interaction: Dual-touch function for convenient interaction.
  • Battery: Long battery life (up to 2 days).
  • Durability: Titanium body and sapphire glass display for superior durability.
  • External features: Siren, dive computer and dual-frequency GPS for outdoor activities.

Disadvantages of Apple Watch Ultra 2:

  • Sensors: Blood Oxygen Sensor is disabled on newer US-made models.
  • Price: Price is high and requires a large investment.
  • Size: Bulky size may not be convenient for all users.
  • GPS: GPS accuracy is unstable in dense urban environments.
  • Sleep tracking: Inaccurate sleep tracking, especially during waking hours.

Pros of Garmin Vivoactive 5:

  • Display: Bright AMOLED display suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
  • Price: Good balance of features for its price.
  • Sleep Tracking: New sleep indicators such as Sleep Coach and sleep tracking.
  • GPS: Accurate GPS tracking.
  • Battery: Long battery life.
  • Offline music playback and Garmin Pay support.

Disadvantages of Garmin Vivoactive 5:

  • Altimeter: No barometric altimeter.
  • Heart rate sensor: Older Elevate Gen 4 heart rate sensor.
  • Size: Smaller size options are not available.
  • Buttons: Plastic buttons feel sticky.
  • Display: Reflective AMOLED display.
  • Sleep Tracking: Questionable accuracy in tracking sleep stages.

Conclusion

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a premium smartwatch designed for those who want a rugged, feature-rich device that integrates seamlessly into the Apple ecosystem. They are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for the latest technology.

On the other hand, the Garmin Vivoactive 5 is a more affordable option that offers balanced features for its price. It’s a great option for those who want a reliable fitness tracker with long battery life and a bright display. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and budget.

Specification

FeatureApple Watch Ultra 2Garmin Vivoactive 5

Apple Watch Ultra 2

Pros

  • Exceptionally bright display (up to 3000 nits).
  • New S9 chip for faster processing.
  • Double tap feature for convenient interaction.
  • Longer battery life (up to two days).
  • Titanium case and sapphire crystal display for durability.
  • Siren, dive computer, and dual-frequency GPS for outdoor activities.

Cons

  • Blood oxygen sensor disabled on new US units.
  • High price, making it a significant investment.
  • Bulky size may not be comfortable for all users.
  • Inconsistent GPS accuracy in dense urban environments.
  • Inaccurate sleep tracking, particularly in-bed time.

Garmin Vivoactive 5

Pros

  • Vibrant AMOLED display.
  • Good balance of features for the price.
  • New sleep metrics like Sleep Coach and nap tracking.
  • Accurate GPS tracking.
  • Solid battery life.
  • Offline music playback and Garmin Pay support.

Cons

  • Lacks barometric altimeter.
  • Older Elevate Gen 4 heart rate sensor.
  • No smaller size option available.
  • Plastic buttons feel gummy.
  • Reflective AMOLED display.
  • Questionable sleep stage tracking accuracy.

Quick Verdict

Apple Watch Ultra 2

Read Full Review

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a premium smartwatch designed for those who need a rugged and feature-rich device with seamless integration into the Apple ecosystem. It's ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those who want the latest technology.

8.5/10
Features
9/10
Performance
6.5/10
Value
9.2/10
Quality
7.8/10
Overall

Garmin Vivoactive 5

Read Full Review

The Garmin Vivoactive 5 is a more affordable option that offers a good balance of features for the price. It's a great choice for those who want a reliable fitness tracker with solid battery life and a vibrant display.

7.5/10
Features
8/10
Performance
8.5/10
Value
7/10
Quality
7.8/10
Overall

Frequently Asked Questions

Where to Buy

Apple Watch Ultra 2

$719.99
7.8/10

Garmin Vivoactive 5

$238
7.8/10