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Why Apple Watch Ultra 1 is better to get right now than an Ultra 2

Published Apr 30th, 2024 12:31PM EDT

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The Apple Watch Ultra is undoubtedly the most impressive smartwatch that Apple has ever made. At least, it was until Apple unveiled the new Apple Watch Ultra 2 during its iPhone 15 event last year. Of course, the 2nd-gen model isn’t a huge upgrade compared to the 1st-gen Ultra. On top of that, Apple was forced to remove the blood oxygen sensor functionality from the Apple Watch Ultra 2 after it was sued for patent infringement.

For some people, the lack of pulse oximetry alone is a good reason to get a renewed Ultra 1 instead of the newer model. Of course, there’s another reason that’s even better: price. Right now, you can pick up a renewed Apple Watch Ultra starting at just $499. That means you’ll save $300 compared to buying a new Apple Watch Ultra 2.

Amazon Logo See Pricing
Amazon Logo See Pricing
Amazon Logo See Pricing
Amazon Logo See Pricing

If you check out our guide on the best Apple Watch deals, you’ll find some seriously impressive sales. As a matter of fact, all but one model is down to its lowest price ever.

The Apple Watch Series 9 starts at $299 right now, which is a $100 discount and the best price I’ve seen since ahead of the holidays last year. But there’s one version of the Apple Watch that isn’t on sale at its lowest price. You guessed it: the Apple Watch Ultra 2.

If you want to buy a brand-new Apple Watch Ultra 2, the best price you’ll find right now is $779.99. That’s only a $19 discount from the regular retail price of $799, so you won’t save much money right now.

But Amazon has a ton of renewed Apple Watch Ultra models in stock right now, and prices start at just $499. That’s the lowest price we’ve ever seen for the Apple Watch Ultra in any condition. And to sweeten the deal, this is the 1st-gen model with a working blood oxygen sensor.

Amazon Logo See Pricing
Amazon Logo See Pricing

According to Amazon, renewed Apple Watch Ultra models are in excellent condition. They have no cosmetic damage that’s visible from more than 1 foot away. Also, they’re guaranteed to function like new ones and have at least 80% of the original battery capacity. Since the Apple Watch Ultra is still so new, we would be the battery capacity will be much higher than 80%.

Amazon’s “Renewed Guarantee” gives you 90 full days to return your purchase for a full refund. That means you’ve got nothing to lose other than a great deal on an Apple Watch Ultra.

The only thing to keep in mind is that these are renewed models, so there’s obviously a limited supply. Plus, prices vary widely depending on which band you want. Be sure to click around through all the different options to see Amazon’s various prices.

Amazon Logo See Pricing
Amazon Logo See Pricing

Alternatively, if you want a brand-new Apple Watch instead, definitely check out the deals we mentioned earlier.

The Apple Watch Series 9 is Apple’s most popular model, and it starts at $299 right now. That’s a nice big $100 discount, and it’s the lowest price yet. If you want to spend the least amount possible, the 2nd-generation Apple Watch SE starts at $189 right now.

And finally, as I mentioned earlier, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 is $19 off depending on which band you want.

Should you get an Apple Watch Ultra?

Apple Watch Ultra on a cactus, displaying the exclusive Ultra watch faceImage source: Jonathan S. Geller for BGR

There are really only three things you need to know if you’re considering the Apple Watch Ultra.

First, it’s very large. The Ultra is far bigger than any other Apple Watch model that has been released to date. For that reason, I definitely recommend going to an Apple Store and trying it on your wrist before you buy one.

Second, it’s the best smartwatch Apple has ever made. If the size isn’t a deal-breaker, the Apple Watch Ultra has the best design of any Apple Watch to date. It also packs features that no other model has, like the Action Button and the Wayfinder face with night mode, which you can see in the image above. Plus, the newer Ultra Modular face is also available now, and people love it even more.

And third, it’s very expensive… even with these renewed deals that get you an Apple Watch Ultra for under $500. Despite the discount, it’s still more expensive than the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch SE.

If those issues don’t scare you away, you should definitely take advantage and pick up a renewed Apple Watch Ultra while there are still models in stock.

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Amazon Logo See Pricing
Maren Estrada Deals Editor

Maren Estrada has been the Editor of BGR Deals since it launched in 2013. She has more than 20 years of experience testing more than 1,500 products, and reviewing a wide range of consumer electronics including mobile devices, smart home products, computers, and home appliances.

Previously, she was a leading consultant specializing in copywriting, product development, and new product launches.