Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra2 Review: Is It Worth It? [Design, Battery & More] (2026)

Let me tell you something that’s been gnawing at me for weeks: the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra2 feels like a product that’s trying to be two things at once. On one hand, it’s a sleek, premium device aimed at outdoor enthusiasts and dive-watch collectors. On the other, it’s a modern smartwatch trying to keep up with the latest tech trends. The result? A device that’s technically impressive but emotionally conflicted. Let’s unpack why this matters.

Starting with the design—yes, it’s still that divisive 'squirkle' shape, but the Ultra2 manages to feel more compact than its predecessor. At 10.7mm thick, it’s a noticeable improvement, even with a 35% bigger battery. I’ve held both watches side by side, and the difference is palpable. It’s like the designers finally listened to people who said, 'This thing needs to stop feeling like a brick on your wrist.' But here’s the kicker: they achieved this without compromising on materials. Sapphire crystal, ceramic back, titanium frame—it’s the same high-end build we’ve come to expect. What’s fascinating is how they managed to shave down the thickness while keeping the weight stable. It’s a masterclass in engineering, but I wonder if the industry is finally realizing that users care more about comfort than raw specs.

Now, let’s talk about the water resistance. The Ultra2 isn’t just waterproof—it’s a full-blown dive computer. The EN13319 certification means it can function underwater at 40 meters, not just survive. That’s not a feature; it’s a statement. Samsung is positioning this as a tool for serious divers, but I can’t help but think about the average user. How many of us actually need a watch that can measure depth and pressure accurately? It’s a bold move, but it raises a question: Are we witnessing the rise of niche smartwatches tailored for hyper-specific use cases, or is this just a marketing gimmick to justify a higher price tag?

The bands are another area where Samsung has tried to walk a tightrope. The default Marine band is lighter and softer, but it feels rougher than the previous silicone version. The dynamic lug system is clever in theory—it lets you swap bands with a button press—but in practice, it’s a proprietary system that might alienate third-party accessory makers. I’ve seen this before with Apple’s ecosystem, and it always ends up creating a closed loop where you’re forced to buy overpriced, branded straps. Samsung claims the Trail and Peakform bands are adjustable, but I’m skeptical. Fabric bands are great for casual wear, but they’re not going to hold up in a rainstorm or a workout. This feels like a compromise that’s trying to please everyone but ends up pleasing no one.

Then there’s the navigation. The lack of a rotating bezel is a sore spot for many, and I can see why. The 'touch bezel' is a neat idea—swiping around the edge to scroll—but it’s frustrating when your finger accidentally blocks the screen. The Quick Button is a decent workaround, but it’s tucked too close to the Home and Back buttons, making accidental presses inevitable. It’s like Samsung is trying to mimic the tactile feedback of a physical knob with a haptic motor, but it’s not the same. I’ve spent hours fiddling with these controls, and honestly, I miss the old-school physical bezel. It’s a small thing, but it highlights a bigger issue: Smartwatches are getting more complex, but are we making them harder to use?

Looking at the bigger picture, the Ultra2 feels like a product caught between two worlds. It’s trying to be a luxury dive watch and a cutting-edge smartwatch, but neither role is fully embraced. The water resistance is impressive, but it’s not going to make me ditch my dive computer. The design is sleek, but it’s still too bulky for everyday wear. And the navigation quirks remind me that we’re still figuring out what a smartwatch should be. What’s clear, though, is that Samsung is pushing boundaries—whether that’s a good thing depends on what you value more: innovation or usability. Personally, I think the Ultra2 is a step forward, but I can’t shake the feeling that it’s still not quite there yet.