When it comes to tracking your swimming workouts, both the Apple Watch Ultra and the Series 10 offer impressive features. But with their differences in design, functionality, and price, which one should swimmers choose?
Let’s dive into a comparison to help you make an informed decision on which model suits your swimming needs best.
Price and Build Quality
The most obvious difference between the Apple Watch Ultra and the Series 10 is the price. The Ultra comes in at $799, while the Series 10 is more budget-friendly, starting at $399 for the 42mm version. Both watches have durable constructions, but the Ultra stands out with its titanium case, which offers more robust protection against wear and tear. The Series 10, on the other hand, comes in aluminum, although you can upgrade to titanium for an extra cost.
While both models boast high-quality screens, the Apple Watch Ultra has a 49mm case display, compared to the Series 10’s slightly smaller 42mm or 46mm case options. The screen on the 46mm Series 10 actually has a larger screen than the 49mm Apple Watch Ultra. Interestingly, despite the Ultra’s larger size, its display has slightly fewer pixels than the Series 10, though the difference is hardly noticeable in real-world use.
Swimming Performance: Pool and Open Water
For swimmers, the key factors in choosing a watch revolve around water resistance, tracking accuracy, and usability during swimming sessions.
Related: Looking for a swim training plan? Download the MySwimPro app on your Watch!
Open Water Swimming:
When tested in open water, both watches performed reasonably well, but there were notable differences in tracking accuracy. The Apple Watch Ultra features dual-band GPS, which should theoretically offer more precise tracking of your distance and route. During the test, however, the Ultra recorded a 1.4 km swim while the Series 10 showed 1.8 km, a significant discrepancy. This suggests that while the Ultra’s GPS is generally better, neither watch is perfect when it comes to open water distances.
Depth Rating and Durability:
The depth tracking on the Ultra is another standout feature for serious swimmers. The Apple Watch Ultra can track depths beyond 20 feet, making it suitable for diving and underwater activities. In contrast, the Series 10 is rated for a depth of 6 meters (about 20 feet), and Apple advises against using it for deep water activities like scuba diving. If you’re serious about swimming in deeper waters or even snorkeling, the Ultra’s higher depth resistance is a clear advantage.
Ergonomics in the Water:
The feel of the watch during swims is crucial for comfort. The Apple Watch Ultra is noticeably thicker, measuring 14.7mm, compared to the Series 10’s 9.7mm. While the Ultra might feel a bit bulkier, it’s still comfortable to wear during swimming. Neither watch, however, feels particularly cumbersome in the water, and both are designed to be worn without major distractions during training.
Battery Life for Swimmers
Battery life is a big consideration, especially for long workout sessions. The Apple Watch Ultra stands out with its impressive 36-hour battery life, which can stretch up to 12 hours during workout tracking. This is a game-changer for swimmers who spend long hours in the pool, as you won’t need to worry about charging after each swim.
In comparison, the Series 10 offers 18 hours of battery life and just 8 hours during workouts. If you’re planning long training sessions or travel frequently, the Ultra’s superior battery life is a significant perk.
GPS and Workout Tracking
Both watches excel at tracking workouts, but the Apple Watch Ultra’s dual-band GPS gives it a slight edge when it comes to outdoor tracking, whether you’re swimming or running. The Series 10 lacks this dual-band GPS and may provide slightly less accurate results, as demonstrated during the bike and run tests, where the Ultra showed more consistent results. If precise GPS tracking is crucial to your swimming workouts, the Ultra is the better choice.
Other Features and Considerations
- Cellular Connectivity: The Ultra comes with cellular as a standard feature, while the Series 10 offers it as an optional upgrade. For swimmers who want to leave their phone behind while training, the Ultra might be a better fit.
- Swim-Specific Apps: Both models support the MySwimPro app, which offers advanced tracking, personalized workout plans, and real-time coaching to help swimmers improve. For a more advanced workout experience, the app takes advantage of the large screens and enhanced performance capabilities of both watches.Ready to level up your swimming? Download MySwimPro today and experience personalized swim workouts and in-depth analysis right from your wrist!
Final Verdict: Which Is Better for Swimmers?
For casual swimmers, the Apple Watch Series 10 is a solid option. It provides excellent swim tracking features, water resistance, and a more affordable price. However, if you’re a serious swimmer who needs top-tier GPS accuracy, extended battery life for long swims, and superior depth tracking, the Apple Watch Ultra is the better choice. The thicker build and higher price are the trade-offs, but the Ultra’s durability and performance make it worth the investment for those who train in challenging conditions.
Ultimately, the Apple Watch Ultra is the clear winner for swimmers who want the best overall experience, but if you’re on a budget or don’t need the extra features, the Series 10 will more than meet your needs.
And remember, whether you choose the Ultra or Series 10, the MySwimPro app is an essential companion for optimizing your training. Sync personalized swim workouts for set-by-set coaching, tracking, and drills.
Download the MySwimPro app and start swimming smarter!
