Samsung officially launched its Galaxy Watch Ultra recently and, as expected, the device comes at an ultra price hike. Just like the Apple Watch Ultra line compared to the Apple Watch Series 9, Samsung’s new rugged model runs for roughly double the cost of the latest base Galaxy Watch. Both companies’ high-end devices are only available in LTE models.
Normally, I clamor for an LTE model to be added to a lineup (read: Garmin Fenix, Forerunner, and Epix). However, what I’m really after is for shoppers to have choices. Neither Ultra smartwatch offers a Wi-Fi-only model, an option I would absolutely grab to save $100. I don’t use my wearable for standalone calling features, and I rarely hike without a phone in my pack, so I would still have access to the safety features if needed. On the other hand, many runners covet LTE connectivity so they don’t have to lug phones in their pockets.