Apple Watch Ultra 4 review

Image: Apple

Apple released the Ultra 4 in September 2026. It costs £749 in the UK. It keeps the 49mm titanium case of earlier Ultra models. Inside it has a new S11 chip, new heart sensors and a bigger battery. Apple says the battery lasts up to 50 hours in normal use, up from 42 hours on the Ultra 3, and up to 84 hours in Low Power Mode.

What is good

• Battery life is now two days or more for most people. Fifteen minutes on the charger gives up to 18 hours of use.

• The new sensors measure heart rate every five seconds through the day. Reviewers who tested it against a chest strap found it accurate.

• It now gives a daily Readiness score, so you get recovery advice without a separate band.

• The screen is large and bright and easy to read outside.

What is not good

• Some new features were not ready at launch. They will arrive in software updates.

• It is large and heavy for a small wrist and for wearing in bed.

• It only works with an iPhone.

• If you have an Ultra 3, the changes are small. The case, screen and design are the same.

Verdict

The Ultra 4 is the best Apple Watch for battery life and fitness tracking. With the Readiness score it now covers much of what a Whoop band does. It is worth the upgrade from an Ultra 2 or older. If you have an Ultra 3, keep it.

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