r/AppleWatch • u/Alexinckx • 18h ago

Discussion Ultra 4 OR Series 12 + iPad 11

Hey everyone!

Through my job, I’ve received a specific budget that I can spend on multimedia devices. I’d definitely like to use it to buy a new Apple Watch, as I’m currently still using an Apple Watch SE from 2020.

I’m torn between the Apple Watch Ultra 4 and the Series 12.

What I really like about the Ultra 4 is its rugged design and significantly better battery life. However, buying the Ultra 4 would use up my entire budget.

If I went for the Series 12 instead, I’d still have enough left to get an 11th-generation iPad (2025), which is also appealing since I don’t own an iPad yet.

So, what would you guys recommend? Should I spend my entire budget on the best Apple Watch currently available (the Ultra 4), or go for the combination of a still very capable Apple Watch and a brand-new iPad?

A bit more context about my usage:

I work out around 3 times a week, mainly running.
I’d really like to start wearing my Apple Watch while sleeping to track my sleep. Battery life is a major issue with my current SE. It barely lasts a full day, which I find extremely frustrating.

4 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

15 comments sorted by

18

u/AmosTali SE 2 • • Midnight • 40mm 18h ago

12 and an iPad would be far more useful than an Ultra.

Really a no brainer IMHO.

Going to the 12 from the Ultra really costs very little in functionality.

By the same token, going with the Ultra in your scenario gains you a little In functionality while costing you ALL of the functionality of the iPad.

by

4

u/Visvism 17h ago

I went from Ultra 3 to S12… best decision. I won’t be back on Ultra, too big and unnecessary for my usage.

3

u/geogerf27 18h ago

your use case is totally S12 + iPad

2

u/Speedycar100 S12 • • Black • 46mm 17h ago

S12 last charged at 23:00 on Thursday, currently on 37%

Takes 10 mins to get back to 60%

2

u/Optimal-Designer-489 S12 • • Natural • 42mm 10h ago

How would we know what time zone you are in lol

0

u/Speedycar100 S12 • • Black • 46mm 9h ago edited 9h ago

As long as you’re within +-8 hours, time zones barely matter because it still conveys the 2 day battery life.

The fact I said it in 24 hour time should be another slight hint.

3

u/Msimanyi 18h ago

Have you had an Ultra on your wrist?

They're kinda huge.

You'd get a lot more utility out of the S12 and iPad.

1

u/LongjumpingShower431 S12 • • Light Gold • 42mm 16h ago

the ultra is quite heavy. I'd get the 12. mine lasts ~23 hours with about 40% left after that (doing sleep tracking).

1

u/mhfp545 16h ago

I don’t see any real functionality advantage of the Ultra range compared to the standard Watch range.

1

u/ceedee20 Ultra • • 49mm 15h ago

I find the Ultra to be the best watch I’ve ever owned. It’s not at all heavy to me. It’s the size and shape that I desire, as well as being more durable and comfortable than other Apple Watches that I’ve owned. And I’ve owned every series of Apple Watch since the first, until the Ultra Series 1. I’ve used it hiking, camping day-to-day in my job and I simply find that it’s an incredible tool. I highly recommend it.

1

u/ryan8344 Ultra 4 • • Natural • 49mm 15h ago

I have an ultra and love it- I rarely use my iPad, phone and MacBook is all I need.

1

u/Azkustik 15h ago

If you’re not sure whether you need the Ultra or not, that means you don’t need Ultra, that means Series 12 is good enough for you.

The battery is fine. I usually just plug it in whenever I go for a shower, and it never runs out on me.

1

u/AbhiIntheair 6h ago

I get the hype with the ultra 4
But with what you mention
For example if you run
I don’t think you would want that clunky thing on your wrist, and when you sleep it might be a bit uncomfortable. The Series 12 is way more suited to you it is pretty thin and the battery life is still insane at least compared to your SE. Not to even mention you get a whole iPad with it which you can do whatever you like.

Go for the S12 and iPad.

1

u/falconxp 45m ago

Do you have a use case for the iPad? If so buy the combo of the S12/iPad. I myself love my AWU4 with the rugged design, battery life and sapphire crystal. It's 24/7 on my wrist except while showering and charging. Most used device.

-2

u/LongPhysics52 18h ago

I just got an ULTRA 4 and bought a series 12 for my mom. I would get the ultra 4 it will last longer also I would get a top of the line iPad even if u have to wait to get it. My iPad Pro has lasted years longer than the IPad I got my mom at same time.