Can you answer calls on Galaxy Watch 8?

Yes, you can answer, make, and reject phone calls directly on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 using its built-in microphone and speaker. It works via Bluetooth when connected to your phone, or independently on the LTE version. You can answer by swiping the green icon, using gestures, or making voice commands.

Can you text on a Galaxy Watch 8?

Yes, you can text on the Galaxy Watch 8 using the pre-installed Messages app to create new messages, view incoming ones, and send replies. Options include using a full on-screen keyboard, voice-to-text, or quick pre-written responses. The watch connects to your Galaxy phone via Bluetooth or LTE for messaging.

Can you make calls from a Samsung smartwatch without a phone?

Yes, Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 models are available with LTE/Cellular connectivity (which also have Bluetooth), meaning they can make and receive calls without a phone nearby. These models use an eSIM and a separate service plan (often shared with your phone) to operate independently. The Galaxy Watch 8 series is also available as Bluetooth-only models, meaning they require the phone to be nearby or connected via Wi-Fi for calling.

Can I leave my phone at home and use my Galaxy Watch?

Yes, you can use a Samsung Galaxy Watch without a phone, particularly LTE models. While you lose features like app downloads and some health tracking, you can still use step counting, alarms, and exercise tracking. Standalone use is ideal for exercise, allowing for phone-free music streaming and calling, provided the watch is activated on a cellular plan.

Can you install any apps on a Samsung watch?

Just like on your phone, you can install, customize, and uninstall apps on your smartwatch. Personalize your smartwatch to fit your needs and preferences using the Galaxy Wearable app on your phone.

rc review - galaxy watch ultra2 apple watch ultra3

RC Review: Which Premium Smartwatch Should You Buy?

August 5, 2026 8:39 am

Looking for the best premium rugged smartwatch for fitness, outdoor adventures, health tracking, and everyday use? This buyer’s guide compares the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, Galaxy Watch Ultra, and Apple Watch Ultra 3 to help you choose the right smartwatch for your budget and smartphone ecosystem.

The Quick Verdict (In Our Opinion)

Best Overall for Android Users: Galaxy Watch Ultra 2
Best Value: Galaxy Watch Ultra (if discounted)
Best for iPhone Users: Apple Watch Ultra 3
Best Battery Life: Galaxy Watch Ultra 2
Best Health Ecosystem: Apple Watch Ultra 3
Brightest Display: Galaxy Watch Ultra 2

Specs Side-by-Side (by Side)

Feature	Galaxy Watch Ultra 2	Galaxy Watch Ultra	Apple Watch Ultra 3
Price	$699	$649	$799
Case Size	47mm	47mm	49mm
Thickness	10.7mm	12.1mm	12mm
Display Size	1.52-inch OLED	1.5-inch OLED	1.98-inch LTPO OLED
Peak Brightness	5,000 nits	3,000 nits	3,000 nits
Processor	Snapdragon Wear Elite	Exynos W1000	Apple S10 SiP
Battery Capacity	800mAh	590mAh	599mAh
Operating System	Wear OS 7	Wear OS 7	watchOS 26
LTE Connectivity	Standard	Standard	Standard
Water Resistance	50m	50m	40m recreational diving
ECG	Yes	Yes	Yes
Blood Oxygen	Yes	Yes	Yes
Diving Computer	Yes	Yes	Yes
Phone Compatibility	Android	Android	iPhone
Health Features	Advanced Vitals, Heart Health Score, Fitness Index	Standard Health Tracking	Comprehensive Health Tracking, Hypertension Alerts

Design and Build Quality

Galaxy Watch Ultra 2

Samsung refined rather than redesigned its flagship rugged smartwatch. The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 retains the premium titanium construction but becomes significantly thinner at just 10.7mm, making it more comfortable for all-day wear.

The slimmer profile, reduced bezel size, and lighter-feeling design help the Ultra 2 feel less bulky than its predecessor while still maintaining military-grade durability.

Pros

Slimmest watch in this comparison
Titanium chassis
50-meter water resistance
Comfortable for workouts and sleep tracking

Galaxy Watch Ultra

The original Galaxy Watch Ultra introduced Samsung’s premium outdoor smartwatch design language. While still durable and attractive, its 12.1mm thickness makes it noticeably chunkier on the wrist.

For users upgrading from older Galaxy Watches, it remains a significant step up in materials and durability.

Pros

Rugged titanium design
Proven durability
Same band compatibility as Ultra 2

Apple Watch Ultra 3

Apple continues to build on its successful Ultra formula with a 49mm titanium case, flat sapphire display, customizable Action Button, and oversized Digital Crown.

The Ultra 3 delivers the largest screen of the group, making it excellent for maps, fitness metrics, and notifications.

Pros

Largest display available
Premium titanium construction
Excellent ergonomics despite larger size

Winner: Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 for overall comfort, Apple Watch Ultra 3 for screen size.

Display Comparison

Outdoor readability is critical for runners, cyclists, hikers, and divers.

Watch	Display	Brightness
Galaxy Watch Ultra 2	1.52″ OLED	5,000 nits
Galaxy Watch Ultra	1.5″ OLED	3,000 nits
Apple Watch Ultra 3	1.98″ LTPO OLED	3,000 nits

The Galaxy Watch Ultra 2’s 5,000-nit display is a standout feature. It surpasses both competitors and should remain clearly visible even in direct sunlight.

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 counters with a much larger screen and efficient LTPO technology that can refresh as low as 1Hz for better battery efficiency.

Winner: Galaxy Watch Ultra 2