Comparison of Apple Watch Ultra 3, Garmin Instinct 3, and Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 for Hiking Adventures

The article details a comparative analysis of three smartwatches—Apple Watch Ultra 3, Garmin Instinct 3, and Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2—during a hiking trip in the Cascade Mountains. The author, Dan Bracaglia, tested these devices on a five-mile trek with elevation gains of around 1,000 feet. Key findings include Garmin’s superior elevation accuracy, significantly longer battery life (6% vs. 18% for the others), and a more comfortable fit due to its lighter weight and rounded design. The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 was criticized for overestimating elevation gains, while the Apple Watch Ultra 3 performed adequately but consumed more battery. The author concludes that the Garmin Instinct 3 is the best choice for multi-day outdoor adventures where charging is limited. The piece highlights the importance of accurate tracking, battery efficiency, and ergonomics in outdoor wearables.