Depends on what you care about in a smartwatch. The Ultra is great for those who do lots of outdoor activities and need the extra battery life and durability. The downside is some bands don’t fit as well on the Ultra and many also just don’t look as nice. You also have to consider how it wears under a sleeve due to how thick and clunky the Ultra is etc.

After using the Ultra for a bit I realize while the battery life and added durability is nice I prefer something that works as a casual watch due to my extensive band collection and that’s also is more comfortable in any scenario and it’s also much nicer to sleep with a slimmer watch than the Ultra if you plan on using sleep tracking, it’s also helpful he battery charger very fast on Apple Watch.

Personally I’d get the AWU , even if just for the battery life alone !

Main difference is the S9 chip (also in U2) that enables better integration of the double-tap, and on-board Siri for faster response, especially when dictating. So if you know/think you’ll use your watch “hands free” a lot, the S9 might be the move, especially if you also feel the Ultra may be too big. I’ve never been a big / flashy watch guy, so I wear the 41mm case size, but that may or may not apply to you!

Go with the AWU. You won’t be disappointed based on my experience.

If you are into the Adventure lifestyle and/or want a bigger and brighter display, longer battery life, better durability, and/or simply like it (and can afford it), get the Apple Watch Ultra, if not get the regular Apple Watch.

I just got the Series 9. It’s my first Apple Watch. It works very well and it looks nice. I like it.