Apple Watch Series 9 Review for Sports & Fitness // Do You Need To Go ULTRA?

In-depth sports and fitness review of the new Apple Watch Series 9 covering heart rate accuracy, GPS accuracy, and how it compares to the Apple Watch Ultra 2. You can get the Series 9 here: geni.us/AppleWatchSeries9 (Amazon affiliate link that helps support the channel - thanks!)
// Related Videos
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Apple Watch Ultra 2 vs Series 9 Comparison: • Apple Watch Ultra 2 vs...
WatchOS 10 Cycling Features: • NEW Apple Watch Cyclin...
WatchOS 10 Offline Topo Maps: • Apple Watch Offline To...
// Chapters
0:00 Intro
1:11 Design and Colors
1:38 Nike Edition?
1:55 New Bands and Loops
2:24 New Brighter Display
3:20 Smartwatch Features
4:04 New S9 SIP and Double Tap
7:12 New Siri Features
8:15 Precision Find
8:35 Battery Life
10:05 Sports and Fitness Features
10:27 GPS Accuracy
12:24 New WatchOS 10/9 Sports Features
13:03 Heart Rate Accuracy
15:27 Series 9 or Ultra 2?
Thanks for watching!
/// Gear I Use (Amazon links) ///
Wearable: geni.us/GarminEpixPro
Bike GPS: geni.us/Edge840
Chest Heart Rate Strap: geni.us/hrm-pro
Arm Heart Rate Strap: geni.us/ESAv
Headphones: geni.us/ShokzOpenFit
/// Connect & Updates ///
Twitter: / getdesfit
Instagram: / getdesfit
Strava: / strava
Facebook: / getdesfit
Videos may contain affiliate links which can help support and grow this channel with no extra cost to you. Thanks for your continued support.
#apple #applewatch #applewatchseries9

[@Will_Roman7]

I went for the ultra. it was over kill I sent it back and got the series 9 and I love it. I took the money I saved and put it towards an iPhone 15 pro max.

[@hfp14]

Been between getting the Ultra 2 and Series 9 for a week or so. This video helped me decide on the Series 9. I'm a runner, and footballer. I don't plan on scuba excursions any time soon. Thanks dude!

[@RoquetSynce]

This is the most in depth review I have seen so far. Thank you for taking the time to break it all down! Really appreicated!

[@DesFit]

Thanks so much!

[@Barberz78]

I just got the series 9 I’m loving it

[@mishrajiBHU]

Thanks for the detailed video . Just got my series 9

[@DesFit]

You’re welcome and enjoy your new watch!

[@GorillaBikeRider]

Great video, thank you! Accuracy is important to me more than longer battery life, as well as overall functionality while sleeping etc. I like to mountain bike and lift weights, and it sounds like sticking with the standard watch suits me better. I think you saved me some money! Now I just have to decide if I want to upgrade my 5 to the 9 or wait for the 10, a real first world dilemma!

[@johnnyionutbirtalan8014]

Great review!! Thank you!! Have series 7...I will go for the Ultra 2!

[@siralator5839]

Interesting what you say about the action button. I don't own an Apple Watch yet, but I was tending to the Ultra because of the action button. Seemed like a better option for starting and stoping runs. Isn't it on the normal AW more cumbersome?

[@nancygraney2435]

Switching from Garmin to my first Apple Watch! Going with the 9 .

[@kaiallison8798]

Wow thanks for this! So in depth :)

[@DesFit]

Happy to help!

[@Natan9000]

As always very nice review! If you compare the 9 and ultra 2 as being double expensive u should also point out the 4G cellular connection as a argument for the ultra. Else the price difference is less when series 9 cellular vs ultra 2 (was my personal comparison 🤓).

[@Chris_hong_sung]

Great comparison Des, thanks 😊

[@DesFit]

Thanks!

[@mistad309]

My last watch was a Series 4 so the Series 9 is a nice upgrade I’m looking forward to using.

[@Texasguy316]

Series 9 for me. Thanks!

[@lisathornton8912]

Upgraded to S9 from S7. I love it. Thank you for sharing this helpful information

[@DesFit]

Thanks and enjoy your watch!

[@Bagellatte]

I love my pink s9..aesthetic and also trustworthy for my workouts

[@user-wu7nm6dy9e]

great video, thank you for great info.

[@DesFit]

Happy to help. Thanks!

[@phirozecontractor6905]

Great Review. Thanks

[@DesFit]

Thanks!

[@BreakawayB]

Excellent review, this is exactly what i wanted to hear. 👏

[@DesFit]

Thanks!

[@othman5106]

Nice review. Though I’ll wait for series X or 10

[@user-bz3yg8zw4s]

AWESOME VIDEO. my Apple Watch arrives tomorrow. I'm trying to learn as much as I can in advance. Thank you

[@DesFit]

Enjoy your new watch!

[@mbuckner4994]

Awesome video Dez thanks. I switched from an Apple Watch to a Garmin FR955 last year. I think the Ultra is a nice looking watch I particularly like the durability and battery aspect but can’t justify that price.

[@CoachCooney]

Really helpful insight in terms of the GPS difference between the ultra and S9! Currently on the S7, so I’m looking to update! 🙏🏻

[@DesFit]

Happy to help!

[@LuggageChestHead]

Thank you for the video. I am a garmin user for decades, but I always think about getting a applewatch since theyve come a long way when it comes to GPS accuracy. If I may ask two questions: 1. Can the apple watch measure stress too and 2. are these jaybirds vista (2?) what you are wearing at 11:25min? Are these your go to Earbuds for running?

[@TheVideogirl1952]

Just got a 9 two days ago! I use to have an SE just so I could use it as a heart rate monitor. Now I wanted to upgrade to all the fancy stuff.

[@somedayy1]

Great Video!! Do you know if you can run a marathon (lets say 4,5 hours) with the Apple watch9 (celluar) while GPS Tracking + MusicStreaming is activated?

[@eugenstrepkov4510]

Super informative and helpful! Thanks! :) I have AW 7 and thought to buy Ultra 2 during next Prime Days… but now, I’m not sure anymore 😂

[@jeraldesperida1]

I like your detailed review of these Apple watches. Very informative. It helps me decides which one to buy. That being said, you earn my Like & Subscription. Watching here from the Philippines.

[@DesFit]

Thanks so much!

[@bradleyanderson247]

I noticed you had the slopes app. I presume you're a skier. Was curious how you liked the slopes app? Nice review, BTW.

[@jeromeyromeyromeyrome]

does the watch get in the way of your everyday life? do you notice it on your arm or do you forget about it being there

[@willdoug6604]

the new Nike silicone band colors is beautiful

[@VSKPS80]

If possible please make a video on Garmin 265 vs Watch series 9.

[@tink8280]

I got the series 9. I could not justify paying that much for a watch being as i don't scuba dive or go really intense hiking. I got the 41mm Midnight, and I absolutely love it. I literally just have to charge my watch every other day. I think it suits my needs just fine.

[@Lulu-oi9ue]

I have the series 5 and I wear it daily. It was one of the best investments I made for my health and fitness. I also use it at work. I’m looking to upgrade either the 9 or wait for the 10.

[@_icscata_]

Very good review. I use my Mi Band 6 for sleep tracking. Sometimes it feels like there is a Xiaomi employee with me watching me sleep… it is ridiculously accurate…

[@markbusam4312]

Great review! Is that the midnight color sport loop? Thanks.

[@jaimyphilipsen4006]

Should I go for the series 9 or Garmin Venu 3?

[@teedmantwed]

Just got a series 9, thanks for all the helpful info. Just realized we’re neighbors too lol

[@dyauswinters]

Would you say the Epix Pro 2 51mm or the AWU 2 has the more accurate heart sensor for running or walking?

[@leehaggard400]

Think i'm gonna go with the series 9

[@sachinperuri2249]

Amazing video, was the only one that helped me make up my mind between the s9 and the u2. Will be going with the s9 as it’s plenty for me! What band do you think will work best?

[@amandacee113]

My first gen SE just finally went out last month. My S9 is being delivered tomorrow. Big upgrade for me and super exciting 😅

[@DesFit]

Enjoy!

[@motsuwu]

Question, I want to buy the Series 9 Watch but when I try to order it asks me which band size I want. The options are "One size" and "Small/Medium" band. What are the differences ? My wrist size is 185mm .

[@BlackMuffin2.0]

I got ultra 2 i love it

[@Santos-ek8md]

Great review 🎉 Def need that Series 9 tho

[@DesFit]

Thanks!

[@Ed6013z10]

Going to replace my series 5 with a series 9. Thank you for a great video.

[@DesFit]

Enjoy your new watch!

[@azzurrox]

Keeping my S5 for one more year. Hopefully the S10 is much more compelling since it’s the 10th update

[@kevin_segura]

I love the helmet light in the back 👏💡🪖

[@DesFit]

Thanks!

[@victorsables9706]

hi Des, can you do a review on swimming with the series 9 - 45mm I am not clear if I can go surfing with watch ?

[@sbuz8386]

In the GPS segment, the AW9 seems to be under reporting on elevation gain, compared with Garmin and Coros. Have you noticed this as well?

[@MattKelley]

This is a great explanation. I was thinking I needed the biggest and best but if the GPS is still pretty accurate and the HR is great then I don’t need the Ultra and can save $400!! I appreciate your time you put in to this, thanks!

[@DesFit]

Happy to help. Thanks!

[@ksaboda]

Just got my stainless steel S9 yesterday and it’s absolutely gorgeous. I went back and forth if I was going to get the Ultra 2 or S9. I went with the S9 because it’s sleeker. Also, I like to track my sleep and the Ultra is just a little too bulky. The battery is better on the ultra 2 but my preference was the aesthetics of the S9. Also the stainless with the sapphire is great for durability in my pilot job.

[@magdalenaabno908]

Which size? How is the battery?

[@ksaboda]

@@magdalenaabno908 I got the 45mm. The battery is decent if you turn off apps that are constantly listening. I turned off hey siri and the noise app. I just recently reenabled “raise to speak” because I believe that only listens briefly for Siri commands when the watch is raised close to your face. It could be useful if your hands are dirty. I’ll check what impact that has on battery life as I’ve had both Siri functions off since I got it. I disabled and deleted the noise app and the battery life is much better. That made a big difference. It still burns through power pretty quick if you start fiddling with the watch. Hard thing to do when it’s brand new😜

[@ThatGuyOverThereWeird]

I upgraded ultra 2 and never going back. it's fine for sleeping and the titanium is light. I get 50 hours battery with a lot of use but can probably go to 3 days

[@donjohn2239]

Same here. S9 is if you unless you are a ultra sport junkie or if you have so much to throw to apple

[@Collier990RHCP]

@@ThatGuyOverThereWeird it’s good but come on, it’s about 62 grams 😂

[@VianouxLimad]

Hello, good video. I still don’t know if I choose the nine or the ultra to replace my SE2. May be I will wait for the next generation to se if the ten series will have a better battery Life. Question : how do you get the graphs of the watches datas ?

[@Thijs576]

I wanna buy my first Apple Watch what do u recommend SE or the series 9? Greetings

[@hackinglongevity]

I had the Ultra for about a year, and recently traded it in for a 41 mm series 9. I find I prefer the minimalist smaller tech these days, will also be downgrading my pro max to a regular pro in the next cycle. The series 9 is just lighter, more comfortable, easier for your sleeves to fit over, and frankly I prefer it for sports as its not as bulky.

[@mightylordkuba]

will wait for series 10 like i waited for iphoneX

[@Elimporta2]

I'm testing the battery life. Currently 50% remaining and 23 hrs of use Including sleep tracking. Always On display (on) but I haven't done any workout on this charge. S9 45mm

[@thefrontbackside]

Thank you for the video. I have a question I hope you or someone can shed some light on. I have the Ultra watch and I often go out without my phone. When I am out and about the watch loses connection to cellular often (in areas with good cell connection) and I have to go into setting, mobile services to get it to re connect. When I have looked online I have found others that have reported this is issue. Does it happen to you and is the new Ultra any better?

[@toneyf]

can you compare new running metrics like stride length and etc in comparison to ones from a strap like garmin?

[@v1ce21]

Question: Did you also test the watch during GPS workouts while listening to music? I'm curious how that affects the battery

[@stephenbrennan264]

I’m currently using the AWU 2 and have my beats fit pro connected to my watch and a 3 hour trail run with AOD full gps and music it uses 20% battery. Now for me that’s great 👍🏻

[@txmoney]

Can’t wait…for Series 10. 😂

[@chaotictattoo]

I have an ultra and it’s just an odd watch for running. I mean it works good looks good but not great feeling with its size. Plus it’s not great for wearing with anything with tight sleeves. With biking in the winter I wear a lot of sleeved shirts and it’s just not tat comfortable. I would suggest if you want a watch with cell service get a series 9 with that mode because they are much nicer to wear. The gps works great and normally always ready to go. I have worn serval garmin watches and this does not even compare with battery for them so don’t even pretend to think it does. I get about two days max.

[@feartheroo42]

Quick question. I’m new to the AW world. Was able to pick up an S8 warranty replacement cellular for 275. Hoping that is good. But trying to replicate my Garmin features. Was told about Athlytic. I’m currently on the 7-day free trial. But my concerns are that I have read that the app is run by a guy out of his basement. Where as First Beat had an entire team. Are you able to tell me from your experience, the difference between Athlytic and First Beat? Is Athlytic reliable and worth my hard earned money? Sorry so long, but thanks as always!

[@rashaadlawson4537]

I have my own Apple Watch and it works great for my iPhone and my AirPods too . Thanks for sharing this!

[@DesFit]

Sure thing!

[@MagicWebUniversity]

Will this new model correct the wrong steps recorded when at rest, seated or driving a car? I use to have a Series 7 and when I take a car it records the ride as walking steps. Even when I am seated. Just read lot of tunning recomendations but none worked properly. Very frustated .

[@rickystelzer]

99% of people don’t need the ultra lol great video

[@steviegreenfield353]

Thank you for a very thorough video. I'm a runner and I'm looking for a watch that I can easily record my split times. Not any of the videos mention this capability. My last fitness watch was a reliable Timex Ironman.

[@DesFit]

You're welcome.

[@TheJugster1]

Series 9 iam ok with it from I watch 4 its Golden

[@brucelin5842]

Venu 3 or aw9?

[@JK-NOT-JK]

Have the Watch 7. Just returned from a cycling trip and the battery was shot after approx 5 hours. Not ideal when you have an 8-10 hour day! I can’t buy a 9 because of this issue; it’s a deal breaker.

[@kpf8186]

I have researched all the watches out there with these great videos on You Tube. I would say to get a watch that matches your fitness level and feature needs. I would love to have an Epix, but I am getting older and now my needs have changed. I think the fall detection is one of the most important features for me. In my younger days, I would be sporting the Fenix, but the fitness features that were important to me years ago no longer apply. I work out according to HR and V02. Series 9 isn't the gold standard for V02, but it does a pretty good job. The HR feature is enhanced for me by wearing an arm strap HR monitor.

[@lhcoco94]

Thank you for the video, it reassured my thoughts about the series9. My only concern is if the series9 can withstand the sauna heat?

[@sachinperuri2249]

Best not to take it in the sauna

[@SnoopBok]

I'm currently using an Apple Watch Ultra 2 and I really like it. Previously, I owned a Garmin Venu 2. But I wanted to have an Apple watch, due to more of the 'Smartwatch' features. I was in doubt between Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2, but the longer battery life and the design of the Watch Ultra 2 were decisive factors for me to purchase AWU2.

[@RetiredAdventureRider]

I was eagerly anticipating having an Apple watch and bought series 1. That specific watch is still going, as I gave it to my sister when I upgraded to series 4. My series 4 died when I swam with it, not noticing a hairline crack in the watch crystal. I bought a series 6, which technically still works, but the back came loose and falls off. Currently using a series 7, which has either cracks or scratches on the face, so I never swim with it. So I'm tempted to go for an Ultra because I tend to bang into things. I've cracked many watch faces before I got into Apple watches. I love having an Apple watch and I usually just let it charge while I do a meditation in the morning. I'll probably wait another year to upgrade, unless I do something to break my series 7.

[@ogonkansligaforgront]

I have scratched every Apple Watch I’ve owned until I bought one in stainless steel. Two years in there are some minor (and I mean really tiny) scratches on the case and absolutely none on the glass. They are stupid expensive but it’s so worth it.

[@TheRealBrianP]

Looks like Series 9 for me. It’s definitely an upgrade over not having an Apple Watch. Lol. I haven’t had an Apple Watch since the very first one and haven’t had that one for a long time

[@sofluffyunicorn]

it's my first apple watch the series 9 I waited for the new chip, I couldn't wait another year for the x or 10. Before I had fitbit but there is a huge difference now I get all my notifications and its so easy to use like iphone comparing to fibit. One day battery life ok, could be at least 24h, maybe it will be in the future. I don't sleep with my watch, so it's not a problem, when I used to track my sleep I slept less because of the results and scores.

[@Elimporta2]

Currently 50% remaining and 23 hrs of use Including sleep tracking. Always On display (on) but I haven't done any workout on this charge. S9 45mm

[@TigerAshTail]

Just got an Apple 9 watch and when I double tap I see a little graphic of a hand at the top of the screen shaking a bit like a head telling me "no." Nothing else happens. I checking under "gestures" in the settings app and the double tap feature is turned on. I'm baffled and disheartened.

[@hayleypell2498]

Hi do you know we’re the weekly summary of steps has gone .

[@QueenShanine]

Seems like the series 9 was a good choice for me (having come from a Garmin) as that Ultra was just too large for my wrist. Though I still miss aspects of my Garmin, this watch has been a cool gift thus far for like 2 days 😅. We shall see if it’s a keeper.

[@playingindies6730]

What benefits does the Apple show compared to Garmin? I have a Garmin Venu SQ and am looking for another. Ultra is way too big, so 9 seems to be better for me.

[@Jacobus.J]

Could you provide an update :)? I am not sure if I want an Apple Watch or something like Garmin...

[@garyhNZ]

Did you test it out for swimming Des?

[@gearup9503]

Can you use double tap to turn on the watch? Instead of having always on display?

[@DesFit]

That's not currently on the preview build I have nor was it listed as a feature. Interesting idea though.

[@vitali2127]

People are you using cellular or Bluetooth version? Does cellular eat more battery?

[@francisdanieldonovan5674]

i still have a series 7 and since i’m only 16 i can’t afford a new one! the ultra would be perfect for me but it’s just too big on my wrist. thanks for the great vids as always. i love following your strava!

[@Itsmypureworld]

Does Apple Watch run Logic Pro X? I really like to produce music on the go 😅

[@robertsonfamilyfarm9126]

Between the 9 and ultra , is there a improvement in taking phone watch calls , speakers 🔊 and also microphones, cell connectivity etc improvements? Kudos

[@macb.631]

As far as I understand, you can have much better mic-quality with the Ultra (2) instead of normal AW. Because of the mic-array.

[@michaelsellors5227]

I always find the AW gives a slightly less total distance than Garmins…like you found. Which do you think is getting it right?

[@DesFit]

The theory I have is that the tracks tend to be smoother than some other devices from my testing, which could explain that ever-so-slight shorter distance on some occasions.

[@BradySzabo]

So, are you actually expected to wear the watch while sleeping, to track sleeping ( i sleep on my side with face resting on palm and I don't want RF waves frying my brain all night, not very healthy)? Great video. Very informative, great editing. Thank you.

[@DesFit]

Yes, many people do but that’s of course personal preference. Thanks!

[@scoti5]

Great video. Both S9 and Ultra 2 provide me with zero reasons to switch from my S8. Maybe Watch X will be worth switching.

[@scoti5]

@@joeking433 Not sure which one you refer to. I’m using this one Infograph, which also has a modular version. It provides the most complications, so it works great for me.

[@artemisthefrenchie]

How do you get the series 9 record the daylight and UV time in the sun on health app

[@gwvaio]

😢I’m just upset the new Nike face only has 4 complications instead of 5. I usually keep my heart rate dead center. lol hopefully they fix it with an update. They’ll say it gets in the way of the longitudinal lines tho 🤷🏾‍♂️

[@kundansingh914]

Hi Des, thank you as always for a very well made informative video. I have been a long term garmin user and currently use the 965 for tracking all my activities such as - strength training, yoga, running, cycling. Along with my recovery metrics such as sleep, body battery, HRV, training readiness. These recovery metrics i beleive are very important. From my understanding the Apple watch doesnt have these metrics, even though its heart rate tracking is superior to that of Garmin. Would you say having the Garmin with slightly less accurate heart rate tracking but better metrics is a good trade off ? is it possible to get recovery metrics on the apple watches? thank you.

[@GravelCycling2023]

Hi Kundan.. i guess Garmin is best in terms of only Sports Usage. Apple watch from sports point of view doesn’t serve the purpose. But for overall package, S9 is worth it.. this all I believe as i use garmin stuff for my cycling & running

[@bjc1219]

@@GravelCycling2023 Kundan is talking about recovery. For example, how can you see HRV on the Apple Watch? You can, but a step by step breakdown and comparison would be great. Recovery is an distinction that I think could be a full video! Thanks Des for your work.

[@kundansingh914]

@@bjc1219 thanks that is what I'm looking for plus the fact that apples Heart rate tracking off the wrist is superior to Garmin. Incase you know can you shed some light on how HRV and Recovery can be tracked on apple watch ? Thanks

[@kundansingh914]

@@GravelCycling2023 thank you.

[@tshegomabitsela5184]

I don’t have an Apple watch so I am planning to get one after watching this video

[@VKodryan]

As far as upgrading from prior generations of AW goes, you can't go without upgrading from AW6 mainly due to the battery. Despite my very sparing use of AW6, its battery health went below 80% in 3 years, and since swimming is my go-to activity replacing a battery in AW will ruin its waterproof status. So while you can forego upgrading your AW7 and AW8 it's harder to do so with AW6.

[@bobby4500]

this is why you never go with an apple watch, buy garmin fenix with weeks of battery life, after 3 years youll be at 10 days, and thats with always on display

[@hari1111]

My Apple Watch series 3 still lasts a full day!

[@lukin_io]

Can i swim in swimming pool with regular AW 9 ?

[@GJBCN]

I am still using my AW3 an love it as it's light an my battery still lasts all day, which is incredible, especially having in mind that I bought it a month after its release. I've been going back and forth between buying AW9 or U2. In the end, the weight and the color of the U2 are the main reasons why I'll be getting the AW9. I don't mind having a shorter battery light. Thanks for your very informative an well structured videos.

[@User-bp5wp]

the same AW3 bought after release. than 2 day battery, now with all day battery. probably i'll buy AW9 with nike desert stone rubber band. Hi5!

[@pksteffen]

I went for an S9 after WatchOS10 started making my S5 die early in the evening the day that I upgraded the OS. I really wanted an Ultra2 but ultimately found the features not that compelling. I cycle a lot but use my computer. Wish my watch would transmit so I could lose the heart rate strap but not going to hold my breath waiting for that. I also do scuba but I already have a clunky but super reliable dive watch. I’m not convinced the Ultra2 is great dive watch yet. Apple is consumer focused and it’s interesting that the marketing toned down the extreme sports angle this year. Think that was smart. It’s really just a smart watch and never going to fully compete with the best in class devices for specialized sports.

[@Harvester88]

I'm curious about going S9 or maybe snagging a S8 since they are on sale. I have a 1st gen SE right now and my battery is getting slaughtered with new update, granted my maximum battery capacity is at about 75%. I've had it for about two years already I think. I don't even remember when I bought it.

[@pksteffen]

Battery on my S9 is often at 60% or above at bed time when I usually charge. Not looking back on my s5. This was worth the upgrade.

[@imnoweren]

w review

[@zetroxela1884]

I use mine for sleep tracking, so I usually put mine on the charger every morning when I get dressed fr the day

[@hamishmeikee]

Is there precision start for Apple series 9 as well? There is precision start for Apple Ultra which I find it quite useful

[@DesFit]

Unfortunately not. I feel like it could be implemented by using the two side buttons together (which already pauses and resumes) but it doesn’t work that way

[@Peter.Fields.]

About battery life, yes Apple claims 18hrs where in real life is more for sure, tiny more ! But right now your battery is super new, so yes it’s super great but over time it’s becoming poor, well, at least you do have fast charging in comparison of my series 5 ! I’m, at this moment, still hesitating between an Apple Watch or a Garmin 265