Apple Watch Ultra lives up to durability claims in hammer test

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Apple Watch Ultra review roundup: For extremophiles
The Apple Watch Ultra is truly ultra-durable.
Photo: Apple

A YouTuber has put the Apple Watch Ultra through an intense test to determine its durability. The wearable was dropped multiple times, repeatedly hit with a hammer, and even put in a jar of nails.

The watch emerged unscathed from the ordeal. While not an ideal replica of real-world use, the test gives a good idea of the Apple Watch Ultra’s durability.

Apple Watch Ultra is extremely durable

The Apple Watch Ultra survived a face-down fall on the concrete without any issues. There were some scratches on the casing, but nothing to worry about. The smartwatch was then put in a jar of nails and shaken heavily. Once again, it emerged from the test without any issues, though the band did pick up some dirt.

Apple claims the Apple Watch Ultra is the “most rugged and capable Apple Watch ever.” It features a titanium case and a sapphire crystal cover glass to protect the display. On paper, this makes the wearable very durable. And this durability test from YouTuber TechRax proves that.

As a more extreme test, the YouTuber repeatedly slammed the Apple Watch Ultra’s face with a hammer. And surprisingly, the wearable survived them all…initially. In fact, the table on which the test was being done broke first.

The watch eventually did stop working, and after a few more repeated hits, the sapphire crystal glass shattered into pieces. Nonetheless, this gives a good idea of the Apple Watch Ultra’s reliability.

Apple Watch Ultra is more durable than the regular Apple Watch

Apple Watch Series 8 would not have survived such an extreme test. The models with aluminum casing feature an Ion-X front glass that is not as durable. Besides more robust materials, Apple has also designed the Ultra watch to ensure it survives rough terrain and impacts.

A raised lip around the chassis protects the sapphire crystal display. The Digital Crown and the side button are also enclosed in a protective casing.

If you are getting a rugged watch, check out some of the Apple Watch Ultra’s hidden features that you did not know.

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