Claiming multiple spots on our list of the best smartwatches for 2025, Apple definitely makes some of the best wearable tech on the market right now. Apple’s latest and greatest Apple Watch Ultra 3 is our powerhouse pick of the year. With a rugged design, substantial battery and satellite connectivity, CNET smartwatch expert Vanessa Hand Orellana described it as a “Land Rover for your wrist.”
But as you might expect, it doesn’t come cheap. It has a staggering $799 starting price, and because it just hit shelves this fall, discounts are still pretty hard to come by. However, deals are not entirely non-existent. Those looking to upgrade can trade in their old smartwatch for hundreds off. Plus, there are a handful of previous-gen models still floating around out there, which are a good pick if you’re on a tight budget.
To help you make the most of these offers, CNET Senior Editor Adam Oram and our dedicated shopping team have identified the very best bargains on the Apple Watch Ultra, Ultra 2 and Ultra 3 and rounded them up below. We’ll continue to update this page as offers come and go, so be sure to check back often.
We also have roundups for the best deals on the Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch SE 3 if you’re looking for a more affordable alternative.
Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money.
Apple Watches are great buys for fitness and wellness enthusiasts who have iPhones. Keep in mind that the company is currently in a patent dispute with a company called Masimo. The most recent update is that the federal appeals court upheld the US International Trade Commission’s ruling that Apple can’t sell Apple Watches with the blood oxygen sensing feature. Other than that, this Apple wearable offers plenty of other features that can track your steps and keep you connected during outings.
Read more: Apple Watch Series 11 vs. Ultra 3 and SE 3: Which Watch Fits You Best?
Best Apple Watch Ultra 3 deals
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 was announced during the Apple Event last month. Watches made their in-store debut on Sept. 19.
Apple’s new and improved rugged Ultra 3 smartwatch comes with an intimidating $799 starting price, but you can knock up to $335 off in exchange for your old wearable. You’ll also get 3% cash back when you purchase with an Apple Card.*
Best Buy isn’t offering discounts on the Apple Watch Ultra 3. However, you can knock up to $250 off the starting price with an eligible trade-in. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 will net you the most credit but older models and smartwatches from other brands also are accepted.
You’ll also get four free months of Apple Fitness Plus and three free months of Apple Music with the purchase, if you’re a new or returning subscriber.
AT&T doesn’t have any Ultra 3 discounts if you’re only buying one but there is a deal that saves you $300 when you buy two, as long as you add at least one line. Plus, AT&T has its own trade-in program where you can exchange your old phone, tablet or smartwatch for credit. Discounts are applied as bill credits over 36 months.
Best Apple Watch Ultra 2 deals
Released in September 2023, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 was previously Apple’s most advanced smartwatch until the recent release of the Ultra 3. The Ultra 2 maintains the overall design of its predecessor while upgrading to the S9 chip for faster speeds and better battery efficiency. Plus, there’s an extra-bright display. Athletes will also benefit from more advanced metrics for running and cycling and the extended altitude range is a boon for hikers and scuba divers.
Apple no longer sells this smartwatch directly, but you can still find it in stock at a handful of other retailers.
Best Buy still has select configurations of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 available but they’re not currently discounted. However, you can take advantage of the tech retailer’s trade-in program to score some savings.
You can technically earn up to $250 off but that’s only if you’re downgrading from a more recent model. For the Apple Watch Series 9 and older, the most you’ll save is about $110. Best Buy is also throwing in three months of Apple Music and Apple Fitness Plus with the purchase, as long as you’re a new or returning subscriber.
Best Apple Watch Ultra deals
Apple has discontinued the first-gen Apple Watch Ultra, and most retailers have stopped stocking this model. So deals and direct discounts are few, but you can save some cash if you choose a refurbished model. Apple doesn’t currently have any refurbished Ultras in stock.
Back Market has a selection of refurbished Apple Watch Ultra models, ranging from fair to premium condition. They’re slightly more affordable than Apple’s refurbished models (which are not available right now), although they may exhibit more signs of wear and tear.
Join Our Daily Deals Text Group!
Get hand-picked deals from CNET shopping experts straight to your phone.
What is the best Apple Watch Ultra deal right now?
Like most of the latest Apple devices, direct discounts on the Ultra 3 are still pretty hard to come by. However, Amazon does have a single configuration available for $780, which is a slight $19 discount. If you’re upgrading from an older model, Apple’s trade-in program could save you up to $335 right now, which is the biggest discount you’ll find.
How we choose Apple Watch Ultra deals at CNET
Because Apple almost never offers discounts of its own, you have to look elsewhere to find savings. Our shopping experts scour the web for any direct discounts, and vet them to ensure they’re being offered by trusted retailers and vendors. We also look for other ways to help you save, which may involve jumping through a hoop or two. These include trade-in offers, deals that require carrier contracts and cash back bargains for specific credit cards.
*All information about the Apple Card and Target Circle Card has been collected independently by CNET and has not been reviewed by the issuer.
Leave a Comment