When looking for the best smartwatches for 2026, the rugged, feature-packed Apple Watch Ultra 3 comes to mind. The wearable impressed our reviewers, but like all nice things, the price tag can halt you from putting one on your wrist. That’s fair: $799 is a lot of money for a watch, no matter how good it is. While you won’t see huge discounts on Ultra models, that doesn’t mean you’re stuck paying full price. Carrier deals can cut costs with a new line or trade-in, while older Ultras and refurbished listings offer bigger savings, making Apple’s most premium smartwatch feel a lot more attainable than its full retail price.
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 check back often.
What is the best Apple Watch Ultra deal right now?
You can save $50 on the Apple Watch Ultra 3 at Best Buy, which is the biggest direct discount at the moment. If you’re upgrading from an older model, however, Apple’s trade-in program could save you as much as $305 on the Ultra 3. 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.
Best Apple Watch Ultra 3 deals
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 was announced during Apple’s September 2025 event and went on sale later that month. These are the best deals currently available.
Apple’s new and improved rugged Ultra 3 smartwatch comes with an intimidating $799 starting price, but you can knock up to $305 off by trading in your old wearable. You’ll also get 3% cash back when you use an Apple Card to purchase.*
Save up to $305 with trade-in
Best Buy is offering a $50 direct discount on the Apple Watch Ultra 3, knocking the starting price down to $749. You can save even more with an eligible trade-in. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 will net you the most credit, but older models and smartwatches from other brands are also 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.
Save $50, more with trade-in
Although there aren’t any direct discounts at AT&T, you can bring the price down with a trade-in.
T-Mobile is offering up to $300 off a second eligible Apple Watch, including the Ultra 3, when you purchase two devices and activate qualifying wearable lines. The discount is applied to the lower-priced watch via 24 monthly bill credits, with both devices requiring an installment plan and eligible service.
Note that several configurations are currently out of stock, so check to see if the one you want is available.
Save up to $300 on two watches
If you don’t mind a refurbished model, Back Market has Apple Watch Ultra 3 listings starting at $600, depending on the band and condition. That’s $199 off the usual $799 retail price, with professionally restored devices backed by a one-year warranty.
Best Apple Watch Ultra 2 deals
Released in September 2023, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 was Apple’s most advanced smartwatch until the Ultra 3 arrived. It maintains the overall design of its predecessor but has upgrades to the S9 chip for faster speeds and better battery efficiency. It also features an extra‑bright display. Athletes benefit from advanced metrics for running and cycling, while the extended altitude range is a boon for hikers and scuba divers.
Apple no longer sells this model directly, but you can still find it at select retailers. In addition, you can pick up certified refurbished Apple models.
If you’re up for a refurbished Ultra 2, Back Market offers professionally restored models. You may be able to save a bit more with a trade-in, too.
Apple is offering a nice $110 off a certified refurbished Ultra 2 right now. Each refurbished model undergoes Apple’s inspection process and includes a one-year limited warranty, with AppleCare available separately.
Best Apple Watch Ultra deals
Apple has discontinued the first‑gen Apple Watch Ultra and most retailers have stopped stocking it. Deals and direct discounts are rare but refurbished models can save you some cash. Apple doesn’t currently have any refurbished Ultras in stock.
Back Market offers a selection of refurbished Apple Watch Ultra models in fair to premium condition. They’re slightly more affordable than Apple’s refurbished models (which are currently unavailable), though they may show more wear and tear. Trade-ins can lower the price even further, with additional savings depending on the device and its condition.
Save up to $509 on refurb models
Best Buy is another retailer that still has some refurbished Apple Watch Ultra models available. Prices start at $300 and models come with four free months of Apple Fitness Plus and three free months of Apple Music.
Save $499 on refurb models
How we choose Apple Watch Ultra deals at CNET
Because Apple rarely offers discounts itself, you have to look elsewhere to find savings. Our shopping experts scour the web for direct discounts and vet them to ensure they come from trusted retailers. We also look for other ways to save, which may involve trade‑in offers, carrier contracts or cash‑back bargains tied to specific credit cards.
Apple Watch Ultra deals FAQs
How much does the Apple Watch Ultra cost?
Unlike other Apple Watches, there is only one configuration of the Apple Watch Ultra 3. It has a 49mm display and cellular connectivity, starting at $799. It’s an extra $100 to upgrade to the titanium Milanese loop.
The previous‑gen Apple Watch Ultra 2 also lists at $799.
What colors does the Apple Watch Ultra come in?
The Apple Watch Ultra has a titanium case available in two finishes — natural and black.
What is the difference between the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Ultra 3?
The Ultra 3 features a larger and brighter display, 5G cellular, increased battery life (up to 42 hours), satellite connectivity and even a hypertension detector.
Read more: Apple Watch Series 11 vs. Ultra 3 and SE 3: Which Watch Fits You Best?
*All information about the Apple Card has been collected independently by CNET and has not been reviewed by the issuer.
Adam Oram is a Senior Editor at CNET. He studied Media at Newcastle University and has been writing about technology since 2013. He previously worked as a Senior Writer at iMore, Deals Editor at Thrifter, and as an Apple Genius. His spare time is spent watching football (both kinds), playing Pokémon games, and eating vegan food.
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When not writing up the best deals for CNET readers, Amber Guetebier writes about plants, gardening, folklore and pirates. She is the author of several books and currently writing several more.
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Oliver Haslam has been writing about phones, computers, games, and anything else that takes a battery or plugs in for more than he’d like to admit.
With a focus on mobile and laptops, Oliver is never too far away from whatever social network is trending today and is never short of an opinion to share.
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