After a decade of using and extensively reviewing every iteration of the Apple Watch since its debut in 2014, I recently ventured into the Android smartwatch world with the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra. As an Apple devotee and a self-proclaimed tech enthusiast, I was eager to see how Samsung’s offering stacks up against the industry leader.

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is frequently hailed as the pinnacle of smartwatches. Therefore, my anticipation was palpable when I first tried on the Galaxy Watch Ultra, the rugged competitor aiming to capture the adventurous spirit of outdoor enthusiasts.

However, within just 10 minutes, I experienced a shocking revelation: the Galaxy Watch Ultra lacks a digital crown, a feature I had long taken for granted in the Apple ecosystem. This simple yet essential component dramatically alters the user experience, especially in a smartwatch designed for rugged conditions.

Once I connected my Galaxy Watch Ultra to my Samsung Galaxy Fold Z 6, I began navigating its features. Instinctively reaching for the digital crown to scroll, I was met with frustration upon realizing it simply wasn’t there. Instead, I found myself staring at a rather conventional set of buttons: a Quick Button, Home Button, and Back Button. The absence of a tactile scrolling option left me puzzled and longing for the efficiency of the Apple Watch's design.

This realization forced me to rethink everything I believed about smartwatch functionality. In my time using Apple Watches, the digital crown has been crucial for quickly navigating menus, controlling music volume during workouts, and managing notifications. The tactile feedback it provides enhances the experience in ways that a touchscreen can’t replicate, especially in adverse weather conditions or while wearing gloves.

Though the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra boasts impressive features—such as a rugged titanium exterior, vibrant display, and long battery life—it seems to overlook a critical user-centric design choice. Despite its commendable design that mirrors elements of the Apple Watch Ultra, including the blockish aesthetic and the adventurous color palette, Samsung’s decision not to include a rotating crown feels like a significant oversight.

While the Galaxy Watch Ultra’s Touch Bezel is intended to replace the functionality of a digital crown, my experience has been less than satisfactory. It can be awkward to navigate, as your finger can obstruct the display, particularly when scrolling through important information. Many users might find themselves frustrated in outdoor settings where precision and usability are paramount.

For those who identify as Android loyalists, there is certainly much to appreciate in the Galaxy Watch Ultra—it’s arguably one of the best rugged smartwatches on the market today. Its frequent discounts also offer compelling value, but the lack of a digital crown stands out as a missed opportunity.

As rumors swirl around the potential release of the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, one thing is clear: introducing a digital crown would be a straightforward enhancement that could significantly elevate the user experience. While this smartwatch has its merits, it is hard not to wonder how much more enjoyable it could be with this simple yet impactful feature.

With all that said, I am hopeful for what the future holds for subsequent models, as they could bridge the gap between functionality and user satisfaction in the ever-evolving smartwatch landscape. Users who have grown accustomed to the tactile touch of a digital crown will undoubtedly find themselves yearning for that experience when trying out alternatives.

Samsung's Galaxy Watch Ultra is a commendable effort, but let’s just say—it left me longing for a feature that many consumers may take for granted. Stay tuned, as the next iteration may just make the upgraded smartwatch experience worth it!