While Apple’s offerings consistently raise the bar, numerous replicas and alternatives have entered the market, attempting to emulate the magic of the original. So in the market of Apple Watch Ultra replicas, and with flooded options, choosing the right smartwatch can be a daunting task. In this comprehensive comparison, we’re going to examine two prominent contenders: the HK9 Ultra 2 and the Hello Watch 3 Plus. Both of these smartwatches have garnered attention for their striking resemblance to the coveted Apple Watch Ultra. Since both smartwatches now offer local storage, music playback, and true always-on displays, this comparison promises to be an exciting one.
In this in-depth analysis, we’ll delve into every aspect of these smartwatches, from their design and performance to unique features and functionality. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with all the information you need to make an informed decision to determine which one comes out on top.
Design and Build
Both the HK9 Ultra 2 and the Hello Watch 3 Plus boast a 49mm size, compatible with the Apple Watch Ultra case. While their body designs share similarities with the coveted Apple Watch, some subtle differences set them apart. The Hello Watch 3 Plus, for instance, features a matte case finish that closely resembles the titanium look of the Apple Watch Ultra. On the other hand, the HK9 Ultra 2, while offering a similar form factor, may not be as convincing in terms of case resemblance.
The Hello Watch 3 Plus proudly boasts a speaker size identical to that of the Apple Watch Ultra. On the other hand, the HK9 Ultra 2 ventures into uncharted territory by incorporating a slightly larger speaker. It’s a design choice that initially appears advantageous; however, it introduces a critical problem. This increase in speaker size results in a misalignment, rendering it incompatible with the case. The Hello Watch 3 Plus, with its precise speaker sizing, achieves a more harmonious union with the case, making it a closer match to the Apple Watch Ultra.
Both replicas proudly sport a GPS antenna design on the body. It’s important to clarify, however, that these design elements are purely aesthetic; neither device incorporates built-in GPS functionality. Both feature a real-screwed design, user-friendly buttons on the sides, and a centrally placed microphone. Flip them over, and you’ll find sensors and strap locking mechanisms on the back.
Both smartwatches allow for key customization, with the Hello Watch 3 Plus enabling users to customize the action key. In contrast, the HK9 Ultra 2 takes customization a step further, allowing you to tailor both double-click and press-and-hold functions on the side key, as well as single-click functions on the action key. Notably, neither smartwatch includes a dedicated lock screen button.
Display Quality
The display and user interface are pivotal elements of a smartwatch’s appeal. Both the HK9 Ultra 2 and the Hello Watch 3 Plus feature true AMOLED displays, closely mirroring the vibrant and sharp screens of the Apple Watch Ultra. The combination of display quality and powerful processors results in a fantastic user interface experience.
In a head-to-head comparison, the HK9 Ultra 2 unquestionably shines with its vibrant colors and lifelike icons. Even when both devices employ the same wallpaper, the HK9 Ultra 2’s display offers a more vivid, true-to-life experience. The difference is most apparent when evaluating the picture quality, transitions, and the overall smoothness of the user interface. The display of the HK9 Ultra 2 benefits from its robust chipset, enhancing not only the visual experience but also the fluidity of the user interface. However, the Hello Watch 3 Plus falls short in terms of color saturation and vibrancy when compared to the HK9 Ultra 2.
The screen size plays an equally significant role in our analysis. The Hello Watch 3 Plus advertises a 2.04-inch display, which is undoubtedly impressive and provides ample screen real estate for users to interact with. On the other hand, the HK9 Ultra 2 boasts a slightly larger 2.12-inch display. However, it’s essential to remember that these measurements don’t tell the whole story. The size of the display is only one aspect; what truly matters is how it’s utilized.
In practice, the Hello Watch 3 Plus manages to create a more immersive experience despite its slightly smaller display, thanks to its thinner bezels. The reduced bezel size allows the screen to dominate the watch face, providing a visually pleasing and engaging interface. In contrast, the HK9 Ultra 2, while offering a slightly larger display, features thicker bezels, which can somewhat diminish the perceived screen size and user experience.
Maximum and minimum brightness levels provide another opportunity for differentiation. The HK9 Ultra 2 consistently surpasses its counterpart, with a maximum brightness setting that outshines the Hello Watch 3 Plus. At the minimum brightness level, the Hello Watch 3 Plus falls notably short, providing an experience that is often too dim. Conversely, the HK9 Ultra 2’s lowest brightness setting is strikingly luminous. This significant difference in brightness levels carries implications for usability and the user experience, ultimately favoring the HK9 Ultra 2.
Always-On Display
An always-on display is a highly sought-after feature, as it allows users to keep track of time and notifications without needing to activate the screen. Both smartwatches offer always-on displays, which are designed to mimic the experience of a traditional watch. The Hello Watch 3 Plus stands out for its ability to keep the display on indefinitely, essentially serving as a convenient bedside clock. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who prefer a permanent clock display. In contrast, the HK9 Ultra 2 has a shorter always-on duration, lasting a maximum of 30 seconds, making it less suitable for prolonged use as a clock.
Watch Faces and Customization
One of the most exciting aspects of a smartwatch is its watch face. It allows users to personalize their devices, adding a touch of personality and style to their daily interactions. Both the HK9 Ultra 2 and the Hello Watch 3 Plus offer a range of built-in watch faces. However, the number of options and the degree of customization vary between the two devices.
The HK9 Ultra 2 impresses with eight pre-installed watch faces, each providing a unique style and aesthetic. Beyond these, users can add one custom watch face from their gallery, and an additional six wallpapers can be selected to adorn the dynamic dial. This flexibility allows users to maintain up to 15 wallpapers at a given time, ensuring that their smartwatch reflects their unique style and preferences.
In contrast, the Hello Watch 3 Plus features six built-in watch faces. The user can delete up to five of these and replace them with their preferred options. A single custom watch face from the gallery can also be installed. This choice ensures that the Hello Watch 3 Plus can maintain up to seven watch faces in total, including the built-in and custom options.
So, in terms of watch faces, the HK9 Ultra 2 has the upper hand in both quantity and quality. But, when using the WearFit Pro app, The HK9 Ultra 2 provides a range of free and paid watch faces, allowing users to personalize their devices. However, access to the full selection often requires a membership or individual purchases, which may not be suitable for everyone.
In contrast, the Hello Watch 3 Plus offers a wealth of free watch faces, easily accessible through the Vdo Fit app. Users can even install custom watch faces, further expanding their personalization options. Moreover, the Hello Watch 3 Plus allows users to freely move content on the watch face, providing more flexibility for personalization.
The pointer watch face on the HK9 Ultra 2 offers users the ability to customize the color of the watch face, much like the Apple Watch Ultra. However, it’s worth noting that watch faces on the HK9 Ultra 2 are more locked down. This means that users may have limited flexibility in customizing certain aspects of the watch faces. On the other hand, the Hello Watch 3 Plus embraces a more open approach to watch face customization. Users can modify and fine-tune various elements to create a truly unique watch face.
Chipset and Performance
The chipset is often a critical determinant of a smartwatch’s performance. In this regard, both the HK9 Ultra 2 and the Hello Watch 3 Plus aim to provide seamless and efficient user experiences. The HK series, including the HK9 Ultra 2, is known for utilizing the SF32LB525 to SF32LB551 Chip, which is widely recognized as one of the best chips available for smartwatches. This chipset is known for its ability to deliver fast processing speeds, smooth transitions, and an overall enhanced user experience.
In contrast, the Hello Watch 3 Plus features the A16 chip, which, while a good performer in its own right, struggles to match the level of performance achieved by the SF32LB525 chip. The chip’s superiority becomes evident through faster processing, smoother transitions, and an overall more responsive performance. This difference in chipsets can significantly impact the user experience, making the HK9 Ultra 2 a compelling option for those who prioritize performance in their smartwatches.
The results of this chip comparison are nothing short of revealing. The HK9 Ultra 2 emerges as the frontrunner in the performance department. Its transitions between applications and screens are notably smooth, creating a user experience that is nothing short of delightful. The A16 chip in the Hello Watch 3 Plus, in comparison, leaves some room for improvement, particularly when it comes to app transitions. Exiting applications on the Hello Watch 3 Plus is a notably less smooth experience, introducing a perceptible lag. This stark contrast in performance is largely attributed to the superior chipset in the HK9 Ultra 2, underscoring the device’s fluid user interface and snappy responsiveness.
Built-in Local Storage
When it comes to storage, the Hello Watch 3 Plus boasts a substantial 4GB, while the HK9 Ultra 2 offers 2GB. Both smartwatches allow users to add local music. Furthermore, Hello Watch 3 Plus goes beyond music, enabling users to import photos and even add e-books, also excels in sound recording, allowing users to easily transfer recorded files to their smartphones.
One significant advantage of the Hello Watch 3 Plus is its ability to connect with wireless earphones, allowing for a seamless audio experience. Unfortunately, the HK9 Ultra 2 lacks this feature, limiting its potential as a standalone music player.
User Interface Comparison
The user interface (UI) is the heart and soul of any smartwatch, It is the portal through which users engage with their devices, making it a pivotal factor in evaluating their overall appeal. Both the HK9 Ultra 2 and the Hello Watch 3 Plus operate on platforms inspired by WatchOS 10, but they diverge in how they execute their UI experiences.
Both watches feature menu styles that align with WatchOS 10, providing a consistent and recognizable interface. Virtual-style watch faces add a layer of personalization, allowing users to tailor their watch’s appearance to suit their preferences.
The widgets page, an essential component of any smartwatch’s UI, also demonstrates disparities. While the Hello Watch 3 Plus offers smooth animations and an engaging visual experience, the HK9 Ultra 2 showcases a notably superior UI. Its transitions are fluid, and the dynamic nature of the widgets enhances the overall user experience. When it comes to seamless interaction and a visually engaging interface, the HK9 Ultra 2 unquestionably outperforms its rival.
Scrolling from left to right opens up the quick access applications, a staple of any smartwatch’s functionality. Both devices offer this feature, but the HK9 Ultra 2 once again excels with its exceptionally smooth UI and seamless transitions. In contrast, the Hello Watch 3 Plus offers a more standard user experience, with the absence of app-opening transitions.
The Control Center is an integral component of the UI, and the user experience here sets the two devices apart. The Hello Watch 3 Plus opts for a minimalist black background, while the HK9 Ultra 2 introduces a wallpaper, which is a refreshing design choice. However, it falls short by not adopting a transparent black background, which would allow the wallpaper to shine through, rather than clashing with the icons. Both devices have room for improvement in the execution of the Control Center, making this aspect of the UI a draw in our analysis.
Menu Styles and Transition Animations
The menu style is another crucial aspect of the user interface, as it dictates how users navigate the smartwatch’s features and apps. In this regard, both the HK9 Ultra 2 and the Hello Watch 3 Plus offer a cellular menu style, which is based on WatchOS 10. The cellular menu style allows for vertical movement, providing an organized and easy-to-navigate structure.
One noteworthy difference between the two devices is the inclusion of app opening and app quitting transitions in the HK9 Ultra 2. This is a feature that enhances the overall user experience, adding a touch of sophistication and fluidity to the interface. In contrast, the Hello Watch 3 Plus, although based on WatchOS 10 and delivers snappy menu openings, and lacks these transitions, which can potentially make the experience feel less dynamic.
One distinct advantage of the Hello Watch 3 Plus is its ability to synchronize profile names and profile pictures, drawing information from the application. This feature enhances the personalization of the smartwatch, helping users to create a more tailored experience. The HK9 Ultra 2, while offering visually striking menu styles, misses this opportunity for further customization and personalization.
App Transitions
The transitions between applications are a critical aspect of the user interface. The HK9 Ultra 2 excels in this area, providing smooth and visually appealing transitions. In contrast, the Hello Watch 3 Plus, while offering some transitions, lacks the same degree of refinement and smoothness, particularly during app exits. This disparity is an evident result of the HK9 Ultra 2’s robust chipset and more dynamic user interface.
The Journey through Applications
A closer look at specific applications on both devices further reveals the differences in their user interfaces:
- Steps or Data Application: The HK9 Ultra 2 offers a smooth and engaging user experience, featuring attractive transitions. The Hello Watch 3 Plus, on the other hand, lacks the same finesse in terms of visual appeal and fluidity.
- Sport Modes: The HK9 Ultra 2’s implementation of sports modes is a standout feature. It introduces animated characters and real-life videos for each sport mode. In contrast, the Hello Watch 3 Plus offers only animated characters, missing an opportunity to enhance the user experience.
- Weather Application: The weather application is an area where the HK9 Ultra 2 outshines its competitor. It boasts a visually superior design and a more polished user interface. The Hello Watch 3 Plus falls short in terms of both aesthetics and functionality, presenting a less visually appealing and user-friendly experience.
- Music Application: The visual design of the music application plays a crucial role in user satisfaction. The HK9 Ultra 2 utilizes a beach-themed watch face for this application, enhancing its visual appeal. In contrast, the Hello Watch 3 Plus employs a relatively simpler watch face that doesn’t fully capture the same level of engagement. This design difference reflects the overall approach to the user interface on each device.
Phone Application: Both devices offer phone applications with call logs and contacts. However, the HK9 Ultra 2 incorporates additional animations, improving the user experience and overall aesthetics. The Hello Watch 3 Plus lacks these animations, resulting in a more basic, less visually appealing interface.
Application Market
One standout feature of the HK9 Ultra 2 is its incorporation of an application market. This marketplace allows users to directly install games and applications on their watch, offering an additional layer of entertainment and functionality. Unfortunately, this feature is absent in the Hello Watch 3 Plus, making the HK9 Ultra 2 the preferred choice for users who enjoy gaming and desire a wide range of apps at their disposal.
Health and Fitness Tracking
Health and fitness features are fundamental to many users’ smartwatch preferences. Both the HK9 Ultra 2 and the Hello Watch 3 Plus offer various health and fitness tracking capabilities.
The HK9 Ultra 2 excels in providing accurate basic fitness tracking features. It covers essential metrics such as heart rate, steps taken, and sleep monitoring. For users who want a reliable overview of their daily activity, the HK9 Ultra 2 delivers a solid performance. On the other hand, the Hello Watch 3 Plus goes the extra mile by introducing stress tracking and a broader range of exercise modes. Stress tracking is a valuable addition for users who prioritize mental well-being alongside physical health. The extended exercise modes cater to users with specific fitness goals and interests, offering a more comprehensive fitness tracking experience.
The choice between these smartwatches depends on the user’s fitness and health priorities. Users seeking an excellent basic fitness tracker might lean towards the HK9 Ultra 2. For those who want stress tracking and a wider array of exercise modes, the Hello Watch 3 Plus presents a compelling option.
App and Compatibility
Companion apps play a vital role in the functionality of smartwatches, allowing users to extend their capabilities and customize their devices. Both the HK9 Ultra 2 and the Hello Watch 3 Plus have their own companion apps that cater to their specific features and functionalities.
The HK9 Ultra 2 is supported by the “WearFit Pro” application, while the Hello Watch 3 Plus utilizes the “Vdo Fit” application. These apps enable users to customize their smartwatches, track health data, and connect their smartwatches to their smartphones for notifications and data synchronization. Both companion apps offer comprehensive control over the respective smartwatches, allowing users to tailor their devices to their preferences, receive firmware updates, and access their health and fitness data. The compatibility with both Android and iOS devices ensures that users have a wide range of smartphone options for pairing with their smartwatches.
Bluetooth Calling
The ability to make and receive calls directly from your smartwatch is an appealing feature for many users. Both the HK9 Ultra 2 and the Hello Watch 3 Plus offer Bluetooth calling capabilities, allowing users to enjoy hands-free conversations.
The Hello Watch 3 Plus goes a step further by smoothly displaying the caller’s name, enhancing the calling experience. Moreover, it enables users to transfer calls back to their smartphones seamlessly. The HK9 Ultra 2, while capable of Bluetooth calling, falls short in caller name display, potentially making it less user-friendly in this regard.
Notifications and Alerts
The HK9 Ultra 2 offers a traditional notification center, similar to that of the Apple Watch Ultra. When a notification is received, it appears as a stack of icons, each representing a different application. Users can tap these icons to access the corresponding notifications or swipe to clear them. The overall notification experience is highly reminiscent of the Apple Watch Ultra, offering a familiar and polished interface.
The device also offers vibrating alerts, delivering a subtle but noticeable vibration when a notification is received. Users can customize the strength and duration of these vibrations. Furthermore, it boasts a remarkable feature – support for a selection of main emojis. This is a notable advantage, as the Hello Watch 3 Plus does not extend this functionality.
The Hello Watch 3 Plus takes a slightly different approach to notifications. When a notification is received, it is displayed on the watch face as an unstacked, individual notification card. Users can swipe left to view older notifications or swipe right to dismiss them. Like the HK9 Ultra 2, the Hello Watch 3 Plus also offers vibrating alerts. Users can adjust the intensity and duration of the vibrations to suit their preferences.
In the context of notifications and alerts, it’s primarily a matter of personal preference. Users who prefer a familiar, stacked notification style reminiscent of the Apple Watch Ultra may favor the HK9 Ultra 2. Conversely, those who appreciate individual notification cards and a clean notification layout may find the Hello Watch 3 Plus to be more appealing.
However, In this arena, the HK9 Ultra 2 seizes the lead by accommodating a greater number of notifications from messaging apps. Furthermore, it boasts a remarkable feature – support for a selection of main emojis. This is a notable advantage, as the Hello Watch 3 Plus does not extend this functionality.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a critical consideration for any smartwatch. The Hello Watch 3 Plus boasts a 450mAh battery, which, in real-world testing, impressively maintains power over extended periods. With regular usage, it comfortably lasts a full day and potentially even longer. However, the Hello Watch 3 Plus lacks fast charging capabilities, necessitating a longer charging time of around 2 hours. This could be seen as a drawback for users who require a quick recharge.
The HK9 Ultra 2, with its 320mAh battery, is no slouch in the battery department. It performs well but loses ground to the Hello Watch 3 Plus in terms of endurance. This device supports fast charging, with the battery fully recharging in about 1.5 hours. For users who value convenience, the HK9 Ultra 2’s fast charging is a significant advantage.
Conclusion
In this comprehensive comparison of the HK9 Ultra 2 and the Hello Watch 3 Plus, we’ve explored various aspects of these two smartwatches, from design and performance to user interface and unique features. While both watches offer a range of functionalities and are equipped with high-quality AMOLED displays, there are key distinctions that can influence your decision when choosing a smartwatch.
The HK9 Ultra 2 stands out with its larger display and the inclusion of app opening and quitting transitions, providing a more dynamic and engaging user experience. Additionally, its pointer watch face with customizable colors is an attractive feature for those who enjoy personalizing their smartwatch.
On the other hand, the Hello Watch 3 Plus impresses with its ample storage capacity, allowing users to store more music, sound recordings, e-books, and photos. Its ability to connect with wireless earphones and serve as an MP3 player sets it apart as a versatile entertainment device.
The lower price point of the HK9 Ultra 2 provides a compelling value proposition for those who want to experience a smartwatch without making a substantial financial investment. Users who appreciate the design elements inspired by the Apple Watch Ultra and the comprehensive feature set of the HK9 Ultra 2 will find this device to be a cost-effective choice. The Hello Watch 3 Plus is positioned at a slightly higher price point compared to the HK9 Ultra 2. It is considered a mid-range smartwatch, offering a blend of features and capabilities.
