Apple released the new Apple Watch Ultra 2 last year, but its body is unchanged from the original. That means original Apple Watch Ultra users can grab cases for the latest model and vice versa. The Apple Watch Ultra was rolled out as a premium option for athletes, adventurers, and tech enthusiasts, so it sports a strong titanium build.

The Apple Watch Ultra series was designed to be tough, combining impressive ruggedness and water resistance with exclusive features, slick software, and the elegant design that Apple's wearables are known for. Still, some extra security never hurts, considering this great smartwatch has a hefty sticker price of $800. With that in mind, slapping on a case for some added protection might be a good idea. Below, you'll find the best Apple Watch Ultra cases to safeguard your timepiece against the elements.

• Editor's Choice

  Spigen Rugged Armor (Apple Watch Ultra)

  If you’re looking for a no-frills, no-nonsense case for your Apple Watch Ultra (and one that costs less than 20 bucks), the Spigen Rugged Armor is our top choice. It offers great protection thanks to its tough and flexible TPU material that offers great shock absorption. It lacks a screen protector but raised bezels around the edges offer some display protection.

  $17 at Amazon
• Promoted Pick

  SUPCASE Unicorn Beetle Pro (Apple Watch Ultra)

  The Supcase Unicorn Beetle Pro is a good choice if you want a sturdy case for your Apple Watch Ultra, along with an integrated band. Its rugged shockproof case exceeds military standards for drop-testing equipment, and it features a tempered glass screen protector for 360-degree protection. You also get a spare screen protector, which is a thoughtful inclusion as this is the component that’s most likely to suffer damage.

  $20 at Amazon
• Premium pick

  MAGEASY Odyssey Aluminum Apple Watch Ultra Case

  Most protective Apple Watch cases are made of plastic or rubber, but if you love the look and feel of metal, consider the MAGEASY Odyssey case. It’s crafted from a lightweight yet durable aircraft-grade aluminum that features a shock-absorbing inner bumper for full protection. It even features a strap groove, so you can swap bands without having to remove the case.

  $50 at Amazon
• Best value

  Tauri Hard Case for Apple Watch Ultra

  This two-pack of hard cases for the Apple Watch Ultra gives you protection and value on a budget. It includes a hard plastic exterior and a built-in screen protector. Plus, it comes in a bunch of colors and gives you full access to the Digital Crown. 

  $10 at Amazon
• Best case band

  AmBand M1 Sport Series Apple Watch Ultra Band

  The Apple Watch Ultra is built with adventure in mind, and if you need all-around protection with a rugged band to match, this pick from AmBand ticks all the boxes. Both its rugged shock-resistant case and strap are made from tough and waterproof TPU, and an integrated tempered glass screen protector keeps your watch display safe from scratches and scuffs. It’s also available in a nice range of colors and hardware options so you can add a touch of style to your wrist.

  $28 at Amazon
• Metal case

  Casetify Impact Case for Apple Watch Ultra

  If you're looking for a premium case that matches the metal build of your Apple Watch Ultra, look no further than the Casetify Impact case. It's made out of a mix of hard plastic and aluminum, which looks great on the Ultra. Plus, this metal case will absorb shocks.

  $38 at CASETiFY
• Minimalist pick

  Spigen Thin Fit Apple Watch Ultra Case

  Although they offer good protection, many rugged cases tend to compromise the Apple Watch's overall look. The Spigen Thin Fit is a good alternative. Its low-profile snap-on design protects your Apple Watch Ultra without adding too much bulk. It’s not as overbuilt as some of our other picks (it lacks a screen protector, for example), but for basic everyday protection, the Spigen Thin Fit works well and looks great.

  $18 at Amazon
• Stylish pick

  Elago Duo Case for Apple Watch Ultra

  Elago's Duo Case for Apple Watch Ultra is a slim and stylish case that retains the smartwatch's character. It has a white plastic design that matches the ceramic backing of the Apple Watch Ultra well, and it also features orange accents around the screen. You get full access to the digital crown, a pass-through button, and the screen. 

  $15 at Amazon
• With tempered glass

  Elkson Quattro Max Apple Watch Ultra Case

  If you’re taking your Apple Watch into more extreme environments, you want a case with a built-in screen protector like the Elskon Quattro Max. This bumper case features shock-resistant TPU material paired with a tempered glass screen guard to keep both the housing and display of your Apple Watch Ultra looking pristine.

  $15 at Amazon
• Matte black case

  Caseology Vault for Apple Watch Ultra

  The Caseology Vault for Apple Watch Ultra is a sleek and rugged case made out of TPU. It's a type of flexible plastic that feels almost like rubber, which means it can absorb shocks and drops. Plus, it has a matte black finish that is great for people who wish the Apple Watch Ultra came in a different color. 

  $15 at Amazon
• Translucent case

  Spigen Rugged Armor Pro for Apple Watch Ultra

  Spigen's Rugged Armor Pro case for the Apple Watch Ultra is its most rugged offering. However, what's cool about the Rugged Armor Pro is that it features a translucent plastic material. It looks modern and rugged while also looking like a vintage G-Shock watch at the same time. 

  $45 at Amazon
• Slim fit case

  Ringke Slim Case for Apple Watch Ultra

  This slim case from Ringke protects your Apple Watch Ultra without adding excess bulk. It matches the titanium finish in color,  and also has a second clear option included. As such, this two-pack is a great way to keep your Apple Watch safe on a budget.

  $15 at Amazon

How we chose the best Apple Watch Ultra cases

Combining top-tier build quality with advanced features, seamless connectivity, and sleek design, the Apple Watch Ultra is the cream of the WatchOS wearables. It's made of titanium and hardened sapphire-crystal glass, so it's the most durable Apple Watch on the market. However, if it does break, an out-of-warranty repair will cost a whopping $500, so even the best Apple Watch could do well with a protective case, especially considering that the Ultra is designed with active lifestyles in mind. Thankfully, an impressive array of protective cases offer both style and durability.

If you're not looking to replace the band, then the Spigen Rugged Armor case is our top choice. For less than 20 bucks, it's a rugged addition that protects your Apple Watch Ultra against bumps and falls. However, if that's too bulky for your tastes, we included some sleeker options, such as the Elkson case and Spigen Thin Fit. These are good bump cases that don't overwhelm the aesthetic of the Apple Watch, with the Elkson option also offering a glass screen protector.

Looking for a protective case that also pulls double duty as a great Apple Watch Ultra band? The two-in-one AmBand case or the SUPCASE Unicorn Beetle Pro have you (and your watch) covered.

A good case ensures that your pricey Apple Watch remains shielded from scratches, impacts, and daily wear and tear. So, whether you live an active lifestyle and need robust protection for your Apple Watch, or are a careful owner who wants to keep your device in pristine condition, the picks above are the best Apple Watch Ultra cases on offer.