Comparison of Pixel Watch 3 with previous generation models
Google has just announced the official launch of the Pixel Watch 3 after various leaks and previous rumors. With this latest smartwatch, Android users have more choices of wearable devices. With almost identical names and similar curved screens, it may be difficult to distinguish between Pixel Watch 3 and previous models — let alone determine which ones to buy. However, in fact, each device has a significant difference with more sophisticated features and capabilities than its predecessor. As an example of the Pixel Watch 3 comparison with previous generation models, the Pixel Watch 3 offers several more advanced running features, as well as a 45mm configuration that is more suitable for larger wrist. However, if the price is the main consideration, the previous generation model still offers a lot of interesting things.
The Pixel Watch 3 will be launched on September 10 with prices starting at $349.99 (around Rp. 5,599,840), while the previous generation Pixel Watch 2 is still available at a price of $249.99 IDR 4,000,000). Unfortunately, Google has stopped the production of the first model from this line, although it can still be purchased from third-party retailers at a discount.
To help you decide which model is right for you, we have made a Pixel Watch 3 comparison with the previous generation model. We also review the technical specifications of these three smartwatches so you can see how the three are comparable (at least on paper).
Pixel Watch 3 comparison of size and screen
One of the main differentiators between the Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Watch 2 is its size. The previous 2 generation Pixel Watch was only available in one size, which was 41mm, while the Pixel Watch 3 was the first smartwatch from Google that offered a size of 45mm, which may be more suitable for those with larger wrists.
In addition, the Pixel Watch 3 screen also offers more space than its predecessor. With thinner bezels, the Pixel Watch 3 provides 10 percent more viewing space on the 41mm model and 40 percent wider on the 45mm model. This will make it easier for you to read messages, check metrics, and display more information on the screen.
Not only that, the Pixel Watch 3 is also twice as bright as its predecessor, with a brightness of up to 2,000 nits and the ability to dim up to 1 nit with a variable refresh rate of between 1 to 60Hz. Google claims that this lets you see statistics on the screen clearly in both dark and bright light, although we need to test it further to ensure the claim.
Advanced health and fitness features
During the short time we tried the Pixel Watch 3, we were impressed by the many features that Google successfully pinned on this latest wearable device. Size may be the most striking difference at first glance, but actually what is in it is what really distinguishes this latest model.
First, Google adds more ways to monitor your health with the Pixel Watch 3. One of the newest features worth noting is the ability of this watch to detect if you lose your pulse and connect you with emergency services—although this feature will be exclusive to Europe at launch. In addition, Google will also present a “morning brief” when you wake up, which summarizes information about your sleep, developments towards health goals, weather, and other health metrics.
Pixel Watch 3 also lets you take advantage of new fitness features. This watch is equipped with several advanced running features; For example, the Fitbit app dashboard now displays more running metrics, including step lengths. You can also create a custom exercise program from your phone and send it to your watch, while your daily readiness scores now also take into account how hard your heart is working while exercising. The new AI feature will also provide exercise advice based on your workout history.
Stronger integration with the Google ecosystem
In addition to the new health and fitness features, the Pixel Watch 3 also offers deeper integration with more Google devices and services. This watch still provides access to the same Google services as Pixel Watch 2, including Google Wallet and Gmail, but now comes with offline capabilities for Google Maps. In addition, you can also see the Nest Doorbell or Nest Cam feed directly on your smartwatch—a pretty good feature when we tried a short demo, allowing us to talk to people on the other side. Plus, you can now control Google TV and camera on your Pixel phone or even record audio.
Battery life and performance
We are happy to see Google has fixed the problem of battery life which had become a complaint on the original Pixel Watch when releasing the Pixel Watch 2. This second generation watch offers battery life throughout the day, and from its initial appearance, the Pixel Watch 3 size 41mm is the same. This watch offers the same 306mAh battery capacity, with Google promising up to 24 hours of battery life with an always-on display.
However, the Pixel Watch 3 size 45mm is a different story. This watch comes with a larger battery, which is 420mAh, which means it can theoretically last longer—although we have to test it to be sure. Google promises up to 36 hours of battery life in battery saver mode for both Pixel Watch 3 models, so even the 41mm model has the potential to surpass its predecessor.
As for the chipset, both the Pixel Watch 2 and the Pixel Watch 3 use Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear W5 Gen 1. However, only the Pixel Watch 3 is equipped with an Ultra Wideband chip, which allows you to unlock the Pixel phone and even some models certain BMW.
full specifications
Here are the full specifications of the three Pixel Watch models to help you choose the one that best suits your needs:
- Size: Pixel Watch 2 is only available in 41mm size, while Pixel Watch 3 is available in 41mm and 45mm sizes.
- Screen: Pixel Watch 3 has a brighter screen and thinner bezels, with a brightness of up to 2,000 nits.
- Battery: Pixel Watch 3 size 41mm is equipped with a 306mAh battery, while the 45mm model is equipped with a 420mAh battery.
- Processor: All models are equipped with Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear W5 Gen 1, but only the Pixel Watch 3 has an Ultra Wideband chip.
- Price: Pixel Watch 3 starts at $349.99 (approximately IDR 5,599,840) and Pixel Watch 2 from $249.99 (approximately IDR 4,000,000).
- Connectivity: The cellular connection on the Pixel Watch 3 will add $100 (approximately Rp. 1,600,000), while on the Pixel Watch 2 it is only $50 (around Rp. 800,000).
Comparison table of Pixel Watch 3 and other models
| Category | Pixel Watch | Pixel Watch 2 | Pixel Watch 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRICE START | N/A | $249.99 (Wi-Fi) / $299.99 (LTE) | $349.99 (Wi-Fi) / $449.99 (LTE) |
| Size | 41mm | 41mm | 41mm / 45mm |
| Color | Champagne Gold, Polished Silver, Matte Black | Champagne Gold, Polished Silver, Matte Black | 41mm: Matte Black, Polished Silver, Champagne Gold / 45mm: Matte Black, Polished Silver, Matte Hazel |
| Dimension | Diameter: 41mm/Height: 12.3mm | Diameter: 41mm/Height: 12.3mm | 41mm: Diameter: 41mm, Height: 12.3mm / 45mm: Diameter: 45mm, Height: 12.3mm |
| Weight (grams, no straps) | 36 | 31 | 31 (41mm) / 37 (45mm) |
| Material Case | Stainless steel case | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| display technology | Custom OLED Display with DCI-P3 Color and Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Custom OLED Display with DCI-P3 Color and Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Custom OLED LTP Display with DCI-P3 Color and Custom 3D Corning Gorilla Glass 5 |
| Processor | Exynos 9110, Cortex M33 Co-Processor | Qualcomm 5100, Cortex M33 Co-Processor | Qualcomm 5100, Cortex M33 Co-Processor |
| Ultra wideband chip | Not | Not | Yes |
| Always-on display | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Peak brightness display | Up to 1,000 nits | Up to 1,000 nits | Up to 2,000 nits |
| LTE Option | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Storage | 32GB | 32GB | 32GB |
| health sensor | Compass, Altimeter, Blood Oxygen Sensor, Multipurpose Electrical Sensor, Optical Heart Rate Sensor, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Ambient Light Sensor | Compass, Altimeter, Red and Infrared Sensors for Oxygen Saturation (SPO2) Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Ambient Light Sensor, Electrical Sensor to Measure Skin Conductance (CEDA) for Body Response Tracking, Skin Temperature Sensor, Barometer, Magnetometer | Compass, Altimeter, Red and Infrared Sensors for Oxygen Saturation (SPO2) Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Ambient Light Sensor, Electrical Sensor to Measure Skin Conductance (CEDA) for Body Response Tracking, Skin Temperature Sensor, Barometer, Magnetometer |
| GPS | GPS, Glonass, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, Glonass, Beidou, Galileo, Quasi-Zenith Satellite | US: GPS, Galileo, Glonass/Row: GPS, Galileo, Glonass, Beidou, QZSS, Navic |
| OS (built-in) | Wear OS 3.5 | Wear OS 4.0 | Wear OS 5.0 |
| battery capacity | 294mAh | 306mAh | 41mm: 306mAh/45mm: 420mAh |
| Water Resistance Rating | 5 atm | 5 atm | IP68 Rating |
| Security features | Fall Detection, Safety Check, Emergency Sharing, Medical Information, Emergency SOS, Emergency International Calling | Fall Detection, Safety Check, Emergency Sharing, Medical Information, Emergency SOS, Emergency International Calling, Safety Signal | Fall Detection, Loss of Pulse Detection in Select Countries, Safety Check, Emergency Sharing, Medical Information, Emergency SOS, Emergency International Calling, Safety Signal |
| Google Services | Google Wallet, Gmail, Google Calendar, YouTube Music, Google Play, Google Maps, Pixel Camera Watch App | Google Assistant, Google Wallet, Gmail, Google Calendar, YouTube Music, Google Play, Google Maps, Call Screen, Pixel Camera Watch App | Google Assistant, Google Wallet, Gmail, Google Calendar, Youtube Music, Google Play, Google Maps (with Offline Capabilities), Pixel Recorder, Media Controls in Exercise, Google TV Remote, Nest Camera Feed |
| Compatibility | Android 9.0 or later | Android 9.0 or later | Android 10.0 or later |
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Pixel Watch 3 Comparison
What is the main difference between Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Watch 2?
The main difference between Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Watch 2 is in size, screen brightness, battery capacity, and technology integration. The Pixel Watch 3 comes in two sizes (41mm and 45mm), a brighter screen with thinner bezels, and a larger battery capacity on the 45mm model. In addition, the Pixel Watch 3 is also equipped with an Ultra Wideband chip that is not on the Pixel Watch 2.
Is the Pixel Watch 3 better for users with large wrist?
Yes, the Pixel Watch 3 is better for users with large wrists because it is available in a size of 45mm which is larger than the 41mm size offered on the Pixel Watch 2.
How long is the Pixel Watch 3 battery life?
Pixel Watch 3 size 41mm offers a battery life of up to 24 hours with an always-on display. The 45mm model has a larger battery, so it’s likely to last longer, especially in battery saver mode, which promises up to 36 hours.
Does Pixel Watch 3 support more advanced health and fitness features?
Yes, the Pixel Watch 3 supports more advanced health and fitness features, including detection of pulse loss, morning brief, and various advanced running features. The Fitbit Dashboard has also been updated with additional metrics such as step length.
Does Pixel Watch 3 have better integration with other Google devices?
Pixel Watch 3 offers more powerful integration with more Google devices and services. New features include Google Maps offline capabilities, Nest Doorbell or Nest Cam feed display on the smartwatch, and Google TV controls and Pixel phone cameras.
With this information, you can make better decisions in choosing the Pixel Watch that suits your needs. Each model has its own advantages and disadvantages, so be sure to consider what is most important to you before making a purchase.
