Released on the 13th of October 2022, the Google Pixel Watch is now available to purchase.
The long-awaited watch is finally here. With new apps, maps, Fitbit integration, and more – this watch has been on many tech enthusiasts’ watchlists for a while. But how does the new smartwatch really measure up?
Scroll down to find our Google Pixel Watch review based on price, design, features, and more. OR take a quick look at our pros and cons list for a short overview.
Google Pixel Watch Review
Keep on reading to find out everything you need to know before purchasing this all-new smartwatch.
A Quick Look: Pros & Cons
In a rush? Here’s all you need to know about the Google Pixel Watch review.
Pros:
- The watch offers a classic design
- Excellent quality watch screen
- Integrated with Fitbit
- Wide variety of features
Cons
- Google Pixel watch is one size fits all
- No blood oxygen sensors
- The band switch system is difficult
- Fitbit features aren’t seamless – yet
Display & Design
When watch shopping, display, and design are two crucial aspects. We’re starting the Google Pixel Watch review with aesthetics, and like all other smartwatch reviewers – we’re impressed.
The Google Pixel Watch comes with an always-on 320ppi AMOLED display with additional DCI-P3 color. Plus, the watch’s brightness can boost up to 1,000 nits.
But the quality of the Pixel Watch’s display doesn’t stop there. The wearable also comes with custom 3D corning gorilla glass 5 for extra durability. The watch case is finished with 80% recycled stainless steel, and the active band offers a soft-touch coating.
While the make of this watch is impressive, there’s one key drawback. The Google Pixel Watch is only available in a 41mm diameter size. Not ideal if you have a smaller wrist.
The design of this watch takes inspiration from classic timepieces, hence the sleek circular display. Users can choose between four color combinations – these include:
- Champagne Gold & Hazel
- Matte Black & Obsidian
- Polished Silver & Charcoal
- Polished Silver & Chalk
Overall, the design is a minimalist’s dream. The watch can be personalized via watch faces, so don’t worry if you want to add your personal touch to the wearable. 20 additional bands are on offer too.
Google Pixel Watch Review – Key Features
The Google Pixel Watch provides popular features with some new inclusions too. We’re looking at all options, from everyday innovative features to dedicated health and fitness tools.
Smart Features
This watch’s key intelligent features are from Google’s pre-existing options. These include Google Wallet for on-wrist payments, Gmail, YouTube Music, Google Maps, and calendars.
Google Assistant is also included on the watch to ensure you can always access expert assistance. This modern voice assistance tool can provide directions, on-wrist texts, and music with just the sound of your voice.
In addition to smart features, users can download third-party apps from the Google Play store. Popular options include Calm, Spotify, My Fitness Pal, and other well-known apps.
Health & Fitness From Fitbit
The Google Pixel Watch health and fitness content is provided by Fitbit, thanks to the brand’s previous acquisition.
Top fitness features on the watch include:
- Accurate heart rate tracking
- ECG scans
- Sleep tracking
- Fall detection & emergency SOS calls
- Fitbit premium health insights
We’re particularly impressed with Fitbit’s health tracking, as this improved tool uses “heart rate zones” to motivate users on their fitness journey. This update is combined with Fitbit’spopular “Active Zone Minutes” tool.
Fitbit workout modes include:
- Walking
- Strength training
- Running
- Cycling
- Swimming
- & more
All the usual smartwatch sensors are available on this model, except for bloody oxygen sensors. Unfortunately, we’re yet to see these popular tools on the Google Pixel Watch.
Battery Life
A long battery life is essential to all smartwatches.
The Google Pixel Watch offers approximately 24 hours of battery life, which isn’t bad for a modern smartwatch. Some users have even found this life extends to 26 hours if you turn the ‘always-on’ display off.
If you want to use overnight sleep tracking, remember Google recommends at least a 30% charge before you go to bed.
Wear OS
The Google Pixel Watch provides a seamless Wear OS experience, and reviewers are even dubbing the wearable “the Apple Watch of Androids.”
This watch comes with Wear OS features that already existed before Wear OS 3.5, but there are some changes. The Pixel Watch offers a redesigned and polished operating system, ideal if you’re looking for an optimized user experience.
Alongside the all-new design, the Pixel Watch’s Wear OS includes more attention to detail, new sounds, and animations. This software is all about assistance and ease.
Price & Availability
So, with an extensive range of features and a modern design – how does the Google Pixel Watch measure up?
The cost for the Pixel Watch is:
- £340 / $350 – for the Wi-Fi & GPS model
- £380 / $400 – for the LTE edition
Consider the LTE edition if you’re keen on making calls and texts from your watch. This option might be slightly more expensive, but you’ll be able to contact others without your phone.
Not bothered about on-wrist messaging? The Wi-Fi and GPS watch could be for you. Messaging and calls are still available on this watch – but you’ll only be able to use them when connected to Wi-Fi.
As previously mentioned, only one watch size is available. Users aren’t able to choose between different diameters. However, you can select additional watch straps.
Google Pixel Watch Review: Is This The Smartwatch For you?
Choosing a smartwatch can be difficult. Knowing as much information as possible is key to making the best decision for you.
This watch is modern and attractive. If you want a watch that complements style and workouts, it’s a great choice. It’s also an excellent choice for Fitbit fans, as this Wear OS model provides full Fitbit fitness integration.
However, if you’re not keen on bulky watches, you might want to give this smartwatch a pass. The Google Pixel Watch is slightly thicker on the back, which could be uncomfortable when worn for long periods.
The Takeaway – Google Pixel Watch Review
We’re impressed with the watch, and hopefully, our Google Pixel Watch review has helped you make your decision.
Not sure which watch is for you? See how the Google Pixel Watch measures up to the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 here.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Last Updated on January 13, 2023
Isobel is a freelance copy and content writer who regularly contributes to Superwatches. Well-versed in all the ins and outs of the smartwatch industry. Isobel specializes in Fashion and design and is a First Class fashion design graduate.
Currently lives in Bournemouth, United Kingdom.