As the new Google Pixel Watch has been released, it is a good time to decide whether it’s worth investing or whether you should stick with the Garmin Venu 2 Plus that was released at the start of the year. We road-tested both devices and have shared our findings here so that you can use the information to make the right decision for your needs.
Which Has the Best Design – Google Pixel Watch Vs. Garmin Venu 2 Plus
When it comes to how your new watch looks, both the Google Pixel Watch and the Garmin Venu 2 Plus offer circular designs and have AMOLED displays, as well as only being available in one specific size. The Google Pixel is 41mm, and the Venu Plus 2 is 43.6mm.
The one obvious difference is that the Google Pixel comes with a domed-shaped glass screen cover that gives everything on the screen a 3D effect. The Garmin Venu 2 Plus is flatter and less dramatic, but the screen is still simple to read and doesn’t get in your way when you are exercising. Both watches are water resident to depths of 50m, and you can customize each one by changing the straps to suit your mood.
Which is the Most Durable – Google Pixel Watch Vs. Garmin Venu 2 Plus
When it comes to durability, there is a real issue with being able to find a watch that is safe and secure, but that doesn’t look too bulky on the wrist. Both of these watches are equipped with reinforced screens and are just over 12mm in thickness, giving you the protection from breakages you need without having to compromise on comfort.
They are also both scratch resistant and built to last, even when you use them during outdoor adventures and fitness sessions. To make them easier to use when you are active, both devices come with navigational buttons, which also help to reduce the amount of screen contact.
Which Has the Best Features – Google Pixel Watch Vs. Garmin Venu 2 Plus
Getting the watch with the most up-to-date features means that you can enjoy enhanced levels of useful information. Both devices come with a heart rate sensor, gyroscope, altimeter, accelerometer, and compass. In addition, the Garmin Venu 2 Plus also offers a thermometer that can tell you the temperature outside, as well as an SpO2 monitor to help you measure your blood oxygen levels.
Interestingly, the Google Pixel also comes with an SpO2 monitor, but it is inactive on all models for the time being – we do expect it to go live when there is a firmware update in the future. The Google Pixel also boasts an ECG that is active. The Garmin Venu 2 Plus has just been approved by the US FDA for the ECG. Finally, both devices have contactless payment capabilities.
Which Supports Your Fitness Best – Google Pixel Watch Vs. Garmin Venu 2 Plus
If you are purchasing a new smartwatch to help you get fit, then both the Google Pixel and the Garmin Venu 2 Plus have a number of tracking capabilities to help you understand your performance every time you head out. From counting your steps to logging specific workouts, you will be impressed by the number of options that are available. Both watches also come with GPS to make tracking your efforts and your location easy.
In terms of choosing the best watch for fitness, Garmin will always have a slight edge purely because they are designed with fitness fans in mind and have been producing excellent watches for many years!
Which Has the Best Battery – Google Pixel Watch Vs. Garmin Venu 2 Plus
If you are someone that hates having to take your watch off to charge every day, then the Google Pixel is not for you. The device will last for a maximum of 24 hours before needing to be plugged in, and this will reduce further when you are actively using the GPS function. To be fair, 24 hours is not horrendous when you consider that other big-name brands, such as Apple, get away with batteries that last only 18 hours!
In reality, the Garmin Venu 2 Plus blows the Google Pixel out of the water and offers a battery that can last a full nine days when in smartwatch mode. Remember that this is accurate when you don’t have GPS or music playing, as when these are on, the battery life reduces significantly. The main reason for this great battery life is that Garmin uses its own operating system, which is less snazzy than WearOS but can offer a more durable battery life.
Side By Side Comparison
Get all the information you need with our handy side by side comparison table below:
| Google Pixel Watch | Garmin Venu 2 Plus | |
| Screen Size | 41mm | 43.6mm |
| Changeable Strap | Yes | Yes |
| Colour Options | Black, Silver & Gold | Silver & Slate |
| Sensors | Blood Oxygen, Heart Rate & ECG | Heart Rate, Blood Oxygen & Temperature & ECG |
| Water Resistance | 50 Meters | 50 Meters |
| Operating System | WearOS | Garmin OS |
| Battery Life | 24 Hours | Nine days |
| Starting Price | $349 | $449 |
The Verdict
Choosing the right watch for you depends entirely on what you want to use it for and when you are free to plug it in. The Google Pixel has ECG, heart rate tracking, and a wide range of other health features for you to enjoy as well as an emergency call function when you are in trouble that can dial internationally to get you the help you need.
It has a fun and stylish design and is fairly priced. However, the battery life does let it down slightly, and when compared to a Garmin device, the fitness features just don’t have the same level of depth.
The Garmin Venu 2 Plus comes with an active Sp02 monitor and heart rate monitor, as well as an external temperature feature, and the ECG. It’s a fitness-focused device and has been designed for anyone who loves to run or get outside for an adventure.
There is a nine-day battery life, GPS, and music function, and the watch is stylish and attractive. It’s also a great price and will last for years. Overall, we think the Garmin just beats the new Google Pixel as it’s more understated but still packs a real punch.
Last Updated on February 4, 2023
My passion for watches started when I got my first Rolex. It was 35 years ago when I managed a franchise of Domino’s Pizza. The Rolex was an incentive for achievements. Since then I have been collecting, learning, using, and trying different watches for my day-to-day activities and hobbies.
I love Sports, not only from my couch but participating in many kinds of sports. I love playing basketball, tennis, soccer, diving, windsurfing, and more. My peace of mind activity is my Goldwing. And enjoying good music played from my smartwatch to my earphones inside my helmet is the optimum relaxing ride…
I am also a volunteering senior medic and an instructor. Teaching about Blood Pressure, ECG, Blood Saturation, and more.