When finding the perfect smartwatch that seamlessly complements your smartphone, look no further than the Google Pixel Watch and Apple Watch Series 8. These two top contenders each offer unique advantages, catering to different needs. So, which smartwatch should you consider?
Compatibility:
The Pixel Watch requires an Android phone, while the Series 8 exclusively functions with iOS devices. It’s important to note this distinction as it determines the compatibility with your smartphone.
Overview:
Let’s delve into a side-by-side comparison of these flagship smartwatches from Google and Apple. Although both are premium wearables, they possess distinct features and characteristics. This breakdown will help you determine which ecosystem aligns better with your lifestyle. For a more detailed analysis of each model, including our first-hand experiences, refer to our comprehensive Google Pixel Watch review and Apple Watch Series 8 review.
Pros and Cons:
To aid your decision-making process, we present the advantages and considerations of each smartwatch. Analyzing these aspects will guide you in making an informed purchase.
Google Pixel Watch
Apple Watch Series 8
By weighing the pros and cons of the Google Pixel Watch and Apple Watch Series 8, you can choose the smartwatch that best suits your requirements.
| Google Pixel Watch | Apple Watch Series 8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $350 | $400 |
| Display Size | 41mm | 41-45mm |
| Case Size | 41mm | 41-45mm |
| Compatibility | Android 8 phones and newer | iPhone 8 and iOS 16 and later |
| Battery Life | Up to 24 hours | Up to 18 hours |
| Fitness Features | Optical heart rate sensor, blood oxygen sensor, Fitbit health and fitness tracking | Optical heart rate sensor, blood oxygen sensor, ECG |
| Color Options | Black, Stainless Steel, Champagne | Midnight (black), Starlight (champagne), Silver, Graphite, Gold, Red |
| Water Resistance | 5 ATM | 5 ATM |
| Cellular Connectivity | 4G LTE | LTE and UMTS |
| Mobile Payments | Yes (Google Wallet only) | Yes (Apple Pay only) |
| Extras | Emergency SOS, fall detection, always-on display, Built-in microphone and speaker, Google services | Emergency SOS, always-on display (toggleable), international roaming, built-in microphone and speaker |
Pixel Watch vs. Series 8: Physical Differences and Display
The Pixel Watch features a circular display with rounded edges, while the Series 8 sports a flatter rectangular screen with a slim bezel. This gives the Pixel Watch a more traditional appearance.
Functionally, both watches offer an always-on display and customizable faces for a user-friendly experience.
The Pixel Watch comes with a rubber sport band in four colors, while the Series 8 provides a wide range of band options, including silicone, braided, and leather straps, along with designer choices from Hermes.
Additionally, the Series 8 supports compatibility with various interchangeable bands, including leather and metal Apple Watch straps and designer Apple Watch straps.
Pixel Watch vs. Series 8: Smartwatch Features and Ecosystem Integration
Pixel Watch: Versatile Wear OS Companion
The Pixel Watch stands out as one of the top smartwatches thanks to its use of Wear OS. It offers essential Google apps like Google Maps, Google Wallet, and Google Assistant, making it an excellent companion for most Android phones.
Series 8: Seamless iOS Integration
The Series 8 excels in integrating with iOS, offering pre-installed apps as well as access to the App Store for additional downloads. It’s our top choice for the best Apple Watch overall.
Fitness and Health Tracking
While both watches have strong ecosystem integration, the Series 8 has an advantage as a fitness and health tracker. It offers comprehensive functionality in this area, surpassing the Pixel Watch.
Choosing Based on Ecosystem
Consider your day-to-day work and whether you heavily rely on Google Suite or iOS when making your decision between these two capable smartwatches.
Read also: Understanding Apple’s Vision Pro: A Comprehensive Overview
Pixel Watch vs. Series 8: Health and Fitness Tracking
Pixel Watch: Subpar Fitness Experience
When reviewed, the Pixel Watch fell short in health and fitness tracking. Its faulty GPS connectivity led to inaccurate progress tracking, causing frustration and unreliable results for running or cycling activities.
Similarities with Fitbit, but Not Competitive
While the Pixel Watch shares features with Fitbit devices like heart rate sensors and blood oxygen monitoring, it fails to compete with top Fitbit devices in fitness tracking due to its shortcomings.
Series 8: Top-tier Fitness Tracking
The Series 8 excels as a fitness tracker, comparable to some of the best options available. It utilizes the same sensors as Pixel Watch and Fitbit devices but surpasses them with the extensive iOS Health app. The app serves as a centralized database for health and fitness data, including integrations for health records and body measurements.
Comprehensive Features and Accurate Data
The Series 8 offers supplementary features like the Medications app and in-depth sleep-tracking insights, surpassing the Pixel Watch. It provides a premium experience with a wide range of workouts and outstanding built-in GPS accuracy, quickly syncing and delivering precise data.
Series 8: The Superior Health and Fitness Tracker
In summary, the Series 8 outperforms the Pixel Watch as a health and fitness tracker, providing a superior experience and accurate results.
Pixel Watch vs. Series 8: Battery Life Comparison
Similar Battery Life, Slight Variations
Both the Pixel Watch and Series 8 require a recharge after a full day’s regular use, offering similar limits on battery life.
Pixel Watch: Up to 24 Hours
The Pixel Watch boasts a maximum battery life of up to 24 hours, slightly longer on paper compared to the Series 8.
Series 8: Max 18 Hours, Low Power Mode Extends to 36 Hours
The Series 8 has a maximum battery life of 18 hours, which can be extended up to 36 hours in Low Power Mode. However, activating this mode significantly limits the watch’s functionality.
Considerations for Battery Life
Although the Pixel Watch may appear to have a slight advantage in terms of battery life, it becomes less significant when compared to other wearables like the Apple Watch Ultra or Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro. If battery life is a major concern, it’s worth exploring alternative options beyond the Series 8 and Pixel Watch.
Read Also: Apple Watch Ultra: 3 Unexpected Surprises
Choosing Between Pixel Watch and Series 8
Consider Your Phone Ecosystem
The primary consideration when deciding between the Pixel Watch and Series 8 is your existing smartphone. Android users will benefit from full functionality with the Pixel Watch, while the Series 8 seamlessly integrates with the iOS and macOS ecosystem for iPhone users.
Lifestyle Compatibility
If health and fitness tracking is a priority, the Series 8 is a clear choice, offering impressive metrics and comprehensive features in this area.
Impressive Smartwatches, Different Strengths
Both the Pixel Watch and Series 8 offer premium smartwatch experiences. The Series 8 stands out as one of the best smartwatches available, particularly for its health and fitness capabilities. Meanwhile, the Pixel Watch caters to those seeking the customizability and versatility of Android in a wearable device. Additionally, the Pixel Watch’s slightly lower price adds to its appeal, as is often the case with Android devices.
Google Pixel Watch
Apple Watch Series 8
