The Google Pixel Watch and Galaxy Watch 5 are two of the most prominent smartwatches for Android devices. Both smartwatches boast a wide array of features, some similar and others different. Galaxy smartwatches have been in this race for a long time.
On the other hand, despite being a newcomer, the Google Pixel Watch has become one of the top mentions in the best smartwatches lists. When it comes to choosing one smartwatch for you, the decision should depend on how they fare against each other.
To help you make this decision, here’s a comprehensive comparison of Google Pixel Watch vs. Galaxy Watch 5.
Specs and features: A detailed comparison
When it comes to Android wearables, the Google Pixel Watch and the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 are two of the most talked-about options. But how do they stack up against each other in terms of specs, features, and overall experience? Let’s dive in.
Design and body comparison
The Google Pixel Watch offers a modern flair with its choice of Matte Black, Polished Silver, and Champagne Gold finishes. It’s a design that aligns well with Google’s minimalist aesthetic. On the flip side, the Galaxy Watch 5 is available in Graphite, Silver, Pink Gold, and Sapphire. It boasts a premium build featuring a classic round dial and a rotating bezel for easy navigation. Both watches use stainless steel in their construction, ensuring durability.
Display and hardware
Both watches employ AMOLED displays, known for their deep blacks and vibrant colors. This technology also allows for better power efficiency and peak brightness. The Pixel Watch is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass, adding an extra layer of durability.
As for the hardware, the Google Pixel Watch is powered by an Exynos 9110 SoC and a Cortex M33 coprocessor. The Galaxy Watch 5, however, comes with a robust 1.18GHz dual-core processor. Both chipsets are designed to offer smooth performance, but the RAM varies, with the Galaxy Watch 5 generally offering more.
Connectivity options
In terms of connectivity, it’s a tie. Both watches support a range of options including LTE, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and NFC. This makes tasks like pairing with a Samsung phone or any other Android device quite seamless. Samsung Pay and Google Pay are supported for convenient payments right from your wrist.
Health and fitness tracking
The Google Pixel Watch takes the lead in health features, thanks to its integration with Fitbit’s health and fitness tracking capabilities. Google acquired Fitbit in 2021, and it shows. From ECG to a temperature sensor, the Pixel Watch is a powerhouse of health sensors.
Samsung isn’t far behind, though. The Galaxy Watch 5 comes with Samsung Health, which offers various workout tracking options. It also includes ECG and temperature sensor features, making it a strong contender in the health and fitness category.
While both watches offer a plethora of features, your personal preference will play a significant role in your choice. Whether it’s the Fitbit premium features on the Pixel Watch or the Samsung Health suite on the Galaxy Watch 5, both wearables offer something unique to every user.
By considering all these aspects, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision about which watch best suits your needs.
| Specs | Google Pixel Watch | Galaxy Watch 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Matte Black, Polished Silver, and Champagne Gold | Graphite, Silver, Pink Gold, Sapphire |
| Display | AMOLED display with DCI-P3 color | Super AMOLED display with 16M color depth |
| Chip | Exynos 9110 SoC and Cortex M33 coprocessor | 1.18GHz dual-core processor |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE and UMTS Bluetooth® 5.0 Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n 2.4GHz NFC FeliCa GPS | GPS Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n 2.4+5GHz NFC luetooth v5.2 Glonass Beidou Galileo |
| Battery | Up to 24 hours | Up to 40 hours |
| Dimensions | 41 × 12.3 mm | 43.3 × 44.4 × 9.8 mm |
| Weight | 28 grams | 33.5 grams |
| Storage | 32 GB | 16 GB |
| Features | Fitbit health and fitness Always-on display Google Maps Google Wallet Google Assistant YouTube Music Emergency SOS International emergency calling Water and fall resistance | A wide range of watch faces Hand gestures Water-resistant Up to 45% charged in 30 mins Tracks 90 exercises through the watch Sleep tracking |
| Sensors | Compass Altimeter Blood oxygen sensor Multipurpose electrical sensor Optical heart rate sensor Accelerometer Gyroscope Ambient light sensor | Accelerometer Barometer Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis Sensor Electrical Heart Sensor Gyro Sensor Geomagnetic Sensor Light Sensor Optical Heart Rate Sensor |
| Price | From $349 | From $279 |
Battery
While the Google Pixel Watch has better health tracking features, the Galaxy Watch 5 wins when comparing the battery life. Although the Google Pixel Watch’s battery life is good, it is no match against its competitor here.
The Galaxy Watch 5 takes the lead with an impressive runtime of up to 40 hours. On the other hand, the Google Pixel Watch has a 24-hour capability. Hence, if you are getting a smartphone watch that lasts long, the Galaxy Watch 5 should be your choice.
Price
Released on August 26, 2022, the Galaxy Watch 5’s base model with only Bluetooth connectivity is available for $279. You can also go for the model with LTE connectivity, which starts at $329. Moreover, the price can further increase based on the band you choose for the phone.
The Google Pixel Watch is available in only two models: Bluetooth-only connectivity and LTE connectivity. The base model with Bluetooth-only connectivity costs $349, whereas the LTE connectivity model costs $399.
Wrapping up the Android face-off: Google Pixel Watch vs. Galaxy Watch 5
When it comes to the Google Pixel Watch vs. Galaxy Watch 5, the competition is incredibly close, making it difficult to declare a definitive winner. Both smartwatches bring their set of unique features and advantages to the table.
The Google Pixel Watch excels in health tracking capabilities, offering a comprehensive suite of features like body composition and a skin temperature sensor. It also comes with the latest Wear OS features, ensuring a seamless user experience.
On the flip side, the Galaxy Watch 5 stands out for its affordability and impressive battery life. It also offers a premium build, featuring sapphire crystal glass and an aluminum frame, which adds to its overall appeal.
Both watches are powered by robust chipsets, promising smooth performance and quick response times. Whether you’re looking for a watch to help you stay connected, track your health, or manage your day, both options are equipped to meet your needs.
Final thoughts
In the end, your choice between the Google Pixel Watch and the Galaxy Watch 5 should hinge on your personal preferences and specific needs. Whether you prioritize advanced health features, long battery life, or a particular material like aluminum or sapphire crystal glass, both watches offer compelling reasons to choose them.
