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Pixel Watch 2 vs Garmin Venu 3 – we compare the two

Comparing two big smartwatch names
Last Updated on November 27, 2023
Pixel-Watch-2 vs-Garmin-Venu-3
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Wondering who comes out on top when it comes to the Pixel Watch 2 vs Garmin Venu 3? Garmin announced its latest generation smartwatch, Garmin Venu 3, on August 30, 2023. Around a month later, Google released its 2nd generation smartwatch, the Google Pixel Watch 2. Both watches come with several features and sensors. So the question is – which one should you choose?

Introduction

With a competition like the Google Pixel Watch 2 vs Apple Watch Series 8, it’s easier to decide because the Pixel is compatible with Android and the Apple Watch 8 is compatible with iPhones. However, choosing between Pixel Watch 2 vs Gramin Venu 3 can be challenging, as both watches are compatible with Android devices. Hence, it’s a good idea to properly compare them.

Pixel Watch 2 vs Garmin Venu 3: Specs

Both the Pixel Watch 2 and Garmin Venu 3 boast sleek circular display designs. However, the display screen size has a significant difference. The Pixel Watch 2 has a 41 mm diameter while weighing 31 grams.

On the other hand, the Garmin Venu 3’s display size measures 30.4mm in diameter and weighs 40 grams. The competition cannot be any more transparent in this aspect. With a bigger screen and lighter weight, the Pixel Watch 2 is the winner here.

While Garmin Venu 3 has lost in design and comfort, it has an edge when it comes to compatibility. The Google Pixel Watch 2 is designed to cater to only Android users and is compatible with any device running Android Android OS 9.0 or newer. But Garmin Venu 3 is compatible with iPhones, too. Thus, anyone, regardless of what smartphone they are using, can use this smartwatch.

Both devices boast numerous features for tracking your health, sleep quality, gaming, etc. But with support for Google’s native apps and Fitbit’s health-tracking ecosystem, the Google Pixel Watch 2 allows you to control your everyday activities from the Pixel Watch 2.

Although not as good as Pixel’s, Garmin Venu 3’s features are pretty amazing, too. Garmin has introduced many new features to its latest flagship smartwatch compared to its predecessors. Some new health features added to Garmin Venu 3 are sleep coach, morning report, nap detection, wheelchair mode, meditation activity, and more.

SpecsPixel Watch 2Garmin Venu 3
ColorsPolished Silver, Matte Black, Champagne GoldSoft Gold, SlateSilver
Dimensions41 mm x 12.3 mm30.4 mm
Weight31 grams40 grams
ConnectivityBluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n 2.4 GHz, NFC, LTEBluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi
GPSGPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galileo, Quasi-Zenith SatelliteGPS, GLONASS, Galileo
CompatibilityAndroid 9.0 or newerAndroid and iPhone
Display320 ppi AMOLED display with DCI-P3 color390 x 390 AMOLED display
BatteryUp to 24 hours with always-on displayUp to 14 days
SensorsCompass, Altimeter, Red and infrared sensors, Multipurpose electrical sensors, Multi-path optical heart rate sensor, 3-axis accelerometer, Gyroscope, Ambient light sensor, Skin temperature sensor, Barometer, MagnetometerCompass, Barometric altimeter, Blood oxygen saturation monitor, Wrist heart rate monitor, Third-generation optical heart sensor, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Thermometer, Ambient light sensor
FeaturesFitbit health tracking, Water resistant up to 5 ATM, IP68 standard, Google AI, Google Assistant, Stress detection, Sleep habits tracking, Menstrual health tracking, Auto workout mode, Daily readiness score, Emergency SOSWater resistant up to 50 meters, Find My Watch, Fitness tracking, Health tracking, Golfing tracking, Cycling monitoring, Swimming features, Safety features
Price$349 for Bluetooth/WiFi and $399 for LTEFrom $449.99
Pixel Watch 2 vs Garmin Venu 3 specs

Pixel Watch 2 vs Garmin Venu 3 battery

Garmin Venu 3 takes a substantial lead here with up to 14 days on a single charge, whereas Pixel Watch 2 provides up to 24 hours with the always-on display feature. Moreover, Garmin Venu 3’s battery can last for as long as 26 days in battery saver mode. In fact, even if you are playing music in All-Systems GNSS mode, the smartwatch will still stay awake for up to 11 hours.

The difference in battery longevity may be a decisive factor for users prioritizing extended usage without frequent charging.

Pixel Watch 2 vs Garmin Venu 3 price

The difference between battery sizes is also reflected in the pricing. With long-lasting battery life, the Garmin Venu 3 comes at a whopping $449.99, which might seem on a higher side compared to the costs of most standard smartwatches.

The Google Pixel 2 is more affordable and has a starting price of $349 with Bluetooth/WiFi connectivity. You can get the cellular + LTE connectivity for an added cost of $50, taking the price to $399.

Final Thoughts

We see the Google Pixel Watch 2 to be a better choice for Android users. It has the latest Wear OS 4.0 operating system with a robust processor, making it an ideal fit. Additionally, it is also affordable compared to Garmin Venu 3. However, if you are an iPhone user or prefer lasting battery life over features and sensors, you can go with Garmin Venu 3.

Gloria is a tech and AI writer for PC Guide. She is interested in what new technology means for the future of digital and broadcast journalism.