Apple has long been a part of the wearable tech industry. The company released its first device, the Apple Watch, in 2015. One of the most renowned products in the Apple Watch Series is the Apple Watch SE. In fact, numbers indicate that the Apple Watch SE accounted for 8% of the total Apple Watch shipments in Q3 of 2020. Google has recently entered this race with its Google Pixel Watch, released in 2022. Of the two, which one will you choose, Android or Apple? The only way to get a clear idea of this is by comparing the Google Pixel Watch vs. Apple Watch SE.
Google Pixel Watch vs Apple Watch SE: Specs
Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) [GPS + Cellular 40mm] Smartwatch with Starlight Aluminum Case
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CHECK PRICEWhen it comes to smartwatches, the display is often the first thing that catches your eye. The Google Pixel Watch features a circular AMOLED screen, protected by Custom 3D Corning Gorilla Glass. With a brightness boost of up to 1,000 nits and 320 ppi with DCI-P3 color, it offers a classic watch look with modern flair.
In contrast, the Apple Watch SE comes with a Retina LTPO OLED display, available in 40 and 44-mm sizes. It also offers a brightness capacity of up to 1,000 nits, ensuring vibrant colors and excellent visibility. This makes it a seamless experience for iOS users, especially when paired with the Apple Watch app.
Chipset and performance
The performance of these watches varies significantly due to the different chips powering them. The Apple Watch SE operates on an S8 SiP with a 64-bit dual-core processor.
On the other side, the Google Pixel Watch is driven by an Exynos 9110 SoC and Cortex M33 co-processor. This difference in chipset could be a deciding factor for those looking for specific integrations and features, such as Fitbit integration for the Pixel Watch.
Workouts and health monitoring
Both watches offer a range of health features, including sleep tracking and ECG. However, the Google Pixel Watch takes it a step further with temperature sensor capabilities and skin temperature sensor features, making it a more comprehensive option for health-conscious users.
Design and build
The Google Pixel Watch comes in an elegant stainless steel case with a thicker bezel, giving it a traditional watch feel. The Apple Watch SE opts for an aluminum case, which is lighter but equally durable. Both offer various straps to match your style, from chalk to obsidian and hazel.
Notifications and customization
Both watches excel in delivering notifications and offer a range of customization options. The Google Pixel Watch uses Wear OS, allowing for various tiles and features. The Apple Watch SE, on the other hand, offers a more integrated experience for iOS users.
Here’s a complete specs comparison of the Google Pixel Watch vs. Apple Watch SE:
| Specs | Google Pixel Watch | Apple Watch SE |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Matte Black, Polished Silver, and Champagne Gold | Midnight, Starlight, Silver |
| Display | AMOLED display with DCI-P3 color | Retina LTPO OLED display |
| Chip | Exynos 9110 SoC and Cortex M33 co-processor | S8 SiP with 64-bit dual-core processor |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE and UMTS Bluetooth® 5.0 Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n 2.4GHz NFC FeliCa GPS | LTE and UMTS Wi-Fi 4 Bluetooth 5.3 GPS |
| Battery | Up to 24 hours | Up to 18 hours |
| Dimensions | 41mmx12.3 mm | 40mm x 34mmx10.7mm and 44mm x 38mm x 10.7mm |
| Weight | 28 grams | 40mm: 27.8 grams44mm: 33.0 grams |
| Storage | 32 GB | 32 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 | L1 GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and QZSS Water-resistant up to 50 meters International emergency calling Emergency SOS Siri Apple Pay GymKit Fall and crash detection |
| Sensors | Compass Altimeter Blood oxygen sensor Multipurpose electrical sensor Optical heart rate sensor Accelerometer Gyroscope Ambient light sensor | Compass Always-on altimeter Second-generation optical heart sensor High-g accelerometer High dynamic range gyroscope Ambient light sensor |
| Price | From $349 | From $249 |
Google Pixel Watch vs Apple Watch SE: Battery life
Battery life is a pivotal aspect when choosing between smartwatches. The Google Pixel Watch is equipped with a 294 mAh lithium-ion battery, promising up to 24 hours of usage. It also features a low-power mode to extend battery life further. Charging is made convenient with a USB-C magnetic charging cable, allowing for a full charge in just 2.5 hours.
The Apple Watch SE, although falling slightly short with up to 18 hours of battery life, also offers a USB-C magnetic charging cable for easy charging. Its low-power mode can help you squeeze out a few extra hours when you’re running low.
Google Pixel Watch vs Apple Watch SE: Price
There’s a huge price difference between Google and Apple watches, just like their smartphones. However, it is the other way around this time. The Google Pixel Watch has a starting price of $349, whereas the Apple Watch SE starts at $249. Based on the size, connectivity, band, and band style, the price for Apple Watch SE can go as high as $629.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision on which smartwatch best suits your needs, whether it’s the Google Pixel Watch or the Apple Watch SE.
Final thoughts
The Google Pixel Watch is compatible with Android devices, and the Apple Watch SE is compatible with iPhones. Hence, the basic choice is clear here. If you own an Android device, go with Google’s watch; if you have an iPhone, go with Apple’s watch.
But if you have both devices and are stuck with the choice, you should go with the Google Pixel Watch unless you want to use Siri or get a bracelet-like band. The Google Pixel Watch has a better battery life, more sensors, and good features, making it an ideal option.
