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The Google Pixel Watch 2 finally got a complete reveal during the Made by Google event on October 4, 2023. So, you might be wondering how it compares to the Apple Watch 8. Both are premium wearable devices; however, there are a few chances that you might have to decide between the two.
The thing is that they are not interchangeable because the Pixel Watch 2 works only with Android phones, whereas the Apple Watch 8 works only with iPhones.
But if you want to know what specs and features you are missing by not having them, here’s our comprehensive comparison of Pixel Watch 2 vs. Apple Watch 8.
Specs showdown
Both the Pixel Watch 2 and Apple Watch 8 embody elegance in design, yet each takes a distinct approach. Apple Watch 8 maintains its iconic rectangular silhouette, emphasizing minimalist sophistication. On the other hand, the Pixel Watch 2 adopts a more contemporary, rounded design, appealing to those who prefer modern aesthetics. The choice between the two may hinge on your style and taste.
The Pixel Watch 2 boasts a vibrant AMOLED display. It offers deep blacks and vibrant colors for an immersive visual experience with brightness up to 1,000 nits. While the Apple Watch 8 boasts the same brightness capacity, it is equipped with Retina display technology.
Their connectivity, storage, sensors, and features are almost alike. The only major difference in the features comes because of their native operating system. The Pixel Watch 2 operates on Google’s Wear OS 4.0, ensuring seamless integration with Android devices and access to a diverse app ecosystem.
Meanwhile, the Apple Watch 8 runs on watchOS 9. This provides a seamless experience for iPhone users. Consider your existing device ecosystem and the apps crucial to your daily routine when deciding between the two.
| Specs | Pixel Watch 2 | Apple Watch 8 |
|---|---|---|
| Colors | Polished Silver Matte Black Champagne Gold | Aluminum: Starlight, midnight, silver, (PRODUCT) RED Stainless Steel: Silver, Graphite, Gold |
| Dimensions | 41 mm x 12.3 mm | 45 × 38 × 10.7 mm (1.77 × 1.50 × 0.42 in) |
| Weight | 31 grams | 41mm: 42.3 g45mm: 51.5 g (45mm) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0 Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n 2.4 GHz NFC LTE | LTE and UMTS Bluetooth 5.3 Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n 2.4GHz and 5GHz |
| GPS | GPS GLONASS BeiDou Galileo Quasi-Zenith Satellite | GPS GLONASS Galileo QZSS BeiDou |
| Compatibility | Android 9.0 or newer | iPhones |
| Display | 320 ppi AMOLED display with DCI-P3 color | Retina LTPO OLED, 1,000 nits (peak) |
| Battery | Up to 24 hours with always-on display | Up to 18 hours |
| Chip | Qualcomm 5100 and Cortex M33 co-processor | Apple S8 SiP |
| OS | Wear OS 4.0 | watchOS 9.0 |
| Storage | 32 GB | 32GB |
| Sensors | Compass 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 Magnetometer | Compass Always-on altimeter Blood oxygen sensor Electrical heart sensor Third-generation optical heart sensor High-g accelerometer High dynamic range gyroscope Ambient light sensor |
| Features | Fitbit health tracking Water-resistant up to 5 ATM, IP68 standard Powered by Google AI Google Assistant Stress detection Sleep habits tracking Menstrual health tracking Auto workout mode Daily readiness score Emergency SOS | Water-resistant up to 50 meters Certified IP6X dust resistant International emergency calling Emergency SOS International roaming Apple Pay GymKit |
| Price | $349 for Bluetooth/Wi-Fi and $399 for LTE | From $399 |
Battery life
Since smartwatches’ battery life is a critical factor, both Google and Apple have ensured to keep it high. However, the Google Pixel Watch 2 proves to be a better contender here. It features a 24-hour battery life with an always-on display. On the other hand, the Apple Watch 8 comes with an 18-hour life for the same always-on-display.
Price comparison
Pixel Watch 2 is affordable compared to Apple Watch 8. It comes at two different prices based on what variant you purchase. If you go for a Bluetooth/Wi-Fi model, you can pre-order it for $349, whereas the LTE variant will cost you $399.
On the other hand, the most basic model of the Apple Watch Series 8 is priced at $399. The price will increase based on the display size, band, connectivity, etc.
Final verdict
There’s no comparison here; both Pixel Watch 2 and Apple Watch 8 are created for different audiences. The Pixel Watch 2 caters to Android users, and the Apple Watch 8 is made for iPhone users. Hence, you should choose based on your device and what apps are crucial for your daily needs.
