Currently, Google and Samsung stand out as the only brands offering premium WearOS watches. Their latest models, the Pixel Watch 3 and the Galaxy Watch 7, come equipped with the latest WearOS 5 right out of the box and boast a similar array of features. However, given their price difference, choosing between them can be challenging. After integrating both watches into my daily routine, I aim to clarify the decision through this comprehensive Pixel Watch 3 vs Galaxy Watch 7 comparison.
Pixel Watch 3 vs Galaxy Watch 7: Specs Comparison
| Specs | Google Pixel Watch 3 | Galaxy Watch 7 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 45 x 45 x 12.3 mm (1.77 x 1.77 x 0.48 in) | 44.4 x 44.4 x 9.7 mm (1.75 x 1.75 x 0.38 in) |
| Dial Size | 41 mm (45 mm also available) | 44 mm (40 mm also available) |
| Weight | 31 g (1.09 oz) | 33.8 g (1.16 oz) |
| Display | 1.2 inches (408 x 408), LTPO AMOLED, 60 Hz refresh rate, 2000 nits brightness, Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection | 1.5 inches (480 x 480), Super AMOLED, 60 Hz refresh rate, 2,000 nits brightness, Sapphire crystal display protection. |
| Processor | Qualcomm SW5100 | Exynos W1000 (3nm) |
| Operating System | Wear OS 5, Up to 3 years of major updates | Wear OS 5, Up to 4 years of major updates |
| Memory | 2 GB RAM + 32 GB EMMC storage | 2 GB RAM + 32 GB storage |
| Design | Aluminum body | Sapphire Crystal and Aluminum frame |
| Sports Modes | 40+ | 100+ |
| IP Rating | IP68 | IP68 |
| Battery Life | 24 Hours with Always On Display | 30 Hours with Always On Display |
| Strap Colors | Hazel, Obsidian, Porcelain, Rose Quartz | Green, Cream, Silver |
| Price | Rs 39,999/ $ 349 (Bluetooth + WiFi) | Rs 32,999/$ 299 (Bluetooth + WiFi) |
Pixel Watch 3 vs Galaxy Watch 7: What’s in the Box
The Pixel Watch 3 and the Galaxy Watch 7 arrive in a sleek rectangular box that includes only the essentials: the smartwatch, silicon bands, a USB-C charging cable, and a quick start guide. Notably, Google also provides an additional longer strap with the Watch 3.
Pixel Watch 3 vs Galaxy Watch 7: Build and Design
Both Google and Samsung have maintained similar design languages to their previous watch models. However, Google has introduced some enhancements, including 16% slimmer bezels on the Watch 3 and a new 45 mm option. Overall, the design features an all-glass top that curves to the sides for a stylish and immersive appearance.
The Pixel features a basic silicon band that feels somewhat cheap and may get dirty quickly, especially if you have sensitive skin. In contrast, Samsung includes a higher-quality ribbed silicon band that maintains its cleanliness with vibrant blue and orange accents that enhance the watch’s aesthetic appeal.
The Galaxy Watch 7 presents a more traditional design, with an aluminum body that covers the sides, complemented by a Sapphire crystal protecting the top. While I initially found the Pixel Watch appealing, its susceptibility to accidental bumps became evident after a collision with a wall. Though it does come with Gorilla Glass 5 for protection, I still prefer the safety of the Galaxy Watch 7.
Both models come with an IP68 rating, providing resistance to dust and water. Hence, you can confidently wear either watch during a rainy day.
The Pixel Watch is equipped with a rotating crown and excellent haptics, making it enjoyable to interact with. The Recents button is located atop the crown. The Galaxy Watch retains the dual-button design, with bright accents; however, I miss the rotating bezel seen in previous models. The heart rate sensor can be found on the rear of both watches.
In terms of weight, both watches feel quite similar, but I lean towards the Galaxy Watch for its more practical and robust design.
Winner: Galaxy Watch 7
Pixel Watch 3 vs Galaxy Watch 7: Display and Speakers
For this comparison, I will base my observations on the 41 mm variant of the Pixel Watch 3 and the 44 mm variant of the Galaxy Watch 7. Both models do offer alternative dial sizes.
The Pixel Watch 3 features a 1.2-inch curved LTPO AMOLED display, while the Galaxy Watch 7 is equipped with a 1.5-inch Super AMOLED screen. Google’s reduction of the bezels provides more display area. The display extends near the edges, emphasizing the all-glass design, giving it a striking look. The dynamic UI enhances the visual effect, with elements blurring at the edges, creating a fascinating effect that appears to be almost floating.
Both displays are capped at 60 Hz; however, only the Pixel Watch 3 benefits from the LTPO upgrade. This feature allows the watch to drop the refresh rate to 1 Hz in always-on-display or battery-saving modes. Although this might not considerably enhance battery longevity, it offers a smoother user experience. Both watches maintain an overall smoothness in operation, although minor animation hiccups occasionally arise.
Both devices share a brightness capability of 2,000 nits. In terms of sound quality, Samsung’s watch provides a louder and clearer audio experience. Additionally, you can directly play Spotify songs from the Galaxy Watch’s speakers, a feature that has recently been adopted by Apple in their Watch Series 10. If I must declare a winner for the display, the LTPO gives Pixel a significant advantage.
Winner: Pixel Watch 3
Software and Performance
Both watches utilize the latest Wear OS 5, though Samsung refers to it as “Wear OS for Samsung.”The Qualcomm SW5100 powers the Pixel Watch 3, while Samsung’s Exynos W1000 drives the Galaxy Watch 7—both being the top processors available in the Android smartwatch market.
The Pixel Watch utilizes a minimalistic approach with WearOS, presenting app icons and menu options in a straightforward manner. The UI comprises largely pastel colors, making it consistent yet basic outside of the various watch faces. In contrast, the Galaxy Watch employs a more elaborate software interface resembling a trimmed-down version of One UI. With prominent colorful icons and menus augmented by blur effects and smooth transitions.
Even though the performance of both watches is satisfactory, I found the Pixel Watch to be noticeably smoother, prompting a brief moment of thinking it was equipped with a 90 Hz display. Samsung’s model is competent, but the performance occasionally struggles to keep pace with the vibrant animations, leading to some stutters. The Pixel Watch 3 features improved haptics, enhancing user interaction.
While I don’t particularly enjoy the experience of scrolling through notifications on Samsung via touch bezels, Samsung offers 4 years of Wear OS updates, which surpasses the Pixel’s 3 years. Despite these advantages, my preference remains with Pixel for its snappy experience.
Winner: Pixel Watch 3
Pixel Watch 3 vs Galaxy Watch 7: Health and Fitness Tracking
In terms of health monitoring capabilities, both smartwatches offer an accelerometer, gyroscope, heart rate monitor, altimeter, compass, and SpO2 meter. The Pixel can also measure skin temperature, incorporating a thermometer, while Samsung is certified for blood pressure monitoring. Google utilizes Fitbit to manage health data, while Samsung requires installation of their health app.
After extensively testing both watches during a 20-minute jog, I found both accurately tracked my steps and paused the workout when I took breaks.
They both tracked calories burned, current heart rate, and distance, but the Pixel Watch adds stride measurement during walks or runs. It assesses workout intensity based on rising heart rates, aiding users in understanding when to take breaks after intense sessions.
Conversely, the Galaxy Watch 7 excels at automatic workout detection. During my trek to the Metro station, it recognized I had been walking for 10 minutes and initiated recording the workout while including the prior steps. The Pixel Watch, however, requires a manual workout selection after a delay and does not account for the previous 10 minutes of movement.
When it comes to sleep tracking, I consistently prefer the Galaxy Watch. The Pixel Watch often indicates I’m awake more frequently than reality. After a week of going to bed wearing both, the results showed the Galaxy Watch reported I was awake for 11 minutes, while the Pixel Watch suggested 47 minutes, highlighting that its sleep tracking needs improvement.
Additionally, the Pixel Watch takes about a week to generate a readiness score reflecting daily body readiness based on sleep and exercise history, whereas the Galaxy completes this in just one day. Thus, based on my experiences, I lean towards the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 for health and fitness tracking.
Winner: Galaxy Watch 7
Battery Life and Charging
When it comes to battery performance, neither of the watches excels in longevity. During my tests, I found it challenging to maintain daily use with the always-on-display active.
Starting with the Pixel Watch 3, Google cites a battery life of 24 hours with AOD engaged; in practice, I averaged around 15-16 hours before needing a charge, often ending the day with about 10% remaining. Initially, the Galaxy Watch 7 provided similar battery life, but subsequent updates have improved it marginally, allowing it to reach nearly 24 hours, although still below its claimed 30 hours.
Both watches charge similarly, taking about 30 minutes to reach 50% and an hour for full charge. However, the Galaxy Watch supports true wireless charging, whereas the Pixel Watch still relies on a pin connection with a charging dock.
Winner: Galaxy Watch 7
Pixel Watch 3 vs Galaxy Watch 7: Which One Should You Buy?
In conclusion, I will be straightforward: the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 provides better value than the Pixel Watch 3. Its design, strap quality, health tracking accuracy, sleep tracking efficiency, automatic workout detection, wireless charging, and overall affordability make it superior.
The Pixel Watch 3 could offer more if priced comparably to the Galaxy Watch 7 or below. Although it introduces an LTPO display, continuous heart rate tracking, and other features, these additions do not justify its price of Rs 39,999 or $349. Ultimately, personal preference may play a role if you are drawn to its aesthetic appeal.
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