Almost a year has passed since Google introduced the Pixel Watch 3, a smartwatch that marked a significant jump in integration with the Fitbit platform, following Google’s acquisition of Fitbit. If you’ve been pondering whether this smartwatch still holds its ground in a competitive market, you’re in the right place.
Our review confirmed that the Pixel Watch 3 stands out for its larger size, robust build quality, reduced bezels, impressive battery life, useful running features, and outstanding health tracking capabilities, making it one of the finest choices available today.
As we eagerly await the unveiling of the Pixel Watch 4 alongside the Pixel 10 series next month, it’s time to take a closer look at whether the Pixel Watch 3 remains a beloved option in the ever-evolving smartwatch landscape.
Pixel Watch 3 Overview: Specs at a Glance
| Size and Weight | 41mm: 41 x 41 x 12.3mm, 31g without strap 45mm: 45 x 45 x 12.3mm, 37g without strap |
| Display | 41mm: 1.3-inch 45mm: 1.7-inch Corning Gorilla Glass 5 2,000 nits peak brightness 1-60Hz dynamic refresh rate Always-on display |
| Durability | IP68 ATM (~50 meters) water resistance |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 5100 Cortex M33 co-processor |
| RAM and Storage | 2GB RAM 32GB storage |
| Software | Wear OS 5.0 |
| Battery | 41mm: 306mAh 45mm: 420mAh |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE, Bluetooth 5.3, 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax, NFC, Ultra-Wideband |
| Price | 41mm: $349 (Wi-Fi only) / $449 LTE 45mm: $399 (Wi-Fi only) / $449 (LTE) |
Impressive Battery Life: A Strong Point
The Pixel Watch 3 boasts a 420 mAh battery that shines in endurance tests. It lasts over 52 hours on a full charge, outperforming notable competitors like the Apple Watch Series 10 (38 hours 30 minutes) and the Galaxy Watch 7 (43 hours). While Samsung’s new Galaxy Watch 8 series comes close, the Pixel Watch 3 continues to dominate in battery life.
However, charging speed tells a different story. It has a slower recharge time compared to the Apple Watch Series 10, which fully charges in 57 minutes. The Pixel Watch 3 uses pogo pins for charging, which can be cumbersome. Rumors suggest the upcoming Pixel Watch 4 may adopt wireless charging technology, potentially speeding up the process.
Health Tracking with Fitbit Integration
The integration with Fitbit offers six months of Fitbit Premium upon purchase, but continuing with features such as advanced sleep reports and personalized running coaching requires a $10 monthly subscription. Although some functionalities have become accessible without renewal, the recurring fee can deter users when compared to the free features offered by competitors like Apple and Samsung.
What Can Be Improved in the Pixel Watch 4?
As we look to the future, there are a couple of areas where Google can enhance the Pixel Watch experience. First, consider the thickness; at 12.3mm, the Pixel Watch 3 feels bulky compared to sleeker options like the Apple Watch Series 10, which measures 9.7mm. The Pixel Watch 4 is expected to address this, potentially allowing for a larger battery while maintaining a more comfortable fit on the wrist.
Secondly, a broader display, akin to the square design of the Apple Watch Series 10, could enhance user experience. Users appreciate larger screens for easy navigation and interaction, positioning the Pixel Watch 4 to potentially lead the market if Google takes this feedback to heart.
Overall, the Pixel Watch 3 remains a highly regarded smartwatch, with impressive battery longevity and solid health tracking. However, the competition from brands like Apple and Samsung continues to rise, prompting excitement for what the Pixel Watch 4 might bring.
People often wonder: How does battery life compare with other watches? The Pixel Watch 3’s battery capabilities showcase why it stands out. Another popular inquiry is whether it’s worth subscribing to Fitbit Premium. For those who fitness track regularly and want additional data, it can be worthwhile, but others may find the free features sufficient.
If you’re also considering the Pixel Watch 3’s practicality as an everyday companion, many users find its robust health tracking invaluable. Would switching from my Apple Watch be beneficial? It depends on what features are most important to you.
As you continue exploring the smartwatch market, I encourage you to check out Moyens I/O for more insights and reviews to help you make informed decisions.