Compatibility: Exclusive to Android
When it comes to smartwatches, setting the stage with compatibility is crucial. Both the Pixel Watch 3 and the Galaxy Watch 7 are designed exclusively for Android users. If you’re an iPhone owner, it’s best to explore other options. The Pixel Watch 3 requires at least Android 10, while the Galaxy Watch 7 is compatible with Android 11 and newer versions. For those with modern Android smartphones, you have the flexibility to choose either model based on your preferences.
However, keep in mind that both watches limit certain features to first-party smartphones. For instance, if you own the Galaxy Watch 7, many of its advanced functions—like AI health insights and gesture controls—require a Samsung phone. Meanwhile, the Pixel Watch 3 offers unique functionalities like taking photos directly from the watch, but only when paired with a Pixel device.
Overall, if your smartphone is a Pixel, the Pixel Watch 3 might be the more enticing option.
Size: The Pixel Watch Is a Bit Bigger
The size of a smartwatch can greatly impact wearer comfort and overall aesthetic. The Pixel Watch 3 comes in two sizes: 41mm and 45mm, while the Galaxy Watch 7 is available in 44mm and 40mm variants.
In terms of thickness, the Pixel Watch 3 is notably more robust, measuring 0.48 inches compared to the Galaxy Watch 7’s 0.38 inches. Weight-wise, the smaller Pixel weighs about 1.1 ounces while the smaller Galaxy is slightly lighter at 1 ounce. If you’re considering the larger models, the Pixel Watch 3 tips the scales at 1.3 ounces, whereas the Galaxy Watch 7 weighs in at 1.2 ounces.
If a more substantial watch appeals to you, the Pixel is a solid choice. However, for those prioritizing comfort, the sleeker Galaxy Watch 7 might be more favorable.
Price: The Pixel Watch Is Pricier
When it comes to price, the Galaxy Watch 7 clearly holds an advantage. It starts at $299.99 for the smaller Bluetooth-only model, while the Pixel Watch 3 starts at $349.99. Moving to the larger models, the Galaxy Watch 7 maintains a modest increase of $30, while the Pixel Watch 3 jumps by $50.
For those considering LTE models, the Galaxy Watch 7 will set you back an additional $50, but Google’s premium for the Pixel Watch 3 is significantly steeper, adding $100 to the cost.
Clearly, the Galaxy Watch 7 provides better bang for your buck.
Screen: The Galaxy Watch 7 Has Less Bezel
When selecting a smartwatch, the display quality is crucial. The Pixel Watch 3 boasts a brighter screen this time around, with a peak brightness of 2,000 nits—twice as bright as its predecessor. Yet, it still faces competition from the Galaxy Watch 7, which shares this impressive brightness level.
While both watches feature AMOLED displays, the Galaxy Watch 7 has a slightly sharper resolution: 327 pixels per inch (ppi) for the large model and 330 ppi for the small, compared to the Pixel Watch 3’s 320 ppi.
Furthermore, the Pixel Watch 3 has a wider bezel than its counterpart, although it has improved slightly compared to its predecessor. Even with a slightly larger case, the differences in real estate on the display remain minimal.
In terms of display specs, the Galaxy Watch 7 takes the lead.
Durability: The Galaxy Watch 7 Adds a Military Spec
Durability is key for wearables that accompany active lifestyles. The Pixel Watch 3 is crafted from 100% recycled aluminum, equipped with an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, allowing it to withstand submersion in calm waters up to 164 feet deep.
The Galaxy Watch 7 matches these durability features and enhances them further with a MIL-STD-810H certification. This means it can endure extreme temperatures and various environmental challenges without breaking a sweat.
For sheer robustness, the Galaxy Watch 7 stands out.
Connectivity and Processor: Equally Stacked
Examining the brains behind the watches, the Pixel Watch 3 is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Wear 5100 processor, complemented by a Cortex M33 coprocessor, 2GB of RAM, and 32GB of storage. On the other hand, the Galaxy Watch 7 runs on a five-core Exynos W1000 processor, offering comparable specifications with 2GB of memory and 32GB of storage.
Both smartwatches support modern connectivity options, including dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC for mobile payments, and optional LTE. They are equipped with built-in GPS, also running on Google’s latest Wear OS 5, which enhances performance and efficiency.
When it comes to connectivity and processing power, it’s a tie.
Battery Life: Both Require Daily Charging
Battery life remains a focal point for smartwatch users. The Pixel Watch 3 promises up to 24 hours with the always-on display enabled and up to 36 hours in Battery Saver mode. The smaller model maintains a 306mAh battery, matching its predecessor, while the 45mm variant contains a larger 420mAh cell.
The Galaxy Watch 7 features a 300mAh battery in its 40mm model and a 425mAh cell in the larger variant. Early testing suggests that the Galaxy Watch 7 lasts about 22 hours with regular usage, again with the always-on display activated.
While we await comprehensive testing for the Pixel Watch 3, previous models have exceeded their battery expectations. The intriguing aspect here is that both devices may not be champions in battery longevity.
At this point, the victor remains to be determined.
Health and Fitness Features: The Pixel Watch Is Catching Up
The heart of any smartwatch is its health and fitness tracking capabilities. Both the Pixel Watch 3 and Galaxy Watch 7 are equipped with a range of sensors to monitor activities and health metrics, but they use different platforms. The Pixel Watch 3 relies on Fitbit for fitness tracking, whereas the Galaxy Watch 7 utilizes Samsung Health.
Both watches provide heart rate monitoring and track multiple fitness metrics like pace and distance. For running enthusiasts, each watch offers unique training features. The Pixel Watch 3 allows for customized workouts, while the Galaxy Watch 7 features options like racing against past performances.
Both models excel in sleep tracking, but the Galaxy Watch 7 holds the edge by identifying snoring and sleep apnea, given you have a compatible Samsung phone.
In terms of holistic health insights, the Pixel Watch 3 offers readiness scores and training suggestions, whereas the Galaxy Watch 7 provides a daily Energy Score and wellness tips based on tracked data.
While both offer a rich wellness ecosystem, the Galaxy Watch 7 still leads with extensive metrics tracked.
Is the Galaxy Watch Still the Champ?
Considering all aspects, it appears that the Galaxy Watch 7 reigns supreme on paper, largely due to its lower price and greater functionality. However, if the Pixel Watch 3 performs well in battery testing and proves to deliver deeper health insights, it may surprise critics.
Stay tuned for detailed assessments as we put the Pixel Watch 3 through rigorous testing. Meanwhile, don’t miss our comparisons with the Apple Watch Series 9 and Pixel Watch 2 to gauge how it stands up against the competition.