Compatibility: Exclusive to Android
When it comes to the world of smartwatches, compatibility is a crucial factor. For both the Pixel Watch 3 and the Galaxy Watch 7, you’ll need an Android smartphone to make the most of their features. If you’re an iPhone user, unfortunately, it’s time to look elsewhere. The Pixel Watch 3 requires Android 10 or later, while the Galaxy Watch 7 demands Android 11 or later. So if you’re rocking a newer Android device, you have the freedom to choose either of these cutting-edge watches.
It’s essential to be aware that some features are restricted to first-party phones. For instance, if you opt for the Galaxy Watch 7, you’ll need a Samsung phone to access a range of its best functionalities, such as AI-based health insights, gesture controls, and even snoring detection. In contrast, the Pixel Watch 3 offers nifty capabilities, like snapping pics from your wrist and automatic call screening, but those perks are only fully functional with a Pixel phone.
Winner: Pixel Watch 3
Size: The Pixel Watch Is a Bit Bigger
In terms of size, the Pixel Watch 3 comes in two options: 41mm and 45mm. On the other hand, the Galaxy Watch 7 provides a choice between 40mm and 44mm variants.
The Pixel Watch 3 is slightly thicker at 0.48 inches compared to the Galaxy Watch 7’s 0.38 inches. Additionally, weight-wise, the smaller Pixel version tips the scales at approximately 1.1 ounces, while the smaller Galaxy version is at 1.0 ounces. If you go for the larger models, the Pixel Watch 3 weighs around 1.3 ounces, whereas the Galaxy Watch 7 is slightly lighter at 1.2 ounces. If you prefer a substantial feel on your wrist, the Pixel is the way to go, but if comfort is your priority, you might want to weigh your options with the Galaxy.
Winner: Tie
Price: The Pixel Watch Is Pricier
When it comes to pricing, the Galaxy Watch 7 starts at a more accessible $299.99, while the Pixel Watch 3 commands a starting price of $349.99. Both prices refer to their smaller Bluetooth-only versions; however, an upgrade to the larger Galaxy Watch 7 comes with a mere $30 price jump, while the larger Pixel Watch 3 will set you back an additional $50.
If you’re considering LTE models, they do come with added costs; the Galaxy Watch 7 adds $50 for LTE, but the Pixel’s LTE variant is significantly pricier at an extra $100.
Winner: Galaxy Watch 7
Screen: The Galaxy Watch 7 Has Less Bezel
One standout upgrade in the Pixel Watch 3 is its significantly brighter screen, capable of outputting up to 2,000 nits. This brightness boost helps it keep pace with Samsung’s previous models, which also reached 2,000 nits with the Galaxy Watch 7.
However, while the Pixel Watch 3 sports a narrower bezel compared to its predecessor, it still falls a bit short against the Galaxy Watch 7, which has a slimmer bezel. Both watches feature AMOLED displays, measuring about 1.3 inches for the smaller options and 1.5 inches for the larger variants. The Galaxy Watch 7 does have marginally sharper screens, featuring 327 pixels per inch (ppi) for the large model and 330 ppi for the small, compared to the Pixel Watch 3’s consistent 320 ppi across both sizes.
Winner: Galaxy Watch 7
Durability: The Galaxy Watch 7 Adds a Military Spec
Durability is another key consideration when picking a smartwatch. The Pixel Watch 3 is crafted from 100% recycled aluminum and comes with an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, alongside a 5ATM water pressure rating, allowing it to withstand submersion in calm waters up to 164 feet.
The Galaxy Watch 7 matches the Pixel Watch 3’s durability credentials but raises the bar with a MIL-STD-810H certification. This military-grade standard means the Galaxy can endure extreme temperatures and environmental stressors, making it a robust choice for adventurous users.
Winner: Galaxy Watch 7
Connectivity and Processor: Equally Stacked
On the tech front, the Pixel Watch 3 uses Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Wear 5100 processor, accompanied by a Cortex M33 coprocessor. It features a robust 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage. In comparison, the Galaxy Watch 7 is powered by a five-core Exynos W1000 processor, also offering 2GB of memory and 32GB of storage.
Both smartwatches support dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC for mobile payments, and optional LTE connectivity. Both include built-in GPS and run on Google’s latest operating system for watches, Wear OS 5, which promises improved performance and power efficiency.
Winner: Tie
Battery Life: Both Require Daily Charging
Battery life remains a critical area for smartwatch users. The Pixel Watch 3 touts a promise of 24 hours with the always-on display enabled and extends up to 36 hours in Battery Saver mode. The smaller variant features a 306mAh battery, while the 45mm version runs on a more substantial 420mAh cell.
Similarly, the Galaxy Watch 7 has a 300mAh battery in its 40mm model and a 425mAh cell in the larger 44mm variant. However, tests indicated that the Galaxy Watch 7 managed only 22 hours between charges while using the always-on display. Although Google has yet to prove the Pixel Watch 3’s battery claims, last year’s Pixel Watch 2 exceeded its advertised 24-hour longevity, lasting up to 33 hours in testing.
Winner: TBD
Health and Fitness Features: The Pixel Watch Is Catching Up
Health and fitness tracking is at the forefront for both the Pixel Watch 3 and the Galaxy Watch 7. While both devices boast a multitude of sensors for tracking activity and health metrics, the Pixel Watch 3 employs Fitbit for its fitness tracking, while the Galaxy Watch relies on the Samsung Health platform.
Both devices can monitor heart rates, and outdoor workout metrics such as pace and distance. Additionally, the Galaxy Watch 7 offers advanced health features like snoring and sleep apnea detection—though it requires a nearby Samsung phone for the snoring feature. The Pixel Watch 3 doesn’t lag far behind, providing useful metrics that gauge overall readiness and training load.
However, Samsung’s smartwatch leads in tracking capabilities, measuring more health indicators, including metabolic health markers and body composition. The Pixel Watch 3 offers additional options with a $9.99/month Fitbit Premium subscription, enhancing its fitness tools.
Winner: Galaxy Watch 7
Is the Galaxy Watch Still the Champ?
On paper, the Galaxy Watch 7 continues to hold its ground as a comprehensive smartwatch, especially given its more budget-friendly price point and broader feature set. While the Pixel Watch 3 has its perks, particularly in user interface and health tracking capabilities, it has a tough hill to climb if it wants to dethrone its Galaxy counterpart.
Expect further insights as we delve into battery life tests and explore how both models stack up in real-world scenarios. In the meantime, stay tuned; comparisons between the Pixel Watch 3 and other competitors like the Apple Watch Series 9 and the previous Pixel Watch 2 are also on the horizon!