Pixel Watch 4 Launches: Should You Choose It Over Watch 3?

The launch of the Google Pixel Watch 4 has sparked interest among consumers, leading many to question whether the previous model, the Pixel Watch 3, remains a viable option, especially if found at a discounted price. This comparison evaluates the two smartwatches across several categories, providing insights into their specifications and overall value.

Specifications Comparison

Both the Pixel Watch 4 and Pixel Watch 3 are offered in 41mm and 45mm sizes, maintaining the same starting price of $349 for the smaller version. The updated model is powered by the Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 processor, while the earlier version uses the Qualcomm SW5100. The display technology remains consistent with a 320 ppi AMOLED screen, but the Pixel Watch 4 boasts a maximum brightness of 3,000 nits, compared to 2,000 nits for its predecessor.

Strengthening their appeal, both models have a water resistance rating of up to 50 meters and feature connectivity options such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. The Pixel Watch 4 offers improved battery life, rated at 30 hours for the 41mm model, while the Pixel Watch 3 is rated at 24 hours.

Price and Availability

The Pixel Watch 4 is currently available for preorder, with units expected to ship in mid-October 2024. The pricing structure includes $399 for the 45mm version without LTE and $499 for the LTE model. In contrast, the Pixel Watch 3 is readily available, with prices dropping to around $249 for the 41mm model at various retailers, including Walmart.

Given the upcoming holiday sales, prices for the Pixel Watch 3 are likely to decrease further, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.

Design and Durability

In terms of design, both models share similar aesthetics, including dimensions and weight. The Pixel Watch 4 features a new side-charging mechanism, allowing it to function as a bedside clock, although it continues to use electronic contacts instead of wireless charging. The durability ratings are identical, with both watches constructed from aluminum and boasting IP68 ratings against dust and moisture.

Display and Fitness Features

The display on the Pixel Watch 4 is not only brighter but also slightly larger, which may appeal to users who frequently engage in outdoor activities. Its enhanced brightness makes it easier to read in direct sunlight.

Regarding health and fitness capabilities, the Pixel Watch 4 introduces an upgraded body temperature sensor, enhancing sleep stage tracking accuracy by 18%. Additionally, it includes a dual-band GPS antenna for more reliable location tracking, while the Pixel Watch 3 features a single-band counterpart. Both models offer extensive activity tracking and insights on sleep quality.

Safety and AI Features

Safety features remain a strong point for both watches, including fall detection and car crash detection. The Pixel Watch 4 introduces a new SOS satellite messaging feature, providing emergency connectivity even when cellular service is unavailable. This feature is particularly beneficial for outdoor enthusiasts but may be less relevant for everyday users.

Both models run on the latest Wear OS software, giving the Pixel Watch 3 access to the Gemini AI voice assistant. However, the Pixel Watch 4 introduces a new gesture control for activating the assistant, allowing users to simply raise their wrist to interact, replacing the need for verbal prompts.

Battery Life and Conclusion

The Pixel Watch 4 is equipped with larger batteries and a more efficient processor, leading to a significant improvement in battery life. Google claims a 25% increase in duration, which may result in the newer model exceeding 48 hours under real-world conditions. Additionally, the charging speed has improved, with the Pixel Watch 4 reaching a full charge in 45 minutes compared to the 60 minutes required for the Pixel Watch 3.

In summary, the Pixel Watch 4 represents a notable advancement over the Pixel Watch 3, featuring enhancements in display brightness, battery life, safety features, and AI capabilities. Nevertheless, the Pixel Watch 3 remains a strong contender, especially for those seeking a more budget-friendly smartwatch option. As the holiday season approaches, consumers may find significant savings on the Pixel Watch 3, making it a practical choice for many.

Stay tuned for further updates and in-depth reviews as the Pixel Watch 4 becomes widely available.