The smartwatch market is a competitive landscape, with each new release striving to outshine its predecessors and rivals. The Google Pixel Watch 2, launched on December 6, 2023, faces the challenging task of not only surpassing the technical issues that plagued its forerunner but also asserting itself among the impressive smartwatches of the year. Priced at $349, this wearable aims to redefine the user experience. In this comprehensive review, we delve into the various aspects of the Google Pixel Watch 2, assessing its design, performance, Fitbit integration, Wear OS 4, battery life, and more.
Enduring Quality
Two months into its release, the Google Pixel Watch 2 has not only maintained but surpassed expectations, solidifying its position as one of the premier Android smartwatches. Joe Maring’s extended use of the device echoes the sentiments expressed in the initial review by Andy Boxall. The watch, adorned with a Bay Blue band, continues to impress with its small size, improved crown, and overall comfort.
The Pixel Watch 2’s battery life remains a standout feature, exceeding 24 hours even with sleep tracking and the always-on display enabled. The charger, although feeling somewhat inexpensive, securely attaches to the watch, addressing concerns from the original Pixel Watch’s charging experience.
Continuity from Previous Model
Staying true to its roots, the Pixel Watch 2 retains the minimalist circular design of its predecessor, the first Google Pixel Watch. While this design approach may appeal to those who found the original model attractive, it poses a challenge for those seeking diversity in size and style. The 41mm case, crafted from recycled aluminum, weighs a mere 58 grams with the Active band, enhancing overall wearability.
The reduction in weight, coupled with a flexible new band, contributes to an unparalleled level of comfort. Even during sleep tracking, wearers find it unobtrusive, thanks to the thoughtfully designed case back that ensures constant sensor contact without sacrificing comfort.
However, the design choices of the Pixel Watch 2 may not resonate with everyone. The single case size and the stark, overly simple design may leave some wrists feeling that the watch appears smaller than optimal. The aesthetic, while appreciated by some, lacks the bold statement characteristic of other smartwatches.
The Pixel Watch 2, in terms of design intent, treads closer to a fitness tracker than a high-end smartwatch. Despite its comfort and durability, it falls short of providing the individual, quality watch-like appeal offered by competitors like the Apple Watch Series 9.
Display Specifications
The Pixel Watch 2 boasts a 1.2-inch screen with a pixel density of 320 pixels-per-inch (ppi) and a maximum brightness of 1,000 nits. While the display offers a smooth and visually appealing experience, it falls on the smaller side compared to competitors like the 40mm Samsung Galaxy Watch 6.
Under the hood, the Pixel Watch 2 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 processor with an ARM Cortex M33 co-processor, accompanied by 2GB of RAM. This configuration elevates its performance, delivering a seamless and jitter-free user experience. Notably, energy-intensive applications like Google Maps load promptly, showcasing the watch’s responsiveness.
Performance Evaluation
The Pixel Watch 2 demonstrates a marked improvement in performance compared to its predecessor. The Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 processor ensures smoother operation, minimizing occasional pauses or stutters that may have affected the previous Pixel Watch. Notably, even notoriously slow apps such as Google Maps exhibit improved loading times.
However, the screen, though bright, is criticized for its small size, limiting its ability to capture vibrant colors effectively. Additionally, a noticeable bezel surrounds the screen, detracting from the overall visual appeal. Despite some delays in waking up, once active, the watch exhibits consistent and reliable performance.
Fitbit Platform
The Pixel Watch 2 incorporates Fitbit as its fitness platform, enhancing its utility as a health-focused wearable. Fitbit functionality is available in two tiers: a free version accessible to all users and Fitbit Premium, a subscription-based service offering additional features. While the Pixel Watch 2 comes with a six-month free trial of Fitbit Premium, it raises questions about the necessity of a paid subscription for comprehensive fitness data.
Fitbit on the Pixel Watch 2 introduces valuable features, including automatic workout detection and a temperature sensor, transforming it into a reliable health companion. The redesigned Fitbit app not only looks better than its predecessor but also contributes to a more intuitive user experience.
Fitbit’s Role in the Wearable Landscape
Fitbit, as the fitness platform for the Pixel Watch 2, competes with other fitness wearables on the market. While the platform provides extensive data on workouts, sleep, steps, heart rate, and other metrics, the monthly subscription cost raises eyebrows. Compared to competitors like Samsung Health and Garmin Health, which offer similar functionalities without an additional charge, Fitbit’s approach may be seen as a drawback.
The Fitbit app, though comprehensive, seems to hide some advanced features behind the Premium subscription, limiting access to coaching programs and safety features. Moreover, the availability of the Fitbit platform on more affordable wearables raises questions about the Pixel Watch 2’s positioning in the market.
Operating System Overhaul
Google’s Wear OS 4 takes the reins of the Pixel Watch 2, promising efficiency improvements and a seamless user experience. The interface relies on familiar gestures for navigation, with sideways swipes to access Tiles, upward swipes for notifications, and downward swipes for quick settings. While these gestures maintain ease of use, the small screen size of the Pixel Watch 2 can make interacting with Wear OS feel delicately intricate.
The integration of Wear OS 4 and the Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 processor brings positive changes to the Pixel Watch 2’s battery life. The operating system, while improved, still grapples with reliability concerns, including inconsistent notification delivery and occasional spontaneous restarts.
Google Assistant and App Experience
Google Assistant, a prominent feature, can be summoned either through voice commands or a long press on the side button. Although it generally performs well, its reliability fluctuates, and experiences may vary across devices. The Pixel Watch 2 stands out in app availability, introducing new apps like WhatsApp and Gmail, which seamlessly integrate with their phone counterparts.
However, Wear OS, despite notable advancements, still carries remnants of its past issues. While the design, functionality, app compatibility, and ease of use have seen improvements, the reliability and bug-free experience users desire remain works in progress.
Battery Performance
The Pixel Watch 2’s battery and charging experience deviates from Google’s official specifications. While Google suggests 24 hours with the always-on display active and a 75-minute full charge, real-world usage presents a different picture. Users report exceeding the suggested 24-hour mark, with some achieving nearly 36 hours on a single charge, even with features like sleep tracking and the always-on display enabled.
The 306mAh battery, although occasionally showing a peculiar charge indicator behavior, performs admirably across various tasks. Sleep tracking consumes approximately 12% of the battery, a 30-minute non-GPS workout takes only 2%, and using Google Maps for navigation for 30 minutes consumes about 7%. The Pixel Watch 2 proves to be a reliable companion throughout the day, handling diverse tasks without compromise.
Charging Experience
The Pixel Watch 2 introduces a redesigned charging puck, featuring a USB-C connection and four locating pins for secure attachment. Despite concerns about the puck feeling somewhat cheap, it offers a secure magnetic connection to the watch. The charging time is commendable, with the battery reaching 70% after just 30 minutes and a full charge achieved in approximately 55 minutes.
While a minor software bug may cause the battery charge indicator to momentarily stick at 98%, this doesn’t hinder the overall charging process. The Pixel Watch 2’s charging experience, though not without room for improvement in terms of puck quality, ensures the device remains usable throughout the day, meeting the demands of various tasks.
Cost and Configuration
The Google Pixel Watch 2 offers two variants: a Wi-Fi model priced at $349 and an LTE model available for $399. The pricing places the Pixel Watch 2 in a competitive landscape, contending with alternatives like the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6, starting at $299, and the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, beginning at $399. However, potential users opting for the LTE model should be aware of additional carrier charges, typically around $10 per month.
Four color combinations provide some customization, although mixing and matching options, as seen with the Apple Watch Series 9, are not available. The choices include Polished Silver with a Bay Active Band, Matte Black with the Obsidian Active Band, Champagne Gold with the Hazel Active Band, and Polished Silver with the Porcelain Active Band. Notably, the Pixel Watch 2 maintains a single 41mm case size.
Final Verdict
The Google Pixel Watch 2 emerges as a commendable improvement over its predecessor. With extended battery life, enhanced performance, and the integration of Fitbit, it positions itself as a strong contender in the Android smartwatch market. Despite these improvements, certain aspects remain unaddressed, such as the singular case size, the underwhelming design, and the reliance on a subscription-based model for Fitbit Premium.
The choice to adopt the Fitbit platform raises questions about the Pixel Watch 2’s competitive edge, especially considering the availability of Fitbit on more budget-friendly wearables. While the Pixel Watch 2 deserves recognition for rectifying technical shortcomings, potential buyers should carefully consider design preferences, wrist fit, and the willingness to invest in Fitbit Premium.
In conclusion, the Google Pixel Watch 2 earns its recommendation for those seeking a robust Android smartwatch with comprehensive fitness features. However, individual preferences and priorities will ultimately determine whether it stands out amidst a sea of alternatives in the wearable tech market.
And with that, we conclude our exploration of the Google Pixel Watch 2. If you have any further questions or if there’s anything else you’d like to discuss, feel free to let me know!