Google Pixel Watch 2 Review: Like a Fine Wine?
It’s been quite some time now since the launch of the Pixel Watch 2, Google’s second-generation flagship wearable. While it might not seem like a considerable upgrade from the original Pixel Watch, there are some under-the-hood upgrades which make for a better user experience, but how has it fared after a while? Let’s take a look.
Pixel Watch 2 Specs
- Display: 1.2 inches AMOLED, 1,000 nits peak
- Build: Aluminum case, Gorilla Glass 5 screen, Fluoroelastomer band
- Processor: Qualcomm 5100
- Software: Wear OS 4
- Battery: 306 mAh
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, Optional LTE
- Starts at $349
Design and Display
The Pixel Watch 2 retains the same look as on its predecessor, with a design that’s somewhat of a double-edged sword. It’s sleek and stylish for sure, with a smooth dome that stands out and keeps it unique versus competing devices on the market. On the other hand, the design is somewhat fragile given the lack of any covering on the sides of the watch. While it uses Corning Gorilla Glass for scratch resistance, it is of course still prone to scuffs. I highly recommend a case, especially for users who run an active lifestyle.
READ: Keep your Pixel Watch 2 Safe with these Protective Cases
The Pixel Watch 2 is quite small. Unlike other brands which offer more size options for their wearables, Google only sells the Pixel Watch 2 in a single size. I found it pretty diminutive initially, but it eventually grew on me and the small form factor was pretty comfortable in the long run. If you prefer a larger display though, we’d recommend something like the OnePlus Watch 2 or Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, or you might want to wait for the Pixel Watch 3 later this year, which is predicted to come with a larger size variant.
Software and Daily Usage
As a first-party Google smartwatch, the Pixel Watch 2 integrates flawlessly with Pixel phones. While other wearables work with Pixels, the Pixel Watch 2 offers a smoother experience in functionality, and Google does provide regular software updates and feature drops for the Pixel Watch 2. If you’re invested in the Google ecosystem, the Pixel Watch 2 is a top contender – it actually just received the June 2024 feature drop from google, which includes features like crash detection and Paypal Wallet support.
I’d like to think that in general, the watch excels in daily use. Unlike other Google-branded wearables such as the Fitbit Versa and Sense models, Wear OS provides a more fluid user experience with smooth UI navigation, more functionality (you can type replies to messages, for example), and support for third-party applications with 32GB of available storage onboard. It seamlessly connects to my Pixel phones, and transferring the watch to a different Pixel was easy, without the need to reset it unlike on other smart wearables.
It seamlessly connects to my Pixel phones, and transferring the watch to a different Pixel was easy, without the need to reset it unlike on other smart wearables.
Notifications, emails, alarms, and Google Assistant support make it a versatile device, and for a moderate user like me it works rather nicely. For more fitness-focused users, it does come with integrated Fitbit support which provides access to a multitude of different workout modes.
Battery Endurance
One major consideration though is battery life – it’s not the best, but it isn’t terrible either. Like most Wear OS smartwatches it lasts mostly a day with intensive use, although more conservative users might be able to squeeze out around a day and a half before needing to charge. Compared to the original Pixel Watch however, the more power-efficient Qualcomm 5100 chip inside trumps the Exynos processor in the older model. There’s also a larger battery inside, but the size difference is minimal at 306 vs 294 mAh.
READ: How to reset your Pixel Watch 2
If you need a device capable of offering multi-day battery life however, the OnePlus Watch 2 or TicWatch Pro 5 enduro are more capable and offer up to three days of battery life, which is more ideal for users who want to charge their wearable much less often.
Our Verdict
The Pixel Watch 2 shines for daily use with its smooth interface, seamless Pixel phone integration, and support for regular updates. For Pixel phone owners, it’s a great wearable and does a good job of expanding Google’s hardware ecosystem beyond its smartphones.
There are some considerations though, and factors such as battery life and screen size might be dealbreakers for some. The fragile design also necessitates a case for users with a more active lifestyle, who might want something a bit more durable. Again though, if you prioritize the Google ecosystem and seamless compatibility with your Pixel smartphone, the Pixel Watch 2 is a strong option.
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