## Google Pixel Watch 3 vs Apple Watch Series 8: Detailed Comparison
It’s hard to choose between the Google Pixel Watch 3 and the Apple Watch Series 8. Both devices are high-end smartwatches, but they fulfill different needs and preferences. Let’s take a look at a detailed comparison to help you make the right choice.
The Google Pixel Watch 3 comes in two sizes, 41mm and 45mm, with the larger model having a 16% smaller bezel and a more engaging display. The display is incredibly bright, reaching 2,000 nits and can be dimmed to just 1 nit, making it visible in all lighting conditions. However, the design is virtually unchanged from the previous generation, which may make it seem a bit old-fashioned to some. Also, the increased size to 45mm may seem bulky on smaller wrists.
On the other hand, the Apple Watch Series 8 has a sturdy construction that is resistant to cracks, dust, and water. The display is always on and convenient for quick viewing. However, the aluminum screen is prone to scratches, so a screen protector is not unreasonable. The design is an iterative update, with minor changes from the Series 7.
Pixel Watch 3 runs on Wear OS 5 and offers a smooth experience, including quick switching between apps and integration with Google Assistant. The improved heart rate sensor is incredibly accurate and comparable to a chest strap. The new cardio function is revolutionary, tracking all types of activity and setting daily goals. However, some advanced fitness features are locked behind a Fitbit Premium subscription and can’t be paired with external sensors, which is a drawback for serious athletes. GPS accuracy is generally good but not perfect, with occasional deviations.
Apple Watch Series 8 offers fast charging and seamless integration with the iPhone. They feature advanced fitness tracking with customizable workout and heart rate zones. Comprehensive health monitoring includes a temperature sensor, blood oxygen monitoring, and vehicle collision detection. The temperature sensor is useful for tracking menstrual cycles, but the data is not always available and useful for all users. The digital crown sometimes fails, causing unintentional volume changes.
The biggest improvement in the Pixel Watch 3 is battery life: the 45mm model lasts up to two days with moderate use, which is significantly longer than the previous Pixel Watch. This is a big relief for those who don’t want to charge the watch every day. I was able to get through a full day with Always On Display mode enabled and still have some charge left. In some cases, even if I forgot to charge the watch overnight, it worked until the next day.
However, the battery life of the Apple Watch Series 8 is limited: with normal use, it usually only lasts a day or so. This means the watch needs to be charged every day, which is a bit inconvenient. Not really bad, but a little annoying. It would be nice if the battery lasted a few days like other smartwatches.
Using the Pixel Watch 3 is easy. The new app icons speed up navigation, and the integration with Google’s ecosystem is a big plus. Heart rate tracking is incredibly accurate, and the new cardio workout download feature was a breakthrough for me. I was surprised to find how much daily chores, such as gardening, increase my overall workload. However, the automatic sleep mode isn’t always accurate and GPS has a few quirks.
The Apple Watch Series 8 has become my primary means of receiving notifications, controlling music, and quickly checking the time. The integration with Apple Fitness+ is very useful for trainer-led workouts. I have friends who have recently started using the watch to motivate themselves to exercise. They seem to really enjoy fitness. One day while jogging, I received a text message about a schedule change. I could easily respond to it by simply glancing at my wrist without pulling out my cell phone. Little things like that make a big difference. However, the screen scratches easily and the temperature sensor doesn’t show realistic values.
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In conclusion, the Google Pixel Watch 3 and Apple Watch Series 8 are great smartwatches, but they solve different problems: The Pixel Watch 3 offers longer battery life and accurate heart rate tracking, while the Apple Watch Series 8 offers easy iPhone integration and comprehensive health monitoring. Choose according to your priorities and ecosystem preferences.
| Feature | Google Pixel Watch 3 | Apple Watch Series 8 |
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The Google Pixel Watch 3 is a really good smartwatch, with improved battery life, which has been a major issue with the Pixel series. The larger model offers more screen space and a better battery. Fitness tracking is also improved. There's no longer a need for a chest strap, and there are new features exclusive to the Pixel Watch 3. If you're using the original Pixel Watch or Pixel Watch 2, we highly recommend upgrading. The larger version is definitely worth it. If you're in the Android ecosystem, this is a great option. You get a stylish, reliable, and very functional smartwatch.
So should you buy an Apple Watch Series 8? It depends on your needs. If you're an Apple user and want a good fitness tracker with solid health features, the Series 8 is a great choice. The temperature sensor is an added benefit, and the collision detection feature will keep you from worrying about your health. However, if you have a Series 7, it may not be worth upgrading your device unless you need new sensors. If, however, like me, you're upgrading from an older watch, you'll notice the obvious improvements. It's a useful tool that has become part of my daily life, and I'm not going back to a regular watch anytime soon.
