Google Pixel Watch 3 vs. SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 6: A Detailed Comparison

Top Compras Updated: January 7, 2025

Google Pixel Watch 3

7/10
Google Pixel Watch 3
$299.99
Available in two sizes (41mm and 45mm)
45mm model has a larger display with a 16% smaller bezel
Improved battery life, with the 45mm model lasting up to two days with moderate use
vs

SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 6

6.8/10
SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 6
$169
Larger display with thinner bezels
Durable design with sapphire crystal display and stainless steel casing
Improved GPS lock time and track run workout mode

Quick Overview

A detailed comparison between the Google Pixel Watch 3 and the SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 6, covering design, performance, fitness tracking, battery life, and user ex
## Google Pixel Watch 3 vs. SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 6: An In-Depth Comparison

Choosing the right smartwatch can seem like a daunting task, because there are so many options. Today, we’re going to do an in-depth comparison between the Google Pixel Watch 3 and the SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 6. Both devices are strong contenders in the smartwatch arena, but cater to slightly different needs and preferences. Let’s take a look at their features, performance, and overall user experience.

Design and Display

The Google Pixel Watch 3 comes in two sizes, 41mm and 45mm, with the larger model having a 16% smaller bezel and a larger screen area. The display is incredibly bright, with a brightness of up to 2,000 nits, and the brightness can be reduced to just 1 nit, making it visible in all lighting conditions. However, the design hasn’t changed much from the previous generation and may not be enough for those looking for a fresh aesthetic. Also, the increased size of 45mm may seem bulky on smaller wrists.

The SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 6, on the other hand, features a large display with thin bezels for a more immersive viewing experience. The rugged design with sapphire crystal and stainless steel case makes it scratch and shock resistant. The watch is comfortable to wear while sleeping, and the strap is easy to replace. However, some users note that they sometimes experience a lag when rotating the tiles.

Performance and Software

The Pixel Watch 3 runs Wear OS 5 and delivers a smooth, fluid experience. Fast switching between apps and seamless integration with Google Assistant are highlights. A new grid of app icons speeds up navigation, but some users may miss the old list view. The watch also features an Ultra Wideband chip to unlock compatible Pixel phones.

The Galaxy Watch 6 also runs Wear OS, but there are some performance inconsistencies. Some users report lags when rotating tiles despite the new processor. The watch offers seamless integration with Google Assistant, but some features are only available for Samsung phones and certain countries, which is a limitation for some users.

Fitness and Health Tracking

One notable feature of the Pixel Watch 3 is the improved accuracy of the heart rate sensor, comparable to a chest strap. The new cardio function allows you to track all types of activity, not just workouts, and set daily goals. However, some advanced fitness features require a Fitbit Premium subscription and can’t be paired with external sensors. GPS accuracy is generally good but not always perfect, with occasional drifts.

The Galaxy Watch 6 has improved GPS lock time and has a jogging workout mode. However, heart rate tracking can be inconsistent, especially during interval training and warm-ups. GPS accuracy issues such as cutting corners and wobbles have also been reported, especially in harsh conditions. Some medical features such as ECG and blood pressure monitoring are only available on Samsung phones and in some countries.

Battery Life

Battery life has improved significantly in the Pixel Watch 3, especially in the 45mm model, and is up to two days with moderate use. This is a significant improvement over previous Pixel Watch models. The brighter display and more efficient Wear OS 5 contribute to this.

In contrast, the Galaxy Watch 6 has a limited battery life: only about 5 hours when using GPS and a large battery drain overnight. This is a concern for users who want a watch that can be used for long workouts or for days without recharging.

User Feedback

Users of the Pixel Watch 3 praise the improved battery life, accurate heart rate tracking, and smooth performance. The new grid of app icons is a nice change, and navigation is faster. However, some users note that GPS accuracy isn’t always perfect, and automatic sleep mode is inaccurate.

Users of the Galaxy Watch 6 appreciate the larger display, sturdy design, and easy integration with Google Assistant. However, there are frequent complaints about inconsistent heart rate tracking, GPS accuracy issues, and limited battery life. Some users also consider the limited button customization during workouts and the inability to reprogram the bottom button on Google Wallet to be a drawback.

Pros and Cons of Google Pixel Watch 3

Pros:

  • Two sizes are available: 41mm and 45mm for different preferences.
  • Improved battery life: The 45mm model lasts up to two days with moderate use.
  • Improved heart rate sensor accuracy: equivalent to a chest strap.
  • Wear OS 5 for fast app switching.
  • Brighter display with up to 2,000 nits of brightness.

Cons:

  • Design remains largely unchanged: Lacks a fresh aesthetic.
  • GPS accuracy isn’t always perfect.
  • Some advanced fitness features are locked out.
  • Inability to connect external sensors: Limits functionality for serious athletes.

Pros and Cons of SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 6

Pros:

  • Slim bezel and large display: Large screen area.
  • Durable construction: Sapphire glass display and stainless steel case.
  • Improved GPS lock time: and workout mode for running.
  • Seamless integration with Google Assistant: Provides fast and reliable voice control.
  • Comfortable fit: Comfortable while sleeping.

Cons:

  • Inconsistent heart rate tracking: especially during interval training.
  • GPS accuracy issues: including cutting corners and wobbles.
  • Poor battery life: GPS only lasts about 5 hours.
  • Heavy noise when rotating tiles.
  • Some features are only available on Samsung phones and in some countries.

In conclusion, both the Google Pixel Watch 3 and SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 6 have attractive features, but each has its own strengths and weaknesses. The Pixel Watch 3 has better battery life and heart rate accuracy, while the Galaxy Watch 6 has a more robust design and larger display. Ultimately, the choice will depend on your specific needs and priorities.

Specification

FeatureGoogle Pixel Watch 3SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 6

Google Pixel Watch 3

Pros

  • Available in two sizes (41mm and 45mm) to suit different preferences.
  • The 45mm model has a larger display with a 16% smaller bezel, providing more screen real estate.
  • Improved battery life, with the 45mm model lasting up to two days with moderate use.
  • The display is brighter (up to 2,000 nits) and can dim to 1 nit, making it visible in all lighting conditions.
  • Enhanced heart rate sensor accuracy, comparable to chest straps.
  • Smooth and fluid performance with Wear OS 5, with quick app switching and Google Assistant integration.

Cons

  • The design is largely unchanged from previous generations, lacking a fresh aesthetic.
  • The larger 45mm size, while offering more screen, may feel bulky on smaller wrists.
  • GPS accuracy is not always perfect, with occasional drifting and minor errors.
  • Still lacks dual-band GPS, which is common in this price range.
  • Some advanced fitness features, like AI-powered coaching, are locked behind a Fitbit Premium subscription.
  • Cannot pair external sensors, limiting functionality for serious athletes.

SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 6

Pros

  • Larger display with thinner bezels, providing more screen real estate for better visibility.
  • Durable design with sapphire crystal display and stainless steel casing, offering scratch and impact resistance.
  • Improved GPS lock time and the inclusion of a track run workout mode.
  • Seamless integration with Google Assistant, offering fast and reliable voice control.
  • Comfortable to wear, even during sleep, despite its larger size.
  • Easy strap changing mechanism and the ability to switch between phones without resetting the watch.

Cons

  • Inconsistent heart rate tracking, especially during interval workouts and warm-up periods.
  • GPS accuracy issues, including corner cutting, wobbling, and offset tracks, particularly in challenging environments like cities and forests.
  • Limited battery life, with only about 5 hours of GPS usage and high overnight battery drain.
  • Laggy performance when rotating through tiles, despite a new processor.
  • Some features, such as ECG, irregular heart rate notifications, and blood pressure monitoring, are exclusive to Samsung phones and specific countries.
  • Inability to reprogram the bottom button to Google Wallet, and limited button customization during workouts.

Quick Verdict

Google Pixel Watch 3

Read Full Review

The Google Pixel Watch 3 is a strong contender with improved battery life and accurate heart rate tracking, but it has some limitations in GPS accuracy and fitness features.

7.5/10
Features
8/10
Performance
6.5/10
Value
7.5/10
Quality
7/10
Overall

SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 6

Read Full Review

The SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 6 offers a durable design and a larger display, but it suffers from inconsistent heart rate tracking, GPS accuracy issues, and limited battery life.

7.5/10
Features
6/10
Performance
6.5/10
Value
7/10
Quality
6.8/10
Overall

Frequently Asked Questions

Where to Buy

Google Pixel Watch 3

$299.99
7/10

SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 6

$169
6.8/10