The Google Pixel Watch 2 stands out with impressive specifications that distinguish it in the wearable devices market. Weighing only 31 grams and with a slim thickness of 12.3 mm, this watch is designed to provide optimal comfort and smoothness. The 1.2-inch AMOLED display, with a resolution of 450 × 450 pixels, offers vibrant visuals and sharp clarity. Equipped with the powerful Qualcomm 5100 chipset and 2 gigabytes of RAM, the Pixel Watch 2 is designed for seamless performance, you also can read the Google Pixel 8 Pro.
Google Pixel Watch 2 Information
Versions | Bluetooth/Wi-Fi; LTE + Bluetooth/Wi-Fi | |
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NETWORK | Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
LAUNCH | Announced | 2023, October 04 |
Status | Available. Released 2023, October 12 | |
BODY | Dimensions | 41 x 41 x 12.3 mm (1.61 x 1.61 x 0.48 in) |
Weight | 31 g (1.09 oz) | |
Build | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 5), aluminum frame | |
SIM | eSIM 50m/5ATM water-resistant (IP68) ECG certified |
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DISPLAY | Type | AMOLED, 1000 nits (peak) |
Size | 1.2 inches | |
Resolution | 450 x 450 pixels (~320 ppi density) | |
Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 Always-on display |
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PLATFORM | OS | Android Wear OS 4 |
Chipset | Qualcomm 5100 | |
MEMORY | Card slot | No |
Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM eMMC |
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CAMERA | No | |
SOUND | Loudspeaker | Yes |
3.5mm jack | No | |
COMMS | WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | |
Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS | |
NFC | Yes | |
Radio | No | |
USB | No | |
FEATURES | Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, altimeter, compass, SpO2, thermometer (skin temperature), skin conductance Ultra Wideband (UWB) support |
BATTERY | Type | Li-Ion 306 mAh, non-removable |
Charging | Wired, 80% in 45 min (advertised) | |
MISC | Colors | Polished Silver, Matte Black, Champagne Gold |
Models | G4TSL, GC3G8, GD2WG |
- Design:
The Pixel Watch 2 maintains the design language of its predecessor, offering a single 41mm size option. This contrasts with the multiple size options available for the Apple Watch Series 9 (41mm/45mm) and Galaxy Watch 6 (40mm/44mm). Despite this, the watch doesn't appear too small, even on thicker wrists. It comes with both small and large bands, catering to wrists ranging from 5.4 to 8 inches in circumference. At 0.48 inches thick, it shares a similar profile with the original Pixel Watch, slightly thicker than the Apple Watch Series 9 (0.42 inches) and the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 (0.35 inches). However, the rounded edge of the Pixel Watch 2 contributes to a sleeker feel, minimizing its apparent thickness.
The watch features a curved face made of Corning Gorilla Glass 5, seamlessly transitioning into the metal casing that wraps around the back and edges of the device. On the right side, there is a rotating crown and a flush button that sits just above it (or below, for right-wrist wearers with the crown facing left). The case is crafted from 100% recycled aluminum, a departure from the original Pixel Watch's 80% recycled stainless steel body. This change to fully recycled metal enhances the watch's eco-friendly credentials, while the switch to aluminum keeps the watch lightweight at 1.1 ounces (without a band). Despite the material change, users are unlikely to notice much, if any, difference in feel or build quality between aluminum and steel designs.
The Pixel Watch 2 is available in three finishes: polished silver with a blue or cream active band, matte black with a black band, and polished champagne gold with a grayish-green band. The stock active band is made of fluoroelastomer, offering a denser and sturdier feel compared to silicone. For those seeking a different style, Google provides the option to swap the stock band with accessory straps of varying materials, sold separately. These include woven and stretch bands for $59.99, leather bands for $79.99, and metal bands starting at $129.99, all available in multiple colors. Additionally, third-party bands are likely to be available at lower prices, albeit with varying levels of quality.
The Pixel Watch 2 is designed to withstand most everyday conditions, boasting an IP68 rating for dustproofing and water resistance up to five feet for 30 minutes. It also maintains the 5ATM rating of its predecessor, allowing it to withstand water pressure of up to 164 feet for 10 minutes.
While it lacks the military-grade certifications of the $799 Apple Watch Ultra 2, the Pixel Watch 2 is suitable for activities like swimming, jogging, or mud-based activities. However, Google advises against wearing it for scuba diving or water skiing, stating that it is "designed for use in shallow water and should not be used for activities involving water at high velocity or high temperature."
Comparatively, the Galaxy Watch 6 series offers similar ruggedness to the Pixel Watch 2, featuring the same 5ATM and IP68 durability ratings. Additionally, it boasts a MIL-STD-810H certification, like the Ultra 2, ensuring durability against extreme temperatures and other environmental stressors.
- Screen: Brightness and Vibrancy
The Pixel Watch 2 retains the 1.2-inch circular always-on AMOLED display of its predecessor, boasting a density of 320 pixels per inch and a peak brightness of 1,000 nits. While this places it on par with last year's Apple Watch Series 8 and the Galaxy Watch 5, both the Apple Watch Series 9 and Galaxy Watch 6 offer a higher peak brightness of 2,000 nits.
Despite not matching the peak brightness of its competitors, the Pixel Watch 2's screen is still vibrant and easy to read in various lighting conditions. In both dark and sunlight settings, I found the display to be bright and clear. It's worth noting that the perception of changes in display brightness diminishes as the amount of ambient light increases. As a result, the difference between 1,000 and 2,000 nits may not be as noticeable to most users as the contrast between 500 and 1,000 nits.
- Battery Life: Lasting Through the Day and Beyond
The Pixel Watch 2 is designed to offer impressive battery life, easily lasting a full day and night on a single charge. Google claims it can last up to 24 hours with the always-on display enabled, similar to its predecessor.
In real-world testing, the Pixel Watch 2 exceeded Google's official battery life estimate, lasting a solid 33 hours with the always-on display before reaching 5% battery life. This was sufficient for two nights of sleep monitoring, with Bedtime mode enabled to deactivate the screen, along with a day of activity tracking.
Compared to the original model, which died after 25 hours under similar conditions, the Pixel Watch 2 demonstrates improved battery life. Its performance with the always-on display is notably better than the Galaxy Watch 6's 22 hours in testing and comparable to the Apple Watch Series 9's 32.5 hours.
When it comes to recharging, the Pixel Watch 2 fully charges in approximately 80 minutes using its included charger, plugged into a USB port on a keyboard.
While processing power typically isn't a significant factor in smartwatch performance, the Pixel Watch 2 does offer an upgrade over its predecessor in this regard. It is equipped with last year's Qualcomm 5100 chip, part of the Snapdragon Wear 5 Plus platform, which is a much newer processor compared to its predecessor's Samsung Exynos 9110. This enhancement ensures smooth performance, with no noticeable lag during testing.
Drawbacks of the Google Pixel Watch 2:
- The materials used in the manufacturing of the watch are not of the highest quality.
Features of the Google Pixel Watch 2:
- Display: The screen brightness is considered high (1000 nits).
- Water and Dust Resistance: The watch is water-resistant up to a depth of 50 meters underwater.
- 4G Network: The watch supports 4G communication networks, enabling fast connectivity.
- Sensors: The watch comes equipped with sensors to measure blood oxygen levels and heart rate.
- Wireless Charging Support: The watch supports wireless charging technology.
Google Pixel Watch 2 Price
Configuration | Price | Retailer |
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32GB 2GB RAM | $ 345 | Amazon |
In conclusion, the Google Pixel Watch 2 offers a compelling mix of design, ruggedness, screen quality, and battery life. While it may not boast the highest peak brightness or the longest battery life compared to some competitors, it excels in providing a vibrant display that remains readable in various lighting conditions and a battery that easily lasts through a full day and night.
With its sleek design, durable build, and improved processing power, the Pixel Watch 2 is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and stylish smartwatch. Its ability to exceed Google's official battery life estimate and outperform the previous model in real-world testing further solidifies its position as a competitive option in the smartwatch market.
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