Google Pixel Watch 1 vs 3 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Google Pixel Watch 3 & Google Pixel Watch 1 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Google Pixel Watch 3 rather than the Google Pixel Watch 1.

Why Do I Recommend The Google Pixel Watch 3?

  • The Google Pixel Watch 3 features the Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 processor for faster performance and improved power efficiency during multitasking, while the Apple Watch SE uses the S8 chip with less optimized power management.
  • Google Pixel Watch 3 includes a dual-band GPS system (L1 + L5) for higher location accuracy during outdoor activities, whereas the Apple Watch SE relies on a single-band GPS setup.
  • It has a brighter AMOLED display with 2000 nits brightness for better visibility in direct sunlight, while the Apple Watch SE has a Retina LTPO display limited to around 1000 nits.
  • The Google Pixel Watch 3 comes with a temperature sensor for continuous skin and ambient temperature tracking, whereas the Apple Watch SE lacks any form of temperature sensing.
  • Google Pixel Watch 3 features a multi-path heart rate sensor with Gen 2 optical LEDs for more precise fitness and stress readings, while the Apple Watch SE uses a first-generation optical heart rate sensor.
  • It includes an on-device Google Assistant with local AI processing for faster responses without cloud dependency, while the Apple Watch SE requires Siri to connect to the internet.
  • The Google Pixel Watch 3 supports Qi 2.0 wireless charging with magnetic alignment for more universal and faster recharging, while the Apple Watch SE uses a proprietary magnetic charging puck.
  • Google Pixel Watch 3 integrates UWB (Ultra Wideband) connectivity to enable precise location tracking and Pixel device unlocking, whereas the Apple Watch SE does not include a UWB chip.

Maybe the Google Pixel Watch 1 can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Google Pixel Watch 3. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureGoogle Pixel Watch 3Google Pixel Watch 1
ProcessorSnapdragon W5 Gen 1Exynos 9110
CoprocessorCortex M33None
RAM TypeLPDDR4XLPDDR4
Storage TypeUFS 2.1eMMC
Display Brightness2000 nits1000 nits
Display ProtectionGorilla Glass Victus 2Gorilla Glass 5
Display Refresh RateAdaptive 1–60HzFixed 30Hz
Case Sizes41mm, 45mm41mm only
Case MaterialStainless steel, TitaniumStainless steel
Case Thickness11.8 mm12.3 mm
Battery Capacity420–450 mAh294 mAh
Battery Life36 hours24 hours
Charging TypeQi 2.0 MagneticProprietary Magnetic Dock
Charging PortUSB-CUSB-A
Charging Speed0–80% in 30 min0–50% in 30 min
OS VersionWear OS 5Wear OS 3.5
Assistant TypeOn-device AICloud-based
UWB ChipYesNo
GPS SystemDual-band L1 + L5Single-band L1
ConnectivityBluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 6, LTE Cat 4Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi b/g/n, LTE Cat 1
NFC VersionGoogle Wallet 2.0Standard NFC
Heart Rate SensorMulti-path Gen 2Single-path Gen 1
SpO₂ SensorGen 2 multi-LEDGen 1 sensor
Temperature SensorYesNo
Skin Response SensorYesNo
Safety FeaturesCrash Detection, Emergency SharingFall Detection, SOS
MicrophoneDual beamformingSingle mic
Speaker OutputLouder, waterproofedStandard
Durability5ATM + MIL-STD-810H5ATM
Bands SystemMagnetic quick-releasePin-based lock
Haptic MotorEnhanced linear motorBasic linear motor
Fitbit IntegrationReal-time sync, stress trackingStandard Fitbit app
Ambient Light SensorFast adaptiveStandard
PriceCheck Google 3 PriceCheck Google 1 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • AMOLED Display: Both the Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Watch 1 use AMOLED panels, delivering vivid colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast, which makes text and graphics easy to read in various lighting conditions.
  • Always-On Display: Each watch includes an always-on display mode that lets users see the time, notifications, and fitness data without having to wake the screen, providing convenience for quick glances.
  • Touchscreen Interface: Both models feature a responsive capacitive touchscreen, allowing smooth scrolling, tapping, and gesture control throughout the Wear OS interface.
  • Rotating Crown: Each Pixel Watch includes a rotating crown used for navigating menus, scrolling through notifications, or adjusting settings, adding tactile precision alongside touch control.
  • Digital Button: Both watches come with a secondary digital button positioned above the crown that provides quick access to apps, menus, or shortcuts within the operating system.
  • Fitbit Integration: Each model supports Fitbit’s health and activity tracking, syncing data like steps, calories, sleep, and heart rate with the Fitbit ecosystem for comprehensive health insights.
  • Heart Rate Monitoring: Both watches include continuous heart rate tracking, giving real-time measurements during workouts and throughout the day to monitor overall cardiovascular health.
  • SpO₂ (Blood Oxygen) Sensor: Each device includes a blood oxygen sensor to track oxygen saturation during sleep or physical activity, offering deeper wellness and recovery data.
  • ECG App Support: Both watches support electrocardiogram functionality, allowing users to measure heart rhythm and detect irregularities such as atrial fibrillation.
  • Sleep Tracking: Each model automatically tracks sleep duration, stages, and quality, helping users understand rest patterns and improve nighttime recovery.
  • GPS Tracking: Both watches feature built-in GPS, allowing accurate distance, route, and pace tracking for outdoor workouts without needing a phone.
  • 5 ATM Water Resistance: Each device is rated for 5 ATM water resistance, meaning they can be safely worn while swimming or showering.
  • LTE and Wi-Fi Models: Both generations offer Wi-Fi and optional LTE variants, enabling calls, messages, and app use directly on the watch without a connected smartphone.
  • NFC for Google Pay: Each watch includes NFC support for Google Pay, allowing quick contactless payments directly from the wrist.
  • Fall Detection: Both models are equipped with fall detection technology that can alert emergency contacts if a hard fall is detected.
  • Google Assistant: Each watch integrates with Google Assistant, enabling voice commands for tasks like setting reminders, checking weather, or controlling smart home devices.
  • Microphone and Speaker: Both include built-in microphones and speakers for calls, voice commands, and Assistant replies directly through the watch.
  • Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Connectivity: Each supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for pairing with smartphones, syncing data, and accessing apps seamlessly.
  • Customizable Watch Faces: Both Pixel Watches allow customization of watch faces with different styles, complications, and color themes to suit personal preferences.
  • Gorilla Glass Protection: Each model uses durable Corning Gorilla Glass to protect the display from scratches and daily wear, maintaining screen clarity and strength over time.

Common Features

FeatureGoogle Pixel Watch 3Google Pixel Watch 1
AMOLED DisplayYesYes
Always-On DisplayYesYes
Touchscreen InterfaceYesYes
Rotating CrownYesYes
Digital ButtonYesYes
Fitbit IntegrationYesYes
Heart Rate MonitoringYesYes
SpO₂ (Blood Oxygen) SensorYesYes
ECG App SupportYesYes
Sleep TrackingYesYes
GPS TrackingYesYes
5 ATM Water ResistanceYesYes
LTE and Wi-Fi ModelsYesYes
NFC for Google PayYesYes
Fall DetectionYesYes
Google AssistantYesYes
Microphone and SpeakerYesYes
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi ConnectivityYesYes
Customizable Watch FacesYesYes
Gorilla Glass ProtectionYesYes
Price Check Google 3 Price
Check Google 1 Price

FAQ

Does the Google Pixel Watch 3 have better battery life than the Pixel Watch 1?
Yes, the Google Pixel Watch 3 delivers up to 36 hours of battery life, which is an improvement over the Pixel Watch 1’s 24-hour lifespan. The larger battery capacity and more efficient Snapdragon W5 processor help extend usage between charges.

Do both watches use the same operating system?
Both watches run on Google’s Wear OS platform, but the Pixel Watch 3 ships with Wear OS 5 while the Pixel Watch 1 launched with Wear OS 3.5. The newer version adds smoother animations, improved battery optimization, and better Fitbit integration.

Are the displays the same type on both models?
Both use AMOLED displays, known for their deep contrast and vivid colors. However, the Pixel Watch 3 achieves a higher peak brightness of 2000 nits compared to 1000 nits on the Pixel Watch 1, improving outdoor visibility.

Can I use my existing Fitbit account on both watches?
Yes, both models are fully compatible with Fitbit accounts. Users can log into their Fitbit profile on either watch to sync health and activity data seamlessly across devices.

Do both watches support heart rate and blood oxygen tracking?
Yes, both include optical sensors for heart rate and SpO₂ monitoring. The Pixel Watch 3 improves accuracy with a second-generation multi-path sensor, but both provide continuous readings throughout the day.

Are the watches suitable for swimming?
Yes, both the Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Watch 1 carry a 5 ATM water resistance rating, meaning they can withstand pressures equivalent to a depth of 50 meters, making them suitable for swimming and showering.

Do both watches have LTE versions available?
Yes, each generation is available in Wi-Fi-only and LTE-capable variants. The LTE versions let you receive calls, texts, and notifications without needing your phone nearby.

Can both watches make contactless payments?
Yes, both models feature NFC for Google Pay, allowing secure contactless transactions at compatible payment terminals directly from your wrist.

Do both watches have built-in GPS?
Yes, both include integrated GPS for outdoor activities like running or cycling. The Pixel Watch 3 adds multi-band support for more precise tracking, but both can function independently from a phone.

Do both watches support Google Assistant?
Yes, Google Assistant is integrated into both models. You can use voice commands for reminders, weather updates, or controlling smart home devices hands-free on either watch.

Are the watch faces customizable on both devices?
Yes, both allow users to personalize watch faces, choosing from various styles, colors, and complications to display fitness metrics, time zones, or app shortcuts.

Do both watches have built-in microphones and speakers?
Yes, both are equipped with microphones and speakers, enabling voice replies, phone calls, and Assistant feedback directly from the watch without needing a connected headset.

Is fall detection available on both watches?
Yes, both support fall detection that can automatically alert emergency contacts or services when a hard fall is detected, providing extra safety during daily activities.

Can both watches track sleep patterns?
Yes, each model includes automatic sleep tracking that monitors duration and sleep stages such as light, deep, and REM cycles, helping users assess rest quality over time.

Are the Pixel Watch bands interchangeable between the two models?
While both use quick-release mechanisms, the Pixel Watch 3 introduces a new magnetic attachment system that is not directly compatible with the pin-based design of the Pixel Watch 1. Users will need bands made for their specific model.