// WEARABLES
Google Pixel Watch 3 vs Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen): Complete Health & Fitness Comparison
The Google Pixel Watch 3 and Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) represent two compelling yet distinct approaches to affordable smartwatch technology. At $349 and $249 respectively, both devices target health-conscious users seeking comprehensive fitness tracking without the premium price tags of flagship models. The Pixel Watch 3 brings Google's latest Wear OS 5 platform with enhanced Fitbit integration, while the Apple Watch SE delivers Apple's refined watchOS experience at a more accessible price point. This comparison becomes particularly relevant for users switching ecosystems or those prioritizing specific health features over brand loyalty. The Pixel Watch 3 introduces advanced running metrics and improved battery efficiency, while the Apple Watch SE maintains Apple's reputation for seamless iPhone integration and comprehensive app ecosystem. Understanding the real-world performance differences, health tracking accuracy, and ecosystem compatibility will help determine which smartwatch best serves your fitness and connectivity needs.
Google Pixel Watch 3
by Google
$349
[FEATURE COMPARISON]
| Feature | Google Pixel Watch 3 | Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) |
|---|---|---|
|
Display & Design Screen quality, always-on capability, and physical design characteristics |
1.4" AMOLED, 456x456px (320 ppi), Always-On Display, 12.3mm thick, circular design | 1.78" Retina OLED, 368x448px (326 ppi), No Always-On Display, 10.7mm thinner, rectangular design |
|
Battery Life Real-world usage duration and charging capabilities |
24-hour rated (up to 46.5 hours tested), wireless charging, 307mAh capacity | 18-hour rated (32.5 hours tested), wireless charging, faster 0-50% in 30 minutes |
|
Health Sensors Available biometric monitoring and health tracking capabilities |
Blood oxygen, ECG, temperature sensor, heart rate, HRV tracking, stress monitoring | Heart rate monitor, no blood oxygen, no ECG, no temperature sensor, basic health tracking |
|
Fitness Features Workout tracking, running analysis, and activity monitoring capabilities |
Fitbit integration, advanced running form analysis, Target Load training metrics, 40+ workout modes | Multi-sport mode, swimming stroke counter, Activity Rings, automatic workout detection |
|
Platform Compatibility Device ecosystem support and operating system requirements |
Android 10+ (works with any Android), best with Google Pixel phones | iPhone XS or later with iOS 18+ only, seamless Apple ecosystem integration |
|
Smart Features Apps, notifications, and connectivity capabilities |
Wear OS 5, Google Pay, Assistant, Smart Replies, limited app selection | watchOS 8, Apple Pay, Siri, extensive app library, superior notification handling |
|
Build Quality & Water Resistance Construction materials and durability specifications |
Aluminum construction, 5 ATM + IP68 rating, 50m water resistance, curved glass | Aluminum construction, 5 ATM + IP68 rating, 50m water resistance, Sport band included |
[PROS & CONS]
Google Pixel Watch 3
Pros
- Comprehensive health sensors including blood oxygen, ECG, and temperature monitoring
- Advanced Fitbit integration with detailed running form analysis and training metrics
- Always-On Display with excellent outdoor visibility at 2000 nits
- Superior battery life lasting up to 46.5 hours in real-world testing
- Compatible with any Android device running Android 10 or later
Cons
- $100 premium over Apple Watch SE with questionable value for casual users
- Thicker 12.3mm profile makes it less comfortable for extended wear
- Limited app ecosystem compared to Apple's extensive watchOS library
- Proprietary band connector limits accessory options
Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen)
Pros
- Excellent value at $249 with core smartwatch functionality intact
- 27% larger display (1.78") provides better readability and interaction
- Thinner 10.7mm profile offers superior all-day comfort
- Seamless iPhone integration with unmatched app ecosystem
- Fast charging reaches 50% battery in just 30 minutes
Cons
- Missing advanced health sensors like blood oxygen, ECG, and temperature monitoring
- No Always-On Display forces users to raise wrist to check time
- iPhone ecosystem lock-in excludes Android users entirely
- Shorter 18-hour rated battery life requires daily charging
[OUR VERDICT]
The Pixel Watch 3 wins for advanced health tracking and Android users, while the Apple Watch SE offers better value and ecosystem integration for iPhone users.
The choice between the Google Pixel Watch 3 and Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) fundamentally comes down to your smartphone ecosystem and health tracking priorities. The Pixel Watch 3 emerges as the superior choice for comprehensive health monitoring, featuring blood oxygen sensing, ECG capability, temperature tracking, and advanced running analytics that the Apple Watch SE simply cannot match. Its Fitbit integration provides detailed insights into training load, recovery metrics, and sleep analysis that serious fitness enthusiasts will appreciate.
However, the Apple Watch SE dominates in areas that matter for daily usability. Its larger 1.78-inch display provides 27% more screen real estate than the Pixel Watch 3's 1.4-inch screen, making interactions more comfortable. The Apple ecosystem integration remains unmatched – seamless iPhone connectivity, superior app selection, and features like Mac unlock and Apple Pay's broader merchant acceptance create a more cohesive user experience. The SE's thinner profile (10.7mm vs 12.3mm) also makes it more comfortable for all-day wear.
From a value perspective, the Apple Watch SE's $249 price point offers compelling savings over the Pixel Watch 3's $349 cost, especially considering the SE's proven reliability and software support longevity. Apple's track record shows Watch SE models receiving major OS updates for 4-5 years, while Google's Pixel Watch lineage is still establishing this pattern.
For Android users seeking advanced health metrics and don't mind paying extra for premium fitness features, the Pixel Watch 3 represents the best Wear OS experience available. iPhone users get better overall value and ecosystem integration with the Apple Watch SE, though they sacrifice advanced health sensors. The Pixel Watch 3 wins for serious fitness tracking, while the Apple Watch SE provides better daily utility and value.
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