Google Pixel Watch 4 vs. Galaxy Watch 8: Android Smartwatch Battle

Price Comparison

Both the Galaxy Watch 8 and the Pixel Watch 4 are available in multiple sizes. Samsung offers 40mm and 44mm models, while Google provides 41mm and 45mm options. The smaller versions of both start at $349. The larger Samsung model costs $379.99, whereas the larger Google version is priced at $399. Adding LTE to either Samsung model comes with an extra $50, while it costs $100 for the Google version.

Previously, older Samsung models were more affordable than Google’s across the board. However, the latest generation from Samsung has increased its prices, while Google has kept its pricing consistent. This means both watches now share the same starting point, but Google still commands a higher price for its premium models.

Design and Display

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 features a squared bezel design, referred to as a "cushion design" by Samsung, and incorporates a dynamic lug system from the Galaxy Watch Ultra for enhanced comfort. At first glance, it may appear like a squircle, which might be off-putting to some. However, after extended use, the design becomes more appealing, and the watch proves comfortable to wear.

In contrast, the Pixel Watch 4 stands out with its curved display, offering a striking visual appearance. The Pixel Watch series is known for its curved teardrop glass cover, and the Pixel Watch 4 is the first in the line to feature a curved screen under the glass. This Actua 360 display not only looks good but also provides 10% more active area and 15% smaller bezels compared to the Pixel Watch 3.

Both the Galaxy Watch 8 and the Pixel Watch 4 have high-quality displays. The Galaxy Watch 8 uses a Super AMOLED screen, while the Pixel Watch 4 has an AMOLED screen. Both screens can reach up to 3,000 nits of brightness, making them easy to read in direct sunlight.

Durability and Build Quality

When it comes to durability, the Galaxy Watch 8 holds an advantage. It is certified under MIL-STD-810H, which means it can withstand extreme temperature changes, blowing sand, vibration, and shock. The Pixel Watch 4 does not have this certification, although both watches have a 5ATM waterproof rating and an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance.

Concerns about the long-term durability of Google's curved glass have been raised, and the curved screen on the Pixel Watch 4 exacerbates these worries. However, the Pixel Watch 4 is the first in the line to be fully repairable, allowing users to replace the display or battery if needed. Samsung has not promised similar serviceability, but its military-grade rating ensures a more rugged build.

Battery Life and Charging

The smaller models of both the Galaxy Watch 8 and the Pixel Watch 4 have a 325mAh battery. The 45mm Pixel Watch 4 has a slightly larger battery at 455mAh, compared to the 44mm Galaxy Watch 8's 425mAh.

Samsung estimates that the Galaxy Watch 8 lasts 30 hours with the always-on display active and 40 hours without it. Google estimates that the smaller Pixel Watch 4 will last 30 hours, and the larger model will power through 40 hours with the always-on display active. In testing, the Galaxy Watch 8 fell just short of its estimates, lasting 39 hours with the display disabled and 26 hours with it enabled.

The Pixel Watch 4 introduces a new charger that holds the watch upright, allowing users to see the time, charge level, and alarms while charging. The Galaxy Watch 8 uses a traditional magnetic puck.

Processor and Performance

The Galaxy Watch 8 uses the same five-core Exynos W1000 processor as its predecessor. The Pixel Watch 4, on the other hand, uses a dual-processor setup with a Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 and a Cortex-M55 coprocessor, which are upgrades over the Qualcomm SW5100 and Cortex-M33 in the Pixel Watch 3.

Notably, the Snapdragon processor in the Pixel Watch 4 supports emergency satellite communication, allowing users to call for help even when away from their phone. Both watches come with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage.

Lifestyle Features

Both the Galaxy Watch 8 and the Pixel Watch 4 run Wear OS 6 and include Google’s conversational AI, Gemini. Gemini can answer questions, send texts, and interact with apps like Calendar, Clock, Health, and Reminder. Users can activate Gemini with a customizable button on the Galaxy Watch 8 or by raising their wrist on the Pixel Watch 4.

Samsung adds its One UI 8 interface to Wear OS 6, offering gesture controls and unique interactions. Both watches provide access to the Play Store and support for wearable apps. They also offer standard smartwatch features such as calls and contactless payments.

Fitness and Health Features

Comparing previous-gen models, the Pixel Watch 3 offered more AI-powered health assessments than the Galaxy Watch 7. The Pixel Watch 3 provided a Daily Readiness Score, Cardio Load, and Target Load, while the Galaxy Watch 7 offered an Energy Score and Wellness Tip. Both latest models retain these features and add new capabilities.

The Pixel Watch 8 introduces an AI-powered coach, launching as a preview in the fall, offering specific fitness and sleep advice. It tracks more exercises, including basketball and pickleball, and improves automatic workout detection. It also includes a dual-frequency GPS for precise location tracking and can stream real-time cycling metrics to the Fitbit app.

Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 8 also adds new features, such as Galaxy AI acting as a running or sleep coach. It measures antioxidant levels and arterial health through nighttime vascular load measurements and can measure body composition like a smart scale. It can even detect snoring if paired with a Samsung phone.

Both watches have various sensors for activity, exercise, sleep, and stress tracking, along with ECG, blood oxygen monitoring, and sleep cycle tracking. While both are highly capable, Samsung remains unmatched in the sheer volume of useful extras.

Which Watch Is Right for You?

Since I haven’t tested the Pixel Watch 4 yet, I’m not ready to declare a winner just yet. The Pixel Watch 4 is set to release on October 9. Check back then for my review and an updated article with definitive buying advice.