Smartwatches have become must-have devices for fitness tracking, notifications, payments, and more. With new models recently released from leading brands, you now have great options to choose from. Google and Samsung have unveiled their latest smartwatches - the Pixel Watch 2 and Galaxy Watch 6. Both pack impressive features into a high-tech wrist companion. But which one is right for you? This comprehensive article compares the Pixel Watch 2 and Galaxy Watch 6 in-depth, analyzing their designs, displays, performance, health tracking capabilities, battery life, pricing, and more.
Google Pixel Watch 2 vs. Samsung Galaxy Watch 6: Key Specs Comparison
When choosing a smartwatch, you'll want to evaluate key specifications like display quality, processor performance, battery life, durability, and sensors. The table below provides a side-by-side comparison of the core specs for the Pixel Watch 2 versus the Galaxy Watch 6.
Analyzing details like display size and resolution, RAM capacity, storage space, battery mAh rating, water resistance level, and chipset model allows you to see how the Pixel Watch 2 and Galaxy Watch 6 stack up. Keeping these nitty-gritty specs in mind along with our in-depth feature comparisons will ensure you select the right smartwatch for your needs. Now let's dive into the specs comparison.
Feature |
Google Pixel Watch 2 |
Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 |
Display |
1.2-inch AMOLED, 320ppi, 1000 nits brightness |
1.31-inch AMOLED, 330ppi (40mm) / 1.47-inch AMOLED, 453ppi (44mm), 2000 nits brightness |
Chipset |
Qualcomm SW5100 quad-core processor |
Samsung Exynos W930 dual-core processor |
Storage |
32GB |
16GB |
RAM |
2GB |
2GB |
Battery |
306mAh |
300mAh (40mm) / 425mAh (44mm) |
OS |
Wear OS 4 |
Wear OS 4 with One UI 5 Watch skin |
Health sensors |
Heart rate sensor, ECG sensor, SpO2 sensor, GPS, accelerometer, gyroscope, compass, thermometer |
Heart rate sensor, ECG sensor, SpO2 sensor, GPS, accelerometer, gyroscope, compass, blood pressure sensor, thermometer |
Weight |
31 grams |
28.7 grams (40mm) / 33.3 grams (44mm) |
Case Material |
Stainless steel |
Stainless steel |
Connectivity |
NFC, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
NFC, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
Durability |
5ATM water resistance |
5ATM water resistance |
Colors |
Polished Silver, Matte Black, Champagne Gold. |
Black, Silver, Gold, Graphite |
Release Date and Availability
The Pixel Watch 2 was announced in October 2023 by Google at their annual product launch event. It is priced starting at $349 for the Bluetooth/Wi-Fi variant and $399 for the LTE version. The Pixel Watch 2 is now available for purchase worldwide through the Google Store and other major retailers.
In comparison, Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Watch 6 series in August 2023. It comes in 40mm and 44mm sizes, priced competitively from $269.99 to $479.99 depending on size and connectivity options. Like the Pixel Watch 2, the Galaxy Watch 6 is sold globally and works with Android or iOS devices.
Design and Display Comparison
The Pixel Watch 2 has a slim, circular & 100 percent recycled aluminum body measuring just 12.3mm thick and weighing only 31g including the strap. The minimalist design comes in three understated colors: Polished Silver, Matte Black, and Champagne Gold.
The Galaxy Watch 6 has a bulkier look constructed from Armour aluminum. The 40mm version weighs 28.7g while the 44mm model is slightly heavier at 33.3g. It's offered in bolder Graphite and Gold colors for the 40mm, and Graphite and Silver for the 44mm.
The Pixel Watch 2’s 1.2” AMOLED display is vibrant with smooth scrolling and apps. But the Galaxy Watch 6’s larger 1.3” or 1.5” AMOLED panels are sharper, with brightness boosted up to 2000 nits for improved sunlight visibility.
Overall, the Pixel Watch 2 wins for its more classic, compact aesthetic while the Galaxy Watch 6 is better for customers who prefer a bigger, bolder smartwatch display.
Performance and Software Comparison
With the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 processor, the Pixel Watch 2 delivers fast, fluid performance whether you’re tracking a run or using apps. The Galaxy Watch 6 is powered by Samsung’s Exynos W920 chipset and also handles Wear OS 4 smoothly.
Both smartwatches include helpful wellness features via Wear OS 4 like workout tracking, heart rate monitoring, Google Assistant access, and more. However, the Galaxy Watch 6 optimization for Samsung Galaxy phones gives it an edge for customers invested in the Samsung ecosystem.
Health Tracking and Fitness Comparison
The Galaxy Watch 6 provides robust health metrics thanks to advanced sensors like ECG, blood oxygen, sleep, and body composition tracking. Automatic workout detection is also great for gym-goers who want an overview of their fitness activities.
However, the Pixel Watch 2 pulls ahead for customers who want more cutting-edge health tracking capabilities. Its Fitbit integration enables unparalleled heart rate accuracy powered by AI algorithms. Extra safety features like Fall Detection, Emergency SOS, and crash detection are also unique advantages of the Pixel Watch 2.
Battery Life Comparison
With its larger 425mAh battery, the Galaxy Watch 6 is the undisputed winner when it comes to battery life. It can last up to 3 full days between charges – a major benefit for users who don’t want the hassle of nightly charging.
The 306mAh battery of the Pixel Watch 2 pales in comparison. It needs daily charging to maintain its 1-day battery lifespan. Frequent travelers will likely prefer the Galaxy Watch 6’s longer runtime before needing a recharge.
Pricing Comparison
The Pixel Watch 2 starts at $349.99 for the 41mm Bluetooth/Wi-Fi model, while the LTE variant is $399.99. It comes in 4 different color options.
Galaxy Watch 6 pricing ranges from $269.99 to $479.99 based on size and LTE connectivity. Importantly, the base 40mm Bluetooth Galaxy Watch 6 model starts at just $269.99. This is $80 cheaper than the Pixel Watch 2's $349.99 starting price.
Given the lower starting price, the Galaxy Watch 6 is the more affordable option for shoppers who want to spend as little as possible on a base model smartwatch. However, the Pixel Watch 2 offers more consistent pricing across its sole 41mm size and connectivity options.
Conclusion
The Google Pixel Watch 2 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 each have compelling strengths. The Pixel Watch 2 wins for its simpler, more affordable design and advanced health/safety capabilities powered by Fitbit integration. But the Galaxy Watch 6 is the pick for customers who want maximum battery life, vibrant display, and connectivity. For most users, the Pixel Watch 2 is likely the best blend of features, performance, and price. But the Galaxy Watch 6 is ideal if you prioritize robust health metrics, workout analysis, and long battery runtime. Whichever you choose, you can’t go wrong with these leading smartwatches!
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