Need to pick up a new smartwatch? You’ve got plenty of options to choose from out there. But there’s one that stands tall above the others if you happen to use an Android phone. The Google Pixel Watch 3 is the perfect blend of a clean, stylish smartwatch design, with all the features of a good fitness tracker, and the ability to easily integrate with your Google services. The polished silver aluminum case and porcelain band provide for a low-key style. The round display gives it a more traditional watch design than its square smartwatch competitors. It focuses on health and running and provides quick access to Google services.
A powerful, reliable go-to everyday smartwatch with a swath of features
One of the strongest arguments for choosing the Pixel Watch 3 over an older smartwatch is its new display. The Actua screen is larger, brighter, and more responsive. The 41mm version of the watch features a screen that is twice as bright and 10% larger than previous versions. These improvements make it easier to use in sunshine, and it’s great if you’ve had a hard time reading text on older watches.
In addition to counting steps, advanced running tools include custom run workouts, real-time guidance, and advanced form tracking. Readiness uses a combination of sleep, resting heart rate, and heart rate variability to determine whether the user is ready to perform a workout or should back off. Cardio load measures how difficult the user’s heart is working, and provides comparisons of those trends over time. Fitbit Premium support and personalized run recommendations also add more structure.
Google’s software keeps this from being just a fitness watch with smart features. You have access to Google Maps offline, Google Wallet for payments and transit, and you can link your account to other Google products such as Pixel Buds, Nest cameras, and Nest doorbells. The watch also lets you view live video feeds from Pixel Camera, Nest cameras, and Nest doorbells.
The Google Pixel Watch 3 is rated to last 24 hours with the Always-On Display enabled and up to 36 hours in Battery Saver mode. This should give you plenty of power to get you through the day, as long as you charge it at night. Plus, the watch comes with everything you need to get started using it regularly: a watchband, a USB-C Fast Charging Cable, and a Quick Start Guide. At $170 instead of $250, the Google Pixel Watch 3 looks even more appealing, particularly for someone who wants a smartwatch that focuses heavily on fitness guidance, uses Google services, and has a design that does not scream “tech product” from across the room.
