Google Pixel Watch 2 Review

Google Pixel Watch 2: Refining the Assistant on Your Wrist

The original Pixel Watch arrived with a distinct Google flavor, but fell short of being a truly compelling smartwatch. The Pixel Watch 2 aims to address those shortcomings, promising improved performance, enhanced health tracking, and a more refined design. But in a crowded market dominated by Apple and Samsung, does it succeed? Let’s dive in.

The most immediately noticeable upgrade is the performance. Ditching the aging Exynos 9110, the Pixel Watch 2 boasts a Snapdragon Wear 5100 platform. This translates to a snappier and more responsive experience across the board, from launching apps to navigating the interface. The sluggishness that plagued the original is largely gone, making the watch feel much more fluid and enjoyable to use day-to-day.

Google hasn’t messed with the core design, and that’s arguably a good thing. The domed glass and minimalist aesthetic remain eye-catching. However, the casing is now made of 100% recycled aluminum, increasing the durability. The haptic feedback has also been improved, offering more subtle and precise vibrations. The crown still feels a little small, though, and difficult to manipulate for those with larger fingers.

Beyond performance, the Pixel Watch 2 doubles down on health and fitness features. It inherits Google’s deep integration with Fitbit, offering comprehensive sleep tracking, activity monitoring, and workout analysis. New sensors, including a skin temperature sensor and continuous electrodermal activity (cEDA) sensor for stress management, provide more nuanced insights into your well-being. While the data is comprehensive, it requires a Fitbit Premium subscription to unlock the full potential, adding to the overall cost.

Battery life has been a significant point of contention. While the Watch 2 manages to eke out a full 24 hours with the always-on display enabled, it’s still far from impressive, especially compared to competitors. Charging is relatively quick, but the constant need to top it up is a definite drawback.

Finally, there’s the matter of value. At its price point, the Pixel Watch 2 competes directly with established players. While the clean Wear OS interface and seamless Google Assistant integration are appealing, the relatively short battery life and reliance on Fitbit Premium are factors that potential buyers need to consider. It’s a definite improvement over its predecessor, but not necessarily the undisputed champion of Android smartwatches.

Where to Buy:

Check it out on Amazon