Launched in late 2024, the Google Pixel Watch 3 marks a significant step forward for Google’s wearable line, addressing key feedback from previous generations while introducing new capabilities and, crucially, more choice for users. With a larger display option, improved battery life on select models, an enhanced viewing experience, and deeper software intelligence, the Pixel Watch 3 aims to solidify its position as a top contender in the smartwatch market.
Key Highlights:
- Two Sizes for a Better Fit: For the first time, Google offers the Pixel Watch in two case sizes: the familiar 41mm and a new, larger 45mm option. This caters to a wider range of wrist sizes and user preferences for screen real estate.
- Brighter, More Dynamic Display: Both models sport a new “Actua display,” which is significantly brighter, boasting up to 2000 nits (double that of the Pixel Watch 2), ensuring better outdoor visibility. The LTPO OLED technology allows for a dynamic refresh rate, adjusting from 1Hz to 60Hz for smoother animations and improved power efficiency. Bezels have also been slightly reduced for a more immersive experience.
- Enhanced Battery Life (Especially for the 45mm): While the 41mm model offers up to 24 hours of use with the always-on display (extendable to 36 hours in battery saver mode), the larger 45mm variant benefits from a bigger battery (420mAh vs. 306mAh in the 41mm), providing longer endurance, with some reports suggesting up to 48 hours on a single charge under certain conditions. Both sizes support fast charging.
- Smarter Software with Wear OS 5 and Upgraded Fitbit Integration: The Pixel Watch 3 launched with Wear OS 5 and has since received updates, including Wear OS 5.1 (as of March 2025). This brings new features like offline Google Maps, Live View for Nest Cams, and enhanced continuity with Pixel phones. Fitbit integration sees significant improvements, including advanced running features, a “Readiness score” that no longer requires a Premium subscription, and new metrics like “Cardio Load” and “Target Load.”
- Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Connectivity: The inclusion of a UWB chip opens up new possibilities, such as more precise device finding with “Find My Device” and digital car key functionality for select vehicles.
Design and Build
The Pixel Watch 3 retains the signature circular, domed design crafted from aluminum (with a mention of recycled content) and features a durable Corning Gorilla Glass 5 front. It maintains a 5ATM water resistance rating and IP68 certification for dust and water protection.
Available Colors:
- 41mm: Matte Black, Polished Silver, Champagne Gold, and a new Rose Quartz.
- 45mm: Obsidian, Porcelain, and a new Matte Hazel.
The proprietary band mechanism remains, ensuring compatibility with Google’s range of stylish and functional watch bands.
Hardware Specifications
| Feature | Google Pixel Watch 3 (41mm) | Google Pixel Watch 3 (45mm) |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $349 (Wi-Fi), $449 (LTE) | $399 (Wi-Fi), $499 (LTE) |
| Dimensions | 41 x 41 x 12.3 mm | 45 x 45 x 12.3 mm |
| Display | LTPO OLED, up to 2000 nits, 1-60Hz | LTPO OLED, up to 2000 nits, 1-60Hz (40% larger) |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 1, Cortex M33 co-processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 1, Cortex M33 co-processor |
| RAM | 2GB | 2GB |
| Storage | 32GB | 32GB |
| Battery | 306mAh (up to 24 hrs AoD, 36 hrs saver mode) | 420mAh (extended life, potentially up to 48 hrs) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi (802.11ac/ax), Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, UWB, Optional 4G LTE | Wi-Fi (802.11ac/ax), Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, UWB, Optional 4G LTE |
| Sensors | Heart rate (multi-path), Blood Oxygen (SpO2), ECG, cEDA, Skin Temperature, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Altimeter, Compass, Ambient Light, UWB | Heart rate (multi-path), Blood Oxygen (SpO2), ECG, cEDA, Skin Temperature, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Altimeter, Compass, Ambient Light, UWB |
| Durability | 5ATM, IP68, Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | 5ATM, IP68, Corning Gorilla Glass 5 |
| Operating System | Wear OS (Launched with Wear OS 5, updated to 5.1) | Wear OS (Launched with Wear OS 5, updated to 5.1) |
Software and Health Features
Running on Wear OS, the Pixel Watch 3 offers a refined user experience with deeper Google service integration. Key software and health advancements include:
- Fitbit Enhancements:
- Readiness Score: Now available without a Fitbit Premium subscription, offering insights into your body’s recovery and readiness for activity.
- Cardio Load & Target Load: Helps users understand their training impact and optimize workouts.
- Advanced Running Features & Morning Brief.
- Menstrual Health Tracking: Improved tracking capabilities within the Fitbit app.
- Loss of Pulse Detection: This feature has received FDA clearance in the U.S. for the Pixel Watch 3.
- Improved Step Counting Algorithm: More accurate step tracking, especially in scenarios like pushing a stroller.
- Google Ecosystem Integration:
- Offline Google Maps: Navigate directly from your wrist, even without your phone.
- Pixel Recorder App Support.
- Enhanced Camera Remote: More controls for your Pixel phone’s camera.
- Live View for Nest Cams.
- Improved continuity features with Pixel phones and automatic bedtime mode.
Reception and Considerations
The Google Pixel Watch 3 has been generally well-received, with reviewers praising the addition of a larger size, the significantly brighter display, and the more robust Fitbit features, especially the now-free Readiness score. The improved battery life of the 45mm model is a particularly welcome upgrade.
Common Pros:
- Choice of two sizes.
- Noticeably brighter and more dynamic display.
- Improved battery life, especially on the 45mm model.
- Comprehensive Fitbit health and wellness tracking, with key metrics no longer paywalled.
- Smooth performance and rich Google Assistant integration.
- UWB for future-proofing and current utility.
Common Cons & Considerations:
- While improved, battery life on the 41mm model might still require daily charging for heavy users.
- The processor remains the same as the Pixel Watch 2.
- Some health metrics require a few weeks to calibrate accurately.
- The best experience is often tied to using a Pixel smartphone.
- Some users reported software bugs, UI lag, and Fitbit sync issues following the Wear OS 5.1 update in March 2025. It’s advisable to check for the latest software status and user feedback.
- The design, while elegant, has not changed dramatically, and the watch remains thicker than some competitors.
Conclusion
The Google Pixel Watch 3 is a more mature and versatile offering. The introduction of the 45mm size and the tangible improvements to the display and battery (on the larger model) address significant previous criticisms. With its advanced Fitbit capabilities now more accessible and the promise of UWB, the Pixel Watch 3 stands as a compelling option for Android users, particularly those embedded in the Google Pixel ecosystem, seeking a stylish and intelligent wearable. While some software kinks have been reported post-update, the overall package represents a solid refinement of Google’s smartwatch vision.