Google Pixel Watch 2 LTE vs Pixel Watch 2 Wi-Fi: What's the difference?

Google’s second-generation smartwatch packs the powerful Wear OS, advanced health sensors, and tons of fitness tracking features. Before you purchase the new watch, though, you’ll need to decide what connectivity you prefer. The Pixel Watch 2 is available in two variants: Wi-Fi or LTE. Find out what each model offers in this Google Pixel Watch 2 LTE vs Pixel Watch 2 Wi-Fi guide.

Google Pixel Watch 2 LTE vs Google Pixel Watch 2 Wi-Fi: Features

Back with an upgraded experience, the Google Pixel Watch 2 lineup offers all the features users loved about the original model, plus a few improvements. At the heart of the experience is Google’s Wear OS. This year, that comes in the form of Wear OS 4.0 running on a powerful new Qualcomm SW5100 chipset. The software still packs all the best tools of Google’s ecosystem. The new processor offers more efficient power usage as well as faster performance specs. The watch also still boasts thorough integration with Fitbit’s ecosystem, now including the company’s advanced stress management tools.

All of these smartwatch and fitness tracking features, as well as new temperature and cEDA sensors, are identical on both the LTE and Wi-Fi models. Both variants also boast brand-new heart rate sensors for even more accurate heart rate zone tracking during workouts. They also automatically track seven popular workouts as well as body response data, sleep, steps, and much more. In other words, either way, shoppers can invest in a robust smartwatch experience with plenty of wellness tools.

Where the LTE and Wi-Fi models differ is in connectivity. With an LTE model, users can make and receive on-wrist phone calls. They can also fire off texts, check emails, or pepper Google Assistant with queries. With a Wi-Fi model, these features require a paired smartphone nearby or a connection to a Wi-Fi network. Many apps also will not load, update, or send notifications to Wi-Fi users out of range. Meanwhile, LTE models can even stream music on the go, allowing runners and cyclists to hit their routes without the added weight of a smartphone. Perhaps more importantly, LTE models also provide uninterrupted accessibility to safety features.

In addition to Fall Detection and Emergency SOS, the Pixel Watch 2 introduces a new precautionary tool called Safety Check. This feature allows users to schedule a timer for specific situations they may be concerned about. Once the timer expires, Safety Check prompts the user to confirm they are safe or allows them to start sharing their location. If someone fails to respond, Safety Check will trigger Emergency Sharing, which shares the user’s real-time location with selected emergency contacts. Emergency Sharing also allows users to share their real-time whereabouts at will. These features require an LTE model or a paired smartphone nearby.

Notably, however, Fitbit Premium members can get phone-free connectivity to safety features even without activating a full carrier LTE plan on their watch. This is especially significant considering all purchases of a Pixel Watch 2 include six months of Fitbit Premium membership.

Google Pixel Watch 2 LTE vs Pixel Watch 2 Wi-Fi: Design

As mentioned, the Google Pixel Watch 2 LTE and Wi-Fi models are identical in most ways, especially in design. Both models feature 41mm watch cases with domed glass over their AMOLED displays. Made from 100% recycled aluminum, the devices weigh in at just 31g, without bands attached. As far as durability, each boasts 3D Corning Gorilla Glass protection and 5ATM water resistance.

For interacting with the devices, both models feature a protruding, rotating digital crown and a tactile back button. Like last year, the lineup also features integrated band connections for a minimalist aesthetic. Either model Pixel Watch 2 is available in four color combinations and ships with a fluoroelastomer sport band. The company also introduced new metal and active band options sold separately.

In terms of power, both models also pack the exact same size battery as well. According to Google, the Pixel Watch 2’s 306mAh cell provides up to 24 hours of use between charges. Both watches also ship with a new fast-charging cable. The new cable can charge the device from zero to 80% in under 45 minutes. Neither watch ships with a power adapter. In our experience, LTE models tend to drain device batteries faster than models relying on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. As always, battery specs in general vary by usage.

Google Pixel Watch 2 LTE vs Pixel Watch 2 Wi-Fi: Price and colors

• Google Pixel Watch 2 (Bluetooth + Wi-Fi): $349.99/€349/£349
  
• Google Pixel Watch 2 (4G LTE): $399.99/€399/£399

At launch, the Google Pixel Watch 2 Wi-Fi model costs $350. Opting for an LTE model costs an additional $50. However, that is not the only added cost of LTE connectivity. The device also requires a 4G LTE wireless service plan to use its cellular functionality. Depending on your provider, these plans typically cost around $15 per month. Before getting your heart set on an LTE model, contact your carrier for details about pricing, network compatibility, and performance.

Regardless of which model you choose, the Google Pixel Watch 2 comes in four color combinations. With a Matte Black case, the device ships with an Obsidian active band. The Champagne Gold case comes with an active band in Hazel. If you choose the Polished Silver watch case, you can select an active band in either Bay or Porcelain.

Google Pixel Watch 2 LTE vs Pixel Watch 2 Wi-Fi: Which should you buy?

The Google Pixel Watch 2 is a promising new device regardless of which model you choose. We are always grateful to see companies offer an LTE model, as the connectivity can be clutch for certain users. Access to phone calls and texts without a paired phone nearby makes the watch a more complete standalone device. Access to smart features and music streaming can be especially useful for athletes. LTE models allow these users to leave their phones behind rather than train with them in their pockets.

On the other hand, as mentioned, these perks don’t simply cost an extra $50. They also require a cellular plan with a monthly fee. Many users will find the Wi-Fi model plenty adequate for their basic needs. If you typically have your phone on you or if you most often find yourself within range of a Wi-Fi network, an LTE model is probably unnecessary.

That’s it for our Google Pixel Watch 2 LTE vs Google Pixel Watch 2 Wi-Fi comparison. Which watch do you prefer? Let us know in the poll below.

FAQs