Google Pixel Watch 2 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 6: Which should you buy?

Samsung is far from the only giant in the wearables space, but the brand has maintained a steady Wear OS lead in recent years. Once the original Google Pixel Watch arrived, things started heating up. Now, Google is ready with its second-generation device, and the choice is even tougher for shoppers. Should you consider the Pixel Watch 2 or stick with the more established Samsung Galaxy Watch line? We compared the Google Pixel Watch 2 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 to break down what each brand has to offer.

Google Pixel Watch 2 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 specs

Google Pixel Watch 2 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 6: Features

At the base level, the Google Pixel Watch 2 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 offer similar experiences, namely because each runs Google’s latest Wear OS 4. The updated platform offers more power efficiency, introduces updates for favorite Google apps and popular third-party apps like Peloton, and adds new highlights like Gmail and Calendar apps.

On the Pixel Watch 2, a Qualcomm SW5100 chipset powers the software. On the Galaxy Watch 6, users will find an Exynos W930 SoC. Both internals provide robust and snappy experiences, but they’re not identical. The Galaxy Watch 6 series masks the Wear OS with Samsung’s One UI 5 Watch skin, watering down the overtly Google impression found on the Pixel Watch 2. Still, each offers similar third-party app experiences centered around popular Google apps and the functionality of the Google Play Store.

The Pixel Watch 2 packs more storage, offering users 32GB vs the Galaxy Watch 6’s 16GB. On the other hand, the battery capacities on Samsung’s smartwatches outshine that of the Pixel Watch 2. Specific battery cell size varies by model, but both Galaxy Watch 6 sizes claim up to 40 hours of use between charges. Though improved from the original model, the Google Pixel Watch 2 only claims up to 24 hours of use. This disparity is especially significant to users interested in sleep tracking and wellness monitoring. Though fast charging capabilities make the Pixel Watch 2’s battery life more manageable than the original’s, we still found daily charging a bit disappointing during our review.

On that topic, both watches offer hearty health and fitness tracking tools. The Pixel Watch 2 features thorough integration with Fitbit’s ecosystem. This includes detailed sleep monitoring, activity tracking, heart rate monitoring, and stress tracking via its new cEDA sensor. The device also offers an ECG app, temperature tracking, and SpO2 monitoring. Coming soon, it will even leverage AI to provide personalized insights. Plus, with each purchase, shoppers receive a 6-month Fitbit Premium trial. In short, it’s a powerful health companion.

Via it owns native health and fitness apps, the Galaxy Watch 6 also offers many of the same wellness tracking features, including heart rate, sleep, activity, temperature, and SpO2 tracking. Since launch, the device has even been FDA-approved for monitoring for signs of sleep apnea, a major win for those suffering from the sleep disorder. The watch also features a bioelectrical impedance (BIA) sensor for measuring body composition and a blood pressure monitoring system. Notably, some Galaxy Watch 6 features, including blood pressure monitoring, only work with Samsung phones.

Similarly, the Pixel Watch 2 provides the best experience to Pixel phone users. Regardless of your smartphone, though, both options support staple smartwatch features like on-wrist phone calls, texts, notifications, voice assistants, and more. They also both support first and third-party watch faces. Finally, both lines pack a variety of safety features, including Fall Detection. The Pixel Watch 2 also introduces Safety Check, a new feature for peace of mind when approaching vulnerable situations. We found this feature well implemented during our review and would love to see similar tools brought to more wearables.

Google Pixel Watch 2 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 6: Design

When it comes to comparing designs and aesthetics, neither new generation revolutionizes its respective lineup. The minimalist Google Pixel Watch 2 looks almost exactly like the original Pixel Watch, merely swapping stainless steel for recycled aluminum. Likewise, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 closely resembles the sporty Galaxy Watch 5, with slightly tweaked dimensions.

Beyond both being smartwatches, however, the Pixel Watch 2 and Galaxy Watch 6 have markedly different designs. For starters, the latter is available in both 40mm and 44mm case sizes. As such, it caters to more wrists than the single 41mm Pixel Watch 2. Though both lines boast full-color AMOLED displays, the Galaxy Watch 6 protects its screen with a flat Sapphire crystal. The Pixel Watch 2 equips custom, domed Corning Gorilla Glass 5 for a more futuristic, pebble shape. The result of this domed shape is attractive and minimalistic, but it also makes it susceptible to damage.

The Pixel Watch 2 also features a protruding digital crown similar to that of the Apple Watch series. This rotating dial simplifies on-device navigation without detracting from the overall appearance of the watch. The device pairs this crown with a single side button that blends into the rounded watch case. On the Galaxy Watch 6, users must depend on the device’s touchscreen and two side buttons. For more tactile interaction, shoppers can opt for the device’s pricier sibling, the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic. This model adds a rotating bezel for a more traditional aesthetic and easier on-device navigation. Like the base model, it’s available in two case sizes. During our review periods of both Galaxy Watch 6 models, we found the rotating bezel highly useful and conducive to a more enjoyable user experience.

As far as durability, both designs offer 5ATM water resistance as well as IP68 ratings for dust resistance. The Galaxy Watch 6 also earns an MIL-STD-810H certification. These specs put both lineups on par with comparable wearables at these price points. We found both stood up to regular wear and workouts during our review periods. As mentioned, the domed glass of the Pixel Watch 2 has proven detrimental to other users.

The Galaxy Watch 6 ships with a quick-release 20mm sport band that’s flexible, lightweight, and very comfortable. It’s also compatible with loads of third-party bands, so mixing up your look is easy and affordable. The Pixel Watch 2 features a unique mechanism that incorporates the device’s band into its case for a sleeker look. These bands are swappable but proprietary, so shopping for additional accessories adds up quickly. Along side this generation, Google released a few new band designs, including thin metallic options and revamped active bands. We were not fans of the perforated active bands in terms of looks, but they do well in providing breathability and comfort.

Google Pixel Watch 2 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 6: Price and colors

The Google Pixel Watch 2 is available in Wi-Fi-only and LTE variants. The Wi-Fi model costs $349.99. Upgrading to an LTE option adds an extra $50 to the price tag. Either version is available in Matte Black, Polished Silver, and Champagne Gold. Google pairs these case colors with active bands in Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, or Hazel. The company also offers additional bands in other materials and colors sold separately.

Pricing for the Galaxy Watch 6 is more complex, with additional case sizes and a Classic model to consider. For a base model device, the smartwatch starts at $299 in a 40mm case. The 44mm Galaxy Watch 6 costs $329. The Classic model also comes in two case sizes measuring 43mm and 47mm. These picks are priced at $269 and $399 respectively.

Like the Pixel Watch 2, adding LTE capabilities to any Galaxy Watch 6 series device costs an extra $50. The base model is available in a Graphite, Silver, or Gold case and ships with a sport band. The Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is available in Black or Silver paired with an attractive hybrid eco-leather band. As mentioned, the devices are compatible with a variety of first and third-party quick-release bands.

Google Pixel Watch 2 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 6: Which should you buy?

With more years in the game, Samsung has a well-established and successful smartwatch lineup on its hands. The Galaxy Watch 6 nails everything from health and fitness tracking to smart features to durability. It also offers considerably better battery life than Google’s devices for a more convenient user experience. For Samsung phone users especially, the Galaxy Watch is likely the better pick. Plus, it’s cheaper, comes in multiple sizes, and can even be purchased with a rotating bezel.

On the other hand, the Google Pixel Watch 2 does have its own allure. Compared to the Galaxy Watch 6, the device is far less likely to be confused with any other wearable. It also offers the purest Google Wear OS experience, with the software starring in its raw form. Meanwhile, it simultaneously boasts Fitbit’s powerful health and fitness platform. The device can even leverage Google’s AI tools for further guidance related to users’ wellness goals. If you own a Pixel phone or prefer a thorough Google interface, it’s likely the best option.

That’s it for our Google Pixel Watch 2 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 comparison. Which watch do you prefer? Let us know in the poll below.

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