What are the main differences between the Pixel Watch 3 and the Pixel Watch 2

Design and Display

- Size Options: The Pixel Watch 3 offers two sizes—41mm and a new 45mm variant—while the Pixel Watch 2 is only available in 41mm[1][4].
- Display Improvements:
- The Pixel Watch 3 features a brighter display with a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, compared to 1,000 nits for the Pixel Watch 2[3][4].
- The bezels on the Pixel Watch 3 are 16% thinner, resulting in a 10% larger display for the 41mm model and a 40% larger display for the 45mm model[2][4].
- Both models maintain a pixel density of 320 ppi, ensuring sharp visuals[5].

Performance

- Processor: Both watches utilize the same Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 chip, ensuring comparable performance levels[1][5].
- Battery Life:
- The battery capacity remains similar for the 41mm models (306mAh), but the new 45mm model has a larger battery at 420mAh, which is about 35% larger[2][3].
- The Pixel Watch 3 charges 20% faster, reaching significant charge milestones quicker than its predecessor[2][4].

Features

- Software Updates: The Pixel Watch 3 runs on Wear OS 5, while the Pixel Watch 2 operates on Wear OS 4. This update brings new features that may eventually be available to the older model[1][3].
- Health and Fitness Tracking: Both watches share similar health sensors, including heart rate and SpO2 monitoring. However, the Pixel Watch 3 enhances accuracy during workouts and introduces new metrics like Cardio Load and daily running recommendations powered by AI[2][4].

Connectivity

- The Pixel Watch 3 includes improved connectivity options such as Ultra-Wideband (UWB) support and Wi-Fi at 5GHz, which are absent in the Pixel Watch 2[1][2].

Pricing

- The starting price for the Pixel Watch 3 remains at $349.99 for the 41mm Wi-Fi model, similar to the Pixel Watch 2. However, the introduction of a larger model increases the price range up to $499.99 for the LTE version of the 45mm variant[4][5].

In summary, while both models share core specifications, the Pixel Watch 3 offers significant upgrades in display quality, size options, charging speed, and software capabilities. Users looking for enhanced functionality and a better visual experience may find it worthwhile to upgrade to the Pixel Watch 3.

Citations:
[1] https://www.androidcentral.com/wearables/google-pixel-watch-3-vs-pixel-watch-2
[2] https://www.techradar.com/health-fitness/smartwatches/google-pixel-watch-3-vs-pixel-watch-2
[3] https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/google-pixel-watch-3-vs-pixel-watch-2/
[4] https://mashable.com/article/pixel-watch-3-vs-pixel-watch-2
[5] https://www.pcmag.com/comparisons/google-pixel-watch-3-vs-pixel-watch-2-should-you-upgrade
[6] https://www.reddit.com/r/PixelWatch/comments/1fhgkic/any_big_difference_between_pixel_watch_2_and/
[7] https://www.tomsguide.com/wellness/smartwatches/google-pixel-watch-3-vs-pixel-watch-2-biggest-expected-upgrades
[8] https://support.google.com/googlepixelwatch/answer/14121772

How does the heart rate monitoring accuracy differ between the two models

The heart rate monitoring accuracy between the Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Watch 2 shows notable improvements in the newer model, primarily due to algorithm enhancements rather than hardware changes. Here’s a detailed comparison:

Algorithmic Improvements

- Enhanced Accuracy: Google claims that the Pixel Watch 3 provides the "most accurate heart rate for running" compared to its predecessors. This improvement is attributed to significant algorithmic updates that address issues with "light artifacts," which previously hindered the watches' ability to capture rapid heart rate changes during intense workouts[1][3].
- Real-Time Responsiveness: During testing, the Pixel Watch 3 demonstrated improved responsiveness to heart rate fluctuations, staying within 1 beat per minute (bpm) of a chest strap monitor during various activities, including running and hiking. This is a marked improvement over the Pixel Watch 2, which struggled with accuracy in similar conditions[1][2].

Performance in Workouts

- Consistent Tracking: The Pixel Watch 3 was noted for maintaining accurate heart rate readings even during pauses in workouts, a feature that helps provide a more comprehensive view of workout intensity and duration. In contrast, the Pixel Watch 2 often froze readings during pauses[1].
- Testing Results: In practical tests, while the Pixel Watch 3 sometimes lagged behind a chest strap by 3–5 bpm during high-intensity intervals, it generally performed well enough for casual fitness tracking. The Pixel Watch 2 did not match this level of performance, particularly in dynamic workout scenarios[1][4].

Overall Assessment

- General Use vs. Serious Training: While the Pixel Watch 3 has improved heart rate accuracy sufficient for general fitness tracking and calorie counting, it may still fall short for serious athletes who require precise data for performance analysis. Reviewers noted that while it performs well, it may not be on par with dedicated fitness devices or higher-end smartwatches from competitors like Apple or Garmin[2][4].
- User Experience Variability: Some users have reported discrepancies in heart rate readings under certain conditions, indicating that while improvements have been made, individual experiences may vary based on factors like skin tone and watch placement[4].

In summary, the Pixel Watch 3 offers significant advancements in heart rate monitoring accuracy over the Pixel Watch 2, largely due to improved algorithms and better real-time responsiveness during workouts. However, it still may not meet the stringent demands of professional athletes.