Google's Pixel Watch 4 is pushing the limits with a brighter screen, longer battery life, first-of-its-kind satellite connectivity and an AI-powered health coach. Meanwhile, Samsung's Galaxy Watch 8 leans on its decade of expertise, layering in advanced metrics, such as Antioxidant Index and Vascular Load, while keeping tight integration with the Galaxy ecosystem.
As smartwatches (and now smart rings) evolve from nice-to-have phone companions into serious health tools with lifesaving safety features and advanced vitals tracking, both Google and Samsung are stepping up their game to earn a permanent spot on your wrist. And while we haven't tested the Pixel Watch 4 in the wild just yet, here's how it stacks up against the Galaxy Watch 8 -- at least on paper.
The 41mm Pixel Watch 4 (left) and the 45mm Pixel Watch 4 (right) in polished silver. Joseph Maldonado/CNET
Both nail the basics
Each watch starts at $350 and comes in two sizes. The Pixel Watch, however, gets pricier at the top end, with the larger LTE version costing $70 more than the equivalent Galaxy Watch.
Memory, processing power, mobile payments and most core smart features are on par and best in class. They're both running the latest Wear OS 6 along with Google's game-changing Gemini voice assistant built-in right out of the gate. Though the Pixel Watch 4 has a slight edge because it can summon the assistant with just the raise of the wrist (no "Hey Google" needed). But the Galaxy Watch 8 does offer gesture control for other shortcuts.
The Galaxy Watch 8 (pictured) and the Pixel Watch 4 have built-in Gemini support. Joseph Maldonado/CNET
Design, display, dimensions and durability
The Pixel Watch 4 sticks with its signature minimalist, round design. It comes in 41mm and 45mm sizes, with a rounded case and no visible frame. The screen curves outward in a seamless, bubble-like finish that gives it an all-screen look.
The Galaxy Watch 8, by contrast, embraces a bolder, more divisive design. Its circular display sits inside a wider squared-off base with softened edges, available in 40mm and 44mm options.
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