The Galaxy Watch 8 hit shelves weeks ago, landing with shiny hardware and Samsung’s signature polish. Now the Pixel Watch 4 is available with an updated display, a bigger battery, and key software improvements. Here are seven reasons Google’s latest smartwatch is the one I’d actually spend my own money on.
Do you prefer the Google Pixel Watch 4 or Samsung Galaxy Watch 8? 2 votes Google Pixel Watch 4 50 % Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 50 % Neither. 0 %
1. Looks can kill (my interest)
I haven’t been shy about my feelings regarding the looks of the latest Galaxy Watch lineup. To be succinct, I’m out on squircles. The Pixel Watch 4 is still unmistakably a Pixel Watch, but the bezels are slimmer, the screen is larger, and I get the same minimalist, modern style I loved before, with perceivable upgrades. The Galaxy Watch 8 Classic’s rotating bezel is charming, sure, but the toy-like case shape feels comical compared to the Pixel’s clean lines.
The funky squircle of the Galaxy lineup can't compete with Google's minimalist design.
Notably, both watches now offer 3,000 nits max brightness (50% brighter than their respective previous generations) for greater visibility in sunlight. Whether I’m checking a notification mid-run or peeking at my pace during a hike, I’m grateful that there shouldn’t be any more awkward crouching like a gargoyle to see my stats.
2. Wear OS the way Google intended
Rita El Khoury / Android Authority
Wear OS 6 on the Pixel Watch 4 is fast, clean, and refreshingly free from unnecessary skinning. I also know I’m getting the best updates as soon as Google pushes them. Samsung’s latest runs on Wear OS 6 as well, but under the brand’s One UI Watch skin.
3. A fair price without an ecosystem leash
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