Hey there! I know shopping for a new smartwatch can be overwhelming with so many options out there nowadays. As your resident tech geek, let me help break down the pros, cons and key differences between two of the best out now – the Google Pixel Watch and Apple‘s brand new Ultra model.
First let‘s look at a quick background. Google only recently joined the smartwatch space when it acquired Fitbit back in 2019. The Pixel Watch is their first crack at a fully in-house wearable integrating Fitbit‘s impressive health platform.
Apple meanwhile has been perfecting the formula since the first Apple Watch in 2015. The Ultra model specifically caters to outdoorsy fitness types with adventure in mind.
Now, let‘s explore some key categories in-depth so I can offer my expert advice on the best option for YOUR needs…
Display And Design
Right off the bat, you‘ll notice a distinct shape difference. The Pixel Watch uses a classic circular design harking back to traditional watches with analog hands. Apple sticks with its distinctive square shape across the Watch lineup.
I really like how the round 42mm Pixel looks on my wrist – it‘s relatively compact but still easy to interact with. The Ultra is much larger at 49 x 44mm with a boxy look that grew on me. I got used to the extra screen space, though it protrudes further measuring 14.4mm thick.
For display itself, Apple‘s high-tech LTPO OLED screens are extremely impressive. They achieve up to 2000 nits brightness for stellar visibility in direct sunlight. The always-on display means you can quickly glance to check the time rather than wait for the screen to turn on. Very convenient!
Google‘s display no slouch at 450 nits bright, but can‘t match Apple‘s verbosity or vibrancy. It also lacks an always-on mode.
| Specification | Pixel Watch | Ultra Watch |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 41 x 41mm | 49 x 44mm |
| Weight | 36g | 70g |
| Casing Material | Polished Stainless Steel | Titanium |
| Display Type | OLED | LTPO OLED |
| Screen Size | 1.2" diameter | 1.92" diagonal |
| Resolution | 320 x 320 px | 502 x 410 px |
| Always-On Display | No | Yes |
| Durability Rating | IP68 | EN13319 extreme testing |
For my money, the Apple Watch Ultra‘s screen real estate, brightness and convenient always-on display provide more valuable utility in daily usage. But if you prefer the classic circular watch look, Google still brings a great high DPI OLED panel.
Health Tracking And Smart Features
Now to functionality – what these devices actually do for you. Both integrate heart rate sensors able to provide resting, workout and recovery readings. You can also take on-demand ECG measurements to check for abnormal heart rhythms.
For fitness, built-in GPS lets you track outdoor activities like runs and bike rides without lugging a phone. The Apple Watch does feature dual-band GPS for more accurate mapping though. Useful if you often run trails or hike remote areas.
Google cleverly leveraged parent company Fitbit‘s excellent health platform for the Pixel Watch. It provides detailed sleep stage analysis and long term heart health trends you won‘t find in the Apple health app.
Apple has introduced better running metrics and multi-sport tracking in the updated watchOS 9 software. You can easily switch between different activities in one session – eg weights, running and rowing. The workout views show additional performance stats too like heart rate zones.
One advantage Apple enjoys is the highly mature app ecosystem baked into watchOS. You can do everyday tasks direct from the wrist, like summoning Uber rides, controlling smart home gadgets or viewing Nest doorbell cameras. More developers support Apple so your favorite services usually integrate with their platform first.
| Feature | Pixel Watch | Ultra Watch |
|---|---|---|
| Health Sensors | HRM, ECG | HRM, ECG, Blood O2 |
| Fitness Tracking | 40+ workouts via Fitbit | watchOS 9 multi-sport |
| Sleep Tracking | Stages + analysis via Fitbit | Basic only |
| Cellular Option | Yes | Yes |
| Smart Features | Google Assistant, Google Wallet | Siri, Apple Wallet, Advanced apps |
| GPS | GPS | Dual-band GPS |
For iPhone owners invested in that ecosystem, I believe the Apple Watch Ultra is the ultimate smart sidekick with advanced capabilities that simplify daily life.
But Android owners should lean towards the Pixel Watch for tighter health platform integration and sleep insights in particular. Fitbit‘s fitness DNA gives it an edge in that department.
Battery Life And Charging
Let‘s talk longevity next. Both watches comfortably provide full day battery from a single charge. The 310 mAh Pixel Watch lasts around 24 hours mixed usage depending on display brightness and other variables.
Apple managed to pack a much larger 542 mAh battery inside the Ultra, eking out up to 36 hours between charges by my testing. Even better – the fast charging gives you 80% battery in just 45 minutes. Very handy for topping up before hitting the trails.
The Apple charger is a bit cumbersome though. It‘s a flat magnetic puck requiring precise alignment with charging pins on the watch back. Google‘s dock charger is so simple by comparison – just lay it on any wireless Qi pad. Overall I‘ll call this category a tie as faster charging balances out the longer running Ultra battery.
Price And Value Comparison
Alright, let‘s talk dollars and cents! Being prestigious new gadgets, neither model comes cheap. ThePixel Watch WiFi model starts from $350. Adding LTE cellular for coverage away from your phone is an extra $50.
Apple asks a premium $799 just to start for the aluminum Ultra model. And that‘s not accounting for any additional watch bands you‘ll inevitably lust after! You can easily spend over $900 for a complete set.
Now relatively speaking, I actually believe the Ultra represents decent value in Apple‘s lineup if you appreciate the materials and features on offer. Most Apple Watch models with premium steel or titanium builds cost around the same ballpark anyway.
So while still steep, you get rugged toughness and adventure-ready credentials for similar money with the Ultra. Comparatively I think the $350 Pixel Watch asks a fair starting price as Google‘s freshman smartwatch effort.
Ultimately, if budget is a primary concern, the $250 Apple Watch SE provides a more affordable entry point to experience core functions without the bells and whistles. So value-seekers should consider that option too if cross-shopping the categories.
My Final Verdict As Your Resident Expert
Alright, let‘s wrap this up! Having tested both watches extensively, I can comfortably recommend the Apple Watch Ultra for iPhone users wanting the very best Apple experience.
The vivid screen, premium build and fleshed out app ecosystem make it the ultimate Swiss Army knife gadget on your wrist. Plus ultra marathon runners will love the advanced fitness tracking capabilities in watchOS 9!
For Android phone owners however, the Pixel Watch makes more sense to me, offering stellar core functionality with tighter Fitbit health integration at under half the price.
You give up some advanced smart features and display prowess, but the Pixel Watch still brings beautiful hardware design paired with Google‘s best-in-class fitness platform. Battery life leaves room for improvement, but I‘m bullish on rapid software enhancements here.
So in summary friend, let your smartphone ecosystem guide your buying decision, then choose your adventure! The Apple Watch Ultra sits atop the mountain as most capable iPhone companion. But Google‘s Pixel Watch brings better overall value and health tracking to Android users today.
Let me know if you have any other questions!
