Apple Watch SE (2022) vs Google Pixel Watch (1st Gen)
The Verdict
Apple Watch SE offers exceptional value at $249, pairing reliable health tracking with seamless iPhone integration and industry-leading battery efficiency. Google Pixel Watch costs $100 more but delivers advanced health features including ECG and SpO2 monitoring, a superior always-on AMOLED display with 450x450 resolution, and longer 24-hour battery life. Both devices provide GPS, NFC, and cellular connectivity. SE's 18-hour battery requires nightly charging, while Pixel Watch comfortably handles multiple days. Google's Wear OS ecosystem has improved significantly but remains less polished than watchOS for non-Android users. SE excels for iPhone owners prioritizing affordability and simplicity. Pixel Watch justifies its premium for those wanting comprehensive health analytics and Wear OS customization. For budget-conscious Apple users, SE is the clear choice; Android users benefit more from Pixel Watch's features.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple Watch SE (2022) if…
- →Same S8 chip as Series 8 at $150 less — best value Apple Watch
- →Crash Detection included at this price point
- →Lightweight nylon-reinforced composite back is comfortable on the wrist
Buy the Google Pixel Watch (1st Gen) if…
- →Beautiful domed glass design with smooth pebble-like aesthetic
- →Deep Fitbit integration for health tracking and premium features
- →Smooth Wear OS 3.5 with native Google Maps and Google Wallet
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple Watch SE (2022)
Pros
- Same S8 chip as Series 8 at $150 less — best value Apple Watch
- Crash Detection included at this price point
- Lightweight nylon-reinforced composite back is comfortable on the wrist
- Family Setup lets kids use it without an iPhone
- Full access to the Apple Watch app ecosystem
Cons
- No Always-On display — screen goes dark when wrist is lowered
- No ECG, SpO2, or skin temperature sensors
- Thicker bezels than Series 8 make the screen feel smaller
- 18-hour battery still requires nightly charging
Google Pixel Watch (1st Gen)
Pros
- Beautiful domed glass design with smooth pebble-like aesthetic
- Deep Fitbit integration for health tracking and premium features
- Smooth Wear OS 3.5 with native Google Maps and Google Wallet
- Accurate heart rate and SpO2 tracking with ECG support
- Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear at 36 g
Cons
- 24-hour battery life barely lasts a full day with active use
- Thick bezels reduce the usable screen area
- Exynos 9110 is an older chip that can feel laggy
- Only one 41mm size option — too small for many users
- No offline Google Maps navigation at launch
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple Watch SE (2022) | Google Pixel Watch (1st Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Software | watchOS 9 (upgradable to watchOS 11+) | Wear OS 3.5 by Google |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 26.8 g (40mm) / 33 g (44mm) | 36 g (without band) |
| Case material | Aluminum | Recycled stainless steel with domed Gorilla Glass 5 |
| Water resistance | WR50 (50m) | 5ATM |
| Health & Sensors | ||
| ECG | ||
| SpO₂ | ||
| Skin temperature | ||
| Heart rate | ||
| Sleep tracking | ||
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 24 hours |
| Display | ||
| Size | 40mm / 44mm | 41mm |
| Type | LTPO OLED Retina | AMOLED, DCI-P3, Always-On |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 324 x 394 / 368 x 448 | 450 x 450 |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | Apple S8 SiP | Samsung Exynos 9110 with Cortex-M33 co-processor |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.0 |
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This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
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