Google Pixel Watch 3 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
Side-by-side specifications, scores and verdict.
Quick Verdict
Google's Pixel Watch 3 delivers excellent value with Wear OS 5, a bright 2000-nit AMOLED display, and comprehensive health tracking in a lightweight 31g package. Battery life reaches 24 hours normally or 36 hours in Battery Saver mode. Samsung's Galaxy Watch Ultra commands double the price with titanium construction, military durability (MIL-STD-810H), a larger 1.5" display at 3000 nits, and standout 60-hour battery life in Power Saving mode. Both feature identical health sensors (ECG, SpO2, skin temp, sleep tracking) and Wear OS 5. However, the Ultra's cellular connectivity, superior water resistance (10ATM vs 5ATM), premium materials, and exceptional endurance justify premium positioning for serious athletes and outdoors enthusiasts. For everyday users seeking smartwatch essentials without overspending, Pixel Watch 3 excels. Those demanding durability, cellular independence, and multi-day battery deserve the Galaxy Watch Ultra.
Full Specifications
| Specification | Google Pixel Watch 3 | Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Wear OS 5 | Wear OS 5 with One UI Watch 6 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 31 g (41mm, without band) | 60.5 g |
| Case material | Recycled aluminum | Titanium Grade 4 |
| Water resistance | 5ATM + IP68 | 10ATM + IP68 + MIL-STD-810H |
| Health & Sensors | ||
| ECG | ||
| SpO₂ | ||
| Skin temperature | ||
| Heart rate | ||
| Sleep tracking | ||
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 24 hours with always-on display, up to 36 hours in Battery Saver | Up to 60 hours in Power Saving mode (590 mAh) |
| Display | ||
| Size | 41mm (1.2") | 47mm (1.5") |
| Type | LTPO AMOLED Actua, up to 2000 nits, 1Hz–60Hz | Super AMOLED with Sapphire Crystal glass, up to 3000 nits |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 408 x 408 | 480 x 480 |
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 2 GB | 2 GB |
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 + Cortex M33 co-processor | Samsung Exynos W1000 (3nm, 5-core) |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.3 |
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Google Pixel Watch 3
Pros
- Beautiful Actua display with 2000-nit peak brightness and slimmer bezels
- Now offered in two sizes (41mm and 45mm) for better fit options
- Deep Fitbit integration with advanced running form and cardio load metrics
- Loss of Pulse Detection feature can summon emergency help automatically
- Improved battery life over Pixel Watch 2, up to 36 hours in Battery Saver
Cons
- Battery life still trails Samsung and Apple Ultra-tier watches
- Some advanced Fitbit features require a Premium subscription
- Not repairable — Google won't repair damaged units
- Limited third-party app selection compared to Apple Watch
- Not compatible with iPhones
Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
Pros
- Premium titanium build with 10ATM water resistance and MIL-STD durability
- Bright 3000-nit Super AMOLED display with sapphire crystal protection
- Dual-frequency GPS (L1 + L5) for precise outdoor tracking
- Big 590 mAh battery delivers up to 100 hours in Power Saving mode
- Customizable Quick Button for fast access to workouts and apps
Cons
- Very expensive at $649 — Samsung's priciest watch yet
- Only one 47mm size, too large for smaller wrists
- BioActive sensor and BP/ECG features require Samsung phone
- Design closely mimics Apple Watch Ultra
- Limited third-party app ecosystem versus Apple Watch
Related Comparisons
Explore more in smartwatches, see all Google products or all Samsung products. View full details for the Google Pixel Watch 3 or the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra.