Google Pixel Watch (1st Gen) vs Samsung Galaxy Watch FE
The Verdict
Google Pixel Watch offers superior integration with Android devices through native Wear OS 3.5 and features a brighter AMOLED display with higher 450x450 resolution compared to Samsung's 396x396 panel. Built-in cellular connectivity provides standalone functionality, though battery life maxes out at 24 hours. Samsung Galaxy Watch FE counters with notably better stamina, delivering up to 30 hours per charge, lighter aluminum construction at 26.6g versus 36g, and dual IP68 water rating. Both include ECG and SpO2 monitoring with comparable health tracking capabilities. For $150 less, Galaxy Watch FE represents exceptional value despite lacking cellular and displaying slightly lower resolution. Choose Pixel Watch if you prioritize display quality and cellular independence; select Galaxy Watch FE for superior battery endurance and budget-conscious shopping.
Who Should Buy
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
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Watch FE if…
- →Full Galaxy Watch experience at the most affordable Samsung price
- →ECG, SpO2, and heart rate monitoring included
- →Always-on Super AMOLED display
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
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
Samsung Galaxy Watch FE
Pros
- Full Galaxy Watch experience at the most affordable Samsung price
- ECG, SpO2, and heart rate monitoring included
- Always-on Super AMOLED display
- Wear OS 4 with Google apps and Samsung health features
- NFC for Samsung Pay and Google Wallet
Cons
- Older Exynos W920 chip is slower than Galaxy Watch 7
- No skin temperature sensor
- Only Bluetooth — no cellular LTE option
- 40mm only — no larger size option
Full Specifications
| Spec | Google Pixel Watch (1st Gen) | Samsung Galaxy Watch FE |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Wear OS 3.5 by Google | Wear OS 4 (One UI Watch 5) |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 36 g (without band) | 26.6 g |
| Case material | Recycled stainless steel with domed Gorilla Glass 5 | Aluminum |
| Water resistance | 5ATM | 5ATM + IP68 |
| Health & Sensors | ||
| ECG | ||
| SpO₂ | ||
| Skin temperature | ||
| Heart rate | ||
| Sleep tracking | ||
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 24 hours | Up to 30 hrs (typical usage) |
| Display | ||
| Size | 41mm | 40 mm |
| Type | AMOLED, DCI-P3, Always-On | Super AMOLED |
| Always-on display | ||
| Resolution | 450 x 450 | 396 x 396 |
| Processor | ||
| Chipset | Samsung Exynos 9110 with Cortex-M33 co-processor | Exynos W920 |
| RAM | — | 1.5 GB |
| Connectivity | ||
| GPS | ||
| NFC | ||
| Wi-Fi | ||
| Cellular | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 |
Related Comparisons
- Google Pixel Watch (1st Gen) vs Withings ScanWatch 2
- Google Pixel Watch (1st Gen) vs TicWatch Pro 5 Enduro
- Google Pixel Watch (1st Gen) vs TicWatch Pro 5
- Google Pixel Watch (1st Gen) vs Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra
- Google Pixel Watch (1st Gen) vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 7
- Google Pixel Watch (1st Gen) vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
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.
Explore more in smartwatches, see all Google products or all Samsung products. View full details for the Google Pixel Watch (1st Gen) or the Samsung Galaxy Watch FE.