Pixel Watch 5 vs. Pixel Watch 4: 20% Faster AI, $399 Price Point Compared

The Pixel Watch 5 is the better buy for users prioritizing enhanced AI features and improved performance, while the Pixel Watch 4 offers similar core functionality at a likely lower price point. The primary deciding factor is whether the Pixel Watch 5’s AI advancements and 20% speed increase justify its cost over the still-capable Pixel Watch 4, especially since battery life remains largely unchanged between the two models.

Pixel Watch 5 vs. Pixel Watch 4: Key Differences

The Pixel Watch 5 introduces several new sensors for more comprehensive health tracking. It includes a barometer and magnetometer for altitude and direction, alongside red and infrared sensors for SpO2 monitoring. It also features multipurpose electrical sensors and a skin temperature sensor for detailed body response tracking.

Both watches share a multi-path optical heart rate sensor, a 3-axis accelerometer, a gyroscope, and an ambient light sensor. The Pixel Watch 5 also retains ECG sensors, but adds a barometer and magnetometer that were not explicitly listed for the Pixel Watch 4.

The Pixel Watch 5 features an electrical sensor for body response tracking, a feature not mentioned for the Pixel Watch 4. The inclusion of a skin temperature sensor also differentiates the newer model, offering insights into physiological changes.

Performance and AI Features

The Pixel Watch 5 boasts a 20% performance improvement over the Pixel Watch 4, powered by the Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 Accelerated processor. This upgrade contributes to a smoother user experience and enables more advanced AI features.

The Pixel Watch 5 also doubles the storage capacity of the Pixel Watch 4. This increased space is dedicated to supporting AI functionalities like Raise to Talk and Smart Replies, allowing the watch to proactively suggest relevant responses in text conversations.

For example, if a friend texts asking for another friend’s contact information, the Pixel Watch 5’s Gemini integration can automatically pull up those details as a suggested reply. Offline Gemini is also available for managing timers and alarms via voice commands.

Google has also updated the GPS on the Pixel Watch 5 for more accurate route tracking during outdoor activities like runs, cycles, or walks. Google claims this route-tracking capability surpasses that of the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Garmin Fenix 8 Pro.

Battery Life and Design

In terms of battery, the 41mm Pixel Watch 5 offers the same 325 mAh capacity as the Pixel Watch 4. Both models are rated to last around 30 hours with the always-on display enabled.

The larger 45mm model of the Pixel Watch 5 has a slightly larger battery capacity of 465 mAh, an increase of 10 mAh over its Pixel Watch 4 counterpart. However, this minor increase is not considered a significant upgrade.

The Pixel Watch 2, and presumably the Pixel Watch 5, is constructed from aluminum. The original Pixel Watch was made of stainless steel. The design of both the Pixel Watch 5 and Pixel Watch 4 remains largely consistent, with the primary differentiation being the processor and internal components.

Price and Value Proposition

The Pixel Watch 5 is priced at $399, positioning it as Google’s latest smartwatch offering. When comparing it to the previous generation, the Pixel Watch 4, its value proposition becomes clearer.

The Pixel Watch 4 is expected to see further price reductions, particularly during sales events like Black Friday or Prime Day. This makes it a potentially more budget-friendly option, especially considering the minimal differences in battery life.

Coupled with the fact that battery life is essentially the same between the two models, it may not be financially prudent to purchase the Pixel Watch 5 if your needs are met by the Pixel Watch 4.

The software features often trickle down to older models via updates, diminishing the exclusive appeal of the newer hardware.

Feature	Pixel Watch 5	Pixel Watch 4
Processor	Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 Accelerated	(Not specified)
Storage	Double Pixel Watch 4	(Not specified)
AI Features	Raise to Talk, Smart Replies, Offline Gemini	(Limited/Not specified)
GPS Accuracy	Updated, claims superiority	(Not specified)
Battery Capacity (41mm)	325 mAh	325 mAh
Battery Capacity (45mm)	465 mAh	(Not specified)
Battery Life (Always-on display)	~30 hours	~30 hours
Sensors (New/Enhanced)	Barometer, Magnetometer, Skin temperature, Multipurpose electrical sensors, Red/Infrared SpO2	(Not specified)
Material	Aluminum	Aluminum (Pixel Watch 2), Stainless steel (Original Pixel Watch)
Price	$399	Expected discounts, previously $349/$399

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main hardware differences?

The Pixel Watch 5 introduces new sensors like a barometer, magnetometer, and skin temperature sensor for enhanced health tracking. It also features multipurpose electrical sensors and advanced red and infrared SpO2 sensors.

Is the Pixel Watch 5 faster than the Pixel Watch 4?

Yes, the Pixel Watch 5 is approximately 20% faster due to its Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 Accelerated processor and has double the storage capacity.

Does the Pixel Watch 5 have better battery life?

The battery life is comparable. Both the 41mm Pixel Watch 5 and Pixel Watch 4 offer around 30 hours with the always-on display. The 45mm Pixel Watch 5 has a slightly larger 465 mAh battery.

Should I buy the Pixel Watch 5 or the Pixel Watch 4?

Buy the Pixel Watch 5 if you prioritize the latest AI features and enhanced performance. Opt for the Pixel Watch 4 if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option and are satisfied with core smartwatch functionality, as battery life is similar.

Buy the Pixel Watch 5 if: You want the fastest performance and the latest AI features like proactive Smart Replies and improved route tracking, and you are willing to pay a premium for these advancements.

Buy the Pixel Watch 4 if: You are looking for a capable smartwatch experience with similar battery life to the latest model, and you want to save money, especially if you anticipate further discounts on the older device.