In the tech world, few things are as satisfying as finally getting your hands on a long-awaited device after months of rumors and speculation. With the Pixel Watch 3, Google has not only met expectations but also added some much-desired features. The most notable of these is the introduction of a 45mm variant, a welcome change for those who found the previous models a bit too small. In this detailed hands-on review, we’ll dive deep into the differences between the 45mm and 41mm versions, the design improvements, and the new software features that make the Pixel Watch 3 a compelling upgrade.
The most significant change with the Pixel Watch 3 is the introduction of the larger 45mm size, a feature that has been on many users’ wish lists. For the past two generations, the Pixel Watch line has been available only in a 41mm variant, which, while suitable for many, left others wanting a larger screen. The 45mm Pixel Watch 3 answers those calls and brings with it a host of improvements.
Starting with the display, the 45mm Pixel Watch 3 features a screen that is 40% larger than the one on the 41mm Pixel Watch 2. This increase in size makes a noticeable difference in everyday use. Notifications, watch faces, and app interfaces all benefit from the additional real estate, making the watch easier to use and more visually appealing.
Both the 41mm and 45mm models also see a reduction in bezel size—by about 16% compared to last year’s Pixel Watch 2. This change, combined with the larger display on the 45mm model, creates a more immersive experience, whether you’re checking the time or scrolling through notifications. Additionally, both sizes of the Pixel Watch 3 now feature displays that can reach a peak brightness of 2,000 nits. This is a significant upgrade over previous models and ensures that the watch remains easily readable even in bright sunlight.
The 45mm variant also brings some unique design elements. While both models share a Gorilla Glass 5 front and a glossy aluminum exterior, the larger watch offers an option for a matte finish, which many users will appreciate for its sleek and modern look. The overall design remains minimalistic and elegant, a hallmark of the Pixel Watch line, but these subtle tweaks add a new level of refinement.
The larger 45mm screen has also led to some changes in the user interface. Watch faces, for example, have been slightly redesigned to take full advantage of the extra space. The Active face now has more room for complications, allowing users to see more information at a glance. The redesigned Track face can monitor two metrics simultaneously, with space for a third. Additionally, Wear OS tile interfaces have been adjusted to show more data, such as a 4-hour weather forecast or more workout options in the Fitbit workout screen.
These changes are particularly beneficial for those who use their smartwatch for fitness tracking or as a daily productivity tool. The extra screen space means less scrolling and more information visible at a glance, making the Pixel Watch 3 a more efficient and user-friendly device.
While the Pixel Watch 3 brings a lot of new features, the core specifications remain largely unchanged from the Pixel Watch 2. Both the 41mm and 45mm models are powered by the Snapdragon W5 chipset, paired with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of onboard storage. This combination provides smooth performance for most tasks, whether you’re using Google Assistant, tracking your fitness, or controlling smart home devices.
One of the key differences between the two sizes is battery capacity. The 41mm model retains the 306mAh battery found in last year’s model, while the 45mm variant includes a larger 420mAh battery. Despite this difference, Google claims that both models offer up to 24 hours of battery life with the always-on display active, and up to 36 hours in battery saver mode. The larger battery in the 45mm model should, in theory, provide a bit more longevity, especially for users who take full advantage of the watch’s features.
Charging speeds have also been improved, with the Pixel Watch 3 offering 20% faster charging than its predecessor. This means less downtime and more time enjoying everything your smartwatch has to offer.
Beyond hardware, the Pixel Watch 3 introduces a range of new software features, many of which are focused on health and fitness, thanks to the deep integration with Fitbit. One of the standout features is the new Fitbit Running Coach, which allows users to create custom workouts directly on the watch. You can set target pace, heart rate, distance, and more, and receive real-time guidance through audio cues and haptics to ensure you’re hitting your goals. This feature is particularly useful for serious runners who want to fine-tune their training without needing to carry their phone.
Another new addition is the Running Dashboard, accessible via the Fitbit app, which provides a comprehensive overview of your running stats. This includes everything from pace and distance to heart rate zones and calories burned, making it easier than ever to analyze and improve your performance.
Sleep tracking has also seen improvements, with the Pixel Watch 3 now able to automatically detect when you’re asleep and enable Bedtime Mode. This feature turns off notifications and the always-on display, ensuring a more restful night without interruptions. In the morning, the new Morning Briefing feature provides a summary of your Readiness score, how you slept, various fitness metrics, goal progress, and even the weather. This daily update is a great way to start your day informed and ready to tackle whatever comes your way.
On the software side, Google has introduced several enhancements to Wear OS with the Pixel Watch 3. The new Pixel Recorder app is a particularly useful addition, allowing you to capture voice notes directly from your wrist. This is ideal for those moments when you need to jot down a quick thought but don’t have your phone or a notebook handy.
The Google Home app has also been upgraded, now offering controls for Google TV, Nest Doorbell, and camera feeds, all accessible from your watch. This integration makes the Pixel Watch 3 an even more powerful tool for managing your smart home.
Additionally, Wear OS now features an app grid with large, easy-to-see icons, making it easier to find and launch your favorite apps. This is a significant improvement over the previous list view and adds to the overall user-friendliness of the watch.
When it comes to pricing, the 41mm Pixel Watch 3 is priced at $349, the same as last year’s model. The 45mm variant, however, comes in at $399, $50 more than its smaller counterpart. Interestingly, both LTE models are priced at $449, which could be seen as a positive for those opting for the larger model, but it’s definitely a bit unusual to see the same price for different sizes.
Overall, the Pixel Watch 3 represents a subtle yet impactful upgrade over its predecessors. The introduction of the 45mm variant, with its larger screen and enhanced UI, will likely appeal to users who found the previous models too small. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast looking for advanced tracking features or simply someone who enjoys the convenience of having a smartwatch, the Pixel Watch 3 has a lot to offer.
If you’ve been waiting for a larger Pixel Watch, the 45mm variant of the Pixel Watch 3 will not disappoint. The increased screen size, coupled with the new software features and design refinements, make it a compelling choice for anyone in the market for a new smartwatch. Even if you’re content with the 41mm size, the reduced bezels, brighter display, and faster charging speeds are all welcome improvements that enhance the overall experience.
For those who prioritize fitness tracking, the deeper integration with Fitbit and the new health-focused features make the Pixel Watch 3 a powerful tool. And with Google’s continued improvements to Wear OS, this smartwatch is more capable than ever.
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