What's New in Google Pixel Watch 3 vs Pixel Watch 2
The Pixel Watch 3 introduces significant upgrades including dual size options, exclusive UWB chip, doubled display brightness, and enhanced health features.
Key Improvements Summary
| Feature | Pixel Watch 2 | Pixel Watch 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Sizes | 41mm only | 41mm + 45mm |
| Battery (45mm) | N/A | 420mAh (30+ hours) |
| Display Brightness | 1000 nits | 2000 nits |
| UWB Chip | No | Yes (precise device finding) |
| WearOS Version | 4 | 5 |
| Loss of Pulse Detection | No | Yes |
Dual Size Options (New)
The Pixel Watch 3 is the first Pixel Watch with two sizes.
| Spec | 41mm | 45mm |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 1.2" | 1.4" (30% larger) |
| Battery | 307mAh | 420mAh (37% larger) |
| Battery Life | 24+ hours | 30+ hours |
The 45mm addresses the most requested improvement from Pixel Watch 2 users.
Exclusive UWB Chip (New)
The Pixel Watch 3 includes Ultra-Wideband for precise Pixel phone finding:
- Room-level location accuracy
- Directional guidance
- Accurate distance measurement
Requires: Pixel 6 Pro or newer with UWB chip.
Enhanced Display
Both sizes feature Actua display technology with 2000 nits peak brightness - double the Pixel Watch 2's 1000 nits. Dramatically better outdoor visibility in direct sunlight.
Battery Improvements
| Model | Typical Use | Power Save |
|---|---|---|
Pixel Watch 2 | 24 hours | 36 hours |
Pixel Watch 3 41mm | 24+ hours | 36+ hours |
Pixel Watch 3 45mm | 30+ hours | 48+ hours |
The 45mm model offers meaningful multi-day potential.
New Health Features
- Loss of Pulse Detection: Automatically detects if pulse stops and contacts emergency services
- Advanced Running Metrics: Cadence, vertical oscillation, ground contact time
- Cardio Load Tracking: Workout intensity impact over time
- Enhanced Heart Rate: Faster response during workout transitions
What Stays the Same
- Same 5ATM + IP68 water resistance
- Same charging speed
- Same sensor suite (heart rate, ECG, SpO2, skin temperature)
- Same Google services integration
Should You Upgrade?
Upgrade if:
- You want larger screen and battery (45mm)
- You need UWB precise device finding
- You find single-day battery limiting
- You want enhanced running metrics
Keep Pixel Watch 2 if:
- You're satisfied with current performance
- You don't own a
Pixelphone with UWB - You prefer to wait for
Pixel Watch 4
Best Value
The 45mm model addresses Pixel Watch 2's primary limitations (battery and screen size) while adding exclusive UWB technology.
See Also: What Size Options|41mm vs 45mm Comparison|How Much Cost