Google Pixel Watch 3 XL vs. Galaxy Watch Ultra: The Ultimate Wear OS Showdown

The unveiling of the Pixel Watch 3 XL is just around the corner, with its official launch expected in a few weeks. Google is anticipated to introduce two versions this year: the standard Pixel Watch 3 and an XL variant, which promises a larger display and potentially additional features.

On the flip side, Samsung has already launched the Galaxy Watch Ultra, marking their inaugural venture into the rugged smartwatch market. The two models diverge significantly in both design and intended use, making a comparison between them particularly fascinating.

This initial comparison aims to juxtapose the Pixel Watch 3 XL against the Galaxy Watch Ultra. Given that one device is yet to be revealed, some details herein are speculative, based on leaks and rumors. We plan to provide an update following the Made by Google event on August 13, so keep an eye out! Now, let’s dive into the details!

Pixel Watch 3 XL vs Galaxy Watch Ultra: expected differences

• Circular design on the Pixel vs square-ish design on the Galaxy Watch Ultra
• 1.45-inch diameter on the Pixel Watch vs 1.5-inch on the Watch Ultra
• Pixel Watch 3 XL expected to be significantly cheaper at $499 for the LTE version
• The Galaxy Watch Ultra starts at $649
• Wear OS 5 on both
• Titanium and sapphire on the Galaxy Watch Ultra vs regular aluminum and tempered glass on the Pixel Watch 3 XL

Design & Sizes

The Galaxy Watch Ultra’s design has certainly turned heads, and not always for reasons its makers would prefer. Critics have accused it of being a blatant tribute to the Apple Watch Ultra, though it does boast distinct features. Its watchface remains round, setting it apart with three physical buttons over the Apple version’s rotating crown.

The Pixel Watch 3 XL, conversely, continues the design legacy of its predecessors with a sleek, “domed” look. This design choice allows the glass above the display to curve seamlessly into the watch body, offering a smooth aesthetic.

Despite these stylistic differences, the two models are comparable in size. The Pixel Watch 3 XL is expected to measure 45mm x 45mm x 13.89mm, closely matching the Galaxy Watch Ultra’s dimensions of 47.1mm x 47.4mm x 12.1mm.

Materially, the Galaxy Watch Ultra opts for a robust titanium case paired with sapphire glass to shield its 1.5-inch Super AMOLED display. The Pixel Watch 3 XL, meanwhile, is anticipated to feature a traditional aluminum casing and tempered glass protecting its 1.45-inch display.

Display brightness for both devices remains a subject of curiosity. We are currently conducting tests on the Galaxy Watch Ultra’s display brightness and await the arrival of the Pixel Watch 3 XL in our lab on August 13. We anticipate similar performance levels from both devices. Watch this space for upcoming test results.

Bands

The Galaxy Watch Ultra introduces a new quick-release mechanism, reminiscent of the one found on the Apple Watch Ultra. Unlike the Galaxy Watch 7, which accommodates standard 20mm and 22mm two-pin straps, the Galaxy Watch Ultra requires bands specifically designed for this unique mechanism.

Similarly, the Pixel Watch 3 XL, according to leaks and rumors, is expected to continue using the proprietary band mechanism of its predecessor. This means it will likely support only proprietary bands or third-party options specifically crafted for the Pixel Watch.

Software & Features

The Pixel Watch 3 XL is anticipated to operate on Wear OS 5, a system previously seen in the Galaxy Watch 7 series. However, Google is expected to unveil some exclusive features for the Pixel Watch 3 XL, enhancing its appeal. Wear OS 5 introduces several advancements, including a grid-based app launcher, a wide array of new watch face complications, and more comprehensive running metrics.

Currently, we are evaluating the Galaxy Watch Ultra and will soon provide a detailed overview of its features and software experience. This review will offer valuable insights into Wear OS 5’s capabilities.

As for the Pixel Watch 3 XL, the spotlight is set for August 13, when we’ll discover whether it boasts any AI-driven special features that distinguish it in the competitive Wear OS landscape.

Battery and Charging

The Pixel Watch 3 XL boasts a 420mAh battery, offering longer battery life than its standard counterpart, the Pixel Watch 3. Despite this improvement, it’s unlikely to surpass the Galaxy Watch Ultra’s impressive 590mAh battery capacity.

Battery longevity depends on various factors, including chipset efficiency, screen brightness settings, and the management of sensors and activity tracking. By sheer capacity, the Galaxy Watch Ultra seems to have the upper hand over the Pixel Watch 3 XL.

Charging speeds between the two devices are relatively similar. The Pixel Watch 3 XL can achieve a 50% charge in just 30 minutes and 80% in 45 minutes. Conversely, the Galaxy Watch Ultra, equipped with 15W wireless charging, reaches a full charge in approximately 90 minutes, with both watches achieving 50% charge at comparable rates. We intend to conduct thorough testing to provide precise charging timelines for both models.

Models and Prices

The Galaxy Watch Ultra is available in just one variant, which is the LTE-enabled version. The model starts at $649.99, and there aren’t any aluminum or stainless steel versions or different sizes to choose from.

The Pixel Watch 3 XL is expected to land in two variants: a Bluetooth-only version, and a LTE variant, costing $449 and $499, respectively. We still don’t know if we’re going to get different materials, but everything points towards just a regular aluminum version with different connectivity options.

Voice Calls and Haptics

Field tests are crucial for evaluating the quality and robustness of the speakers and vibration motors in the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Pixel Watch 3 XL. The Galaxy Watch Ultra is currently undergoing evaluation on our test bench, and we will soon share insights on its microphone and loudspeaker performance. As for the Pixel Watch 3 XL, it remains undisclosed, limiting our ability to provide specific feedback. However, one point of advice for Google is the necessity to enhance the vibration motor. Our experience with the one in the Pixel Watch 2 found it lacking, and improvements are essential for Google to remain competitive in this space.

Specs

Here’s a quick specs comparison for the number nerds out there:

*-rumored specs

Summary

At first glance, the Galaxy Watch Ultra and the Pixel Watch 3 XL appear quite distinct, yet a closer look reveals notable similarities beneath the surface. The screen sizes of both watches are almost identical. Despite the Galaxy Watch Ultra leaning towards a more rugged design, their circular screens share more similarities than differences.

Both smartwatches operate on Wear OS 5. However, the Galaxy Watch Ultra boasts a hardware edge with its durable build and larger battery. On the other hand, the Pixel Watch 3 XL might level the playing field by leveraging some innovative AI capabilities. Keep an eye out for our comprehensive comparison and definitive verdict coming soon.