When it comes to being Subjectively or objectively better than a comparable device, we strive to focus on taking an objective approach, especially when it comes to our reviews. Just because I think the Galaxy Z Fold 4 is the best smartphone ever made, doesn’t mean that it’s the best Android phone for anyone else.
This same mentality applies to everything that I get my hands on, ranging from tablets, accessories, and the topic of today, smartwatches. In my Google Pixel Watch review (opens in new tab), I stated that despite it being expensive and relying on proprietary bands, it’s still worth the steep price tag. Something that I didn’t really get into much was the actual size of the thing, as that’s a subjective opinion that doesn’t really detract from the overall package that Google has delivered.
Size mostly doesn’t matter
Take one look at any of the best smartwatchesOder fitness trackers that I’ve reviewed here, and you’ll quickly notice that I don’t have the smallest of wrists. Dainty wearables that are lightweight and make me forget that they are even there aren’t really my style. And for as much as I absolutely adore the Pixel Watch, it, unfortunately, falls into this category.
By comparison, I also own the Apple Watch Ultra with its 49mm case size, along with the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro which sports a 45mm case. And when it comes to purchasing my own wearables, I always go for the largest size possible, just because the smaller wearables simply don’t look right on my wrist. At least in my own eyes.
Compare that to the 41mm case size of the Pixel Watch, and it’s simply a night and day difference on my wrist. It’s almost to the point that it looks comical, but still looks much better (on me) than the Garmin Vivosmart 5 that I reviewed earlier this year.
I’ve been one of those nerds who has been impatiently awaiting the arrival of Google’s own smartwatch ever since Android Wear was introduced. The rumor mill got me excited more than a few times, only for Google to let me down. That is, until I/O 2022 when the Pixel Watch was first shown off.
Seeing the press renders of a device is one thing, but I went a bit overboard trying to get a close-up look at the Pixel Watch on Rick Osterloh’s wrist during the announcement. Never having met the individual, it didn’t really help all that much while I was trying to figure out whether it would look goodOder not on my own wrist.
Alas, the beans were finally spilled and I managed to get the Pixel Watch slapped onto my big ole’ wrist, only to find myself conflicted. I don’t care about the massive bezels because Google’s built-in watch faces do a great job of hiding them from me. I also don’t have much of an opinion on the rotating crown, as this is a necessity for any smartwatch that doesn’t want to force you to touch the screen just to scroll.
Honestly, more smartwatches should offer this, even Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 5 and Watch 5 Pro. But with the Pixel Watch, I Nearly exclusively use the digital crown as my fat fingers hide the majority of the screen while scrolling through the various menus.
Pixel Watch 2 should be made in other sizes
If Google isn’t already working on its next smartwatch design, then I hope it does. Google doesn’t have to take the responsibility. Apple Watchapproach, offers four smartwatches in total, each tailored to different price brackets.
Instead, you can take a page from Apple and Samsung, and make the Pixel Watch 2 in 41mm and 45mm cases. We can all enjoy a larger smartwatch, no matter how long the battery lasts.
It is important to note that I do not have any information on the future of Google’s product lines. However, I think there is a case to be made for having more options than just colors and bands for Google’s next wearable.
Google made the right decision
Even with all that said, I remain convinced that Google made a good decision by staying safe. A smartwatch that measures 41mm in size is most likely to be the most widely sold, regardless of its maker.
Google is “playing it safe”, meaning they didn’t attempt to swing for the proverbial fencing. You can release the smaller one with a few colors. Different kinds of thingsNext, you can go from there. Before making any final decisions about whether there will ever be a successor, gauge how the market reacts and then see the end result.
The Pixel Watch is still my favorite, and I use it more than the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro. This is simply because I like the interface. While it might not look as good on me, I still prefer Google’s vision. Wear OSIt’s superior to any other smartwatch maker. This is kind of the point.
Perfectly imperfect
The Google Pixel Watch might not be as sleek and polished as the Galaxy Watch 5 or Apple Watch. Google’s Wear OS 3.5 approach, combined with the beautiful design make for an exceptional smartwatch experience.
