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Head-to-head · Best Smartwatches

Apple Watch SE 3 vs Google Pixel Watch 4

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Apple Watch SE 3 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.4 vs 4.1). Apple Watch SE 3 is best for: Budget-conscious users wanting Apple ecosystem. Read the strengths below before deciding.

Apple Watch SE 3
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Smartwatches
Apple Watch SE 3
1 source$219as of Oct 14

The Apple Watch SE 3 represents the most improved iteration since the last generation, offering a compelling balance of affordability and functionality. It features an Always-On Retina display, S10 chip, and enhanced speaker capabilities while maintaining the older design aesthetic. While it lacks some advanced health metrics found in higher-tier models, it provides solid performance and is recommended as the go-to option for most users seeking an Apple Watch.

Strengths
  • — Features Always-On Retina display with 1000 nits brightness and 2 nits dimming capability, per AppleInsider
  • — Includes media playback speakers with adjustable volume for on-wrist audio
  • — Utilizes strengthened Ion-X glass that is 4X crack-resistant compared to previous generation, according to Cult of Mac
Watch-outs
  • — Design retains 2018 facelift with thicker bezels and outdated body profile, per Wareable
  • — Limited color options with only Midnight and Starlight available
$219 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Google Pixel Watch 4
Ranked #7 in Best Smartwatches
Google Pixel Watch 4
2 sources$399.99as of Oct 11

The Google Pixel Watch 4 features a refined curved display with improved brightness and smaller bezels, delivering over two days of battery life. It includes built-in Gemini AI assistant and maintains accurate fitness tracking capabilities. While it offers a sleek design and solid performance, it lacks new sensors and restricts some features behind a paywall. This smartwatch appeals to users prioritizing style and battery longevity over advanced health monitoring.

Strengths
  • — More than two days of battery life (56 hours tested)
  • — Built-in Gemini for voice control
  • — Accurate exercise and sleep tracking
Watch-outs
  • — Daily run recommendations are paywalled, per PCMag
  • — Lack of sapphire glass makes the display prone to scratches
$399.99 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →

How they stack up

Apple Watch SE 3

The Apple Watch SE 3 offers an updated design and Always-On Retina display, which the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 and Apple Watch Series 11 don't match, but it lacks the advanced health features of the Garmin Venu 4 and Apple Watch Ultra 3. While it provides better value than the Apple Watch Series 11, it doesn't offer the same level of smart features as the OnePlus Watch 3 or Xiaomi Watch 5. The Google Pixel Watch 4 offers more battery life but lacks the ecosystem integration that the SE 3 provides.

Google Pixel Watch 4

The Google Pixel Watch 4 offers over two days of battery life and built-in Gemini AI, which is more than the Apple Watch Series 11 or OnePlus Watch 3, but it lacks sapphire glass and restricts some features behind a paywall. Unlike the Garmin Venu 4, it doesn't provide advanced fitness metrics or recovery tracking, and while it's more affordable than the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2, it doesn't offer the same durability or health monitoring capabilities. The Apple Watch SE 3 provides better value with its updated design and speaker capabilities.

Specs side-by-side

SpecApple Watch SE 3Google Pixel Watch 4
Display TypeLTPO OLEDAMOLED
Connectivity5G4G LTE and UMTS, Bluetooth 6.0, Wi-Fi, NFC, Ultra wideband, Satellite SOS
OSwatchOS 26Wear OS 6.0
CompatibilityiPhoneAndroid
Material100% recycled aluminum100% recycled aluminum
Water Resistance50m (swimproof)5 ATM IP68
BatteryBuilt-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery325 mAh
Dimensions9.4 x 3 x 1.2 inches41mm diameter x 12.3mm height
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