Pixel Watch 3 vs Fitbit Sense 2: Which is Better For Your Lifestyle?
Naila Syifa
Updated November 2024
Pixel Watch 3 and Fitbit Sense 2 are some of the popular smartwatches competing in today's wearable tech market. Both coming from Google, they share many features but target slightly different user needs. What makes them different and which one is the better choice for your lifestyle and budget?
Key Takeaways
Pixel Watch 3 has more advanced training and connectivity features, catering better to fitness-focused users who want a full smartwatch experience without having to rely on their phone for every task. Fitbit Sense 2, meanwhile, focuses more on health and wellness features while offering a longer-lasting battery, catering better to users who prioritize stress management and less frequent charging.
Pixel Watch 3
Smart & Active Smartwatch
✓ 40+ Exercises
✓ Real-Time Guidance & Cardio Load
✓ Google Apps
✓ Optional LTE
Fitbit Sense 2
Smartwatch for Mind & Body
✓ EDA Scan App
✓ Built-In Alexa
✓ On-Wrist Bluetooth Calls
✓ 6+ Day Battery
Price
Pixel Watch 3
Fitbit Sense 2 only comes in one variant that retails at US$249.95, while Google Pixel Watch 3 starts from US$349.99 for the Bluetooth/Wi-Fi 41mm variant. That makes the Pixel Watch 3 about $100 more expensive than its Fitbit counterpart, but other variants of the Pixel Watch 3 are even more expensive.
Pixel Watch 3 Bluetooth/Wi-Fi 41mm: US$349.99
Pixel Watch 3 Bluetooth/Wi-Fi 45mm: US$399.99
Pixel Watch 3 Bluetooth/Wi-Fi + 4G LTE 41mm: US$449.99
Pixel Watch 3 Bluetooth/Wi-Fi + 4G LTE 45mm: US$499.99
Design & Display
Fitbit Sense 2
Fitbit Sense 2 has a 1.58-inch AMOLED screen in a rectangular 40.5mm aluminum case with rounded edges. The Pixel Watch 3, on the other hand, has an Actua display and a circular case with two size options – 41mm and 45mm. Actua display is Google's new OLED technology that offers enhanced brightness and clarity.
Unlike the Fitbit Sense 2, the Pixel Watch 3 comes equipped with a haptic crown that allows for precise scrolling through the watch's interface. This makes navigation smoother and more intuitive than mere touch controls.
When it comes to durability, both the Pixel Watch 3 and Fitbit Sense 2 boast a 5 ATM water rating. This allows them to withstand water pressure up to 50 meters deep for swimming in the pool, showering, and more.
Health & Fitness Features
Pixel Watch 3
Pixel Watch 3 and Fitbit Sense 2 have many similar health and fitness features, including heart rate tracking, blood oxygen monitoring, skin temperature sensor, sleep tracking, stress tracking, activity tracking, ECG for AFib assessment, support for various exercises, and Daily Readiness score for determining your readiness for workouts.
When it comes to training-specific features, the Pixel Watch 3 is better equipped. It offers real-time pace guidance for running, cardio load measurement to see your training intensity, and target cardio load to optimize training and prevent overexertion.
However, when it comes to stress management and mindfulness features, the Fitbit Sense 2 stands out better. Other than basic tools like mood logging, guided breathing sessions, and stress score, Fitbit Sense 2 also features an EDA Scan app, which measures your electrodermal activity during breathing or mindfulness sessions to help you understand and manage your stress levels more effectively.
Smartwatch Features
Fitbit Sense 2
Both the Pixel Watch 3 and Fitbit Sense 2 offer smartphone notification support and access to Google's app ecosystem, including Google Maps and Google Wallet. They also come equipped with built-in speakers and microphones, allowing for voice commands and call functionality.
The Pixel Watch 3 edges out with more comprehensive calling features, allowing both incoming and outgoing calls, while the Fitbit Sense 2 only handles incoming calls. Message handling also differs significantly – Pixel Watch 3 users can type responses using an on-screen keyboard, whereas Fitbit Sense 2 users are limited to emojis, voice replies, or pre-set Quick Replies.
For those seeking independence from their smartphone, the Pixel Watch 3's 4G LTE model offers standalone connectivity. That means, features like calling, texting, playing music, or contactless payment can work without a nearby smartphone. In contrast, the Fitbit Sense 2 requires a constant smartphone connection to access these features.
The Pixel Watch 3 further distinguishes itself with smart home integration, offering control over Pixel Camera, Google TV, and compatible Nest devices, making it a more comprehensive hub for Google ecosystem users.
Battery Life
Pixel Watch 3
When it comes to battery performance, the Fitbit Sense 2 takes the lead with an impressive 6-day battery life, though this drops to 5 hours with continuous GPS usage.
The Pixel Watch 3, on the other hand, offers only up to 24 hours of use with the always-on display feature or slightly more extended at 36 hours in battery-saver mode.
The Pixel Watch 3 compensates for its shorter battery life with superior charging capabilities – a full charge in just 60 minutes for the 41mm model or 80 minutes for the 35mm variant. It is significantly faster than the Fitbit Sense 2, which can take 2 hours for a full charge.
Pixel Watch 3 vs Fitbit Sense 2
Final Thoughts
Pixel Watch 3
The Pixel Watch 3 stands out as a premium smartwatch with advanced training features, LTE connectivity, and seamless Google ecosystem integration, making it ideal for fitness enthusiasts who value smartwatch functionality.
The Fitbit Sense 2, however, excels as a fitness and mindfulness-focused device with exceptional battery life, perfect for health-conscious users who prioritize wellness tracking and stress management over advanced connectivity features.
If you like to read more on smartwatches, check out our other relevant guides here:
Pixel Watch 3 vs Garmin Venu 3
Pixel Watch 3 vs Garmin Vivoactive 5
Pixel Watch 3 vs Fitbit Versa 4
Author
Naila Syifa
Content Manager at Synced. She crafts insightful content on the latest trends in technology, consumer electronics, and smart home gadgets.
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