Deciding between two generations of the same product can be a tough proposition. Do you care more about novelty or overall value? Do you err on the side of maximalism or minimalism? Are you willing to spend a little more for a few new features?
That’s the age-old question around here, and it’s rarely an easy one to answer. Nevertheless, we try our hand. This week’s challenge comes in the form of the new Pixel Watch 5—it’s a shiny $399 smartwatch from Google’s latest lineup, but how does it compare to last year’s model? I’ve spent some time with it and tested last year’s Pixel Watch 4. Here’s how they stack up.
Specifications
AMOLED LTPO, 3,000 nits
AMOLED, 3,000 nits
41mm/45mm
41mm/45mm
Compass, altimeter, red and infrared sensors for SpO2, multipurpose electrical sensors, multi-path optical heart rate sensor, 3-axis accelerometer, gyroscope, ambient light sensor, electrical sensor for body response tracking, skin temperature sensor, barometer, magnetometer
Compass, altimeter, red and infrared sensors, ECG sensors, multi-path optical heart rate sensor, 3-axis accelerometer, gyroscope, ambient light sensor, electrical sensor, temperature sensor, barometer, magnetometer.
Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 Accelerated
Snapdragon W5 Gen 2
2GB RAM, 64GB storage
2GB RAM, 32GB storage
Yes with LTE
Standalone SOS satellite
325mAh / 465mAh
325mAh / 455mAh
Starting at $399
Starting at $399
You should buy the Pixel Watch 5 if you want…
1. The faster, more capable device
The Pixel Watch 5 feels a little bit faster and smoother to use—about 20% quicker thanks to the Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 Accelerated processor. The Watch 5 also benefits from double the storage capacity of the Watch 4, which accommodates space for advanced AI features such as Raise to Talk and Smart Replies.
The watch can proactively answer questions within text conversations, offering relevant suggestions for responses a user might otherwise have searched for. For example, if you receive a message from a friend asking for another contact’s details, Gemini can pull that information up on the watch as a recommended reply. Offline Gemini is also accessible for managing timers, alarms, and other tasks via voice commands.
2. A better watch for route tracking
Google has updated the watch’s GPX onboarding for even greater accuracy when logging outdoor routes. This makes it easier to track runs, cycling sessions, or walks using the Pixel Watch 5. According to Google, the watch’s routing capabilities now outperform those of the Apple Watch United Race 3 and the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro—so you’re getting a dedicated route‑tracking device that rivals pricier rugged alternatives while costing less.
Also: Using it as a trail companion can significantly boost workout tracking compared to older models.
You should buy the Pixel Watch 4 if you want…
1. A more affordable option
Each new generation typically sees lower pricing. You can expect further discounts on the Pixel Watch 4 over the coming year—especially during major sales events like Black Friday or Prime Day. While some of the hardware in the fifth generation won’t be present on the fourth‑generation model, much of the software released with the Watch 5 is carried forward to the earlier version.
2. Good battery life, since they’re nearly the same
This year’s smartwatch iteration did not prioritize a larger battery pack. The 41 mm model of the Pixel Watch 5 retains the same capacity as the Watch 4—roughly 30 hours of usage with the always‑on display left enabled. The 45 mm variant nudges the capacity upward slightly to 10 mAh more, reaching 465 mAh, but improvements here are incremental rather than revolutionary.
writer-choice:
“If you don’t plan to leverage every AI capability Google packs into the Pixel Watch 5 and simply want a versatile smartwatch for general health monitoring and sleep tracking, the faster processor may represent only a modest upgrade. Coupled with comparable battery longevity from the Pixel Watch 4, the Watch 5 may not justify the extra cost unless you actively exploit its AI tools.”