The smartwatch landscape is dominated by Apple and Google, each offering a distinct experience. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 represents the pinnacle of Apple’s wearable technology, geared towards extreme sports and extended battery life. Conversely, the Google Pixel Watch 3 aims to deliver a refined Wear OS experience with a focus on seamless integration with Google services. This comparison dissects the core differences between these two premium smartwatches, focusing on performance, charging, and overall usability.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing a robust ecosystem and proven performance, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 remains the superior choice. Its Apple S10 chipset, while not explicitly detailed in architecture, benefits from Apple’s tight hardware-software integration. However, the Pixel Watch 3’s faster charging speeds and Qualcomm SW5100 chipset offer a compelling alternative for Android users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 - International, China, HK | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 39, 40, 41, 66 - International, China, HK | LTE |
| 5G bands | SA/NSA | - |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2025, September 09 | 2024, August 13 |
| Status | Available. Released 2025, September 19 | Available. Released 2024, September 10 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Sapphire crystal front, ceramic/sapphire crystal back, titanium frame (grade 5) | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 5), aluminum frame |
| Dimensions | 49 x 44 x 12 mm (1.93 x 1.73 x 0.47 in) | 45 x 45 x 12.3 mm (1.77 x 1.77 x 0.48 in) |
| SIM | eSIM | eSIM |
| Weight | 61.6 g or 61.8 g (black) (2.15 oz) | 37 g (1.31 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Sapphire crystal glass | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 |
| Resolution | 514 x 422 pixels (~326 ppi density) | 456 x 456 pixels (~320 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.98 inches | 1.4 inches |
| Type | Retina LTPO3 OLED, 3000 nits (peak) | LTPO AMOLED, 2000 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Dual-core | - |
| Chipset | Apple S10 | Qualcomm SW5100 |
| GPU | PowerVR | - |
| OS | watchOS 26, upgradable to watchOS 26.1 | Android Wear OS 5, up to 3 major Android upgrades |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 64GB | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with dual speakers (86-decibel) | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE | 5.3, A2DP |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | No | No |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, barometer, always-on altimeter (-500m to 9000m), compass, SpO2, VO2max, temperature (body), temperature (water) | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, altimeter, compass, SpO2, thermometer (skin temperature), skin conductance |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | Wireless, 0-80% in 45 min | Wired, 50% in 28 min, 80% in 50 min - 45mm model
Wired, 50% in 24 min, 80% in 35 min - 41mm model |
| Type | Li-Ion 599 mAh | Li-Ion 420 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Natural, Black | Matte Black, Polished Silver, Champagne Gold, Matte Hazel |
| Models | A3281, A3282 | - |
| Price | € 828.00 | € 215.76 |
| SAR | 1.16 W/kg (head) | - |
| SAR EU | 1.19 W/kg (head) | - |
Apple Watch Ultra 3
- Exceptional build quality and durability
- Longer battery life for extended use
- Seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem
- Higher price point
- Limited compatibility with Android devices
Google Pixel Watch 3
- Faster charging speeds
- Sleek and stylish design
- Deep integration with Google services
- Potentially shorter battery life
- Performance reliant on Wear OS optimization
Display Comparison
While display specifications aren't provided, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is known for its larger, brighter display optimized for outdoor visibility. The Pixel Watch 3, available in 41mm and 45mm sizes, likely prioritizes a more compact form factor. The Ultra 3’s larger size allows for more information at a glance, crucial for activities like hiking or diving. The Pixel Watch 3’s smaller size may appeal to users with smaller wrists. Both likely employ OLED technology, but the Ultra 3’s peak brightness is expected to be significantly higher.
Camera Comparison
Neither watch is designed for photography, and detailed camera specs are absent. Both likely feature minimal camera functionality, primarily for quick actions like remote camera control for a paired smartphone. Focusing on camera capabilities for either watch would be a misdirection of analysis.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets: Apple’s dual-core S10 versus Qualcomm’s SW5100. While core count is equal, Apple’s S10 benefits from years of optimization within the watchOS environment. The Qualcomm SW5100, a newer chip, aims to close the gap with improved efficiency and performance in Wear OS. The Pixel Watch 3’s performance will heavily rely on Google’s software optimization. The Apple Watch Ultra 3’s tightly integrated hardware and software likely provide a smoother, more responsive experience, especially during demanding tasks. RAM specifications are not provided, but Apple typically optimizes memory usage effectively.
Battery Life
Charging speeds are a key differentiator. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 takes 45 minutes to reach 80% charge via wireless charging. The Google Pixel Watch 3, depending on the model, reaches 50% in 24-28 minutes and 80% in 35-50 minutes using wired charging. The Pixel Watch 3 demonstrably charges faster, a significant advantage for users who frequently need to top up their device. While battery capacity isn’t specified, the Ultra 3 is known for its multi-day battery life, likely achieved through a combination of larger capacity and efficient power management by the S10 chip.
Buying Guide
Buy the Apple Watch Ultra 3 if you need unparalleled durability, extended battery life for multi-day adventures, and are deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem. Its robust build quality and specialized features cater to athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. Buy the Google Pixel Watch 3 if you prefer a more stylish design, faster charging, and seamless integration with Google services like Google Assistant and Google Wallet, particularly if you’re an Android smartphone user.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Qualcomm SW5100 in the Pixel Watch 3 generate significant heat during prolonged use, like GPS tracking or workout sessions?
While the SW5100 is a newer chipset, thermal performance will depend heavily on Google’s software optimization and the watch’s thermal design. Early reports suggest it manages heat reasonably well, but extended, demanding tasks could still lead to some warming. The Apple S10, benefiting from years of refinement, is known for efficient thermal management.
❓ How does the wireless charging of the Apple Watch Ultra 3 compare to the wired charging of the Pixel Watch 3 in terms of convenience for daily use?
Wireless charging offers greater convenience as it eliminates the need for cables, but it’s generally slower. The Pixel Watch 3’s wired charging, reaching 50% in under 30 minutes, is significantly faster for quick top-ups. The Ultra 3’s 45 minutes to 80% charge requires more planning. The best option depends on your charging habits – convenience versus speed.
❓ Given the lack of detailed RAM specifications, how will the Apple Watch Ultra 3 handle multitasking compared to the Google Pixel Watch 3?
Apple historically optimizes memory usage very effectively within watchOS. While the Pixel Watch 3’s SW5100 may have comparable or even higher RAM, Apple’s tight hardware-software integration likely results in smoother multitasking and app switching, even with less RAM.
