The smartwatch market is heating up, with options ranging from feature-packed flagships to more affordable alternatives. We're pitting the vivo iQOO Watch against the Google Pixel Watch 2, two devices targeting distinct segments of the wearable space. While the Pixel Watch 2 represents Google's refined vision, the iQOO Watch aims to deliver a compelling experience at a potentially lower price point, though specific details remain scarce.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing seamless integration with the Google ecosystem and a polished software experience, the Google Pixel Watch 2 is the clear winner. Its Qualcomm 5100 chipset provides a foundation for smooth performance, and the 80% charge in 45 minutes is convenient. However, the iQOO Watch could offer a compelling value proposition if priced aggressively.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | N/A | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, April 24 | 2023, October 04 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, April 24 | Available. Released 2023, October 12 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 5), aluminum frame |
| Dimensions | 46.1 x 46.1 x 11.3 mm (1.81 x 1.81 x 0.44 in) | 41 x 41 x 12.3 mm (1.61 x 1.61 x 0.48 in) |
| SIM | eSIM | eSIM |
| Weight | 36 g (1.27 oz) | 31 g (1.09 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 |
| Resolution | 466 x 466 pixels (~326 ppi density) | 450 x 450 pixels (~320 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.43 inches | 1.2 inches |
| Type | AMOLED | AMOLED, 1000 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| Chipset | - | Qualcomm 5100 |
| OS | Blue OS | Android Wear OS 4 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 4GB 64MB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | No | No |
| WLAN | No | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, barometer, compass, SpO2 | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, altimeter, compass, SpO2, thermometer (skin temperature), skin conductance |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | Wired, 80% in 45 min |
| Type | 505 mAh | Li-Ion 306 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Polished Silver, Matte Black, Champagne Gold |
| Models | - | G4TSL, GC3G8, GD2WG |
| Price | About 160 EUR | About 160 EUR |
vivo iQOO Watch
- Potential for aggressive pricing
- Likely focus on core fitness tracking
- May offer longer battery life (depending on specs)
- Lack of detailed specifications
- Uncertainty regarding software support
- Potentially limited integration with Google services
Google Pixel Watch 2
- Qualcomm 5100 chipset for smooth performance
- Seamless integration with Google ecosystem
- Fast charging (80% in 45 minutes)
- Higher price point
- Battery life may be limited by smaller capacity
- Circular design may not appeal to all users
Display Comparison
Details regarding the iQOO Watch's display are currently unavailable. The Google Pixel Watch 2 features a circular AMOLED display, a design choice prioritizing aesthetics and ease of use. Without knowing the iQOO Watch's panel technology (LTPO or not), resolution, or peak brightness, it's difficult to assess its visual quality. However, the Pixel Watch 2's always-on display functionality, enabled by its AMOLED panel, is a significant convenience feature. The Pixel Watch 2's smaller bezel size maximizes screen real estate.
Camera Comparison
Neither the iQOO Watch nor the Google Pixel Watch 2 are designed as primary camera devices. Both are expected to lack high-resolution cameras, focusing instead on features like NFC for contactless payments and basic health tracking. Any camera functionality is likely limited to video calls and potentially quick snapshots, and image quality will be secondary to functionality. Without specific details on either device's camera, a meaningful comparison is impossible.
Performance
The Google Pixel Watch 2 is powered by the Qualcomm 5100 chipset, a platform designed for wearables. This chipset provides a noticeable performance boost over the original Pixel Watch, enabling smoother animations and faster app loading times. The iQOO Watch's processor remains unknown. Given vivo's focus on performance in its smartphone lineup, it's likely to utilize a capable chipset, but its architecture and efficiency are unclear. The Pixel Watch 2's use of a dedicated wearable platform suggests optimized power consumption and thermal management. RAM specifications for both devices are currently unavailable, but the Pixel Watch 2's performance suggests sufficient memory for multitasking.
Battery Life
The Google Pixel Watch 2 offers a charging speed of 80% in 45 minutes, a significant improvement over its predecessor. Battery capacity for both devices is currently unknown. However, the Qualcomm 5100 chipset in the Pixel Watch 2 is designed for power efficiency, potentially offsetting a smaller battery size. The iQOO Watch's battery life will depend heavily on its chipset and display technology. Without knowing the mAh capacity or power draw, it's impossible to predict real-world usage scenarios. The Pixel Watch 2's faster charging is a clear advantage for users who frequently need to top up their device.
Buying Guide
Buy the vivo iQOO Watch if you need a potentially more affordable smartwatch and are less reliant on the Google ecosystem. Its appeal hinges on a competitive price and a focus on core fitness tracking features. Buy the Google Pixel Watch 2 if you prefer a premium experience, deep integration with Google services like Assistant and Maps, and a refined user interface, even if it comes at a higher cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ How does the Qualcomm 5100 chipset in the Pixel Watch 2 impact app performance compared to an unknown chipset in the iQOO Watch?
The Qualcomm 5100 is a dedicated wearable platform optimized for efficiency and responsiveness. This translates to smoother app launches, faster animations, and a more fluid user experience. Without knowing the iQOO Watch's chipset, it's difficult to directly compare, but a dedicated platform like the 5100 generally offers a performance advantage in wearables.
❓ If I heavily use Google Assistant and Google Maps, is the Pixel Watch 2 a better choice than the iQOO Watch?
Absolutely. The Pixel Watch 2 is designed for seamless integration with Google services. Google Assistant is deeply embedded, allowing for voice control and quick access to information. Google Maps provides turn-by-turn navigation directly on your wrist. The iQOO Watch may offer limited or no support for these features, making the Pixel Watch 2 the clear choice for Google ecosystem users.
❓ What is the significance of the 80% charge in 45 minutes charging speed on the Pixel Watch 2?
This charging speed is a substantial improvement over the original Pixel Watch, addressing a common complaint about slow charging times. It means you can quickly top up your watch before a workout or important meeting, minimizing downtime and ensuring you have sufficient battery life when you need it.
