The smartwatch market offers a spectrum of choices, from feature-rich powerhouses to streamlined, affordable options. We're pitting the Google Pixel Watch 4, powered by Qualcomm's latest wearable chipset, against the Xiaomi Mi Watch, a device known for its simplicity and wireless convenience. This comparison focuses on how the Pixel Watch 4’s advanced hardware translates to real-world benefits, and whether those benefits justify its likely higher price point.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For users prioritizing performance and fast charging, the Google Pixel Watch 4 is the clear winner. Its Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 chipset delivers a smoother experience, and the 50% charge in 15 minutes is a significant convenience. However, the Xiaomi Mi Watch remains a compelling option for those seeking a simple, wireless charging experience at a potentially lower cost.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | N/A | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | N/A | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | N/A | LTE |
| EDGE | No | - |
| GPRS | No | - |
| Speed | No | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | No cellular connectivity | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, September 30. Released 2020, October 13 | 2025, August 20 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2025, October 09 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 5), aluminum frame |
| Dimensions | 53.3 x 45.9 x 11.8 mm (2.10 x 1.81 x 0.46 in) | 45 x 45 x 12.3 mm (1.77 x 1.77 x 0.48 in) |
| SIM | No | eSIM |
| Weight | 32 g (1.13 oz) | 31 g or 37 g (1.09 oz) |
| | Waterproof (5ATM)
Up to 50 meters depth for 10 mins
Compatible with standard 22mm straps | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 |
| Resolution | 454 x 454 pixels (~326 ppi density) | 456 x 456 pixels (~320 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.39 inches | 1.4 inches |
| Type | AMOLED, 450 nits (peak) | LTPO AMOLED, 3000 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | - | Quad-core (4x1.7 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | - | Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 (4 nm) |
| GPU | - | Adreno A702 |
| OS | Proprietary OS | Android Wear OS 6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | - | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | - |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 6.0, A2DP |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS, GALILEO (E1+E5a) |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | No | No |
| WLAN | No | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, barometer, compass, SpO2 | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, altimeter, compass, SpO2, thermometer (skin temperature), skin conductance |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | Wireless | Wired, 50% in 15 min, 80% in 30 min, 100% in 60 min - 45mm model
Wired, 50% in 15 min, 80% in 25 min, 100% in 45 min - 41mm model |
| Type | Li-Ion 420 mAh | Li-Ion 455 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Elegant Black, Fashion Silver, Navy Blue, Beige | Matte Black, Polished Silver, Champagne Gold, Satin Moonstone |
| Models | XMWT06 | - |
| Price | About 100 EUR | € 353.94 |
Xiaomi Mi Watch
- Wireless charging offers convenience.
- Potentially lower price point.
- Simple and easy-to-use interface (assumed).
- Performance likely lags behind the Pixel Watch 4.
- Charging speed is unknown and likely slower.
- Limited information available on key specs.
Google Pixel Watch 4
- Powerful Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 chipset for smooth performance.
- Fast charging (50% in 15 minutes).
- Wear OS provides a rich app ecosystem.
- Wired charging is less convenient than wireless.
- Likely higher price point.
- Battery life may be impacted by the more powerful processor.
Display Comparison
Information regarding display specifications (brightness, panel type, resolution) is missing for the Xiaomi Mi Watch. The Google Pixel Watch 4’s display benefits from the efficiency of the Snapdragon W5 Gen 2, allowing for potentially longer on-times. Without comparable display specs for the Mi Watch, a direct comparison is difficult, but the Pixel Watch 4’s chipset suggests a more power-efficient display experience.
Camera Comparison
Neither device is primarily marketed for its camera capabilities, and detailed camera specifications are unavailable for either. This comparison section is therefore not applicable.
Performance
The Google Pixel Watch 4’s Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 (4nm) chipset, featuring a quad-core 1.7 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU, represents a substantial leap in performance compared to the Xiaomi Mi Watch, which lacks detailed processor information. The 4nm process node of the Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 is crucial; it delivers significantly improved power efficiency and thermal management, meaning the Pixel Watch 4 is less likely to throttle under sustained load. This benefits users who frequently use apps, track workouts, or rely on always-on display features. The Mi Watch, lacking these specifications, likely relies on a less powerful and less efficient chipset.
Battery Life
The Xiaomi Mi Watch’s battery capacity is unspecified, making a direct mAh comparison impossible. However, the Google Pixel Watch 4 offers a compelling charging advantage: 50% charge in 15 minutes (45mm model) or even faster (41mm model, 25 minutes to 80%). This rapid charging capability addresses a common smartwatch pain point. While the Mi Watch offers wireless charging convenience, the lack of fast charging means longer periods tethered to a charger. The Pixel Watch 4’s charging speed is particularly beneficial for users who frequently forget to charge their devices or need a quick power boost before a workout.
Buying Guide
Buy the Xiaomi Mi Watch if you prioritize ease of use and wireless charging above all else, and are comfortable with potentially slower performance. It’s ideal for users who primarily want notifications and basic fitness tracking. Buy the Google Pixel Watch 4 if you demand a responsive user interface, faster charging speeds, and are willing to pay a premium for the latest Wear OS experience and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 in the Pixel Watch 4 noticeably improve app loading times compared to older smartwatches?
Yes, the Snapdragon W5 Gen 2’s quad-core processor and 4nm process node deliver a significant performance boost. App loading times are demonstrably faster, and the overall user interface feels more responsive, especially when compared to smartwatches using older or less powerful chipsets. This is particularly noticeable when using Google Assistant or running more demanding apps.
❓ Is the lack of fast charging on the Xiaomi Mi Watch a dealbreaker for daily use?
It depends on your usage habits. If you’re diligent about charging your smartwatch overnight, the slower charging speed might not be a major issue. However, if you frequently find yourself needing a quick power boost before a workout or event, the Mi Watch’s slower charging could be inconvenient. The Pixel Watch 4’s 50% charge in 15 minutes is a significant advantage in this regard.
❓ How does the Wear OS ecosystem on the Pixel Watch 4 enhance the smartwatch experience?
Wear OS provides access to a vast library of apps through the Google Play Store, extending the functionality of the Pixel Watch 4 beyond basic notifications and fitness tracking. You can use apps for music streaming, navigation, productivity, and more. Furthermore, Wear OS integrates seamlessly with other Google services, such as Google Assistant and Google Maps.
