The smartwatch market offers a wide spectrum of choices, from feature-rich ecosystems to affordable fitness trackers. This comparison pits the Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport, likely positioned as a budget-friendly option, against the Google Pixel Watch 2, Google’s second-generation foray into the smartwatch space, powered by the Qualcomm 5100 chipset. We’ll dissect their strengths and weaknesses to determine which device delivers the best experience for your money.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing a seamless smartwatch experience with robust health tracking and integration with the Google ecosystem, the Google Pixel Watch 2 is the superior choice. However, users on a strict budget seeking a functional fitness tracker with basic smartwatch features will find the Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport a compelling alternative.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| EDGE | No | - |
| GPRS | No | - |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, July 19 | 2023, October 04 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, July 19 | Available. Released 2023, October 12 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Sapphire crystal front, titanium alloy case, sapphire crystal back | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 5), aluminum frame |
| Dimensions | 46.9 x 46.9 x 12.6 mm (1.85 x 1.85 x 0.50 in) | 41 x 41 x 12.3 mm (1.61 x 1.61 x 0.48 in) |
| SIM | eSIM | eSIM |
| Weight | 49 g (1.73 oz) | 31 g (1.09 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Sapphire crystal glass | 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, 2200 nits (peak) | AMOLED, 1000 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| Chipset | - | Qualcomm 5100 |
| OS | HyperOS | Android Wear OS 4 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 32GB | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes (NFC car key support) | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS (L1+L5), 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, compass, barometer, heart rate, SpO2 | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, altimeter, compass, SpO2, thermometer (skin temperature), skin conductance |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | Wired, 80% in 45 min |
| Type | Li-Po 586 mAh | Li-Ion 306 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Titanium | Polished Silver, Matte Black, Champagne Gold |
| Models | M2312W1 | G4TSL, GC3G8, GD2WG |
| Price | About 250 EUR | About 160 EUR |
Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport
- Likely longer battery life due to less demanding hardware.
- More affordable price point.
- Potentially lighter weight due to simpler construction.
- Less powerful processor leading to slower performance.
- Limited app ecosystem compared to Wear OS.
- Inferior display quality compared to the Pixel Watch 2.
Google Pixel Watch 2
- Powerful Qualcomm 5100 chipset for smooth performance.
- Access to the extensive Wear OS app ecosystem.
- Advanced health tracking features like ECG and fall detection.
- Higher price point.
- Shorter battery life compared to the Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport.
- Smaller display size due to its compact design.
Display Comparison
Given the lack of specific display details for the Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport, we can infer it likely utilizes an AMOLED panel to compete in the current market. The Google Pixel Watch 2 features a circular AMOLED display, a design choice that maximizes screen real estate within its compact form factor. While the Pixel Watch 2’s display benefits from the Qualcomm 5100’s processing power for smooth animations, the Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport’s display quality will likely be a trade-off to achieve its lower price point. Expect the Pixel Watch 2 to offer superior brightness and color accuracy.
Camera Comparison
Neither device is designed with camera functionality, focusing instead on fitness and smartwatch features. Therefore, a camera comparison is not applicable.
Performance
The Google Pixel Watch 2’s Qualcomm 5100 chipset is the clear performance leader. This platform provides a significant boost in processing power compared to what is typically found in budget smartwatches like the Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport, which likely uses a less powerful, proprietary chipset. The 5100 enables smoother app transitions, faster responsiveness, and more complex background processing for features like continuous heart rate monitoring and sleep tracking. The Pixel Watch 2’s performance advantage translates to a more fluid and enjoyable user experience, particularly when interacting with Wear OS’s features.
Battery Life
The Google Pixel Watch 2 offers up to 24 hours of battery life with always-on display enabled, and supports wired charging reaching 80% charge in 45 minutes. The Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport, positioned as a budget option, likely prioritizes longer battery life through less power-hungry components and a more streamlined software experience. While the Pixel Watch 2’s faster charging is convenient, the Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport may offer several days of use on a single charge, appealing to users who dislike frequent charging.
Buying Guide
Buy the Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport if you need a dedicated fitness tracker with essential smartwatch notifications and are prioritizing affordability above all else. Its likely focus on core fitness features and long battery life makes it ideal for active individuals who don't require advanced app support. Buy the Google Pixel Watch 2 if you prefer a fully-fledged smartwatch experience with Wear OS, deep integration with Google services like Google Assistant and Maps, and advanced health tracking features like ECG and fall detection, even if it comes at a higher price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Qualcomm 5100 chipset in the Pixel Watch 2 generate significant heat during intensive tasks like GPS tracking or workout recording?
While the Qualcomm 5100 is a capable chipset, Google has implemented thermal management strategies to mitigate overheating. Users may experience some warmth during prolonged GPS usage, but it shouldn't reach uncomfortable levels. The Pixel Watch 2’s design also aids in heat dissipation.
❓ What level of water resistance does the Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport offer, and is it suitable for swimming?
Without specific details, it's reasonable to expect the Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport to have at least a 5ATM water resistance rating, making it suitable for swimming in shallow water. However, it's crucial to check the official specifications to confirm its exact water resistance level before submerging it.
❓ Can I respond to text messages directly from the Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport, or am I limited to viewing notifications?
The Xiaomi Watch S4 Sport likely offers limited text message functionality, primarily displaying notifications. Direct reply options may be restricted to pre-defined responses or voice dictation, depending on the software implementation. The Pixel Watch 2, with Wear OS, provides a much more comprehensive messaging experience, including keyboard input and voice replies.
