Just switched to the [Google Pixel Watch 3](https://www.reviewni.com/product/B0D9138ZXM) after years on Fossil (RIP their smartwatch division), and seriously, this thing is the best smartwatch out there for Android users, hands down. I debated between this and the OnePlus Watch 2 (looked at Samsungs and Garmin too), but Wear OS 5 and that classic Pixel look won me over, and I haven’t looked back.
Right out of the box, setup was a breeze since basically everything syncs through my Google account. The battery is a huge step up from my aging Fossil, even with always-on display, it gets me through a workday with plenty to spare. (I just plop it on the charger overnight, so it’s always fresh.)
Functionally, it’s ace! Notifications are clear, calls come through loud, Google Assistant is snappy, and the Fitbit features are legit (I was worried about missing Google Fit, but turns out Fitbit’s better). Plus the screen is bright, crisp, and responsive, making old watches feel ancient.
I've used the Pixel Watch 3 for the last year and upgraded to [Samsung Galaxy Watch 8](https://www.reviewni.com/product/B0F7QD4HSD) recently. Honestly Watch 8 just nails it! The new bezel design took me a second to warm up to, but honestly, it gives the watch a modern, unique vibe that stands out.
Switching up watch bands is super easy (once you get the hang of the latch thing), plus you get way more watchface options and can really tweak backgrounds and fonts, which is a nerdy dream. The new “folders” system for tiles/apps is a game changer. It keeps everything way more organized than the Google Pixel, and you can customize the heck out of it. Health, Fitness, Basic and set your own categories, stick your most used apps wherever you want.
Battery life’s solid too, I wore it all day and only used 10%. And it's comfy, looks slick, and charges up with a little more info on the screen now. Honestly, Samsung’s attention to detail and customization blows the Pixel Watch 3 out of the water.
PW 3 is MUCH better than the OG. Sleep tracking works every single night. It charges much, much faster. The battery lasts longer. The UI is quicker. Apps update faster.
Fitness tracking is more accurate.
When I switched from PW1 to PW3 41mm, it was like a day and night difference. Both in terms of UI responsiveness and battery life. I think you'll be happy if you get a good trade-in deal and discount.
Pixel watch 3 or 4. Both will last you comfortably more than 24h, especially the 4. Some of the best sensors and sleep tracking there is.
A step down on health tracking but by no means bad is the oneplus watch 3. Much better battery life and tougher build.
Smartwatches aren't really medical devices, you should really consult with your doctor for advice in a proper monitoring device.
That being said, if you have an android phone, pixel watches are hard to beat. Best heart rate sensors and continuous heart rate monitoring. ECG cannot be monitored passively as you need to close a circuit around your body, which means there's an electrode underneath the watch and the other is the crown, you must take spot readings with the opposite hand you're wearing it on.
The best sleep tracking outside of the oura and whoop are fitbit and pixel watches. If you want multi day battery life, it would need to be fitbit. Amazfit, garmin have great battery life and sports tracking, but mediocre sleep stage tracking.
Top Fitness Trackers on Reddit
1
Garmin
Forerunner 255 Series
86% positive of 466 users
Long battery; but wrist HR tracking is inconsistent.
mikebrooks008
