While not perfect, this generation of Google’s wearable gets a lot of things right.

Let’s look at the pros and cons of buying a Pixel Watch 2.

Fitbit Integration

There are plenty of Wear OS watches on the market.

Top shot of a Google Pixel Watch 2 resting on leaves

Rajesh Pandey /MakeUseOf

This helps Google’s wearable to differentiate itself from the competition.

The Fitbit app does a much better job of analyzing the collected data to highlight key health metrics.

Thanks to the Fitbit integration, the Pixel Watch 2 is agreat alternative to Fitbit wearables.

Fitbit integration on Google Pixel Watch

Google

Like Pixel phones, you get a pure, unskinned OS on Google’s smartwatches.

Another advantage of the Pixel Watch running stock Wear OS 4 is monthly security patches.

Like Pixel phones, it gets an update every month to fix any security exploits or vulnerabilities.

Exercise tracking details in Fitbit app

Heart Rate Zones While Working Out

Thebest Wear OS watchescan track your heart rate while working out.

However, the data is only good if it’s analyzed properly or shown at the correct time.

Wondering why this is important?

Active Zone minutes breakdown in Fitbit app

A low-intensity zone works when you want to burn calories without stressing your body.

In the peak zone, your heart beats at nearly its maximum capacity.

As someone who regularly trains for 10K timed runs, this helps me stay motivated.

Quick Settings panel on Google Pixel Watch 2

What stands out among them is Safety Signal.

This is also a safety feature you won’t find on any other Android watch.

Sign in with your Google account to activate the feature.

Pixel Watch 2 app drawer on Wear OS 4

Consider the points below before buying one.

Another disadvantage of the small chassis is the display size.

Apple and Samsung both offer their smartwatches in at least two different sizes.

Settings menu on Pixel Watch 2 running Wear OS 4

So the Pixel Watch being available in only one size is puzzling.

Worse, Google opted for a smaller casing size, which isn’t ideal for those with bigger wrists.

Broke your Pixel Watch’s screen?

Safety features on a Pixel Watch 2

Google

you’re free to’t get it repaired.

Instead, asGoogle’s support pagemakes it clear, you must pay for a replacement unit.

Similarly, Google doesn’t provide any battery replacement service for its smartwatch.

Google Pixel Watch 2 resting on leaves

Rajesh Pandey/MakeUseOf

While this is impressive, there’s a big issue with how the Pixel Watch 2 charges.

Unlike its predecessor, the Pixel Watch 2 doesn’t use magnetic charging.

Instead, it uses a pin-based charging mechanism, as seen on the Fitbit Sense 2 and Versa 2.

Pixel Watch 2 with charger

Google

The solution itself is fine, especially since it allows for fast charging without generating a lot of heat.

In comparison, you canuse Wireless PowerShare on Samsung phonesto reverse wireless charge Galaxy smartwatches.

Admittedly, the lack of wireless charging on the Pixel Watch 2 won’t bother you in daily use.

But it can be frustrating, especially while traveling.