Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 vs Google Pixel Watch 2: how to choose

We recently published our hands-on review of the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5. Launched in May 2023, the device is one of the best wearOS timepieces out there. In this article we compare it to the Google Pixel Watch 2, a device we also published a hands-on review on.

Both devices are similarly priced, offering different sets of features that cater to varied preferences in the smartwatch market. But which one is right for you? Read on to find out.

Key takeaways

The TicWatch Pro 5, with its robust build and extensive fitness tracking capabilities, appeals to users who prioritize durability and comprehensive health monitoring. Its long battery life (for a wearOS watch) and dual-layer display make it particularly suitable for outdoor enthusiasts and fitness buffs. The Google Pixel Watch 2, on the other hand, offers a sleek design and advanced health features like ECG and stress tracking, catering to a more health-conscious audience.

View on Mobvoi; View on Amazon (Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5, Google Pixel Watch 2).

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Hardware
Technical specs
Features
Bottom line

Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 vs Google Pixel Watch 2: Hardware

Design & display

The Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 and Google Pixel Watch 2 offer distinct design philosophies, each appealing to different user preferences in terms of look and feel.

Both watches feature a round shape, but their build materials set them apart. The TicWatch Pro 5 is constructed with aerospace-grade aluminum and a surgical-level metal bezel, offering a robust and durable design. It’s protected by chip-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass, enhancing its resilience. The Pixel Watch 2, meanwhile, opts for a sleeker look with a domed top glass that seamlessly integrates with its 100% recycled aluminum case, giving it a more refined and minimalist appearance.

The TicWatch Pro 5 includes a rotating crown and a flat button, providing a tactile and intuitive navigation experience. The Pixel Watch 2 has the same arrangement, aligning with its overall minimalist design ethos.

Display, colour options, water-resistance

One of the most interesting aspects of the TicWatch Pro 5 is its screen technology. The timepiece boasts a dual-layer display, featuring a 1.43 inch OLED panel which provides a vibrant high-resolution experience. This is coupled with an Evolved Ultra Low Power Display (ULP Display) that balances clarity with energy efficiency. The Pixel Watch 2, on the other hand, keeps things simple. It employs a 1.2 inch AMOLED screen known for its vibrant color reproduction and deep blacks, offering a visually striking experience.

In terms of personalization, the TicWatch Pro 5 offers more variety with five 24mm watch bands in different colors and materials, including silicone and genuine leather. This range allows for greater customization to match personal style. The Pixel Watch 2, while not as varied in band options, presents a sophisticated color palette in its design, catering to users who prefer a more classic, understated look.

Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets

Both watches are equipped with a water resistance rating of 5 ATM, making them suitable for swimming and other water-related activities. This feature ensures durability and versatility for users who are active or require a watch that can withstand various environmental conditions.

Sensor technology

In terms of sensor technology, the duo is equipped with heart rate sensors and SpO2 monitors for blood oxygen level tracking. The TicWatch Pro 5 also includes a accelerometer, gyroscope, skin temperature, barometer, and compass, providing a comprehensive suite for fitness tracking. The final addition is an Off-body sensor, enhancing its responsiveness to the wearer’s physical state. The Google Pixel Watch 2, on the other hand, goes a step further by incorporating additional sensors like cEDA for stress monitoring, and an ECG sensor, offering a more detailed analysis of the user’s health.

When it comes to GPS connectivity, both watches support multiple satellite systems. The TicWatch Pro 5 covers GPS, Beidou, Glonass, Galileo, and QZSS, ensuring accurate location tracking across various global regions. The Pixel Watch 2 also offers reliable positioning with GPS, Glonass, QZSS, and Beidou. This makes both watches suitable for outdoor activities where precise navigation is crucial.

NFC capabilities are present in both models, allowing for convenient contactless payments. This feature is particularly useful for users who prefer to leave their wallets at home during workouts or casual outings.

Both watches allow users to store and play music directly from the device, a boon for those who like to enjoy music during workouts without the need for a smartphone. However, the Pixel Watch 2 stands out with its optional cellular connectivity, offering enhanced communication capabilities and independence from a smartphone.

Battery life

The Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 and Google Pixel Watch 2 exhibit contrasting approaches to battery life, reflecting their design philosophies and target user experiences. The TicWatch Pro 5, with its massive 628 mAh battery, offers an impressive battery life that sets a new standard for WearOS watches. In Smart Mode, it can last up to 80 hours, and in Essential Mode, it extends to an astonishing 45 days. This longevity is further enhanced by rapid charging technology, achieving 65% charge in just 30 minutes. This makes the TicWatch Pro 5 a robust choice for users seeking longevity and minimal charging interruptions.

On the other hand, the Google Pixel Watch 2, despite its advanced features and integration into the Google ecosystem, offers a more modest battery life of about 24 hours. This necessitates daily charging, which might be a drawback for users who engage in extensive fitness tracking or prefer a less frequent charging routine.

Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 vs Google Pixel Watch 2: Technical specs

Here’s a detailed comparison table for the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 and Google Pixel Watch 2:

Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 vs Google Pixel Watch 2: Features

When comparing the health and fitness functionalities of the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 and Google Pixel Watch 2, both watches demonstrate a strong commitment to health tracking, yet they cater to slightly different user needs.

The TicWatch Pro 5 shines in its ability to offer extensive fitness tracking and health monitoring. It’s particularly adept at providing real-time data during workouts, making it a favorite for those who engage in various physical activities and want to monitor their performance closely. The watch’s fitness tracking is enhanced by its long battery life, allowing for extended periods of monitoring without the need for frequent charging. Additionally, the TicWatch Pro 5’s dual-layer display, which includes an Ultra Low Power Display, is particularly useful for outdoor activities, offering clear visibility in various lighting conditions.

On the other hand, the Google Pixel Watch 2 focuses more on an integrated health experience. It stands out with its advanced health features like ECG monitoring and stress tracking, appealing to users who are not only fitness-focused but also health-conscious. The Pixel Watch 2’s integration with Google’s ecosystem allows for seamless syncing with health apps, providing a more holistic view of the user’s health. However, its battery life, which requires more frequent charging, might be a limitation for those who prefer continuous, uninterrupted health tracking.

Smartwatch-type features

In terms of smartwatch-type features, both watches offer a range of functionalities, but with some differences. The TicWatch Pro 5, running on Wear OS 3+, provides a smooth interface with access to various apps and notifications, making it a practical companion for daily use. The Google Pixel Watch 2, with its Wear OS 4+ and optional cellular connectivity, offers a richer smartwatch experience. It allows for more independence from a smartphone, making it ideal for users who want to stay connected without always carrying their phone. Both watches support NFC for contactless payments, adding to their convenience.

Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 vs Google Pixel Watch 2: Price

Price-wise, the TicWatch Pro 5 and Google Pixel Watch 2 are positioned at a similar range, typically retailing around $350. This pricing reflects their advanced features and positions them in the mid to high range of the smartwatch market. For users deciding between the two, the choice may come down to specific preferences in health and fitness tracking capabilities, smartwatch features, and the overall ecosystem each watch is a part of.

Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 vs Google Pixel Watch 2: Final thoughts

In the final analysis, the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 and Google Pixel Watch 2 cater to different segments of the smartwatch market, each excelling in its own right. The TicWatch Pro 5 is a solid choice for those who need a durable and reliable fitness companion, offering extensive tracking capabilities and impressive battery life. Its rugged design and practical features make it ideal for the more active user.

The Google Pixel Watch 2 appeals to users looking for a sleek, health-focused smartwatch. Its advanced health features, coupled with the convenience of cellular connectivity and integration with Google’s ecosystem, make it a strong contender for those who value a blend of style and functionality in a smartwatch.

View on Mobvoi; View on Amazon (Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5, Google Pixel Watch 2).

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