I embarked on a 14,000-step journey with the Google Pixel Watch 4, Garmin Venu 4, and here's the verdict on which watch emerged victorious. The Google Pixel Watch 4, a recent addition to the market, has quickly risen to the top of our best smartwatch list. However, the Garmin Venu 4, a decade-long favorite of mine, has also impressed. Both watches offer more than just step-tracking; they are designed for 24/7 wear and can monitor heart rate, sleep, and menstrual cycles. As a fitness editor, I began my comparison by examining the basics. Do they accurately detect workouts? Can I easily navigate the watch and check my sleep score upon waking? And how well do they count steps? I strapped on both watches and manually counted my steps using a clicker during multiple walks. Upon returning home, I downloaded the data and compared the results. The Google Pixel Watch 4 overcounted by 85 steps, while the Garmin Venu 4 added 118 steps to my walk. This translates to a difference of 36 steps, which is relatively minor for a 15,000-step walk. However, the Pixel Watch 4 was slightly closer to my manual recording. To truly compare these watches, more testing is needed, considering their packed sensors and trackers for a healthier lifestyle. The Pixel Watch 4, with its Google Gemini AI assistant, offers a phone extension on your wrist, while the Venu 4 boasts Garmin's top training features. The Venu 4 has a higher price point, starting at $549 for the basic model, while the Pixel Watch 4 starts at $349. We'll continue to test and compare these watches, but for now, both excel at step counting, ensuring you won't have to worry about keeping track as you walk.
