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Pixel Watch 5 adds faster processor, double storage, and upgraded GPS over Pixel Watch 4 at same $399 price
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ZDNET compares the Pixel Watch 5 against the Pixel Watch 4, finding the newer model offers a faster processor, doubled storage, and improved GPS at the same starting price.
Only one feed covers this comparison, so the claims rest on ZDNET's testing alone. The Pixel Watch 5's doubled storage and faster processor are positioned as enabling on-device AI features, while the GPS upgrade targets outdoor activity tracking.
Written by elseif from the cluster below · every claim links back to a sourceThe three things worth knowing
The Pixel Watch 5 uses a Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 Accelerated processor, making it 20% faster than the Watch 4's Snapdragon W5 Gen 2.
Storage doubles from 32GB to 64GB on the Watch 5 to accommodate AI features like Raise to Talk and Smart Replies.
Both watches start at $399, with the Watch 5 offering a slightly larger battery in the 45mm model at 465mAh versus 455mAh.
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What the cluster adds up to.
The Pixel Watch 5 and Pixel Watch 4 share the same $399 starting price and identical 41mm/45mm case sizes, making the comparison largely about internal upgrades rather than form factor changes. The Watch 5 moves to a Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 Accelerated processor, which ZDNET reports makes the device 20% faster. Storage doubles from 32GB to 64GB, which the article attributes to accommodating AI features such as Raise to Talk and Smart Replies.
The display sees a modest change: the Watch 5 uses AMOLED LTPO while the Watch 4 uses AMOLED, though both peak at 3,000 nits. Battery capacity is nearly identical, with the 41mm model unchanged at 325mAh and the 45mm model increasing slightly from 455mAh to 465mAh. The satellite feature shifts from standalone SOS on the Watch 4 to satellite capability with LTE on the Watch 5.
The Watch 5 introduces AI-driven features powered by Gemini, including proactive suggested replies in text conversations and offline Gemini for voice-managed timers and alarms. Google claims the Watch 5's route-tracking GPS outperforms the Apple Watch Ultra 3, though the article cuts off before naming the second comparison device. The Watch 4 lacks these AI and GPS improvements.
This comparison comes from a single source with no corroboration from other feeds. The specifications and performance claims are drawn from ZDNET's own testing and Google's stated claims. Engineers evaluating the platform should note that the processor and storage changes are the most concrete differentiators, while the AI features depend on Gemini integration that may evolve over time.
The practical tradeoff is minimal at sticker price: the Watch 5 offers more storage, a faster processor, and better GPS for the same $399. The article does not address whether the Watch 4 will receive any of the AI features via software updates, nor does it cover current discounted pricing for the older model. Without that information, the case for buying the Watch 4 rests entirely on finding it below $399.
Written by elseif from the cluster below · checked for specifics the sources never containedTHE CLUSTER