Google says the Pixel Watch 5 is 20 percent faster than its predecessor, thanks to an upgraded Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 Accelerated chip, according to a WIRED review published August 19, 2026. Reviewer Boutayna Chokrane reported that the chip delivers a 12 percent boost in CPU performance and double the RAM, with smooth scrolling, fast app loading, and responsive Gemini voice commands.
Design and Display
The Pixel Watch 5 keeps the domed curved display, which Chokrane described as her favorite trait, making information easy to glance at while giving the watch an approachable look. Google added two new watch faces and 11 complication styles. A new generative AI feature lets users create custom watch faces from text prompts, but the reviewer found customization limited to font choices and ultimately returned to the default Digital Bold face. The reviewer tested the 45-mm model for its larger display during workouts but said she prefers the 41-mm size for smaller wrists.
Battery and Charging
WIRED reported the Watch 5 has a larger battery than its predecessor, mainly to support new AI capabilities. Google estimates up to 40 hours of battery life; Chokrane measured about 36 hours. Fast charging delivers 15 hours of use in 15 minutes, which she described as a game-changer for pre-workout charging. Google still has not introduced additional charging options or 2-in-1/3-in-1 docks for the Pixel portfolio, a recurring complaint.
Health and Fitness Upgrades
Fitness tracking gets some of the biggest upgrades, according to WIRED. The new Strength Training experience adds a workout builder, audio cues, rest timers, and the ability to track weights and reps. Users can create custom workouts in the Google Health app and have the watch guide them through each exercise and time rest periods. Google Health Premium and Google Health Coach are now part of the experience, making the watch one of the few that feels equally capable as a fitness tracker and an everyday companion, the review states. New Health Guardian features provide proactive wellness insights, and like the Fitbit Air, the Pixel Watch 5 leans further into proactive health tracking. Gemini now has some offline functionality.
Pricing and Models
Prices have crept up, according to WIRED. The Pixel Watch 5 starts at $399 for the 41-mm model and $429 for the 45-mm model. New color options include Fog, Canyon — exclusive to the 41-mm model — and Olive. A Stephen Curry Special Edition with a water-repellent band costs $579.
| Model | Price | Size | Battery (est.) | Colors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pixel Watch 5 | $399 | 41 mm | Up to 40 hours | Fog, Canyon, Olive |
| Pixel Watch 5 | $429 | 45 mm | Up to 40 hours | Fog, Olive |
| Stephen Curry Special Edition | $579 | Not specified | Not specified | Water-repellent band |
Remaining Gripes and Sourcing Implications
Complaints about the Pixel Watch 4 largely persist. The Active Band is still dull, a recurring issue for WIRED. AI watch faces feel gimmicky, and Google still hasn't built a better charging ecosystem. For manufacturing and procurement audiences, the Pixel Watch 5's component spec sheet matters: Qualcomm's Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 Accelerated chip, doubled RAM, and a larger battery sized for on-device AI features, all in a repairable design. With prices rising from previous models to $399/$429, wearable OEMs continue to push premium hardware forward, according to WIRED's testing.
Sources:
