Google’s upcoming smartwatch just became more attractive for budget-conscious buyers. Recent leaks reveal that the Pixel Watch 4 will actually cost less than its predecessor in certain configurations, marking a rare move in today’s tech landscape where prices typically go up, not down.
What’s New with Pixel Watch 4 Pricing
The leaked pricing structure shows Google taking a consumer-friendly approach. While the Wi-Fi models maintain the same price points as the Pixel Watch 3, the cellular-enabled versions are getting a welcome $50 reduction across both size options.
Here’s how the numbers break down:
- 41mm Wi-Fi model: $349 (unchanged)
- 41mm LTE model: $399 (down from $449)
- 45mm Wi-Fi model: $399 (unchanged)
- 45mm LTE model: $449 (down from $499)
This pricing strategy puts Google in direct competition with Samsung’s Galaxy Watch series and other Android smartwatches, all of which typically start around the $349 mark for their base models.
Why This Price Drop Matters for Consumers
The $50 reduction on LTE models isn’t just about saving money – it reflects Google’s understanding of what consumers actually want. Many people appreciate having cellular connectivity as a backup feature, but the previous pricing made it feel like an expensive luxury rather than a practical option.
With these new prices, the gap between Wi-Fi and LTE models becomes much more reasonable. You’re now paying just $50 extra for the freedom to leave your phone at home during workouts, emergency connectivity, and the peace of mind that comes with a truly independent wearable device.
The pricing also makes the Pixel Watch 4 more competitive against Apple Watch alternatives, especially for Android users who want seamless integration with their Google ecosystem.
Bonus Features Included in the Package
Google isn’t just lowering prices – they’re also sweetening the deal with included services that add real value:
Fitbit Premium Trial: Six months of premium health and fitness features come included. This subscription normally costs $9.99 monthly, so you’re getting about $60 worth of premium health tracking, personalized insights, and advanced workout programs.
YouTube Premium Bonus: An additional month of ad-free YouTube viewing is thrown in, giving you time to decide if the premium experience is worth continuing.
These inclusions show Google’s commitment to building an ecosystem rather than just selling hardware. The extended Fitbit Premium trial is particularly valuable since it gives you substantial time to explore advanced health metrics and decide if the ongoing subscription fits your lifestyle.
Revolutionary Charging Improvements
Faster Charging Technology
One of the most significant upgrades coming to the Pixel Watch 4 is its charging system. Google claims the new charging method will be 25% faster than the current Pixel Watch 3 system.
The practical benefits are impressive:
- 0% to 50% charge: Just 15 minutes
- 0% to 80% charge: Approximately 30 minutes
For busy professionals and fitness enthusiasts, this means you can quickly top up your watch during short breaks rather than planning around lengthy charging sessions.
The Trade-offs of New Charging Design
However, Google’s decision to introduce yet another charging system comes with some drawbacks that current Pixel Watch owners should consider.
The new charging method places connectors on the side of the watch case, which creates a few concerns:
- Limited third-party options: Early adopters will have fewer charging accessory choices initially
- Case compatibility issues: Existing watch cases may not accommodate the new charging port placement
- Aesthetic considerations: The side-mounted charging connection might create visible bumps or interfere with the watch’s sleek profile
This marks the third different charging system across four generations of Pixel watches, which might frustrate users who hoped for more consistency in accessories and charging solutions.
How Pixel Watch 4 Stacks Up Against Competition
Market Positioning
At $349 for the base model, the Pixel Watch 4 positions itself competitively against other Android-compatible smartwatches. Samsung’s Galaxy Watch series starts at similar price points, while premium options from brands like OnePlus also compete in this range.
The real advantage comes for users already invested in Google’s ecosystem. Deep integration with Android phones, Google Assistant, and Google’s suite of productivity apps creates a seamless experience that third-party alternatives struggle to match.
Value Proposition
When you factor in the included Fitbit Premium subscription and faster charging capabilities, the Pixel Watch 4 offers solid value even before considering the price reduction on LTE models. For users who prioritize health tracking, the extended Fitbit Premium trial alone justifies a significant portion of the purchase price.
What This Means for Current Pixel Watch Owners
If you currently own a Pixel Watch 2 or 3, the decision to upgrade depends on your priorities. The faster charging and improved pricing on LTE models are attractive, but the new charging system means your existing accessories won’t be compatible.
For Pixel Watch 3 owners specifically, unless you’re particularly frustrated with charging times or want to switch to an LTE model at the new lower price, the improvements might not justify an immediate upgrade.
Looking Ahead to Google’s August Event
The official unveiling happens at Google’s Made by Google event on August 20th at 1:00 PM ET. This event will likely provide additional details about health features, battery life improvements, and software enhancements that weren’t covered in the pricing leak.
Google will also have the opportunity to explain their reasoning behind another charging system change and demonstrate how the new method’s benefits outweigh the compatibility concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will my current Pixel Watch charger work with the Pixel Watch 4?
A: No, the Pixel Watch 4 introduces a new charging system with side-mounted connectors. While this enables 25% faster charging, it means existing Pixel Watch chargers won’t be compatible with the new model.
Q: Is the Pixel Watch 4 worth upgrading from the Pixel Watch 3?
A: It depends on your needs. If you want faster charging or are interested in switching to an LTE model at the reduced price, it could be worthwhile. However, if you’re satisfied with your current watch’s performance and don’t want to replace charging accessories, you might want to wait for the next generation.
Q: When will the Pixel Watch 4 be officially announced and available?
A: Google will officially announce the Pixel Watch 4 at their Made by Google event on August 20th, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET. Availability and final pricing will be confirmed during this event, though based on previous launches, the watch should be available for purchase shortly after the announcement.