Google’s Pixel Watch is one of the many smartwatches on the market that offer a variety of tracking functionality that enables you to work out smartly and efficiently. However, before you engage in water sports like swimming, you should ensure that your smartwatch companion is waterproof or, at the least, water-resistant to avoid water damage.
But is the Google Pixel Watch waterproof to allow you to wear it in water without worrying about damage?
The Google Pixel Watch Is Not Waterproof
To keep it short, the Google Pixel Watch is not waterproof. According to the official specifications, it has a water resistance rating of 5 ATM (atmospheres), which equals ~164 feet (50 meters) underwater. This means the device has been tested in line with the guidelines and specifications for rating the water resistance of watches.
Butwater resistance is not the same as waterproof. The former means the device can prevent entry only to a certain extent, while the latter means it’s impermeable. Because of this, Google openly states that the Pixel Watch is not waterproof.
But don’t let this turn you off from buying one of thebest Wear OS watches. If you look at the competition, popular alternatives like the Apple Watch Series 9, Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 series, Ticwatch Pro 5, Garmin Venu 2 Plus, and Fitbit Sense 2 all offer identical water resistance ratings of 5 ATM.
Some have better ratings, like the Apple Watch Ultra 2, which has double what the Pixel Watch offers at 328 feet. However, there are even watches with higher ratings.
Understanding Pixel Watch’s Water Resistance Rating
Water resistance in smartwatches is measured in atmospheric pressure and expressed in atmospheres (ATM). This rating refers to the amount of pressure a watch can withstand without allowing water to penetrate it.
You can get the equivalent depth by multiplying the ATM figure by 10. In the Pixel Watch’s case, 5 ATM becomes 50 meters, or 164 feet. But there’s a caveat. ATM measures pressure, not depth, so it doesn’t necessarily mean you can dive with your Pixel Watch up to 164 feet deep. This is because water resistance ratings in watches are typically measured in a static or motionless state.
At 5 ATM, the Pixel Watch is suitable for shallow-water activities like swimming as long as the water isn’t high-velocity or high-temperature. It can survive hand-washing, rain, splashes, or body sweat when working out. you’re able to even shower with your Pixel Watch, but it’s probably not a good idea if the water’s temperature is high.
Regardless, the water resistance capabilities of your Pixel Watch will decrease or even be lost due to damage, repair, disassembly, or wear and tear. You can grabPixel Watch accessorieslike a screen protector to extend the device’s pristine condition.
Think Twice Before Using Your Pixel Watch During Water Activities
The Pixel Watch is not waterproof, just like other popular smartwatches on the market. With a 5 ATM rating, the Pixel Watch will withstand shallow water activities as long as the water doesn’t have extreme temperatures or high velocity. So, before engaging in water-based activities, ensure you’re not pushing your device to the limits.
