I tested the Pixel Watch 5 and discovered Google's best smartwatch yet

The Pixel Watch 5 is being hailed as Google’s best smartwatch yet, with androidpolice.com reporting a hands‑on test that declared it the top model in the lineup. The review follows a September 2026 software update rollout that introduced new capabilities across the device. Jetstream.blog and Droid Life both flagged the September 2026 update as the first major rollout for the device, while 9to5Google confirmed the distribution schedule. TechRadar documented a side‑by‑side comparison on the London Marathon course, finding the Pixel Watch 5’s GPS accuracy surpasses that of Apple and Garmin watches. trendhunter.com notes the watch now uses AI to refine workout route tracking, while Geeky Gadgets points to a $349 upgrade price and evaluates whether the performance gains justify the cost.

Android Authority explains how owners of the prior generation can install exclusive Pixel Watch 5 faces. TechRadar also quoted Google’s claim that the watch can out‑perform Apple and Garmin in GPS precision, and Android Authority’s detailed method for transferring Pixel Watch 5’s exclusive faces to the prior generation. Despite strong metrics, not all feedback is uniformly positive. androidcentral.com describes the watch as “good” but criticizes its tactile response, stating it “doesn’t want me to touch it” and signaling that users are still awaiting more compelling features. Droid Life and 9to5Google both highlight the size of the September update, suggesting further refinements may be needed to fully realize the hardware’s potential.

Coverage notes that the September update is being rolled out across devices, according to 9to5Google and Droid Life, setting the stage for subsequent software‑driven improvements. Observers will watch for post‑update performance data and whether newer watch faces or health metrics expand the watch’s appeal.