Pixel Watch 5 Beats $1,049 Garmin Fenix 8 Pro in GPS Accuracy
Updated
Updated · ZDNet · Aug 20
Pixel Watch 5 Beats $1,049 Garmin Fenix 8 Pro in GPS Accuracy
3 articles · Updated · ZDNet · Aug 20
Summary
Weeks of running, walking and biking tests found the Pixel Watch 5 tracked real-world sidewalks and streets more precisely than the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro, especially in downtown Seattle and tree-covered routes.
Google said the gain comes from correcting building reflections and satellite-reading errors, and the reviewer found distance, ascent and step totals were similar even when Garmin's route trace looked less accurate.
The result is notable because Garmin has long been a GPS benchmark, yet the reviewer said Pixel Watch 5 now sets the new standard for location tracking.
Trade-offs remain: Pixel Watch 5 starts at $529 with AI coaching and safety tools, while the Fenix 8 Pro starts at $1,049 and still leads on battery life, off-grid messaging and some training metrics.