Pixel Watch Performance Loop Review: A Poor Price-To-Performance Package [Video]

If you’re a daily Pixel Watch user, you, like us, might constantly be on the lookout for the perfect band. After delays and leaks, the Pixel Watch Performance Loop band is here, but how does it differ from the multitude of other similar options that start at much lower costs? Here’s what you need to know.

If you can’t tell them apart at a glance, you’re not alone. The Performance Loop, priced at $60 (or $80 Canadian), has a somewhat unusual history. It was leaked multiple times before its official release, appearing on Amazon, Best Buy Canada, and even in a Google blog post before finally becoming available months after the Pixel Watch 3 launch.

You might, like many of us, be drawn in by the marketing as a “run buddy” with a “micro-adjustable fit” and breathable fabric – ideal for anyone who works out daily. It’s technically washable, breathable, and should be comfortable in basically every situation. That’s the marketing fluff, but after two to three weeks of use, here’s what you need to know.

The Performance Loop is undeniably an improvement over the stock Pixel Watch band. It looks good, complements various outfits, and is comfortable enough for sleep tracking and desk work without digging into your wrist like the firm rubberized default band. It’s super flexible, and that is a really nice bonus for a Pixel Watch band. There is also the bonus of a well-considered color selection that pairs perfectly with the wearable’s case colors.

The Obsidian version – which we tested – features a subtle yet eye-catching gray and black scheme, but a few other options are available. Each colorway is suited to a specific Pixel Watch frame, so it’s important to pick one that best suits your wearable. The recycled fabric construction is solid, with a tougher nylon-like material on the inside and a softer fabric where the Velcro connects.

The stainless steel connectors perfectly match the watch’s finish and are a clear extension of the smartwatch’s design. The Velcro system allows for easy and precise adjustments, a welcome change from traditional notched bands.

However, the Performance Loop has its downsides. Despite the marketing claims, the fabric isn’t all that breathable. Video team member Jordan tested quite heavily during weekly 10-15-mile runs and found that his wrist struggles to get air around where the band is fitted.

This is especially frustrating given the snug fit required for accurate heart rate tracking, and it exacerbates the sweat-gathering problem we’ve just mentioned. This contrasts sharply with the Active Sport band’s perforated design, which provides ample ventilation but its own problems with sweat aggregation and how slippery it can get.

The fabric also presents cleaning challenges, particularly after intense workouts. While fine for casual use, gym sessions will require regular washing to prevent sweat and dead skin buildup. The fabric absorbs moisture and can remain damp for up to 45 minutes after washing, unlike the easily sanitized Active Sport band, which dries in seconds.

However, this is a criticism you can level at lots of other similar fabric-based bands for wearables.

There isn’t a huge quality jump over various cheap, unbranded alternatives. One area we expected better was the band attachment and strap mechanism. It appears that this connector is made from plastic rather than a firm metal or high-quality material. When attaching the band to the Pixel Watch 3 for the first time, Jordan even stated that this wasn’t smooth. Instead, the band snagged and needed extra force to fit correctly.

At this stage, it is unclear whether that was due to bad QA or a more common issue some might face.

Because the strap is so lightweight and flexible, it is better suited for people who want a casual band that doesn’t look so “sport” or techie – which is something the default band suffers from.

If you couldn’t already tell, the major nagging issue is always the $60 price tag. It really is a major hurdle. Fortunately, several affordable alternatives exist. The BlackPro nylon band two-pack is a standout recommendation. For just $10, you get two Pixel Watch bands that for an intents and purposes are virtually identical to the Performance Loop.

They feature the same Velcro mechanism, similar fabric, and a wide range of colors. While the Black Pro’s fabric might be less durable, and the lugs are plastic rather than stainless steel, they’re a great budget option. Spigen’s Lite Fit band is another worthy contender. Several of the team have used this option extensively with the Pixel Watch 2, and now the Pixel Watch 3. It offers similar comfort and flexibility with a metal clasp for size adjustment. Its slightly stretchier material and $20-$25 price point make it appealing, but the limited colors might put some off.

Finally, for dedicated workout bands, the Active Sport band remains a solid top choice. Despite some wear on the outer finish, it excels during intense exercise. The perforated design keeps my skin breathing, and the silicone material allows for quick and easy cleaning. If you’re able to stomach $60 for a dedicated Pixel Watch workout band, the Active Sport is the clear winner.

While it’s easy to appreciate the Performance Loop in isolation, it’s tough to recommend it unless certain criteria are met: if the default band is unbearable, if you own the 45mm watch and struggle to find third-party bands, or if you can purchase it at a significant discount. Otherwise, the $60 price is simply too high, especially as tons of third-party alternatives offer a nearly identical experience for a fraction of the cost.

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