Some smartwatches just feel right. The perfect size, shape, and aesthetic create a seamless connection with your wrist. The OnePlus Watch 3 is one such device for me. This review delves into its features and performance to determine if it’s the right smartwatch for you.
OnePlus Watch 3: Design and Build
A watch’s design plays a crucial role in its appeal. The OnePlus Watch 3 boasts a polished stainless steel case with a unique raised section surrounding a button at the four o’clock position. This unconventional design, coupled with the angled crown at two o’clock, adds character. The fluted crown, tapering slightly, is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. A titanium bezel elevates the design further.
The integrated quick-release strap minimizes bulk and ensures a comfortable fit. The strap offers ample adjustability, a secure clasp, and two keepers. Despite its 47mm case and 81g weight (with strap), the OnePlus Watch 3 feels remarkably light on the wrist. The seamless integration of the screen with the sapphire crystal and titanium bezel creates a polished, integrated look.
The color options are somewhat limited. The Obsidian Titanium (black) version feels a bit understated, while the Emerald Titanium, though trendy, might not appeal to everyone. A classic blue option would have been a welcome addition. Furthermore, the OnePlus Watch 3 is only available in one size (large), which might deter those preferring a smaller smartwatch.
Impressive Battery Life
The OnePlus Watch 3’s battery life is a significant highlight. With always-on display, continuous heart rate monitoring, and other features enabled, it easily lasts four days on a single charge. This impressive performance is thanks to the 631mAh Silicon NanoStack battery and dual-chip architecture. While not quite matching the longevity of some TicWatch Pro models, it surpasses the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra and significantly outperforms the 40mm Galaxy Watch 7.
Unfortunately, the charging puck is a basic piece of white plastic. A more refined charging solution would have complemented the premium design of the watch.
Comprehensive Health and Fitness Tracking
The OnePlus Watch 3 offers a comprehensive suite of health tracking features, including an eight-channel optical heart rate sensor, a 16-channel pulse oximeter, a temperature sensor, and ECG functionality. It syncs with the OHealth app on Android (no iOS support) and integrates with Strava, Health Connect, and Google Fit. With 100 activity modes and six auto-detect modes, it accurately tracks various workouts.
The dual-frequency GPS provides precise location tracking and the OHealth app displays detailed workout data with a clear and logical layout. The new 60-second Health Check-in feature provides a quick overview of key health metrics, though it’s not a replacement for professional medical advice.
Sleep tracking is generally consistent, although sleep scores and stage measurements might differ from other trackers. The watch displays sleep data directly, eliminating the need to constantly check the OHealth app.
Smooth Performance with Wear OS 5
The OnePlus Watch 3’s dual-processor system, featuring the Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 and BES2800 chip, ensures smooth and responsive performance. The 1.5-inch AMOLED display is bright and clear, with reliable auto-brightness adjustment. The Wear OS 5 interface is slick and efficient, providing a balanced experience that prioritizes essential information.
While the glanceable information tiles offer convenient access to data, the customization options are somewhat limited. However, the overall speed and efficiency of the platform contribute to a positive user experience.
Price and Availability
The OnePlus Watch 3 is priced competitively at $329/£329, making it a strong contender against similarly priced smartwatches like the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 and Google Pixel Watch 3. However, it only offers Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connectivity, with no LTE model available.
Conclusion
The OnePlus Watch 3 strikes an excellent balance between design, performance, features, and battery life. It’s a compelling option for Android users seeking a premium smartwatch experience.
