The OnePlus Watch 3 marks a significant advancement in smartwatch design and functionality, offering a blend of sophisticated aesthetics, robust performance, and an impressive battery life that sets it apart in the wearable tech market.

Design and Display

At first glance, the OnePlus Watch 3 maintains a sleek and modern appearance, closely resembling its predecessor. However, it introduces a slightly larger 1.5-inch AMOLED display, delivering vibrant visuals with a peak brightness of 2200 nits. The inclusion of a rotating crown enhances user interaction, providing intuitive navigation through the watch’s interface. Constructed with a titanium case measuring 46.6 x 47.6 x 11.75 millimeters, the watch is both lightweight and durable. Its IP68 rating ensures resistance against dust and water, making it suitable for various environments. The design exudes elegance, appealing to those who prefer a classic round watch face over rectangular alternatives.

Performance and Battery Life

One of the standout features of the OnePlus Watch 3 is its remarkable battery performance. Utilizing new silicon-carbon battery technology, the watch houses a 631-mAh battery, a notable increase from the previous model’s 500-mAh capacity. This enhancement, combined with a dual-engine architecture—comprising the Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 chip for Wear OS 5 and an upgraded BES2800 chip for real-time operations—enables the watch to achieve up to five days of usage on a single charge. For those seeking extended battery life, a power-saving mode can prolong usage up to 16 days. This longevity addresses a common pain point among smartwatch users, reducing the frequency of charging and enhancing convenience.

Health and Fitness Features

The OnePlus Watch 3 places a strong emphasis on health monitoring, introducing features such as electrocardiogram (ECG) capabilities, wrist temperature sensing, irregular heart-rate notifications, and fall detection. However, it’s important to note that the ECG function is currently unavailable in the United States and Canada due to pending FDA certification. Sleep tracking has been refined for greater accuracy, providing insights into sleep quality and patterns. The watch also offers a Vascular Health app, assessing arterial stiffness to inform users about potential cardiovascular risks. While these tools are valuable for health-conscious individuals, they are intended for informational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.

Software and User Experience

Running on Wear OS 5, the OnePlus Watch 3 delivers a smooth and responsive user experience. The integration of the rotating crown allows for effortless scrolling and selection within the interface. Users can manage notifications, control music playback, handle calls, and access a variety of apps directly from their wrist. The watch also supports seamless interaction with OnePlus smartphones, including remote camera control—a feature that enhances its versatility.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Extended Battery Life: Up to five days of regular use, significantly reducing charging frequency.
Enhanced Health Monitoring: Introduction of ECG, temperature sensing, and improved sleep tracking.
Premium Build Quality: Titanium case and high-brightness AMOLED display offer durability and clarity.
User-Friendly Interface: Rotating crown and Wear OS 5 provide an intuitive and smooth user experience.

Cons:

Limited ECG Availability: ECG functionality is not yet available in the U.S. and Canada.
Single Size Option: The 46.6mm case size may not suit individuals with smaller wrists.
Software Update Commitment: OnePlus currently promises only two years of software updates, which may concern users seeking longer-term support.

Final Verdict

The OnePlus Watch 3 represents a substantial leap forward in the company’s wearable lineup, addressing previous shortcomings and introducing meaningful enhancements. Its exceptional battery life, comprehensive health features, and refined design make it a compelling choice for those in the market for a high-performance smartwatch. While there are areas for improvement, such as broader ECG availability and extended software support, the overall package offers excellent value at its price point. For users in Sweden, the watch is available for purchase at an official retail price of $330, approximately 3,500 SEK, providing a competitive alternative to other premium smartwatches on the market.