The smartwatch market has seen a surge in oversized devices, often leaving those with smaller wrists or a preference for subtlety feeling overlooked. Enter the OnePlus Watch 3 43mm, a device that defies the trend of bulkiness while packing a punch in functionality and style.
Design and Comfort
At first glance, the OnePlus Watch 3 43mm may seem diminutive, but its design speaks volumes. Crafted from stainless steel, the case eschews a traditional bezel for a sleek, minimalist appearance that feels more refined than its larger counterpart. Weighing in at just 58 grams with the band, this smartwatch is designed for all-day wear, making it an ideal companion for both casual outings and rigorous workouts.
The 1.32-inch display, while smaller than many competitors, offers a resolution of 466 x 466 pixels, delivering vibrant visuals that are easy to read. The 2.5D glass adds a tactile quality, catching the light in a way that gives it a premium feel without the fragility of sapphire glass. With a variety of customizable watch faces, users can personalize their experience without the need for third-party options.
Performance and Software
Under the hood, the OnePlus Watch 3 43mm is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 processor, paired with Google’s Wear OS 5. While it may not be the latest version on the market, the performance is commendable. Navigating through apps and notifications is smooth, and the rotating crown offers a tactile way to interact with the device.
However, notifications remain a weak point, a common issue across the Wear OS platform. While core apps function adequately, the inconsistency in notifications can be frustrating. The interface, though slightly dated compared to newer models, has been enhanced by OnePlus, making it more user-friendly.
Battery Life: Efficiency Redefined
One of the standout features of the OnePlus Watch 3 43mm is its battery life. Thanks to a dual-engine architecture that combines the Snapdragon processor with a secondary chip running RTOS, this smartwatch achieves an impressive longevity of two to three days on a single charge. This efficiency is especially noteworthy given the smaller battery capacity of 354mAh.
Charging is equally convenient, facilitated by OnePlus’s innovative 2-in-1 SuperVOOC charging cable, which allows users to charge their smartwatch and phone simultaneously. A quick 10-minute charge can provide a full day’s worth of use, making it a practical choice for those on the go.
Health and Fitness Tracking
In terms of health and fitness tracking, the OnePlus Watch 3 43mm doesn’t skimp on features. It supports over 100 workout modes and boasts an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, making it suitable for a variety of activities. However, the accompanying OHealth app leaves much to be desired in terms of design and usability. Its outdated interface contrasts sharply with the smartwatch’s sleek aesthetic, making it feel less premium than competitors like Fitbit or Apple Health.
While the health metrics align closely with other established devices, setting up features like skin temperature monitoring can be cumbersome due to the app’s confusing layout. Despite these shortcomings, the watch provides essential tracking capabilities, including sleep analysis and workout data, which are accurate and reliable.
Final Thoughts: A Smart Choice
So, is the OnePlus Watch 3 43mm worth your investment? At a price point of $300, it stands out as one of the more affordable options in a market where many competitors start at $350. The combination of stylish design, impressive battery life, and comprehensive health tracking makes it a compelling choice for anyone seeking a smartwatch that doesn’t compromise on functionality.
While the OHealth app and the slower update schedule for Wear OS may deter some potential buyers, the overall package offered by the OnePlus Watch 3 43mm is hard to overlook. It’s a smartwatch that proves size isn’t everything, and for those looking for a compact yet capable device, this could very well be the perfect fit.
Original story: Android Police
