The top smartwatch with exceptional battery performance on Wear OS

The OnePlus Watch 3 is an impressive entry into the smartwatch market, especially for those who are interested in Wear OS. It offers a nice combination of sleek software and strong battery life, largely due to its new dual-chip system that conserves power. This time, its improved rotating crown and a bigger display enhance the user experience even more.

Interestingly, while using this watch, I couldn’t help but think back to a video I once saw of cows crossing a road, hopping over a white line. Their little jumps might stem from problems with depth perception, and while that connection seems a stretch, it’s a cute image that stuck with me during my time with the OnePlus Watch 3.

This model stands out from other smartwatches for one main reason: it has fantastic battery life. However, for folks in North America, some cool features are not available when it launches due to regulations. Just like those cows managing to cross the road, the OnePlus Watch 3 will eventually find its way onto many wrists, but it does face a few challenges.

One drawback is that it only comes in a 47mm case size. For some, especially those with smaller wrists, it might feel bulky. Weighing in at 81 grams thanks to its stainless-steel structure, it feels hefty. People have speculated that OnePlus might release other sizes soon, but right now, this watch might not be the best fit for everyone.

Another design aspect that could be improved is its shape; it has a noticeable straight edge and a band that doesn’t sit snugly against the wrist, making it feel quite chunky. I had hoped for a refined design, especially for users with smaller wrists, but we only see slight updates in that area.

On the bright side, it does feature a stylish titanium detailing and slimmer bezels, resulting in a more vibrant display area. The 1.5-inch screen is bright and colorful, perfect for scrolling through apps and various watch faces. Moreover, the backside now has better LED arrangements to enhance sensor performance.

One of the most significant improvements is the rotating crown, which previously felt non-functional. In this model, it is more ergonomic and now serves multiple functions for smooth navigation through the UI. It allows for easy scrolling and even includes customizable button features. While there is still a control panel that can’t be customized, the rotating crown really enhances the overall usability of the device, making it competitive with other brands.

As for performance, the OnePlus Watch 3 boasts the latest Wear OS 5, bringing enhanced smart features and efficient syncing. The ability to customize tiles and access Google apps means that users get a robust experience. In terms of battery life, this watch could last up to three days with heavy use, extending even further to sixteen days in a power-saving mode. During my review, I found the battery life to be very reliable, surpassing my expectations and even outlasting my previous smartwatch.

However, not every feature is available at launch. Even though the OnePlus Watch 3 introduces ECG support, it is not yet approved for use in North America. This means several health-monitoring functions aren’t accessible at this time, which might be disappointing.

In terms of fitness tracking, it does cover basics like heart rate and activity monitoring. However, some features, like temperature readings for menstrual cycle tracking, are missing. While it includes over 110 sports modes, the watch still has issues with heart rate accuracy. Compared to competitors, its results vary widely, especially during intense workouts.

Overall, the OnePlus Watch 3 makes great strides in design and functionality, offering impressive battery life, a refined interface, and exciting new features. However, its larger size and lack of certain functions at launch may deter some users. Priced at around $329, it is an attractive option for many, particularly those who value extended battery life in a smartwatch. Yet, it may not be the ideal choice for everyone, especially if you prioritize size and comprehensive health tracking features.