OnePlus Watch 3 Shrinks, But Sacrifices Key Features

Smaller design debuts with significant cutbacks, impacting health and GPS capabilities.

OnePlus aimed to capture a wider audience with a more compact smartwatch, but the new 43mm Watch 3 arrives with notable omissions that question its value proposition.

A More Approachable Design

The newly released OnePlus Watch 3, in its 43mm iteration, presents a welcome aesthetic update for those with smaller wrists. This version is notably lighter and more discreet than its 46mm predecessor, making it easy to forget you’re wearing it. The stainless steel casing is elegantly finished, complemented by a slimmer 18mm strap. Its 1.32-inch AMOLED display is bright, accurately calibrated, and delivers a pleasant user experience.

Compromises That Diminish Value

However, the reduced size comes at a cost, with OnePlus removing several advanced functionalities. The 43mm model notably lacks a temperature sensor, arterial rigidity analysis, and the 60-second rapid health assessment, all present in the larger model. Additionally, dual-frequency GPS support has been omitted. While these features might not impact casual users, they are a significant drawback for dedicated athletes and data-conscious individuals. Many advanced health monitoring capabilities have been halved, which is a considerable step back for a device priced at €299.

OnePlus cites space and battery constraints for these removals. Yet, in an era where competitors like Apple and Samsung manage to offer compact models without such drastic feature reductions, this feels like a missed opportunity. The device could have been a true compact alternative rather than a stripped-down version.

A unique addition is the menstrual cycle tracking feature. While a positive step for inclusivity, its implementation is basic, requiring manual data entry and lacking wrist temperature measurement for ovulation prediction, a feature found in some competing devices.

Reduced Battery Life

Autonomy also sees a decline. While the 46mm version boasted up to five days of battery life, the 43mm model struggles to surpass three days under normal usage, largely due to its smaller 354 mAh battery. While fast charging offers a quick top-up, allowing a full day’s use from a ten-minute charge, it doesn’t compensate for the significant drop from the brand’s earlier promise of extended battery performance.

Performance Remains Strong

On a brighter note, the internal hardware remains consistent with the larger model. The 43mm watch is powered by a Snapdragon W5 processor, supported by a secondary chip, and runs on Wear OS 5 with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage. This ensures smooth performance and a rich, enjoyable user experience. It is also €50 cheaper than the 46mm version, retailing at €299, making it a more accessible option.

However, considering the removed features, the €299 price tag still feels substantial. If battery life had been maintained, the cost might be more justifiable. As it stands, it’s difficult to ignore the compromises made.

A Missed Opportunity for a Complete Package

OnePlus had a clear opportunity to offer a truly compelling compact smartwatch. The design and software experience are commendable. However, by sacrificing essential sensors, GPS accuracy, and battery endurance, the brand appears to have released a product that feels intentionally diminished. This 43mm Watch 3 will appeal to users seeking a stylish, fluid, and straightforward smart accessory. Yet, for fitness enthusiasts or those prioritizing comprehensive health data and precise tracking, alternative options, including the larger OnePlus Watch 3, may prove more suitable. It’s a shame, as a slightly re-branded and more affordably priced “Lite” version could have fulfilled its potential.