It’s no secret that while smartwatches are packed with advanced technology, they often fall short in one crucial area: battery life. Having owned multiple smartwatches over the years, I’ve frequently found myself frustrated with their subpar battery performance. This ongoing issue has led me to revert to fitness watches or even explore smart rings instead. Although I appreciate the smart functionalities of these devices, their need for daily charging has often marred my experience.
That all changed when I finally tried the OnePlus Watch 3. This smartwatch has effectively addressed my long-standing battery concerns while simultaneously setting a new standard for all other smartwatches I’ve used. The OnePlus Watch 3 impressively combines style, functionality, and incredible battery life, making it a standout in the crowded smartwatch market.
The design of the OnePlus Watch 3 is nothing short of stunning. Unlike other Android smartwatches I’ve tested, such as the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic and Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, the OnePlus Watch 3 feels faster and more responsive. The larger display not only enhances usability but also makes navigation intuitive. The watch’s interface is powered by WearOS, which, when combined with the rotating crown, offers a superior experience compared to Samsung’s rotating bezel.
What truly sets the OnePlus Watch 3 apart is its phenomenal battery life. This smartwatch can last up to five days on a single charge when the always-on display is turned off, a remarkable improvement over the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic, which required daily charging. The convenience of charging just once or twice a week is a game-changer for anyone tired of the hassle of frequent top-ups.
In addition to its impressive battery life, the OnePlus Watch 3 comes with a charging puck that I actually appreciate. While it may be made of plastic, its ability to connect to any standard USB-C cable is a great feature. Unlike other smartwatches that come with proprietary charging docks, the OnePlus charging puck is easy to carry around, allowing for on-the-go charging without the need for specialized cables.
Of course, no device is without its drawbacks. One concern I have is the potential to lose the small, nondescript charging puck. It’s easy to misplace, which could be an inconvenience down the line. Additionally, the size of the OnePlus Watch 3 is larger than many traditional watches I’ve worn. While the size aids in navigation and readability, it may not appeal to everyone. However, it's noteworthy that despite its size, the watch remains lightweight and comfortable for daily wear.
The OnePlus Watch 3 is undoubtedly a strong contender in the smartwatch market, though it may not be drastically superior to its competitors. Instead, it excels in several key areas, particularly in battery performance. This enhancement makes a significant difference for users like me, who have long struggled with the trade-off between smart features and battery life.
While I have enjoyed various smartwatches over the years, my first experience was with the Pebble Steel. That device offered limited smart features but boasted impressive battery life. Over time, I transitioned to fitness watches, which typically have much longer battery lives but lack comprehensive smart functionalities. My experience with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic opened my eyes to the full potential of smartwatches, but its poor battery life left me wanting more.
For over a decade, I believed that smart features and battery life were mutually exclusive. The allure of a feature-rich smartwatch meant sacrificing battery longevity, and vice versa. However, the OnePlus Watch 3 has shattered that perception, proving that it is possible to enjoy both robust features and outstanding battery life. Now, I find it hard to consider going back to my previous devices, as this smartwatch has truly redefined my expectations. With the OnePlus Watch 3 leading the charge, it's clear that other manufacturers must step up their game to keep pace.
