A Compact Dynamo: The 43mm OnePlus Watch 3 Emerges at the FCC
OnePlus is preparing to enhance its smartwatch portfolio with a more compact version of its top-tier wearable. A 43mm OnePlus Watch 3 has recently been uncovered in FCC submissions, suggesting an impending release. This new iteration seems to be a rebranded Oppo Watch X2 Mini, boasting a stylish design, robust internals, and an impressive 3-day battery life — all within a more manageable size.
Let’s delve into what we know thus far and tackle the pertinent question: what will the price be?
Current Insights
The 43mm OnePlus Watch 3, identified by the model number OPWE242, was recently noticed in FCC records. The watch measures 48.03 x 43.14mm, making it marginally taller yet slimmer than the 47mm OnePlus Watch 3. It comes equipped with a 345mAh battery, a rotating crown, and is likely to share numerous internal parts with its larger counterpart.
The device is anticipated to be a rebranded rendition of the Oppo Watch X2 Mini, which was unveiled just last week. This watch boasts a 1.32-inch AMOLED screen with a 60Hz refresh rate and a remarkable 2,200 nits of brightness. With the identical 345mAh battery, the Oppo Watch X2 Mini claims up to 3 days of battery life — a noteworthy milestone for a Wear OS gadget.
Shared Components, Reduced Size
In spite of its smaller form factor, the 43mm OnePlus Watch 3 is projected to deliver performance comparable to the 47mm variant. Both watches are reportedly utilizing the Snapdragon W5 chipset in conjunction with a BES2700 MCU, 2GB of RAM, and 32GB of internal storage. Anticipated features including health sensors, IP68 water and dust protection, and top-notch displays are also expected to be present.
The primary distinction lies in battery capacity and screen dimensions. The larger 47mm Watch 3 showcases a 1.5-inch display and a 631mAh battery, promising up to 5 days of battery life. The 43mm version, equipped with its 345mAh battery, targets 3 days — still commendable compared to many rivals like the Galaxy Watch 7 and Pixel Watch 3, which generally last 1–2 days.
A More Comfortable Option
OnePlus has recognized that the 47mm Watch 3 might be too bulky for individuals with petite wrists. In response, Dr. Leo Zhang, the company’s head of R&D for Health, confirmed earlier this year that a smaller variant was in the works. The 43mm model, weighing approximately 37.8g (without strap), is considerably lighter than the 49.7g 47mm model and utilizes a narrower 18mm strap instead of 22mm. This should render it a more comfortable choice for a broader range of users.
What Name Will It Take?
There remains some ambiguity regarding the official title. It might be marketed as the OnePlus Watch 3 Mini, reflecting its compact size, or potentially the OnePlus Watch 3R, following the naming pattern of the prior Watch 2R. Another option is for OnePlus to simply offer the Watch 3 in two sizes, akin to how Apple and Samsung present their smartwatches.
Pricing: The Critical Question
While the Oppo Watch X2 Mini is listed at CNY 1,799 (around $249 USD), OnePlus has a tendency to elevate prices for the U.S. market substantially. The 47mm OnePlus Watch 3 debuted at $500 in the U.S., a significant rise from its initial $330 price tag. This escalation is likely attributed to tariffs and import expenses.
If the 43mm version adheres to the same pattern, we might anticipate a U.S. price nearing $375 — a 50% increase from its Chinese equivalent. While this would still keep it under the $400 threshold, it would position the watch above the $350 Pixel Watch 3 and close to the Galaxy Watch 7.
Is It Worth the Investment?
If OnePlus can provide a 3-day battery life within a compact, stylish, and powerful smartwatch, it could establish a new benchmark for Wear OS devices. Most competitors face challenges in exceeding two days of battery life, particularly in smaller models. The 43mm OnePlus Watch 3 could revolutionize the market — but only if it is priced appealingly.
Conclusion
The 43mm OnePlus Watch 3 is poised to be an enticing addition to the smartwatch landscape. With high-end specifications, reliable battery life, and a more wrist-friendly design, it could attract users who found the original Watch 3 too cumbersome. However, the ultimate verdict will hinge significantly on the pricing. If OnePlus can maintain a sensible price, this could be a remarkable contender.
