Verdict
All guidesResearchOpen dataMethodologyAboutContact
Head-to-head · Best Smartwatches

Apple Watch SE 3 vs OnePlus Watch 3

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

Verdict is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you click through and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are sourced from independent publications, not sponsors.
The short answer

Apple Watch SE 3 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.4 vs 4.3). Apple Watch SE 3 is best for: Budget-conscious users wanting Apple ecosystem. Read the strengths below before deciding.

Apple Watch SE 3
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Smartwatches
Apple Watch SE 3
1 source$219as of Oct 14

The Apple Watch SE 3 represents the most improved iteration since the last generation, offering a compelling balance of affordability and functionality. It features an Always-On Retina display, S10 chip, and enhanced speaker capabilities while maintaining the older design aesthetic. While it lacks some advanced health metrics found in higher-tier models, it provides solid performance and is recommended as the go-to option for most users seeking an Apple Watch.

Strengths
  • — Features Always-On Retina display with 1000 nits brightness and 2 nits dimming capability, per AppleInsider
  • — Includes media playback speakers with adjustable volume for on-wrist audio
  • — Utilizes strengthened Ion-X glass that is 4X crack-resistant compared to previous generation, according to Cult of Mac
Watch-outs
  • — Design retains 2018 facelift with thicker bezels and outdated body profile, per Wareable
  • — Limited color options with only Midnight and Starlight available
$219 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
OnePlus Watch 3
Ranked #4 in Best Smartwatches
OnePlus Watch 3
3 sources$349.99as of Oct 14

The OnePlus Watch 3 delivers exceptional battery life, lasting up to five days with all features enabled, making it a standout among Wear OS smartwatches. It features a polished design available in two sizes, robust health tracking capabilities, and a dual-chipset power management system. However, it falls short in software update support and lacks certain health features like ECG and menstrual cycle tracking, particularly in the US market. This smartwatch is ideal for users prioritizing battery longevity and fitness metrics over software longevity and comprehensive health monitoring.

Strengths
  • — Five-day battery life with all features enabled
  • — Sleek and comfortable design with two size options
  • — Robust health features including advanced metrics for sports modes
Watch-outs
  • — Only three years of software and security updates, per CNET
  • — Lacks menstrual cycle tracking and ECG functionality in the US
$349.99 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →

How they stack up

Apple Watch SE 3

The Apple Watch SE 3 offers an updated design and Always-On Retina display, which the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 and Apple Watch Series 11 don't match, but it lacks the advanced health features of the Garmin Venu 4 and Apple Watch Ultra 3. While it provides better value than the Apple Watch Series 11, it doesn't offer the same level of smart features as the OnePlus Watch 3 or Xiaomi Watch 5. The Google Pixel Watch 4 offers more battery life but lacks the ecosystem integration that the SE 3 provides.

OnePlus Watch 3

The OnePlus Watch 3 delivers five-day battery life, which surpasses the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 and Apple Watch Series 11, but it lacks the advanced health features found in the Garmin Venu 4 and Apple Watch Ultra 3. Unlike the Google Pixel Watch 4, it doesn't include built-in Gemini AI, and compared to the Xiaomi Watch 5, it lacks Wear OS 6 integration and smart features like YouTube Music. The Apple Watch SE 3 offers better value with its updated design and speaker capabilities.

Specs side-by-side

SpecApple Watch SE 3OnePlus Watch 3
Display TypeLTPO OLEDAMOLED
Connectivity5GBluetooth and Wi-Fi
OSwatchOS 26Wear OS
CompatibilityiPhoneAndroid
Material100% recycled aluminumstainless steel
Water Resistance50m (swimproof)5ATM
BatteryBuilt-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery631mAh
Dimensions9.4 x 3 x 1.2 inches—
← See the full ranking of best smartwatches