OnePlus Watch 3 vs. Google Pixel Watch 3: I tested both Android wearables, and it's a close one

I spent a couple of weeks with the OnePlus Watch 3, and it’s clear that OnePlus took customer feedback to heart. The battery life is better, the rotating crown makes navigation easier, and the design caters to fans of larger watches. If size weren’t a factor, this might be my new go-to Wear OS smartwatch. 

That said, a few software updates are still needed to iron out some issues. In fact, the launch was delayed by a couple of months due to a spelling error on the back panel.

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Meanwhile, it’s been about six months since Google released the Pixel Watch 3, a minimalist smartwatch that keeps improving with regular updates. When it comes to software, nothing I’ve tested beats the Pixel Watch 3 — and with two size options, it’s a great fit for everyone. Both of these third-gen Android smartwatches are excellent, so let’s break down why you might pick one over the other.

Specifications

You should buy the OnePlus Watch 3 if…

1. You want the longest battery life in a smartwatch

OnePlus claims the Watch 3 lasts up to five days (or 120 hours) on a single charge, and in my experience, that holds true — I’ve only needed to charge it once a week. On top of that, it supports fast charging, so just 10 minutes plugged in gives you a full day of battery life.

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Battery life can stretch even further with power-saving mode, but in my testing, I left it in smart mode while running and rowing about three times a week. OnePlus provides detailed battery life estimates based on factors like wireless status, message frequency, and exercise tracking, so be sure to check the product page for specifics. Still, it’s refreshing to move beyond the typical one- to two-day battery cycle — thanks to a large-capacity battery, silicon-carbon technology, and a dual-OS architecture.

2. You want a durable smartwatch

The Pixel Watch 3 is a sleek, minimalist smartwatch, but its design is dominated by curved glass that leaves the display exposed. In contrast, the OnePlus Watch 3 is built like a tank, featuring a sapphire crystal face with an 8+ rating on the Mohs hardness scale, a stainless steel case with a titanium bezel, IP68 dust and water resistance, a 50m water pressure rating, and MIL-STD-810H certification.

The included rugged silicone band adds to its durability, with a substantial thickness and a stainless steel clasp that keeps it securely in place. Plus, the large rotating digital crown makes navigation easy—even when wearing gloves.

3. Basic health and wellness data is all you need

GPS accuracy is excellent, and the heart rate sensor performs reliably in most conditions. The OnePlus Watch 3 supports a wide range of sports, even offering advanced metrics for some activities. However, you can’t customize the data screens during workouts, so you’re limited to the information OnePlus chooses to display.  

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The OHealth smartphone app provides post-workout insights, including running dynamics, but its home screen isn’t customizable. Some tiles appear empty, and you can’t arrange data for quick, glanceable access. That said, if you’re looking for accurate tracking and a solid set of basic features, the OnePlus Watch 3 could be a great fit.

You should buy the Google Pixel Watch 3 if…

1. You want the best software experience

While the OnePlus Watch 3 runs the latest version of Wear OS, some apps are simply more functional on the Pixel Watch 3. Take Google Home, for example—on the Pixel Watch 3, you can connect to your cameras and view live video feeds. On the OnePlus Watch 3, the same app just redirects you to open Google Home on your phone.

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The Pixel Watch 3 also offers deep Fitbit integration and is optimized for runners, with dynamic coaching features that help you reach your goals using just the watch. It tracks advanced health and wellness metrics, and the overall software experience feels more polished. Plus, as a Google product, the Pixel Watch 3 is guaranteed to receive more frequent software updates.

2. You want LTE and connected safety features

One of the standout features of the Pixel Watch 3 — even surpassing the Apple Watch in this area—is its focus on safety. The Safety Check feature lets you set a check-in timer when moving from point A to B, ensuring your emergency contacts are notified if something goes wrong. Best of all, you don’t need a cellular plan to use these connected safety features. The watch also includes SOS alerts and emergency detection for falls and car crashes, similar to Apple’s offerings.  

The Pixel Watch 3 also incorporates LTE support so you can pay a minimal fee to your carrier and leave your smartphone behind as you workout and still stay connected. There are rumors that a future OnePlus Watch may include LTE support.

3. You need emergency services and no one is around

At Google’s launch event last fall, the company showcased its Loss of Pulse Detection feature, and I spent time speaking with doctors about how it works. This technology feels especially personal to me — five years ago, my father suffered a cardiac arrest while sitting in his recliner. His wife didn’t find him for at least 15 minutes, and by then, it was too late.  

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The Loss of Pulse Detectionfeature could have made a difference. If a user becomes unresponsive, the watch can automatically prompt a call to emergency services. Sadly, data shows that more than half of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests go unwitnessed. That’s why I’m thrilled to see this feature pass FDA approval and officially launch on the Pixel Watch 3—it has the potential to save lives.