Verdict
All guidesResearchMethodologyAboutContact
Head-to-head · Best Smartwatches

Apple Watch Series 11 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 Series 11 and OnePlus Watch 3 score essentially the same (4.3 vs 4.3). Pick the one whose trade-offs match your priorities — the strengths and watch-outs below are where they actually differ.

Apple Watch Series 11
Ranked #3 in Best Smartwatches
Apple Watch Series 11
5 sources$299.99as of Jul 31

The Apple Watch Series 11 refines what came before it, with a brighter display and more performance from the S9 SiP chip. PCMag's Andrew Gebhart called it a 'small but meaningful step forward' rather than a redesign. CNET's reviewer named it a 'goldilocks pick' while noting it's getting harder to recommend against newer models. Health monitoring stays strong, with enhanced ECG capabilities and an improved always-on display, but nothing here separates it sharply from previous generations.

Strengths
  • — Improved brightness with up to 2,000 nits peak brightness for better visibility in sunlight
  • — Enhanced always-on display functionality with improved readability
  • — Faster S9 SiP chip delivering better performance and efficiency
Watch-outs
  • — No significant design changes from Series 10
  • — Still lacks standalone cellular connectivity in entry-level models
$299.99 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
OnePlus Watch 3
Ranked #4 in Best Smartwatches
OnePlus Watch 3
4 sources

Battery life carries the OnePlus Watch 3: a 500 mAh cell plus a dual-engine architecture makes it one of the most reliable Wear OS watches you can buy. CNET praised the endurance, and GSMArena pointed to the MIL-STD-810H certification and IP68 rating behind its durable design. The 1.5-inch LTPO AMOLED display is bright and sharp. Reviewers were less pleased with a charging cradle that has to be lined up just right and with subpar audio during calls. Buy it for the battery and the build; look elsewhere if you need eSIM or better call quality.

Strengths
  • — Impressive battery life with 23% increase in capacity to 500 mAh
  • — Durable build with MIL-STD-810H certification and IP68/5ATM ratings
  • — Large 1.5-inch LTPO AMOLED display with 466x466px resolution and 2,200 nits brightness
Watch-outs
  • — Charging cradle requires precise alignment
  • — Sound quality during calls is tinny with average microphone performance
  • — No eSIM support despite Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
Check Price on AmazonFull review →

How they stack up

Apple Watch Series 11

The Apple Watch Series 11 improves upon its predecessor with a faster S9 chip and enhanced display brightness, but unlike the Apple Watch Ultra 2, it lacks rugged durability and specialized outdoor features. Compared to the Apple Watch SE, it offers more advanced health monitoring and a premium feel, though it doesn't provide the budget-friendly value that the SE delivers. It's a refined upgrade for existing Apple Watch users but doesn't break new ground in terms of design or functionality.

OnePlus Watch 3

The OnePlus Watch 3 excels in battery life and durability, surpassing the Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch SE in both areas, but it lacks the advanced health sensors and app ecosystem of Apple's offerings. Compared to the Garmin Venu 3, it offers better display resolution and a more comfortable fit, though it doesn't match the Garmin's sleep tracking or third-party app support. It's a strong contender for users who prioritize endurance and build quality over smart features.

Specs side-by-side

SpecApple Watch Series 11OnePlus Watch 3
Display1.9-inch always-on Retina1.5 inches LTPO AMOLED
ProcessorS9 SiPSnapdragon W5 and BES2800 BP
BatteryUp to 24 hours—
Water Resistance50 metersIP68/5ATM
Connectivity5GBluetooth and Wi-Fi
Health FeaturesECG app, heart rhythm monitoringheart rate, and temperature sensor
Weight37g (46mm), 30g (42mm)49.7g
Dimensions9.4 x 3 x 1.2 in—
← See the full ranking of best smartwatches