Any links to online stores should be assumed to be affiliates. The company or PR agency provides all or most review samples. They have no control over my content, and I provide my honest opinion.
OnePlus is expanding its wearable portfolio with the introduction of the Watch 3 43mm, a compact smartwatch designed to deliver flagship features in a smaller, lighter form. Launching on 8 July 2025, the Watch 3 43mm arrives alongside four other devices, aiming to address the needs of users who prefer a more discreet smartwatch without sacrificing functionality. This new model builds on the foundation set by the larger OnePlus Watch 3, which I previously reviewed, and brings a similar suite of health, wellness, and design features to a broader audience.
Compact Form Without Compromise
Historically, smaller smartwatches have often meant a pared-down feature set, with manufacturers prioritising size over capability. OnePlus has taken a different approach with the Watch 3 43mm, aiming to deliver a full-featured experience regardless of wrist size. The device features a 1.32-inch display housed in a stainless steel body, weighing just 37.8 grams. This makes it the most compact smartwatch OnePlus has produced to date, and the design is intended to ensure comfort throughout the day, whether during exercise, sleep, or routine wear.
The reduced size does not come at the expense of performance or usability. The Watch 3 43mm retains the core features of its larger sibling, including comprehensive health tracking, robust battery life, and a premium build. The intention is to provide a smartwatch that suits users with smaller wrists or those who simply prefer a less obtrusive device, without requiring them to compromise on the functions they expect from a modern wearable.
Design: Blending Classic and Modern Aesthetics
The Watch 3 43mm continues OnePlus’s minimalist design philosophy, merging the visual appeal of traditional watches with the practicality of modern technology. The watch face is protected by a 2.5D micro-curved crystal, which creates a seamless transition between materials and offers a smooth, tactile experience. The crystal is complemented by screen-printed 12-hour indices, providing a nod to classic watch design and ensuring that the device remains easy to read at a glance.
Available in Silver Steel, the Watch 3 43mm features a metallic texture that adds to its understated appearance. The overall aesthetic is one of refined simplicity, designed to appeal to users who value both style and substance in their wearable devices.
Advanced Mind and Body Wellness Features
Health monitoring is a central focus for the Watch 3 43mm, with OnePlus emphasising a holistic approach that covers both physical and psychological wellbeing. The upgraded ‘Mind & Body Evaluation’ system is a standout feature, offering users a more detailed understanding of their health status.
Real-Time Fatigue and Stress Tracking
A notable addition is the real-time barometer, which evaluates the body’s level of fatigue every 30 minutes. This data is used to provide insights into the user’s mental state, helping them to identify patterns and potential triggers for stress or tiredness. The watch also tracks daily stress patterns, offering a more nuanced picture of overall wellbeing.
Guided Breathing and Personalised Prompts
To support mental health, the Watch 3 43mm includes a one-minute guided breathing session, complete with real-time feedback showing how the body responds to relaxation techniques. Users receive daily and weekly summaries of their mind and body status, along with personalised prompts designed to help reduce stress and encourage healthier habits.
This focus on mental wellbeing sets the Watch 3 43mm apart from many competitors, which often prioritise physical health metrics at the expense of psychological insights. By integrating both, OnePlus aims to provide a more comprehensive tool for users looking to manage their overall health.
Comparison with the Larger OnePlus Watch 3
Having reviewed the larger OnePlus Watch 3, it is clear that the 43mm model retains much of what made the original appealing, but in a form factor that is better suited to smaller wrists. The main differences lie in the size and weight, with the 43mm model offering a more discreet and comfortable fit. Both devices share the same core health and wellness features, including the Mind & Body Evaluation system, long battery life, and premium materials.
For users who found the original Watch 3 too large or heavy, the 43mm version addresses these concerns without removing key functionalities. This makes it a practical choice for a wider range of users, especially those who prioritise comfort and wearability.
Broader Product Launch
The Watch 3 43mm is launching alongside four other OnePlus devices: the Nord 5, Nord CE 5, Buds 4, and Pad Lite. This coordinated release highlights OnePlus’s strategy of offering a comprehensive ecosystem of devices, catering to different user preferences and needs.
Conclusion
The OnePlus Watch 3 43mm is positioned as a fully-featured smartwatch in a compact, lightweight design. It addresses the limitations often associated with smaller wearables, providing users with advanced health and wellness tracking, a refined aesthetic, and a comfortable fit. By maintaining the core features of the larger Watch 3, OnePlus ensures that users do not have to choose between size and functionality.
For those seeking a smartwatch that balances style, comfort, and comprehensive health monitoring, the Watch 3 43mm is a notable addition to the current wearable landscape. The focus on both physical and mental wellbeing, combined with a minimalist design, makes it a practical choice for users who value substance as much as appearance. With its launch, OnePlus continues to expand its presence in the wearable market, offering more options for users with varying preferences and requirements.
I am James, a UK-based tech enthusiast and the Editor and Owner of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Passionate about all things technology, my expertise spans from computers and networking to mobile, wearables, and smart home devices.
As a fitness fanatic who loves running and cycling, I also have a keen interest in fitness-related technology, and I take every opportunity to cover this niche on my blog. My diverse interests allow me to bring a unique perspective to tech blogging, merging lifestyle, fitness, and the latest tech trends.
In my academic pursuits, I earned a BSc in Information Systems Design from UCLAN, before advancing my learning with a Master’s Degree in Computing. This advanced study also included Cisco CCNA accreditation, further demonstrating my commitment to understanding and staying ahead of the technology curve.
I’m proud to share that Vuelio has consistently ranked Mighty Gadget as one of the top technology blogs in the UK. With my dedication to technology and drive to share my insights, I aim to continue providing my readers with engaging and informative content.
