I’ve Spent Weeks with the OnePlus Watch 2: A Blend of Battery Life and Smart Features
In the evolving landscape of smartwatches, the OnePlus Watch 2 stands out, particularly for Android users looking for a reliable companion for fitness and daily tasks. While it may not be flawless, it certainly positions itself as a top contender for those engaged in long-distance training or anyone weary of frequent recharges.
Overview of the Smartwatch Market in 2025
The current smartwatch arena presents a dilemma for Android users: the highly acclaimed Apple Watch Ultra is exclusively compatible with iPhones, leaving a gap for other options. Android enthusiasts can either opt for devices like the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5, known for mediocre battery life, or settle for lesser-equipped alternatives such as the Huawei Watch GT 3 or Garmin Enduro 2, which excel in longevity but fall short on features. The OnePlus Watch 2 promises to bridge this gap by offering an appealing mix of functionality and battery endurance.
Key Features of the OnePlus Watch 2
The OnePlus Watch 2 operates on WearOS and features two primary modes: Smart Mode and Power Saver Mode. In Smart Mode, the watch boasts a battery life of up to 100 hours while maintaining support for popular applications like Audible, Spotify, and Calm. In contrast, Power Saver Mode can extend battery longevity to two weeks, albeit with limited functionality restricted to pre-installed applications. Both modes are equipped with various fitness tracking capabilities, as well as monitoring of health metrics such as heart rate and sleep patterns.
Priced at $299 / £299 for the standard Radiant Steel and Black Steel editions, and £329 for the premium Nordic Blue variant with a leather strap, the OnePlus Watch 2 competes with names like the Garmin Venu 2S, Google Pixel Watch 2, and Samsung Galaxy Watch 6, providing unique features that blend smartwatch capabilities with extended battery life.
Design and Durability
The OnePlus Watch 2 features a classic round design, coupled with a large AMOLED touchscreen that allows for effortless navigation. Notably, the Nordic Blue edition includes a leather strap, which is actually a combination of fluoro-rubber and leather. This design ensures comfort while retaining durability.
With a military-grade construction and 5ATM water resistance certification, the watch is built to withstand daily wear and tear, including swimming. The stainless steel body and sapphire crystal enhance its scratch resistance, contributing to an impressive level of durability after prolonged use.
Performance and Fitness Tracking
Designed for both lifestyle and fitness, the OnePlus Watch 2 excels in various training environments. Runners, in particular, can benefit from metrics such as ground contact time and VO2 max, supported by accurate dual-frequency GPS capabilities during tests. The heart rate tracking feature, while generally reliable, may exhibit minor fluctuations compared to chest monitors. It tracks heart rate variability (HRV) related to stress but lacks the extensive HRV tracking found in some competing models.
It’s worth noting that the OnePlus Watch 2 does not support ANT+, a technology commonly found in other fitness watches that allows heart rate devices to transmit data to machines. This omission may deter those transitioning from brands offering extensive compatibility.
User Experience and App Support
Setting up the OnePlus Watch 2 requires the installation of the Ohealth app on an Android device. After pairing, users can sync their Google account and access various smartwatch functionalities, including calls via Bluetooth, calendar management, and even music streaming through platforms such as YouTube Music.
The app interface facilitates customization, allowing users to set fitness goals and track their health effectively. The ability to download third-party applications from the Google Play Store adds to its versatility, appealing to tech-savvy individuals.
Final Thoughts on the OnePlus Watch 2
While the OnePlus Watch 2 comes with a premium price tag, it offers considerable value, merging advanced smartwatch features with robust fitness tracking capabilities. The versatility of Smart and Power Saver modes caters to different user needs, enabling a range from extensive app usage to basic fitness tracking functionality.
However, there are areas for potential improvement, including enhancing the rotating crown as a navigational tool, offering more precise heart rate monitoring during exercise, and increasing the visibility of historical insights directly from the watch. Despite these shortcomings, the OnePlus Watch 2’s exceptional battery life could make it a compelling choice for many prospective smartwatch owners.
OnePlus Watch 2 Technical Specifications
- Display: AMOLED
- Display Resolution: 466 x 466 pixels
- Display Size: 1.43 inches (diameter)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi
- Weight: 80g
Testing Methodology
The review was conducted over a four-week period, incorporating running, indoor rowing, and weight training to evaluate functionality, accuracy, app integration, and overall robustness.