After an unexpected delay due to a typographical error, the OnePlus Watch 3 is finally available for purchase. However, while customers in Europe and the UK enjoy discounts and free gifts, US buyers face a staggering ~50% price hike, raising questions about the smartwatch’s value proposition in a competitive market.
A Rocky Launch for the OnePlus Watch 3
The OnePlus Watch 3 was initially unveiled in February 2024 with a planned release later that month. However, a printing error on the underside of the watch forced OnePlus to postpone sales to correct the mistake. Now, the smartwatch is officially available—but with a significantly higher price tag in the US.
Originally announced at $329.99, the OnePlus Watch 3 is now listed at $499.99 on OnePlus’s US website—a $170 increase (approximately 51% more). OnePlus has not provided an official explanation for the steep price jump. When questioned by The Verge, a company spokesperson simply stated:
“We don’t have any additional comment to share at this time.”
This lack of transparency has led to speculation, with some attributing the hike to US import tariffs imposed during the Trump administration. This theory gains weight when comparing US pricing to other regions, where the Watch 3’s cost has remained stable—or even dropped.
Regional Pricing Differences: US vs. Europe & UK
While US customers face a hefty markup, buyers in Europe and the UK are getting a better deal:
- Europe: €299 (down from the launch price of €349)
- UK: £269 (reduced from £319)
Additionally, European and UK customers receive free gifts with their purchase, including:
- OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro
- OnePlus Watch Charging Base
- OnePlus Watch Strap
No such incentives are available for US buyers, making the $499.99 price tag even harder to justify.
Is the OnePlus Watch 3 Worth $500?
At $499.99, the OnePlus Watch 3 enters the premium smartwatch category, competing with devices like:
- Apple Watch Series 9 ($399)
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic ($429)
- Garmin Venu 3 ($449)
While the Watch 3 boasts impressive specs, including:
✔ Brighter AMOLED display
✔ 5-day battery life (with heavy use)
✔ Advanced health tracking (SpO2, heart rate, sleep monitoring)
✔ Military-grade durability
…its new price point makes it a tough sell, especially since the OnePlus Watch 2 remains a strong alternative at just $209.99 on Amazon.
Why the Sudden Price Increase? Possible Reasons
1. Trump-Era Tariffs Impacting Chinese Imports
The US has maintained higher tariffs on Chinese-made electronics since the Trump administration, which could explain why OnePlus adjusted pricing only in the US.
2. Supply Chain or Component Costs
If OnePlus faced unexpected manufacturing or logistics expenses (due to the recall and re-release), it may have passed those costs onto US buyers.
3. Strategic Pricing Adjustment
OnePlus might be testing premium pricing in the US to position itself closer to Apple and Samsung, though this risks alienating its budget-conscious fanbase.
Should You Buy the OnePlus Watch 3?
✔ Worth Considering If:
- You’re a die-hard OnePlus fan
- You value long battery life over smart features
- You can import it from Europe/UK at a lower cost
✖ Better Alternatives:
- OnePlus Watch 2 ($209.99) – Nearly identical in design, slightly older specs
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 ($249+) – Better app ecosystem
- Apple Watch SE ($249) – Ideal for iPhone users
Final Verdict: A Hard Sell at $500
The OnePlus Watch 3 is a solid smartwatch, but its US price hike makes it difficult to recommend over competitors. Unless OnePlus clarifies the reasoning—or offers discounts or bundles—most buyers may be better off with the Watch 2 or rival brands.
For now, European and UK customers get the best deal, while US shoppers face a premium with no added benefits.
- 【OS + Chipsets + Storage】 Wear OS 4 by Google, Snapdragon W5 + BES2700 dual chipsets with 2GB RAM and 32GB ROM memory
- 【Battery Life + Fast Charging】Up to 100 hours battery life in Smart Mode (Up to 48 hours with heavy use), and 12 days ba…
- 【Dual Frequency GPS】Watch 2R offers users enhanced accuracy for location tracking, especially in GPS-challenging environ…
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