OnePlus has expanded its wearable lineup with the new Watch 2R, offering many of the features of its pricier sibling at a more accessible price point. This latest smartwatch aims to provide a compelling option for Android users looking for long battery life and solid performance without breaking the bank.
Key Features and Specs
- 46mm aluminum case with 1.43-inch AMOLED display (466x466 resolution)
- Runs Wear OS 4.0 powered by Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 chip
- Up to 3 days of battery life thanks to dual-chip architecture
- 2GB RAM and 32GB storage
- Fitness tracking capabilities including heart rate, SpO2, and dual-frequency GPS
- 5ATM water resistance
- Price: $199.99 (with promo code)
Impressive Battery Life in a Budget Package
The standout feature of the OnePlus Watch 2R is undoubtedly its battery life. By employing a dual-chip design similar to the pricier Watch 2, OnePlus has managed to squeeze up to 3 days of use out of a single charge. This puts it well ahead of most Wear OS competitors in the battery department.
Performance is snappy thanks to the Snapdragon W5 chip, handling everyday smartwatch tasks without noticeable lag. The vivid AMOLED display is bright and crisp, though not quite as premium as some higher-end options.
Some Compromises at This Price Point
To hit the lower price, OnePlus did have to make some sacrifices compared to the standard Watch 2:
- No ECG or menstrual cycle tracking
- Aluminum build instead of stainless steel
- Less durable display glass
- No LTE option available
The fitness and health tracking, while functional, also lacks some of the more advanced metrics and insights found on dedicated sports watches or higher-end smartwatches.
Who Is It For?
The OnePlus Watch 2R seems best suited for Android users wanting core smartwatch functionality, multi-day battery life, and basic fitness tracking without spending flagship money. It's a particularly good option for those already in the OnePlus ecosystem.
However, users needing advanced health metrics, LTE connectivity, or a more premium build may want to look at pricier alternatives or specialized fitness wearables.
The Verdict
At $199.99 (with the current promo code), the OnePlus Watch 2R offers impressive value in the Android smartwatch space. Its combination of long battery life, solid performance, and Wear OS functionality make it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers. While it does have some limitations, the Watch 2R demonstrates that you don't always need to spend top dollar to get a capable smartwatch experience.
