OnePlus Watch 3 slashed to US$349 after a US$499 tariff spike. Permanent cut with refunds for early buyers. Check out the savings!
Smartwatches have become something of an essential device, offering fitness tracking, notifications, and minimalist style. The OnePlus Watch 3, which rolled out in February 2025, initially wowed with its colorful AMOLED screen and lengthy battery life.
But a bumpy start followed, with a typo on the watch showing ‘Made in China’ and a dramatic price surge from US$329.99 to US$499.99 due to U.S. tariffs on imports of Chinese goods.
This generated controversy, with the 50% jump pricing it above competitors like the Pixel Watch 3.OnePlus has now revealed a permanent price reduction to US$349.99, providing refunds to early customers. This piece explores the tariff controversy, the price adjustment, and the OnePlus Watch 3's position in the 2025 smartwatch landscape.
The OnePlus Watch 3 was delayed after its February launch because of the ‘Meda in China’ typo, with its U.S. launch being moved to April 10, 2025. Throughout this time, U.S. tariffs on Chinese electronics skyrocketed, with tariffs as high as 145%. OnePlus, a Chinese company, increased the price of the watch to US$499.99 due to "market conditions."
The action angered fans since the initial US$329.99 price was comparable to competitors such as the Galaxy Watch 7. Social media, including X posts, indicated widespread dissatisfaction, with most deeming the increase unfair. The uncertainty of tariffs due to changing U.S. policies made it difficult for OnePlus.
On April 28, 2025, OnePlus announced a permanent price drop to US$349.99, only US$20 more than initially planned. OnePlus North America's Head of Marketing, Spenser Blank, cited supply chain adjustments that countered tariff expenses as the reason for the change. The company guaranteed this price as the ultimate MSRP, which would remain stable even with future tariff changes.
The early purchasers who paid US$499.99 will be refunded US$150, processed through their original payment method. OnePlus customer support will reach out to impacted customers directly, an act applauded on X for equity. This change puts the watch back in contention, undercutting the Pixel Watch 3 at US$399.
The OnePlus Watch 3 is still a contender despite its pricing drama. Its 1.46-inch AMOLED screen provides crisp visuals, up to 1,500 nits for outdoor visibility. Powered by Wear OS 5, it integrates smoothly with Android devices, supporting apps like Strava and Google Maps.
Health features such as heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and stress analysis are comparable to high-end models. The 500mAh battery has a lifespan of up to 100 hours in low-power mode, perfect for prolonged use. With 32GB storage and a Snapdragon W5 chip, it processes tasks smoothly. The typo issue, now fixed, does not affect performance.
At US$349.99, the OnePlus Watch 3 is perfectly positioned between affordable and high-end smartwatches. The Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra at US$419 and the Apple Watch Series 10 at US$399 and up provide comparable features but at higher prices. The OnePlus Watch 2, on sale for US$209.99 using codes, is still cheaper, but without the Watch 3's refined software. The Watch 3's price reduction makes it a value-oriented option for Android users.
The correction in price demonstrates OnePlus's prompt reaction to tariff fluctuations and consumer feedback. The initial surge, brought about by U.S.-China trade tensions, revealed vulnerabilities for Chinese brands.
By diverting supply chains, possibly through countries with low tariffs, OnePlus trimmed expenses. The gesture of refund restored trust, as X posts were thankful for the transparency.
Yet, the US$20 bump from the starting price indicates tariff impact still. This saga also highlights the bigger issue of tariffs on tech, as evidenced in delays to the Nintendo Switch 2 launch.
Before purchasing the OnePlus Watch 3, ensure that Android compatibility is provided for an effortless experience. Following OnePlus's official website or X for refund information is a smart move for early adopters.
Battery life and fitness feature comparisons to competitors, such as the Galaxy Watch 7, assist with decision-making. Budget-conscious buyers find similar performance at a lower cost with the OnePlus Watch 2. Tracking tariff news, through channels such as TechRadar, sets buyers up for possible price changes in 2025.
OnePlus Watch 3's permanently US$349.99 price point, complemented by returns for current customers, leaves its tariff-caused controversy in the dust. Its impressive specs, from Wear OS 5 to battery life that lasts, make it a desirable choice.
By setting the price error right, OnePlus regains its lead in the smartwatch arena. While tariffs continue to dictate tech costs, the Watch 3 is a dependable choice for 2025.