The smartwatch market is increasingly competitive, with the OnePlus Watch 2 aiming to disrupt Apple’s dominance. While the Apple Watch Series 9 remains the benchmark for iOS users, the OnePlus Watch 2 introduces a compelling Android alternative, notably with its integrated eSIM functionality. This comparison dissects the core differences, focusing on performance, battery, and the implications of each ecosystem.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For Android users prioritizing eSIM connectivity and longer battery life, the OnePlus Watch 2 offers exceptional value. However, the Apple Watch Series 9, with its seamless iOS integration and refined user experience, remains the superior choice for iPhone owners willing to invest in the Apple ecosystem.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 - International, China, HK |
| 4G bands | LTE | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 39, 40, 41, 66 - International, China, HK |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, June 27 | 2023, September 12 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, July 03 | Available. Released 2023, September 22 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Sapphire crystal front, ceramic/sapphire crystal back, stainless steel frame |
| Dimensions | 47.6 x 46.6 x 12.1 mm (1.87 x 1.83 x 0.48 in) | 45 x 38 x 10.7 mm (1.77 x 1.50 x 0.42 in) |
| SIM | eSIM | eSIM |
| Weight | 37 g (1.31 oz) | 42.3 g (41mm), 51.5 g (45mm) (1.48 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Sapphire crystal glass |
| Resolution | 466 x 466 pixels (~326 ppi density) | 484 x 396 pixels (~326 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.43 inches | 1.9 inches |
| Type | AMOLED, 1000 nits (HBM) | Retina LTPO OLED, 2000 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | - | Dual-core |
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 (4 nm) | Apple S9 |
| GPU | - | PowerVR |
| OS | ColorOS Watch 6.0 | watchOS 10, upgradable to watchOS 26.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 64GB |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.3, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, QZSS, BDS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | No | No |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, barometer, compass, heart rate, SpO2 | Accelerometer, gyro, heart rate, barometer, always-on altimeter, compass, SpO2, VO2max, temperature (body) |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 7.5W wired | Wireless, 0-80% in 45 min |
| Type | 500 mAh | Li-Ion 308 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Silver | Graphite, Silver, Gold, Red |
| Models | - | A2982, A2984, A2983, A2985, Watch7,3, Watch7,4 |
| Price | About 230 EUR | About 630 EUR |
| SAR | - | 1.02 W/kg (head) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.64 W/kg (head) |
OnePlus Watch 2 (eSIM)
- eSIM functionality for independent connectivity
- Potentially longer battery life due to Snapdragon W5 Gen 1
- More affordable price point compared to Apple Watch Series 9
- Less refined software experience compared to watchOS
- Limited app ecosystem compared to Apple’s App Store
Apple Watch Series 9
- Seamless integration with iOS devices
- Extensive app ecosystem and developer support
- Advanced health features like ECG and blood oxygen monitoring
- Requires daily charging for most users
- Higher price point
- Limited compatibility with Android devices
Display Comparison
Neither device’s display specifications were provided, but based on market positioning, the Apple Watch Series 9 likely boasts a higher peak brightness and potentially a more color-accurate display. Apple’s consistent use of LTPO technology suggests a variable refresh rate for power efficiency, a feature likely present in the Series 9 but unconfirmed for the OnePlus Watch 2. The Series 9’s display is also expected to have smaller bezels, maximizing screen real estate. The OnePlus Watch 2 will likely focus on a balance between clarity and battery conservation.
Camera Comparison
Neither device is focused on camera capabilities, and neither are expected to have cameras. This is a standard omission in the high-end smartwatch segment, as the form factor isn't conducive to meaningful camera functionality.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipset architecture. The OnePlus Watch 2 leverages the Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 (4nm), a power-efficient platform designed for wearables. This 4nm process node is crucial, promising better thermal management and longer battery life compared to older generation chips. Conversely, the Apple Watch Series 9 utilizes Apple’s custom S9 dual-core CPU. While core count isn’t everything, Apple’s tight hardware-software integration allows for optimized performance. The S9 likely excels in responsiveness and app loading times, but the Snapdragon W5 Gen 1’s efficiency could translate to longer sustained performance during demanding tasks. RAM specifications are unknown for both, but Apple typically optimizes memory usage effectively.
Battery Life
The OnePlus Watch 2’s advantage lies in its potential for longer battery life, driven by the efficient Snapdragon W5 Gen 1. While mAh capacity is unspecified, the 4nm process contributes significantly to power savings. The Apple Watch Series 9, despite optimizations, typically requires daily charging. The Series 9 offers faster charging – 0-80% in 45 minutes wirelessly – while the OnePlus Watch 2 is limited to 7.5W wired charging. This means the OnePlus Watch 2 will take longer to fully charge, but its overall battery endurance is likely to be superior.
Buying Guide
Buy the OnePlus Watch 2 (eSIM) if you need a versatile smartwatch with independent cellular connectivity, extended battery life, and operate primarily within the Android ecosystem. It’s ideal for fitness enthusiasts who want untethered tracking and those seeking a more affordable premium smartwatch experience. Buy the Apple Watch Series 9 if you prioritize tight integration with your iPhone, access to a vast app library, and advanced health features like ECG and blood oxygen monitoring, and are comfortable with the Apple ecosystem’s constraints and pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ How reliable is the eSIM connectivity on the OnePlus Watch 2, and what carriers support it?
The Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 chipset is designed with robust cellular connectivity in mind. However, eSIM support varies by carrier. Currently, major carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile are confirmed to support the OnePlus Watch 2’s eSIM functionality, but users should verify compatibility with their specific plan before purchasing.
❓ Does the Apple Watch Series 9’s faster charging significantly impact the daily user experience?
While 0-80% in 45 minutes is faster than the OnePlus Watch 2’s charging, the Apple Watch Series 9 still requires daily charging for most users. The convenience of a quicker top-up is beneficial, but it doesn’t eliminate the need for consistent charging, especially with heavy usage. The OnePlus Watch 2’s longer battery life may negate the need for frequent charging altogether.
❓ Can I use the OnePlus Watch 2 with an iPhone?
While technically possible to pair the OnePlus Watch 2 with an iPhone via Bluetooth for basic notifications, the experience is significantly limited. You won’t have access to the full range of features, including app integration and advanced health tracking, that are available when paired with an Android device. The OnePlus Watch 2 is primarily designed for Android users.
