Review of Huawei Watch Fit 3: an affordable smartwatch with basic features and a large screen

First of all, the Watch Fit 3 draws attention with its compact body and large high-quality display. Another important advantage of the watch is its support for all basic features for monitoring physical activity and health status. Additionally, the device works with both Android smartphones and iPhones. Although the novelty is not as functional as premium smartwatches like the Apple Watch Series 9, Google Pixel Watch 2, and Samsung Galaxy Watch 7, it is much more affordable and provides better battery life. Read more about the pros and cons of the Huawei Watch Fit 3 in our review.

Design and ergonomics

Comparison of Huawei Watch Fit 2 and Huawei Watch Fit 3

If in the previous model — Huawei Watch Fit 2 — the case and screen were elongated, in the new version they are almost square. The display of the Watch Fit 3 is shorter than its predecessor, but wider and overall 10% larger in area. This aspect ratio provides more space for the interface horizontally, making it easier to operate the watch. At the same time, the developers maintained the weight at 26 g and reduced the thickness of the case from 10.8 to 9.9 mm. Thanks to its compactness, the watch is barely felt on the wrist and does not interfere even during active workouts.

The almost square shape with rounded corners makes the Watch Fit 3 very similar to the Apple Watch SE or Series 9. The new crown above the workout menu call button on the right edge only enhances the resemblance. As a result, if you don’t look closely at the details, it’s very easy to confuse Huawei’s watch with an Apple device. It is evident that the Watch Fit 3 was created as a budget copy of the hit Apple Watch for anyone who cannot afford them or uses an Android smartphone. On one hand, such imitation deprives the new model of individuality. On the other hand, the device from Huawei is just as ergonomic and stylish.

Comparison of Apple Watch SE, Apple Watch Series 9, and Huawei Watch Fit 3

The upper part of the Watch Fit 3 case is made of aluminum, while the back surface with sensors and charging contacts is made of plastic. Huawei does not specify the type of protective glass. However, according to the manufacturer, the watch has undergone a series of durability tests, including drop tests, temperature fluctuations, and water resistance. By the way, like most smartwatches, the novelty meets the 5 ATM rating according to the ISO 22810:2010 standard. In other words, the device should withstand short-term immersion at depths of up to 50 m. It is possible to swim in both saltwater and freshwater with the watch, as well as take not-too-hot showers.

Huawei Watch Fit 3 is sold in four versions: green, pink, black, and gray. In the latter, the crown is highlighted in red. At the time of writing, the watch is sold in Ukraine with a waterproof strap made of fluoroelastomer. This is a harder variety of silicone. However, there are already many bands made of different materials from other manufacturers available for sale.

Colors of Huawei Watch Fit 3

The attachment for the straps in the new model is similar to those equipped in the Watch Fit 2 model. To attach one half of the bracelet, it is enough to insert it until it clicks into the corresponding hole on the case. And to detach it, you only need to press the button on the back of the device and pull the accessory towards yourself. It’s quick and easy. However, the shape of the holes has changed somewhat. Therefore, unfortunately for their owners, the straps from the previous model will not fit.

Screen Parameters

The Huawei Watch Fit 3 features a large display by smart watch standards with a diagonal of 1.82 inches. And this is quite a high-quality screen. The resolution of 480 x 408 pixels is more than enough for the image not to pixelate and to look sharp.

The AMOLED matrix is responsible for color reproduction, so the screen does not dull when viewed at various angles and delights with excellent contrast and a wide range of shades. The brightness with a peak value of 1,500 nits is fully sufficient for using the display in the sun. The automatic brightness adjustment works quickly and is quite accurate in adapting to the surrounding light.

The Huawei Watch Fit 3 screen is protected by 2.5D glass, which means it has rounded edges. Thanks to this shape, they do not catch on fingers like the sharp edges of the display on some watches. In addition, the glass is coated with a quality oleophobic layer, which makes it slide smoothly under fingers and does not quickly accumulate greasy fingerprints or stains.

Watch Faces of Huawei Watch Fit 3

The user has at their disposal several pre-installed watch faces with different data displays and unique designs. Additional options can be downloaded from a large online catalog: there are both paid and free ones. Almost every watch face has a simplified version that activates automatically when the watch switches to power-saving mode with the always-on display (Always-On Display).

The manufacturer does not specify the screen refresh rates. However, judging by the smoothness of the animations, this parameter reaches 60 Hz. It is worth noting that the matrix is not based on LTPO technology, which provides flexible automatic adjustment of the refresh rate. Therefore, the Watch Fit 3 screen is unlikely to match the energy efficiency of the same Apple Watch. Apparently, this is the only aspect of the display in which the novelty falls short of premium watches. But considering the cost, it is hard to consider this a drawback.

The watch faces of the Huawei Watch Fit 3 in Always-On Display mode

If comparing with the previous model, the main difference in the Watch Fit 3 screen is the changed aspect ratio. But we have already mentioned this. Otherwise, the screens are approximately the same. Except that the panel of the Watch Fit 3 is a bit brighter.

System and Features

With the help of built-in sensors, the Huawei Watch Fit 3 can regularly monitor various health and activity indicators of the user. Among other things, the watch can track heart rate, number of steps taken, blood oxygen levels, phases of the female cycle, and stress levels. New features include a calorie management system and improved pulse and sleep quality monitoring using artificial intelligence-based algorithms. By the way, the new device has been trained to detect dangerous breath-holding during sleep.

Data Monitoring on Huawei Watch Fit 3

The watch supports over a hundred workouts, including various types of swimming, walking, running, and cycling. Some of them are launched automatically when the device recognizes the user’s corresponding activity. The owner of Watch Fit 3 can set individual goals for physical activities — the device will show the progress of achieving them and remind about exercises. The built-in GPS module allows tracking running routes on maps.

Like other smartwatches, the Watch Fit 3 works best in tandem with a smartphone. The novelty is compatible with both Android and iOS. The connection to the phone is made via Bluetooth using the free Huawei Health app. In it, you can view detailed statistics about the body’s condition collected by the watch and customize the watch faces. Connected Watch Fit 3 duplicates phone notifications on its screen and allows control of music. In addition, the watch allows you to respond with prepared phrases to SMS and even answer calls using the built-in speakers and microphone.

Animated exercise tips for Huawei Watch Fit 3

As an interface, the Watch Fit 3 uses Harmony OS — Huawei’s proprietary shell. The system looks good on the enlarged screen: the menus have become more informative and user-friendly. In addition, the interface operates more smoothly than on the previous model. Perhaps, Huawei optimized the system or installed more powerful “hardware” in the new device. Or maybe both combined. The added crown has also benefited the device. This control element allows for easy scaling of the app grid, scrolling through various menus, quickly adjusting the volume, and so on.

Overall, for its price category, the Watch Fit 3 offers quite a good set of features. However, it should be understood that the novelty still lags behind premium smartwatches in terms of functionality. For example, it lacks a cellular module and Wi-Fi for independent network connection. The NFC chip, although present, works only with Chinese payment systems. As for sensors, the watch lacks a barometer and a body temperature sensor.

Interface elements of the Huawei Watch Fit 3

Battery Life

In terms of battery life, the novelty is roughly comparable to the previous model. As always, it all depends on the intensity of use. According to Huawei, the Watch Fit 3 should last for 10 days in power-saving mode: up to 90 minutes of workouts and up to 30 minutes of calls per week, without turning on the Always-On Display. If you use the device to its full potential, the battery life shortens to four days. With average usage, the watch should last about a week.

There are smartwatches on the market that last even longer without recharging. But considering the large screen and functionality, the battery life of the Watch Fit 3 is commendable. You definitely won’t have to charge it every day or two, like the Apple Watch, Google Pixel Watch, and other more expensive and feature-rich watches require.

It takes about an hour for the Watch Fit 3 to fully recharge. The device charges using a magnetic contact cable, which is included in the package.

Conclusion

Watch Fit 3 can be considered a cost-effective alternative to expensive smartwatches. Of course, Huawei’s device lags behind in functionality compared to premium models like the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 and Apple Watch Series 9. Externally, it is almost an exact copy of the latter, combining a compact almost-square body and a large display. In return, the new model supports Android and iOS, lasts longer without recharging, and costs less. Moreover, the set of features of the Watch Fit 3, for a device priced at 6,000 UAH, is quite decent.

If you own the previous model, it is probably not worth getting the new one. Unless you urgently need a larger display and a crown. However, if your smartwatch is outdated or you are looking for your first fitness wearable, take a look at the Watch Fit 3. It is likely one of the best offers on the market.