An ‘R’ model of a OnePlus device is typically a smartphone, but the brand has given this treatment to its flagship smartwatch. 

In an unusual move, OnePlus has announced the Watch 2R providing an alternative to its flagship Wear OS smartwatch. What’s jokingly referred to as the ‘reduced’ model on places like Reddit arrives not long after the Watch 2 but actually wins in two key ways and without the usual drawbacks. 

The OnePlus Watch 2R is cheaper than its stablemate and is also lighter, with the latter being one of our main criticisms of the Watch 2.

At 49g not including the strap it’s a chonky boy and not ideal for anyone with dinky wrists. Although the Watch 2R is still the same size at 46mm, a material change from stainless steel to aluminium drops it to 37g (around 25% less heavy than the original). 

This should make it more comfortable, especially if you want to wear it around the clock for daytime activity and sleep tracking. And it retains the 5ATM and IP68 ratings to boot. 

Secondly, the device is cheaper at £249/$229 rather than £299/$299 so you’re not having to spend as much money either. 

In the phone world of OnePlus R models such as the OnePlus 12R this comes at the cost of various specifications, so you will typically get an older processor, lower resolution screen, a less impressive array of cameras. 

However, the OnePlus Watch 2R doesn’t get any of these types of downgrades. 

It’s still got the dual-engine architecture which results in a 100-hour battery life, dual-band GPS, 32GB of storage, 500mAh battery, 1.43-inch AMOLED display, and array of sensors. 

“With an understated premium design, it comes in two eye-catching colourways, showcasing a lightweight aluminium watch body with a distinctive bezel — a nod to classic wristwatches.” said OnePlus. 

So, unless you’re hellbent on having stainless steel over aluminium, I can’t think of a reason to buy the regular OnePlus Watch 2. The 2R even has the best colour in my opinon, Forest Green as well as Gunmetal Grey. 

It goes on sale today from OnePlus and Amazon and is the third iteration of the wearable when the OnePlus Watch 2 Nordic Blue is factored in.

Smartwatches