The Huawei Watch D3, the third iteration of Huawei’s blood pressure smartwatch, focuses heavily on refining the user experience. Unlike previous models, the device aims to feel less like a medical instrument and more like a standard smartwatch.
Trusted Reviews tested the D3 against a dedicated cuff monitor, finding the blood pressure readings reliable, though they are not always identical to the professional equipment. The watch is set to launch in the UK on 23 September, priced at £399.99.
Perhaps the most visible improvement is the size reduction. The watch case has decreased from 48mm to 46.5mm. It is also slimmer, measuring 11.33mm compared to 13.2mm on the preceding Watch D2. Although Huawei states the watch still weighs 40g (this figure excludes the strap), the strap remains the bulkiest component due to the built-in inflatable cuff.
The core function of the device is the integrated cuff. This design allows the D3 to take readings directly, eliminating the need for the regular calibration against an external arm cuff that many competing smartwatches require.
The display is a 1.92-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 480 x 408 pixels. While the resolution remains unchanged, the overall screen is larger and brighter, filling more of the case than before. Although a sliver of black bezel exists, it is minimal. An always-on display feature is available, but it significantly cuts into the watch’s battery life.
Internally, the D3 operates on HarmonyOS 7.0 and connects via the Huawei Health app to both Android and iOS devices. Connectivity options include Bluetooth 6.0 and NFC, which enables Curve Pay transactions, though the setup process for payments is described as involved.
The watch’s limitations include the absence of Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity, meaning standalone use requires a nearby phone. For iPhone users, access to the full Huawei AppGallery storefront is limited, and replying to all notifications is not possible.
Battery life ratings vary depending on usage. Standard use is advertised for up to six days. However, enabling the always-on display or activating the richest health features reduces this time dramatically, bringing the life down to two or three days. Continuous monitoring, such as enabling ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, drops the runtime to around 24 hours.
Health monitoring remains the D3’s primary selling point. Beyond standard blood pressure measurements, the device includes an ECG sensor and a new Pulse Wave Arrhythmia analysis using the optical heart rate sensor to detect signs of atrial fibrillation. A pre- and post-exercise blood pressure mode also tracks how readings change around a workout.
The software experience is described as familiar to previous Huawei watch users. Furthermore, the watch tracks sleep, holding up well against competitors like the Oura Ring 5 for measuring sleep stages and duration. GPS performance, specifically dual-band GPS, proved solid during outdoor runs.
In terms of accuracy, the review found the D3 more reliable than earlier Watch D models, noting fewer failed measurements. Readings tend to run slightly lower than those from a dedicated cuff monitor, but they are considered accurate enough for utility. The watch maintains IP68 water resistance, but the cuff design means it cannot be used for swimming or showering.
The verdict provided by the review concludes that the D3 is Huawei’s most complete blood pressure smartwatch. While improvements over the original Watch D are substantial, the upgrades compared to the D2 are deemed incremental. Buyers prioritizing the slimmest design should choose the D3.
