While mainstream brands dominate the smartwatch market, lesser-known companies like Kospet are delivering compelling alternatives. The latest Tank series—the round T3 Ultra 2 and the square M3 Ultra—offer premium features at an affordable $160 price point. After a month of testing, both models stand out for their build quality, durability, and functionality.
The T3 Ultra 2 sports a traditional rugged design with a vibrant AMOLED display, four tactile buttons, and a metal bezel for added durability. Meanwhile, the M3 Ultra adopts a square Apple Watch-like aesthetic but shares identical internal specs, including support for 22mm quick-release watch bands.
Performance and Fitness Tracking Capabilities
Both watches boast dual-band GPS with six GNSS receivers, ensuring accurate tracking even in challenging environments. In side-by-side comparisons with Garmin, Coros, Polar, and Apple watches, the Kospet models delivered nearly identical metrics for distance, pace, cadence, and stride length during trail runs.
However, heart rate monitoring showed a slight discrepancy—10-12 BPM higher than competitors during running, though indoor rowing readings were precise. Since external heart rate sensors aren’t supported, users should be mindful of potential inaccuracies during high-movement activities.
With 5 ATM, IP69K, and MIL-STD-810H certifications, these watches are built for extreme conditions, including swimming and diving. While swimming tests weren’t conducted, the watches support stroke recognition, lap counting, and 170+ other sports modes, making them a strong budget-friendly option for athletes.
Battery Life and Smart Features
Kospet advertises up to two weeks of typical usage, a claim that held true in real-world testing. Continuous GPS tracking lasts 30-35 hours, ideal for long adventures. Additional features include Bluetooth calling, emergency SOS, and a built-in speaker and microphone.
The companion app offers extensive customization, third-party integrations, and a user-friendly interface. However, firmware updates proved tedious, requiring multiple manual attempts—a minor inconvenience for an otherwise well-rounded experience.
For those seeking rugged, feature-packed smartwatches without breaking the bank, the Kospet Tank M3 Ultra and T3 Ultra 2 are worthy contenders.
