Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsThe DRM Watch 3 is an ESP32-based DIY wearable designed to look and function more like a practical watch than a bulky electronics demo. Its standout choice is a wide 2.7-inch Sharp Memory Display: the screen gives it a distinctive black-on-gray face, while a custom PCB and carefully packaged components keep the watch relatively slim. Hackster.io’s account makes it an intriguing maker project, though not a proven alternative to a commercial watch.
What is the DRM Watch 3?
DRM Watch 3 is a DIY wearable created by maker Drfailov. Cameron Coward’s Hackster.io feature describes it as an ESP32-based watch and links to the original Instructables project, titled “DIY ESP32 Wearable: DRM Watch 3 (Suitable for Daily Use).” The available feature presents the design and its reported characteristics, rather than a measured comparison with commercial watches.
Why the display makes this watch different
The face is built around a 2.7-inch Sharp Memory Display. Hackster describes its appearance as black on gray, with low power use, sunlight readability and faster refresh than e-ink. Those are reported display characteristics, not results of an independent test of this watch. The large panel gives the watch a distinctive, legible-looking face, but it also makes the case notably wide.
The display has no backlight, so Drfailov added a cut-to-size electroluminescent panel. That gives the build a way to illuminate the screen in low light, while adding another component to the design.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
How the hardware is packaged
Rather than simply strapping a development board to a screen, the watch puts its electronics on a custom PCB. The feature names an ESP32-S2, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and a 450mAh lithium battery. The project’s integration and packaging are central to its appeal: Coward calls the packaging “extremely impressive” and the watch “pretty darn slim,” while also noting that it is “admittedly, quite wide.” These are the writer’s impressions, not measured dimensions or a standardized comparison.
Battery life: an estimate, not a test result
Hackster attributes an estimate of about two weeks between charges to Drfailov. The feature does not describe a standardized battery test or provide conditions such as display use, wireless activity or notification frequency, so the figure should be treated as the maker’s reported estimate rather than a verified everyday runtime.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Enclosure options and daily-wear practicality
The enclosure can be 3D-printed. Hackster also says the front panel could instead be CNC-machined from aluminum, steel or another metal, offering a route to a more finished, durable-looking exterior. No specific printer, print settings, measured thickness or final material configuration is given.
So does it look wearable? The design addresses common hurdles for DIY watches: a large screen chosen for readability, an illuminated option, and tightly integrated electronics in a slim-looking package. The trade-off is the wide case imposed by the 2.7-inch display. Without published dimensions, build details that can be checked, or wear testing, it is not possible to establish how it fits different wrists or how well it holds up to daily use.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What you would need to build something similar
The featured watch uses a custom PCB, so an ESP32-S2 development board could help prototype a similar wearable but is not the exact board used in the watch and is not a complete kit. The enclosure is described as 3D-printable, but the feature does not provide a verified parts list, specific component part numbers, or assembly instructions in the material available here. Check the original project page for build information before sourcing parts; detailed instructions and current component availability are not established by the Hackster feature.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
