The OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G occupies an interesting space in the mid-range smartphone market. It promises a blend of capable performance, smooth visuals, and fast charging at a competitive price point. But does it deliver on its promises? Let’s delve into the key aspects of this phone to see if it lives up to the hype.
Display and Design:
The Nord CE 2 boasts a vibrant 6.43-inch AMOLED display with a smooth 90Hz refresh rate. This translates to rich colors, deep blacks, and a noticeably more fluid user experience compared to standard 60Hz displays. The phone itself is lightweight and comfortable to hold, thanks to its plastic back and slim bezels. While not the most premium-feeling phone, it doesn’t skimp on aesthetics with its sleek design and available color options.
Performance and Battery:
Under the hood, you’ll find the MediaTek Dimensity 900 chipset, which offers decent performance for everyday tasks and even handles some light gaming without breaking a sweat. The phone comes in configurations with either 6GB or 8GB of RAM, paired with 128GB of storage. This is sufficient for most users, but keep in mind there’s no microSD card slot for further expansion.
But the real star of the show is the 4500mAh battery paired with OnePlus’ signature 65W SUPERVOOC fast charging. This combination allows you to go from near empty to almost full in just under 30 minutes, making range anxiety a thing of the past.
Cameras:
The camera system on the Nord CE 2 is a triple-sensor setup, featuring a 64MP main sensor, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 2MP macro lens. While it won’t compete with flagship photography, it takes decent photos in good lighting conditions. However, low-light performance is average, and the lack of a telephoto lens might be a dealbreaker for some users.
Software and Features:
The phone runs on OxygenOS 11, a near-stock Android experience known for its clean interface and customization options. OnePlus has promised two years of Android updates and three years of security updates, ensuring your phone stays up-to-date for a reasonable amount of time. The Nord CE 2 also includes some handy features like an in-display fingerprint sensor, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and expandable storage (via a microSD card slot).
Verdict:
The OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G strikes a compelling balance between affordability and performance. It offers a smooth display, decent performance, and lightning-fast charging, making it a good option for users on a budget who prioritize these aspects. However, camera enthusiasts and those seeking the most premium materials might want to look elsewhere. Ultimately, whether the Nord CE 2 is the right choice for you depends on your individual needs and priorities.
