The OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite is the latest entrant in the increasingly competitive budget 5G smartphone market. Launched in February 2024, it promises a smooth, powerful experience at an attractive price point. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s delve into its key features and see if it’s the right choice for you.
Performance and Design:
The Nord CE 3 Lite packs in the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G chipset, a modest upgrade over its predecessor. While not a powerhouse, it handles everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and casual gaming with ease. Multitasking might feel a bit sluggish, especially with demanding applications. The phone boasts 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, offering enough breathing room for most users.
The design is sleek and modern, with a smooth plastic back and a slightly curved display. While not as premium as glass-bodied phones, it feels comfortable in hand and is lightweight at 195 grams. The 6.55-inch IPS LCD display offers decent visuals with a 90Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling and animations. However, the resolution could have been higher than 720p for sharper visuals.
Camera:
The camera system is a mixed bag. The primary 64MP sensor captures decent photos in good lighting, but low-light performance suffers from noise and grain. The 8MP ultrawide lens offers a broader perspective but lacks detail. The new 2MP macro lens is a welcome addition for close-up shots, but its usefulness is limited. The 16MP front-facing camera is decent for selfies and video calls.
Battery and Software:
The 5000mAh battery is a major highlight. It easily lasts a full day on moderate usage and can even stretch to two days with light use. The 67W SUPERVOOC charging is incredibly fast, taking the phone from zero to 50% in just 15 minutes. This is a huge advantage over competitors in this price range.
The phone runs OxygenOS 13.1 based on Android 13, offering a clean and near-stock experience. OnePlus promises two major Android updates and three years of security updates, which is commendable for a budget phone.
Verdict:
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite is a solid option for budget-conscious users who prioritize battery life and fast charging. The performance is decent for everyday tasks, and the 5G connectivity is future-proof. However, if you’re a photography enthusiast or a power user, you might be better off looking elsewhere. Ultimately, the decision depends on your individual needs and priorities. Consider your budget, desired features, and usage patterns before making a final call.
