In the tech realm, the battle of smartphones is ever fierce, with OnePlus consistently striving to uphold its “never settle” ethos. Enter 2025, and the OnePlus 13 and 13R have landed on the scene, each vying for your attention and allegiance in the flagship phone arena.
Let’s start with the design and build quality. The OnePlus 13 boasts a vegan leather back that exudes luxury, coupled with impressive IP68 and IP69 certifications for water and dust resistance. On the other hand, the OnePlus 13R opts for a more straightforward yet elegant design with an aluminum frame and IP65 rating. While both support magnetic accessories, the OnePlus 13 shines with wireless charging capabilities, offering a more versatile charging solution.
Moving on to performance, the OnePlus 13 takes the lead with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, delivering top-tier power and efficiency. Paired with up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage, it excels in multitasking and gaming performance. Meanwhile, the OnePlus 13R, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, offers commendable performance for everyday use but falls slightly behind in demanding tasks and AI operations.
When it comes to cameras, the OnePlus 13 impresses with a Hasselblad camera system featuring three 50Mp sensors for stunning photography and videography. On the other hand, the OnePlus 13R, though competent, lags behind its flagship counterpart in camera versatility and performance.
Other key differences include charging capabilities and display quality, where the OnePlus 13’s advanced features outshine the OnePlus 13R. While the OnePlus 13 offers a superior experience with its silicon-carbon dual-cell battery and Ceramic Guard display, the OnePlus 13R provides a more budget-friendly option with solid performance and a great display.
In terms of pricing, the OnePlus 13 commands a higher price starting at £899/$899, targeting users who value premium performance and design. Conversely, the OnePlus 13R comes in at a more accessible price point of £679/$599.99, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a blend of performance and value.
Ultimately, the decision between the OnePlus 13 and 13R boils down to your preferences and priorities. If you prioritize cutting-edge performance and premium features, the OnePlus 13 is the clear winner. However, if you seek a capable and stylish phone at a lower price point, the OnePlus 13R offers excellent value without compromising on quality.
So, whether you opt for the powerhouse OnePlus 13 or the value-packed OnePlus 13R, rest assured that you’re in for an exceptional smartphone experience that aligns with OnePlus’s commitment to innovation and user satisfaction.