The OnePlus Nord CE 5 has arrived with a promise of delivering a premium user experience at a reasonable starting price of £299. Let’s delve into the details to see if this device lives up to the expectations set by OnePlus.
Design & Build
The Nord CE 5 features a polycarbonate frame and a composite back, offering a comfortable hand-feel and a weight of under 200 grams. While durability is ensured with an impact-resistant cover glass, the phone is IP65-certified against dust and water ingress, making it ideal for everyday use, especially in wet conditions.
Screen & Speakers
Equipped with a 6.77-inch Full HD+ 120Hz AMOLED display, the Nord CE 5 offers improved brightness and vibrant colors. However, the stereo speakers on the device fail to deliver a balanced audio experience, lacking depth and distorting higher frequencies easily.
Specs & Performance
Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Apex chipset and 8GB of LPDDR5X RAM, the Nord CE 5 offers smooth performance for everyday tasks and gaming. The inclusion of RAM Expansion allows for improved multitasking, while the device supports microSD expandability up to 1TB, a rare feature in today’s smartphones.
Cameras
Featuring a 50MP main camera with OIS, the Nord CE 5 captures impressive shots in well-lit conditions. The Ultra HDR format adds dynamic range to images, although low-light performance may lack detail. The device also supports 4K 60fps video recording and offers decent selfie camera quality.
Battery Life & Charging
With a 5200mAh battery and 80W SuperVOOC wired charging, the Nord CE 5 provides ample battery life and fast charging speeds. The addition of bypass charging allows for extended gaming sessions without impacting battery health.
Software & Apps
Running OxygenOS 15 atop Android 15, the Nord CE 5 offers a clean and intuitive user experience. The device includes OnePlus’ Plus Mind AI features, enhancing content capture and organization. With a commitment to four years of OS updates and six years of security patches, OnePlus ensures long-term software support for the device.
Price & Availability
The OnePlus Nord CE 5 is available in two storage variants, starting at £299 for the base model and £349 for the higher capacity model. The device can be purchased directly from OnePlus’s website or popular online retailers like Amazon.
In conclusion, the OnePlus Nord CE 5 offers a compelling package with a focus on performance, user experience, and AI features at an affordable price point. While it may not excel in every aspect, it provides a well-rounded experience that is worth considering for budget-conscious consumers looking for a reliable smartphone option.