OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G Review: A Game-Changer in the Mid-Range Market?
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G has made a grand entrance into the Indian market, positioning itself as the latest addition to OnePlus’s Nord series. With its exceptional value for money, this smartphone has the potential to surpass its more expensive counterpart, the OnePlus Nord 3, in various aspects. Let’s explore the impressive features, pricing, and sale offers of the OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G. Priced at Rs 26,999 for the 8GB 128GB variant and Rs 28,999 for the 12GB 256GB version, the Nord CE 3 provides an affordable yet high-performance option for smartphone enthusiasts. The OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G comes packed with a range of impressive features that make it stand out in its price range. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 782G chipset, this smartphone offers smooth and efficient performance for all your daily tasks and gaming needs.
Its large 6.43-inch Fluid AMOLED display delivers vibrant colors and sharp details, ensuring an immersive viewing experience whether you’re watching movies or playing games. The display’s 120 Hz refresh rate provides smooth and fluid animations, making every swipe and scroll feel incredibly responsive. With a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels, the OnePlus 9R’s screen offers excellent clarity and fine detail.
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 processor, this smartphone delivers exceptional performance even when handling demanding tasks. With its octa-core CPU and Adreno 650 GPU, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 processor ensures smooth multitasking and seamless gaming experiences. Whether you’re streaming high-definition videos, editing photos and videos, or running resource-intensive apps, this smartphone can handle it all with ease.
The powerful processing capabilities of the Snapdragon 870 allow for fast app launches and quick response times. You can effortlessly switch between apps without experiencing any lag or slowdowns.
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G will be available for purchase starting from 12:00 PM on August 4th through various platforms including amazon.in, oneplus.in, OnePlus Experience Stores, offline retail partners, and the OnePlus store app. Exciting sale offers are up for grabs, such as a Rs 2000 Instant Bank Discount for ICICI Bank users on oneplus.in and an exchange bonus of up to Rs 2000 for those looking to upgrade their existing devices. Additionally, customers can also avail of a no-cost EMI option on select models. This means that you can own your dream OnePlus device without having to worry about paying the full amount upfront.
The sale offers don’t end there! OnePlus is also providing exclusive deals on accessories such as cases, earphones, and chargers. You can accessorize your new device with top-of-the-line products at discounted prices.
Additionally, customers can benefit from no-cost EMI options for up to 6 months on ICICI Bank and OneCard cards, making it easier on the wallet. This exclusive offer provides customers with the opportunity to pay for their purchases in convenient monthly installments, without any additional interest or charges. Whether it’s a high-end gadget or a trendy fashion accessory, customers can now enjoy the flexibility of spreading out their payments over several months.
The partnership between Amazon and ICICI Bank and OneCard cards ensures that customers have access to this hassle-free payment option at the checkout. Under the EC Campaign, customers can enjoy significant savings of up to Rs 899, including a 1-year warranty plan, the opportunity to earn 2X Redcoins, and a 30% bundle offer with OnePlus Nord Buds 2. JioPlus (Postpaid) subscribers on the Rs 399 plan can also look forward to exclusive benefits like 75 GB of monthly data and additional coupons worth Rs 3500 from various partners. These additional benefits are designed to enhance the overall experience for JioPlus subscribers on the Rs 399 plan. With a whopping 75 GB of data per month, users can enjoy seamless browsing, streaming, and downloading without worrying about exhausting their data limit.
With its attractive features, affordable pricing, and enticing sale offers, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G is set to impress smartphone enthusiasts in India. This sleek and stylish smartphone is packed with impressive specifications that are sure to meet the needs of even the most demanding users. The OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G features a vibrant 6.43-inch AMOLED display, ensuring a stunning visual experience with sharp details and vivid colors.
Powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 750G chipset, this device delivers exceptional performance and smooth multitasking capabilities.
OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G Review: Design
However, based on what I’ve seen and experienced with the Nord CE3, it still holds true to the classic OnePlus design principles. The Aqua Surge color variant that I had for this review was truly eye-catching. Its vibrant blue hue instantly drew attention and made a bold statement. The sleek and glossy finish added to its overall appeal, making it a device that was sure to turn heads.
Upon picking up the Aqua Surge, I immediately noticed its slim and lightweight design. It felt comfortable in my hand, with smooth edges that made it easy to grip. The phone’s build quality was impressive, exuding a premium feel that surpassed my expectations.
Its vibrant and deep blue hue seemed to mimic the ocean’s depths, instantly drawing attention wherever I went. The glossy finish added an extra touch of elegance, making it a phone that was not only visually stunning but also exuded a sense of sophistication.
With its vibrant hues and glass-like texture on the back panel, the device exuded a premium and sophisticated aura.
But it’s not just about aesthetics. The glass-like back also serves a practical purpose, offering increased resistance against fingerprints. This means you can enjoy the sleek and pristine look of the device without constantly worrying about smudges and smears.
Beyond its appearance, the Nord CE3 impresses with its weight distribution. Weighing only 184g, it feels remarkably light in the hand, especially considering its large 6.7-inch display. This sleek and slim device is designed to provide a comfortable grip, allowing for easy one-handed use. The weight distribution is perfectly balanced, making it feel like an extension of your hand rather than a cumbersome device.
Despite its lightweight nature, the Nord CE3 doesn’t compromise on durability. It features a sturdy construction with premium materials that not only enhance its aesthetics but also ensure it can withstand daily wear and tear. This weight distribution makes it comfortable to hold for extended periods of time, whether you’re browsing through social media or watching your favorite shows. The device feels well-balanced, with no noticeable strain on your wrist or fingers.
Despite its lightness, the Nord CE3 doesn’t compromise on durability. The sleek glass back and sturdy metal frame give it a solid and premium feel. It can withstand everyday wear and tear without any issues, making it suitable for those who lead an active lifestyle.
The Nord CE3 is designed to be comfortable. It has flat edges and slight curves at the back, so it fits well in your hand. It is easy to hold and use for long periods of time, making it enjoyable for everyday use.
The Nord CE3 has some small design differences compared to the Nord CE2, but I couldn’t compare them directly. However, based on my experience with the Nord CE3, OnePlus has stayed true to their design principles. The Nord CE3 looks and feels great. The Nord CE3 is different from the Nord CE2. It no longer has a rectangular camera housing. Instead, it has two stainless steel camera surrounds with three lenses. These metal rings protect the cameras and add a stylish touch with a diamond-shaped flash. The Nord CE2 retains the same placement for its power button and volume rockers.
Unlike the previous model, the Nord CE3 lacks the Alert Slider. It is equipped with two speakers, located at both the top and bottom. Positioned at the lower end, you can locate the SIM tray and Type-C USB 2.0 port. With regards to the SIM slot, it has the capability to hold either two Nano-SIM cards or one Nano-SIM card along with a MicroSD card that can store up to 1TB of data. Additionally, located at the top is an IR blaster. With an IP54 rating, the Nord CE3 5G offers a level of safeguard against dust and water spray.
OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G Review: Display
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G boasts a sleek design with two large camera cut-outs at the back, perfectly complemented by a cut-out for the LED flash. The device’s plastic frame adds a touch of durability, while the glossy finish elegantly prevents unsightly fingerprints on the back. Adding to its aesthetic appeal, the smartphone proudly features the iconic OnePlus branding in the middle. To cater to personal style preferences, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G is available in two captivating color options – Aqua Surge and Gray Shimmer. Both color options are designed to be visually striking and appealing, allowing users to express their individuality. The Aqua Surge variant features a vibrant shade of blue that exudes a sense of energy and playfulness, while the Gray Shimmer option offers a sleek and sophisticated look with its subtle metallic sheen.
The Aqua Surge color is reminiscent of shimmering ocean waves on a sunny day, evoking feelings of tranquility and freedom.
When it comes to functionality, the right side of the device conveniently houses the volume rockers and the power button. Meanwhile, the top of the OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G gracefully houses an IR blaster and a microphone, offering seamless functionality and enhanced user experience. On the other hand, the bottom side is home to a SIM tray, a microphone, a USB Type-C port, and a speaker grille, ensuring maximum convenience and accessibility in day-to-day use. The SIM tray on the bottom side of the device allows users to easily insert and change SIM cards without any hassle. This is particularly useful for those who frequently travel and need to switch between different networks or plans. The presence of a microphone ensures clear audio in phone calls, video recordings, and voice commands.
The crowning jewel of the OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G is its stunning 6.7-inch fluid AMOLED display featuring an impressive 120Hz refresh rate. As a 10-bit panel, it offers outstanding support for HDR10+, delivering vibrant and true-to-life visuals. Whether you’re engrossed in a movie, indulging in gaming sessions, or simply engrossed in reading long articles or e-books, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G’s display panel offers an immersive and captivating experience. Additionally, the display performs remarkably well outdoors with ample brightness and excellent viewing angles, ensuring that you can enjoy uninterrupted visual pleasure no matter where you are.
OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G Review: Camera
The camera setup on the OnePlus Nord CE3 is a standout feature that sets this smartphone apart from others in its price range. It boasts a 50-megapixel main camera sensor, powered by the Sony IMX890 processor, along with an 8MP ultra-wide-angle sensor and a 2MP macro lens. To ensure its protection, the camera system is securely housed in a stainless-steel enclosure, guarding against accidental damage. On the front, the phone features a 16MP camera sensor for capturing stunning selfies.
In our testing, we found that the photos taken in daylight or under perfect lighting conditions were just as impressive as those taken on a premium device. The level of detail and sharpness was exceptional. We also put the phone’s camera to the test by shooting some review products, and overall, the video quality was decent. The front-facing 16-megapixel lens delivered stunning selfie shots that were packed with intricate details. Considering its price point, the OnePlus Nord CE3 is undoubtedly one of the finest phones available in the Indian market.
With its feature-packed specifications, including the Snapdragon 782G chipset, a 120Hz AMOLED display, and a 50MP triple camera setup, this device offers a complete package for all types of buyers. From tech enthusiasts craving blazing-fast performance to photography enthusiasts seeking professional-level shots, the device caters to a wide range of needs and preferences. The Snapdragon 782G chipset provides lightning-quick processing power, ensuring smooth multitasking and effortless navigation through even the most demanding apps.
The stunning 120Hz AMOLED display takes visual immersion to new heights. Whether you’re streaming your favorite movies or playing graphics-intensive games, every frame comes alive with vibrant colors and exceptional clarity.
OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G Review: Performance
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G is an impressive smartphone that comes pre-installed with Android 13 and OnePlus’ OxygenOS 13.1. This user interface offers a multitude of software enhancements and a seamless user experience. Plus, the device comes with the essential Google applications as well as some useful OnePlus applications, without any unwanted bloatware.
In terms of performance, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G is powered by the powerful octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 782G chipset. You can choose between two variants: one with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, or another with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. This means you’ll have plenty of room for all your apps, games, and media.
I put the OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G to the test by playing popular games like Battlegrounds Mobile India and Call of Duty Mobile. The device currently supports HDR graphics, with Ultra HD support in the pipeline. It also delivers a smooth gaming experience with its support for ultra frame rate. I was pleased to find that the device handled these games flawlessly, thanks to its ample RAM. It also handled multitasking with ease, allowing me to switch between apps seamlessly.
During my extended gaming sessions, I did notice the phone heating up a bit, but it was manageable and didn’t affect the overall performance. Overall, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G is a reliable gaming companion that offers impressive performance and a smooth gameplay experience.
OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G Review: Battery
Compared to its predecessor, the Nord CE3 5G from OnePlus brings out a substantial upgrade in both battery capacity and charging function. With a 5,000mAh battery capacity, this phone promises ample power to get through your day with a few gaming sessions included. But what’s truly impressive is its dual-cell configuration, with each cell having a capacity of 2,500mAh. This means that even if you use your phone continuously for a couple of days, you can expect remarkable energy efficiency and consistent performance.
But it’s not just the battery capacity that’s worth noting, OnePlus has also upgraded the fast-charging function. Transitioning from 65W fastcharge in the Nord CE2 5G, the Nord CE3 5G now comes with a whopping 80W SUPERVOOC charging technology. This lightning-fast charging capability allows you to charge the OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G from 0% to 100% in just 30 minutes. It’s truly brilliant to see how fastcharge technology is progressing in mid-range smartphones, with more and more brands paying attention to this essential feature. Beyond its impressive capacity and charging speed, the Nord CE3 5G also comes with intelligent battery management features.
The App Battery Management feature allows you to allocate power to different apps and processes, ensuring efficient energy consumption. With these optimization features, you can extend your battery life and get the most out of the 5,000mAh battery, even during heavy usage. The Nord CE3 5G truly offers a remarkable upgrade in battery capacity, charging function, and intelligent battery management, making it an enticing choice for smartphone users in need of reliable power and performance.
Final Verdict: Should you buy it?
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G, with its impressive array of features, certainly lives up to the high expectations set by smartphone enthusiasts. Its standout quality lies in its high-quality display, which delivers vibrant colors and crisp visuals, enhancing the overall viewing experience. Additionally, the device boasts a durable battery life that ensures you can stay connected throughout the day without constantly worrying about recharging. And when the time comes, the rapid 80W charging feature ensures you can quickly power up and get back to using your smartphone. In terms of competition, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G proves itself as a formidable rival to the OnePlus Nord 3, excelling in numerous aspects. Unless you specifically require a superior chipset, the Nord CE 3 emerges as a well-rounded smartphone that offers plenty of value for your money. After examining its specifications, performance, and camera capabilities, we can confidently say that the OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G is a top pick in the mid-budget smartphone market, despite a few minor quirks.
