In the ever-evolving world of smartphones, OnePlus has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible, especially when it comes to 5G technology.
As we navigate through 2024, the Chinese manufacturer continues to impress with a lineup that caters to various price points and user needs. Let’s dive into the cream of the crop from OnePlus’ 5G offerings this year.
The Flagship Killer: OnePlus 12
The OnePlus 12 stands tall as the company’s crown jewel for 2024. This powerhouse doesn’t just compete with other flagships; it aims to dethrone them.
Design and Display
Wrapped in a sleek glass and metal body, the OnePlus 12 is a sight to behold. Its 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED display is a marvel, boasting a resolution of 1440 x 3168 pixels. With a peak brightness of 4,500 nits, it’s practically readable in direct sunlight. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures buttery-smooth scrolling and gaming experiences.
Performance
Under the hood, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset roars to life, paired with up to 16GB of RAM. This combination crushes through tasks like a hot knife through butter. Whether you’re multitasking between resource-heavy apps or playing the latest mobile games, the OnePlus 12 doesn’t break a sweat.
Camera Capabilities
OnePlus has upped its camera game significantly. The triple-camera setup includes:
- A 50MP main sensor with OIS
- A 48MP ultra-wide lens
- A 64MP periscope telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom
The results? Stunning photos in various lighting conditions. Night mode has seen significant improvements, and the portrait mode, tuned by Hasselblad, produces images with beautiful bokeh effects.
Battery and Charging
A 5,400mAh battery keeps the lights on, easily lasting a full day of heavy use. But it’s the charging capabilities that truly shine. With 100W wired charging, you can go from 0 to 100% in about 25 minutes. There’s also 50W wireless charging for added convenience.
5G Capabilities
The OnePlus 12 supports a wide range of 5G bands, ensuring blazing-fast connectivity across various networks globally. Whether you’re streaming 4K content or engaged in low-latency mobile gaming, the 5G performance is top-notch.
The Value Proposition: OnePlus 12R
For those who want flagship-like performance without breaking the bank, the OnePlus 12R is a compelling option.
Design and Display
The 12R borrows many design cues from its pricier sibling. It sports a 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. While not as bright as the 12, it still offers excellent visibility outdoors.
Performance
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, the 12R is no slouch. It may be a generation behind the 12, but in real-world usage, the difference is barely noticeable. With up to 16GB of RAM, multitasking is a breeze.
Camera Setup
The camera system includes:
- A 50MP main camera
- An 8MP ultra-wide lens
- A 2MP macro camera
While not as versatile as the OnePlus 12’s setup, it still produces great shots for social media and everyday photography.
Battery Life
One area where the 12R shines is battery life. Its 5,500mAh battery is slightly larger than the 12’s, and coupled with the more efficient chipset, it can easily last a day and a half. 100W wired charging is still present, though wireless charging is absent.
5G Performance
The 12R supports most 5G bands, ensuring excellent connectivity in supported areas. While it may not have the latest 5G modem, the difference in real-world usage is negligible for most users.
The Foldable Future: OnePlus Open
OnePlus made waves with its entry into the foldable market, and the OnePlus Open continues to impress in 2024.
Innovative Design
When folded, the Open looks like a regular smartphone with a 6.31-inch AMOLED cover display. Unfold it, and you’re greeted with a tablet-like 7.82-inch LTPO AMOLED inner display. Both screens support 120Hz refresh rates, ensuring smooth interactions regardless of how you use the device.
Powerhouse Performance
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, coupled with 16GB of RAM, ensures that the Open can handle anything you throw at it. Whether you’re multitasking on the large inner display or using it as a regular smartphone, performance is never an issue.
Versatile Camera System
The camera setup includes:
- A 48MP main sensor
- A 64MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom
- A 48MP ultra-wide camera
The unique form factor allows for creative photography options, and the image quality rivals that of non-folding flagships.
Battery and Charging
Despite its slim profile, the Open packs a 4,805mAh battery that comfortably lasts a full day. 67W wired charging ensures you’re not tethered to an outlet for long.
5G and Productivity
With full 5G support, the Open is a productivity powerhouse. The large inner display is perfect for multitasking, and the ability to use it as a regular smartphone when folded makes it a versatile option for professionals on the go.
The Mid-Range Marvel: OnePlus Nord 4
For those looking for 5G capabilities without flagship prices, the OnePlus Nord 4 hits the sweet spot.
Sleek Design
The Nord 4 features a 6.74-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. While not as premium as the flagships, it still feels great in hand and offers excellent visual quality.
Capable Performance
Powered by the Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 3 chipset and up to 16GB of RAM, the Nord 4 handles everyday tasks with ease. It may struggle with the most demanding games, but for general use and even moderate gaming, it’s more than capable.
Impressive Camera for the Price
The camera system includes:
- A 50MP main camera
- An 8MP ultra-wide lens
While not as versatile as its flagship counterparts, the Nord 4 produces surprisingly good photos, especially in well-lit conditions.
Long-Lasting Battery
A 5,500mAh battery ensures the Nord 4 can easily last a full day and then some. 100W wired charging is a standout feature at this price point, allowing for rapid top-ups when needed.
5G on a Budget
The Nord 4 supports most 5G bands, bringing high-speed connectivity to the mid-range segment. It’s an excellent option for those who want to experience 5G without splurging on a flagship device.
OnePlus and the Future of 5G
As we look towards the future, OnePlus continues to innovate in the 5G space. The company has hinted at advancements in mmWave technology, which could bring even faster 5G speeds to future devices. There’s also talk of improved battery efficiency to counteract the power demands of 5G connectivity.
OnePlus has also been working on optimizing its OxygenOS to take full advantage of 5G capabilities. This includes features like intelligent network switching, which seamlessly transitions between Wi-Fi and 5G to ensure the best connection at all times.
OnePlus Best 5G Smartphone : OnePlus’ 5G Vision
OnePlus has come a long way from its “flagship killer” roots. In 2024, the company offers a diverse range of 5G-capable devices that cater to various needs and budgets.
From the cutting-edge OnePlus 12 to the innovative Open and the value-packed Nord 4, there’s a OnePlus 5G smartphone for everyone.
What sets OnePlus apart is not just the hardware specifications, but the overall user experience. OxygenOS continues to be one of the most refined Android skins, offering a near-stock experience with thoughtful additions.
The company’s commitment to fast and frequent updates ensures that users always have access to the latest features and security patches.
As 5G networks continue to expand globally, OnePlus is well-positioned to capitalize on this technology. Their devices not only support current 5G standards but are also future-proofed to some extent, ready to take advantage of network improvements as they roll out.
For consumers, this means investing in a OnePlus 5G smartphone in 2024 is not just about enjoying fast connectivity today, but also about being prepared for the advancements that tomorrow will bring.
Whether you’re a power user who needs the latest and greatest, a professional looking for a versatile foldable, or someone who wants 5G on a budget, OnePlus has you covered.
As we move forward, it’s clear that OnePlus will continue to be a major player in the 5G smartphone market. With their blend of cutting-edge technology, thoughtful design, and competitive pricing, OnePlus is not just keeping up with the 5G revolution – they’re helping to lead it.