The OnePlus Nord CE 5, launched with enhancements, is a mid-range smartphone designed for users seeking a balance of performance, battery life, and modern features in India. Priced between Rs. 24,997 and Rs. 28,999 (ex-showroom), it targets tech enthusiasts and daily commuters, competing with popular devices in the segment. With its vibrant display, efficient processor, and long-lasting battery, it aims to offer great value. This review details its price, specifications, features, and performance.
Sleek and Modern Design
The Nord CE 5 features a stylish design with a glass back and plastic frame, measuring approximately 165.6 mm long, 76.1 mm wide, and 8.1 mm thick, weighing around 192 grams. It offers IP54 water and dust resistance with Gorilla Glass 5 protection. Available in colors like Obsidian Black, Jade Green, and Lunar Silver, it includes a flat display and dual-camera setup, offering a premium feel.
Vibrant Display
Equipped with a 6.77-inch FHD+ AMOLED display (1080×2400, approximately 391 ppi), it delivers a 120Hz refresh rate and 1000 nits peak brightness with HDR10+ support for vivid visuals. The in-display fingerprint sensor suits media and gaming, with excellent outdoor visibility.
Efficient Performance
Powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Apex processor (4nm, octa-core, up to 2.8 GHz), it offers AnTuTu scores around 700,000, suitable for multitasking and gaming. Configurations include 8GB/12GB RAM with LPDDR5 and 128GB/256GB storage with UFS 3.1, expandable via microSD up to 1TB. Running Android 15 with OxygenOS 15, it provides 4 years of OS updates and 6 years of security updates, with vapor cooling for heat management.
Versatile Camera System
The dual-camera setup includes:
- 50MP primary (f/1.8, OIS, wide-angle): Sharp daylight shots and 4K video.
- 8MP ultra-wide (f/2.2): Wide landscapes with decent low-light performance.
- 16MP front camera (f/2.0): Clear selfies and 1080p video.
Features like night mode and AI enhancement cater to photography lovers, performing well across conditions.
Long-Lasting Battery and Charging
A 7100mAh battery provides 2-3 days of mixed use (around 15-18 hours screen-on time), supported by 80W SuperVOOC charging, reaching 100% in about 50 minutes. It lacks wireless charging but offers exceptional endurance with minimal warming.
Connectivity and Features
Supporting 5G (n40/n78 bands), 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, GPS, and USB-C 2.0, it ensures robust connectivity. The dual SIM setup includes microSD expansion. Sensors include an in-display fingerprint sensor, accelerometer, gyro, and ambient light. Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos enhance audio, with no 3.5mm jack.
Pricing and Availability
Priced at Rs. 24,997 (8GB/128GB) to Rs. 28,999 (12GB/256GB) (ex-showroom), on-road prices in Delhi range from Rs. 29,000-33,500, including RTO (around Rs. 2,000-3,000) and insurance (around Rs. 1,000-2,000). Available since July 2025, with offers like bank discounts. Maintenance costs are estimated at Rs. 2,500-3,500/year, with wait times of 15-30 days. Warranty is 1 year, extendable to 2 years.
User Feedback and Drawbacks
Feedback praises the battery life, display quality, and charging speed. The 7100mAh battery and 80W charging are highlights. Drawbacks include:
- Average low-light camera.
- Slightly bulky design.
- No wireless charging.
Comparison with Competitors
It competes with rivals in the Rs. 25,000-30,000 range, excelling in battery and display but lagging in camera versatility and charging options.
Speculative Notes
Launched July 2025, priced at Rs. 24,997-28,999, with a 50MP camera and 7100mAh battery confirmed. Buyers should verify details.
Final Thoughts
The OnePlus Nord CE 5, launched July 2025, offers a 6.77-inch AMOLED, Dimensity 8350, 50MP camera, and 7100mAh battery with 80W charging at Rs. 24,997-28,999. Ideal for users needing endurance and performance, it delivers solid value, though camera and design have minor limits. Backed by a strong network, it’s a top mid-range pick.
