The OnePlus Nord CE 5, launched with significant upgrades, is a mid-range smartphone designed for users seeking performance, style, and value in India. Priced between Rs. 24,999 and Rs. 28,999 (ex-showroom), it targets young professionals, students, and budget-conscious buyers, competing with top mid-range devices in the segment. With its vibrant display, efficient processor, and long-lasting battery, it offers a compelling package. This review, updated as of today, 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 mm wide, and 8.1 mm thick, weighing around 191 grams. It offers IP54 water and dust resistance. Available in colors like Obsidian Black and Glacier White, it includes a flat AMOLED display and dual-camera setup, offering a premium urban appeal.
Vibrant Display
Equipped with a 6.77-inch FHD+ AMOLED display (1080×2392, approximately 390 ppi), it delivers a 120Hz refresh rate and 1300 nits peak brightness with HDR10+ support for stunning visuals. The in-display fingerprint sensor enhances usability for media and gaming, with good outdoor visibility.
Efficient Performance
Powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Apex processor (4nm, octa-core, up to 3.35 GHz), it offers AnTuTu scores around 600,000-700,000, ideal for multitasking and moderate gaming. Configurations include 8GB/12GB RAM with LPDDR5X and 128GB/256GB storage with UFS 3.1. Running Android 15 with OxygenOS 15, it provides 3 years of OS updates and 4 years of security updates, with effective thermal management.
Versatile Camera System
The dual-camera setup includes:
- 50MP primary (f/1.8, OIS, wide-angle): Sharp daylight and low-light shots, 4K video.
- 8MP ultra-wide (f/2.2): Wide-angle shots with decent clarity.
- 16MP front camera (f/2.0): Clear selfies and 1080p video.
Features like night mode, AI enhancements, and EIS cater to photography enthusiasts, performing well in varied conditions.
Long-Lasting Battery and Charging
A 7100mAh battery provides 2-2.5 days of mixed use (around 15-18 hours screen-on time), supported by 80W SUPERVOOC charging, reaching 100% in about 40 minutes. It offers exceptional endurance with minimal heat buildup.
Connectivity and Features
Supporting 5G (multiple bands), Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, GPS, and USB-C 2.0, it ensures robust connectivity. The dual SIM setup includes no microSD expansion. Sensors include an in-display fingerprint sensor, accelerometer, gyro, and proximity. Stereo speakers enhance audio, with no 3.5mm jack.
Pricing and Availability
Priced at Rs. 24,999 (8GB/128GB) to Rs. 28,999 (12GB/256GB) (ex-showroom), on-road prices in Delhi range from Rs. 28,500-33,000, including RTO (around Rs. 1,500-2,000) and insurance (around Rs. 1,000-1,500). Available since July 2025, with offers like festive discounts. Maintenance costs are estimated at Rs. 3,000-5,000/year, with wait times of 15-30 days. Warranty is 1 year or 50,000 hours.
User Feedback and Drawbacks
Feedback praises the battery life, display, and charging speed. The 7100mAh battery and 80W charging are highlights. Drawbacks include:
- Average low-light camera.
- No wireless charging.
- Occasional software lag.
Comparison with Competitors
It competes with rivals in the Rs. 25,000-29,000 range, excelling in battery and display but lagging in camera quality and wireless charging.
Speculative Notes
Launched July 2025, priced at Rs. 24,999-28,999, with a Dimensity 8350 Apex and 7100mAh battery confirmed as of today. Buyers should verify details.
Final Thoughts
The OnePlus Nord CE 5, launched July 2025, offers a 6.77-inch AMOLED, Dimensity 8350 Apex, 50MP camera, and 7100mAh battery with 80W charging at Rs. 24,999-28,999. Ideal for daily users and media lovers, it delivers strong value, though camera and software are moderate. Backed by a solid network, it’s a top mid-range pick.