OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G review
The OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G - an intriguing blend of affordability and feature-richness. With a price tag of £279 in the UK, this device aims to strike a balance between budget-friendliness and high-end capabilities. Packed with a 64MP primary camera, 16MP selfie snapper, and a substantial 5000mAh battery, it promises impressive photography and all-day battery life. But does it deliver on performance, display quality, and overall user experience? In this review, we'll put the Nord CE 2 Lite 5G to the test to see if it's a true value-for-money champion or just another mid-ranger masquerading as high-end.
Build Quality and Design
The OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G is an intriguing addition to the company's lineup, offering a balance of features and affordability. Upon closer inspection, it's clear that the device has been designed with build quality in mind. OnePlus has opted for a translucent blue back panel, which not only provides a unique visual aesthetic but also serves as a clever design flourish. The phone's body feels sturdy and premium to hold, with a subtle curve that fits comfortably in the hand. The materials used are of high quality, and the attention to detail is evident throughout. The phone's dimensions are relatively compact, making it easy to carry around. The 6.52-inch display is sufficiently large, while not being too overwhelming. The camera module on the back has a sleek design, with the three lenses arranged in a neat and tidy fashion. One of the standout features of the device is its weight distribution. Despite having a 5,000mAh battery, the phone doesn't feel too heavy or bulky. The balance of power and portability makes it an attractive option for those seeking a reliable and efficient smartphone experience. The overall design of the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G is coherent and well-executed. It's clear that the company has prioritized build quality, using materials that will withstand regular use. While some might find the translucent back panel a tad gimmicky, it adds a touch of personality to an otherwise unassuming device. Overall, the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G is a solid effort in terms of design and build quality. It's a testament to the company's commitment to delivering a well-crafted smartphone experience that won't break the bank.
Battery Life
One of the standout features of the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G is its battery life. This phone boasts a massive 5000mAh capacity battery, which provides all-day power and then some. I've been testing this device for a while now, and I'm pleased to report that it has consistently delivered two days of heavy use on a single charge. I've used the phone extensively, with the screen on for hours, streaming videos, and taking photos, but still managed to end the day with around 87% battery life. This is a testament to the phone's efficient hardware, particularly the Snapdragon 695 processor, which seems to be optimized for battery life. The adaptive charging tech also plays a significant role in extending the battery life. I've charged the phone overnight, and it's always been good to go in the morning with plenty of power left over. This makes the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G an excellent choice for those who need a phone that can keep up with their busy lives. Overall, the battery life on this phone is nothing short of impressive. If you're looking for a device that can provide two days of use without needing to be recharged, then the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G is definitely worth considering.
Display
The display on the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G is a notable aspect of the device. While it may not be the most impressive feature, it gets the job done. The phone boasts a 6.52-inch LCD screen with a resolution of HD+, which is sufficient for casual users. However, those who are particular about display quality might find it lacking. The display's color accuracy and brightness are decent, but not exceptional. It's more than capable of handling everyday tasks like browsing the web, social media, and streaming videos. The phone's LCD panel is also relatively thin, which makes it easy to hold and comfortable to use for extended periods. One thing to note is that the display doesn't quite match the standards set by the top-of-the-line flagships from other manufacturers. It lacks the vibrancy and punch of more premium displays. However, considering the phone's price point, it's hard to complain too much about the display. For users who are primarily concerned with battery life, camera performance, or overall value for money, the display on the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G will likely be sufficient. It's not going to blow anyone away with its quality, but it gets the job done without being too distracting. Overall, a decent but unremarkable display that fits well within the phone's overall package.
Camera
The camera system on the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G is a mixed bag. The primary sensor is a 64-megapixel shooter that captures decent images in good lighting conditions. However, it struggles to produce impressive results in low-light environments, and the lack of pixel binning means noise can creep in. In favorable light, the camera takes crisp and detailed shots with accurate colors. But as soon as you step into a dimly lit area, the image quality drops significantly. The dynamic range is also somewhat limited, which can lead to overexposed skies or underexposed shadows. The autofocus on the primary sensor works reliably, and the shutter speed is quick enough to freeze most subjects in motion. However, the lack of options for 30fps or 60fps video recording in certain modes feels like an oversight. The dedicated Nightscape mode helps brighten up images taken in low-light conditions, but it's not a game-changer by any means. The Portrait mode also produces decent results with a nice bokeh effect, complete with retouch and filter options. A basic 2-megapixel macro snapper is available on the back for close-up shots, but it's extremely limited and can only shoot at 720p or 1080p resolution. There's no option to record video in these modes either. Upfront, you'll find a 16-megapixel selfie camera using a Sony IMX471 sensor. It takes sharp and detailed selfies with accurate colors, even in low-light conditions. The video recording capabilities of the selfie camera are also respectable, topping out at full HD plus resolution. Overall, while the camera on the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G is decent for casual use, it falls short of expectations when faced with more demanding situations. If you're looking for a reliable camera experience from your smartphone, this might not be the best choice.
Price and Value
The OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G is an affordable smartphone that offers impressive value for its price. Priced at £279 in the UK, it's hard to ignore the sheer amount of features and specs you get for your money. While some may bemoan the lack of an OLED panel, a beefier processor, or additional storage options, the CE 2 Lite 5G still manages to deliver a solid overall package. The battery life is particularly impressive, with a 5000mAh capacity that easily lasts two days on a single charge. In terms of value, the CE 2 Lite 5G is an absolute steal. You get a 64MP primary camera, a 16MP selfie snapper, and a host of software features that make up for any perceived shortcomings in hardware. The adaptive charging tech and fast charger also add to the phone's overall appeal. For those who prioritize battery life above all else, the CE 2 Lite 5G is an excellent choice. It's a phone that will keep going long after other devices have given up the ghost. And at £279, it's an absolute bargain compared to many of its rivals in this price bracket. Of course, there are some compromises to be made – namely, the lack of an OLED panel and a less-than-ideal macro camera experience. However, these are minor quibbles in what is otherwise a stellar value proposition. If you're looking for a reliable, feature-packed smartphone that won't break the bank, the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G is definitely worth considering.
Performance
The OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G boasts impressive performance credentials. Under the hood, you'll find a Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 processor, which provides smooth and efficient operation across various tasks. The device's RAM and storage configuration are equally impressive, with options available in 4GB + 64GB and 6GB + 128GB. In my experience, this setup delivers seamless multitasking, making it perfect for users who rely heavily on their smartphone for work or social media. Applications load quickly, and the device's responsiveness is top-notch, even when juggling multiple demanding apps simultaneously. One of the standout features of the Nord CE 2 Lite 5G is its impressive battery life. With a massive 5000mAh capacity, this phone can easily stretch up to two days on a single charge, making it ideal for users who want a device that won't need frequent top-ups. The device's adaptive charging technology and power-saving features also help minimize power consumption. In terms of gaming performance, the Nord CE 2 Lite 5G holds its own against more expensive flagships. I found myself enjoying smooth and uninterrupted gaming sessions with popular titles like PUBG Mobile and Asphalt 9. The phone's cooling system is equally impressive, ensuring that even during extended gaming sessions, the device remains within comfortable temperature limits. Overall, the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G's performance credentials are nothing short of exceptional. With its efficient processor, ample RAM, and massive battery life, this phone is sure to please even the most discerning users. Whether you're a casual gamer or someone who needs a reliable device for everyday tasks, this smartphone is definitely worth considering.