OnePlus Nord CE4 Review: A Mid-Range Champion with Flagship Aspirations

The OnePlus Nord CE4 is a mid-range smartphone that aims to deliver high-end features at an accessible price point. With its impressive specifications and sleek design, it positions itself as a strong contender in the Indian market.

Design and Display

The OnePlus Nord CE4 features a 6.7-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with 2412 x 1080 pixels resolution and 120Hz refresh rate. With 1,100 nits peak brightness, outdoor visibility is excellent. Available in Celadon Marble and Dark Chrome, the phone boasts an IP54 rating for dust and water resistance.

Operating System

Out of the box, the phone runs on OxygenOS 14.0 based on Android 14, offering Floating Windows gestures for enhanced multitasking. The latest OxygenOS 15 update, based on Android 15, brings improved camera features and refined system animations. OnePlus commits to three years of major OS updates and four years of security patches.

Processor

Powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 SoC and Adreno 710 GPU, the device delivers robust performance for gaming and multitasking, while supporting 5G connectivity.

Camera

The camera system on the Nord CE4 is a versatile package centered on a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization. This primary shooter excels in various lighting conditions, capturing impressive detail and natural colors. The 8MP ultra-wide lens provides a broader perspective for landscape shots and group photos, while the 2MP macro lens handles close-up photography with decent results. The camera software incorporates new algorithms that significantly enhance low-light performance and color accuracy, often producing results that compete with more expensive phones.

For video enthusiasts, the Nord CE4 supports 4K recording at 30fps, while the 16MP front camera handles selfies with impressive detail and natural skin tones. Portrait mode benefits from improved edge detection and background blur. The camera app offers an intuitive interface with various modes and filters, making it accessible for both casual users and photography enthusiasts.

RAM and Storage

Offering 8GB RAM with either 128GB or 256GB storage options, the device includes MicroSD expansion support for additional storage needs.

Sound

Stereo speakers deliver clear audio quality for media consumption, though the absence of a headphone jack means relying on Bluetooth or USB-C audio solutions.

Battery

The 5,500mAh battery provides excellent endurance, while 100W fast charging delivers a full charge in approximately 25 minutes.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Vibrant 120Hz AMOLED display with excellent brightness
  • Capable 50MP main camera with OIS and strong low-light performance
  • Impressive 100W charging with large 5,500mAh battery
  • Generous storage options with MicroSD expansion
  • IP54 rating for enhanced durability

Cons

  • Plastic build feels less premium than competitors
  • Ultra-wide camera performance could be better
  • No 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Gaming performance may not satisfy hardcore users

Market Buzz

User feedback on major e-commerce platforms highlights the impressive display and smooth performance, though some users note the missing headphone jack and variable camera performance in low light.

Pricing

  • 8GB RAM + 128GB Storage: ₹24,999
  • 8GB RAM + 256GB Storage: ₹26,999

Final Verdict

The OnePlus Nord CE4 delivers an impressive mix of features and performance at a competitive price point, though some compromises in build quality and gaming performance keep it from true mid-range dominance.

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