The term ‘value flagship’ is about to get a serious upgrade. As OnePlus gears up for the December 17 launch of the new OnePlus 15R, the company has pre-confirmed a host of five major hardware and software improvements that hint at a major shift – the ‘R’ series is no longer just a compromise. It is trying to redefine what a midrange performance smartphone can offer, other than a fast processor.
Following the success of its predecessor, the OnePlus 13R, the OnePlus 15R is expected to inherit performance DNA and premium features previously reserved strictly for the company’s main flagship line. These strategic upgrades are designed not just to compete, but to truly challenge the dominance of high-end devices.
OnePlus 15R vs OnePlus 13R: Display
One of the most immediate and impactful upgrades lies in the display. The OnePlus 15R has been confirmed to feature a 1.5K AMOLED panel with a 165Hz refresh rate. This is a significant jump from the 120Hz refresh rate seen on the OnePlus 13R and matches the top-tier fluidity of the most expensive flagships on the market. While not an LTPO panel, the ultra-high refresh rate promises a smoother, more immersive visual experience for everyday scrolling.
OnePlus 15R vs OnePlus 13R: Battery
In a move that addresses a common concern, the OnePlus 15R is set to feature the largest battery ever seen in this lineup. The new device will house a massive 7,400mAh battery, a substantial increase from the 6,000mAh unit in the OnePlus 13R. This mega power unit is expected to boost endurance, easily providing multi-day usage for many users. While the charging capacity remains unconfirmed, it is widely anticipated to retain the company’s 80W wired fast charging, ensuring that this massive power source is topped up quickly.
OnePlus 15R vs OnePlus 13R: Cameras
For years, the ‘R’ series has lagged behind in camera processing, partly due to the proprietary Hasselblad partnership being reserved for the main flagships. However, the 15R is breaking that barrier by bringing its in-house DetailMax engine. While the OnePlus 15R cameras may get deep-learning optimizations and image quality improvements as its elder sibling, it is also losing the telephoto camera from the 13R. Hence, it will be interesting to see how OnePlus continues to offer the value.
OnePlus 15R vs OnePlus 13R: Performance
Beyond the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, the OnePlus 15R incorporates other internal, specialised hardware that typically differentiates a true flagship. The device will include dedicated chips such as the G2 Wi-Fi chip for improved network stability and a Touch Response Chip for enhanced haptic feedback and responsiveness — technologies first introduced in the flagship OnePlus 15. The OnePlus 13R lacked all these.
OnePlus 15R vs OnePlus 13R: Design
Finally, OnePlus has addressed previous complaints that the ‘R’ series felt like a stripped-down version of the flagship. The 15R is adopting a more premium design language, mirroring the aesthetic of the main OnePlus 15. With distinctive colour shades and a similar finish on the back glass, the company is ensuring that the 15R not only performs like a flagship but looks and feels the part too.
