Within weeks of launching the OnePlus 13s, OnePlus is now eager to refresh its Nord series devices in India. After last year’s Nord 4 raised expectations from OnePlus’ midrange devices, the tech community is now eager to see how the next-gen OnePlus Nord 5 series devices shape up.
The Nord 5 will continue to be a performance-centric midrange device with an older-gen flagship-grade processor. The Nord CE 5, on the other hand, will be a more accessible device that balances performance with features and value. Both phones will flaunt a familiar look with enough distinguishing features to choose between these devices.
Although OnePlus has yet to reveal all the specifications and details, the leaks and rumours have given enough fodder to help make your mind up as to which one of these you should choose.
Design and build
Rumours suggest the Nord 5 will largely mirror the design of the China-exclusive OnePlus Ace 5 Racing Edition. This implies a simpler aesthetic with distinct circular camera rings and a glass back panel which ditching the metal frame. It’s expected to be relatively slim at 8.1mm and weigh 211 grams. The classic Alert Slider key has been replaced with a Plus key on the right edge, possibly offering new customisable functions. Colour options are tipped to include Dry Ice, Marble Sands, and Phantom Grey. An IP65 rating for dust and splash resistance is also on the cards
The Nord CE 5 is anticipated to be a more budget-conscious offering, potentially featuring a plastic back to keep costs down. The design looks more akin to the OnePlus Ace 5, especially with its pill-shaped dual rear camera setup. Colour options for the Nord CE 5 are rumoured to be Black Infinity and Marble Mist. An IP54 rating for dust and splash resistance is also on the cards.
Display
The Nord 5 is tipped to feature a larger and better 6.83-inch Full HD+ AMOLED display with up to 144Hz refresh rate.The Nord CE 5 will feature a slightly smaller 6.7-inch Full HD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. The OLED panel’s picture quality could be the sole differentiator between these two devices.
Performance
The Nord 5 will be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 SoC that brings two generation old flagship performance to the midrange segment. While not the cutting edge, this chip should offer more than ample performance to run all apps and games in the best of settings. OnePlus teases support for games like Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) at 90fps and Call of Duty: Mobile at 144fps. It will come with 8GB and 12GB RAM options along with 256GB and 512GB storage options. A 7,300 sq mm VC cooling chamber is also confirmed.
The Nord CE 5 will opt for the MediaTek Dimensity 8350 chipset. While not as powerful as the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, the Dimensity 8350 is still a very capable processor for its class, tuned for midrange gaming and smooth handling of multitasking. It’s expected to come with 8GB of RAM and storage options up to 256GB.
Camera
The Nord 5 is tipped to feature a dual-camera setup on the rear, similar to its predecessor. This includes a 50MP primary sensor with OIS and an 8MP ultrawide lens. For selfies and video calls, the front camera will offer a 50MP shooter.
The camera setup on the Nord CE 5 is largely expected to mirror that of the Nord 5, featuring a 50MP primary sensor with OIS and an 8MP ultrawide camera on the rear. However, the front camera is tipped to be a 16MP sensor.
Battery
The Nord 5 is rumoured to pack a substantial 6,700mAh battery and be paired with 80W SuperVOOC fast wired charging. Surprisingly, the Nord CE 5 might boast an even larger battery at 7,100mAh, with support for 80W fast charging.
Expected price in India
The OnePlus Nord 5 is expected to be priced between Rs 30,000 and Rs 35,000 for its base variant in India. The top-end configuration could go up to Rs 36,000.
The OnePlus Nord CE 5 is anticipated to be priced around Rs 25,000 for its base model, making it a highly competitive option in the value-for-money segment.
