OnePlus Nord 3 5G long-term review: Since its launch in India in 2024, the Nord series by OnePlus has consistently provided excellent mid-range smartphones. These devices offer sought-after features such as impressive build quality, great software, capable cameras, and fast charging speeds, all at an affordable price. However, over time, the pricing for this series has been gradually increasing and is now approaching that of the ‘R’ series by OnePlus. In the future, the brand may need to determine the ultimate direction for both these series unless the flagship phone’s pricing continues to rise, thereby creating space for phones from the Nord and R series.
OnePlus Nord 3 5G long-term review 2024
Currently, the Nord 3 5G, the latest addition to the Nord series, is available in India for less than Rs 35,000. Since its release in the market, it has received positive feedback from both critics and users. In our review of the OnePlus Nord 3 back in July, we praised it for being exceptionally well done.
Now that some time has passed and with recent festive sales, the phone has become more affordable than ever before. If you are considering purchasing it, I am here to assist you in making your decision. As my primary device for the past few weeks, I have been using the phone and will share my experience using it in November 2024.
OnePlus Nord 3 5G long-term review 2024
| Brand | OnePlus |
| Model | Nord 3 |
| Category | Tech |
| Official Website | www.oneplus.com |
What still works in the phone’s favour?
In today’s digital age, it may seem like our smartphones have taken over every aspect of our lives. From communication to entertainment, these devices have become our constant companions. But what is it about the humble phone that still works in its favor? In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the features and benefits that make phones indispensable in our modern world. From their convenience and accessibility to their ability to connect us with loved ones, there are still plenty of reasons why the phone continues to hold a special place in our hearts. So let’s dive in and explore what makes the phone a timeless device that will never go out of style.
Display and audio quality
The OnePlus Nord 3 has a standout feature in its stunning display, which boasts a dynamic refresh rate ranging from 40Hz to 120Hz. With a 6.74-inch Super Fluid AMOLED panel that supports 10-bit color depth and HDR10+, this phone offers a viewing experience that surpasses others in its price range. Recently, I conducted a performance test using the iQOO Neo7 Pro, and when compared to the Nord 3, the colors on the iQOO phone’s display seemed lackluster and faded. In addition to its exceptional display, the Nord 3 also includes dual Dolby Atmos speakers that deliver impressive audio quality. If you enjoy consuming multimedia content, the combination of an excellent display and remarkable audio could be one of the key factors to consider when contemplating purchasing this phone.
Primary and ultra-wide camera sensors
The primary camera sensor of the OnePlus Nord 3 is the same as the flagship OnePlus 11 5G. It has a 50MP Sony IMX890 sensor with OIS, which allows for capturing excellent photos in different lighting conditions. The phone’s camera delivers detailed shots with a good dynamic range, as expected from a high-end camera unit. The edge detection in portrait shots is impressive, resulting in a nice bokeh effect. Additionally, the 8MP ultra-wide-angle sensor provides a field-of-view (FoV) of 112 degrees and produces great shots without any Fisheye effect.
Clean and easy-to-use interface + useful features
The OnePlus Nord 3, equipped with Oxygen OS 13.1 (based on Android 13), provides a seamless user experience. The phone employs refined animations that make navigation effortless. Instead of overwhelming users with numerous features that may go unused, the focus is on offering a select few features that truly enhance usability. For instance, while gaming, users can activate Championship mode which disables banner notifications, calls, alarms, and more. Moreover, users can opt for stable refresh rates, an Ultimate touch experience, and Performance breakthrough to maximize the benefits of using the phone. To minimize distractions, the phone includes the O-Relax app that offers a variety of soothing sounds, calming white noise, and mini games to promote relaxation.
Battery backup and charging speeds
A desirable feature of a good phone is its ability to be used for extended periods. This is why the OnePlus Nord 3’s long-lasting battery backup is a welcome addition, as the phone efficiently manages its battery life. Even several months after its release, the phone consistently provided me with an average screen-on time of approximately 7-8 hours, allowing me to comfortably get through a typical day without worrying about forgetting my charger at home. Additionally, the impressive 80W charging speed ensures that you won’t have to stay plugged into the wall for an extended period of time, as the handset charges fully within just one hour.
Better performers in the same price range
Although the OnePlus Nord 3 performs well in terms of performance, I have noticed that the phone tends to heat up after only 20-25 minutes of gaming. In addition, there have been occasional app crashes during my usage, despite the capable MediaTek Dimensity 9000 SoC being at the forefront. This indicates that the Nord 3 lags behind other phones in its price range, such as the iQOO Neo7 Pro and Realme GT 2 Pro, which have more capable chipsets and can handle similar tasks effortlessly. It is evident that in this aspect, the Nord 3 hasn’t aged particularly well, although during our initial review we were satisfied with its overall performance and did not encounter any heating issues.
Macro camera performance
Although the primary camera and the ultra-wide-angle unit on the OnePlus Nord 3 have been highly praised, the same cannot be said for the macro sensor. The macro unit on the phone does not capture shots as impressively as anticipated. As expected, the low-resolution sensor (2MP) produces average photos that lack fine details.
Selfie camera performance
As mentioned in our comprehensive review, the front camera of the OnePlus Nord 3 performs adequately. However, it falls short of being the top choice for selfie enthusiasts within its price range. In contrast, other smartphones like the Vivo V29 offer more advanced front-facing shooters that capture highly detailed images with precise skin tones. Consequently, these devices are likely to be favored over the Nord 3.
Should you buy the OnePlus Nord 3 5G?
The OnePlus Nord 3 is an exceptional smartphone that can be purchased in India for less than Rs 35,000. It stands out for its impressive display and long-lasting battery performance. Additionally, the phone’s user interface is simple and easy to navigate, offering a range of useful features along with the Android 13 operating system. The primary camera on the Nord 3 captures stunning photos, ensuring it competes well with other smartphones in this price range when it comes to picture quality. However, if you prioritize exceptional performance and heat resistance, you might want to consider the iQOO 7 Pro, which is also available within the same price range. It’s important to note that the front camera on the iQOO handset may not meet everyone’s expectations, so an alternative worth considering could be the Vivo V29.
Conclusion
The OnePlus Nord 3 5G has proven itself to be a solid choice for smartphone enthusiasts. While it may occasionally experience hiccups, overall it delivers a great user experience with its impressive performance and sleek design. The device offers excellent value for money, especially considering its 5G capabilities. Whether you’re a tech-savvy individual or someone looking for a reliable and feature-packed smartphone, the OnePlus Nord 3 5G is definitely worth considering. Upgrade your mobile experience with this powerful device and enjoy all the benefits it has to offer.
OnePlus Nord 3 5G long-term review 2024 FAQ’S
Is OnePlus good for long term use?
The OnePlus has impressed us with great longevity all-round.
Is Nord 3 5G worth buying?
Purchasing the OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G is a decision you will definitely not regret.
Is OnePlus Nord 3 5G is waterproof?
The OnePlus Nord 3 5G does not have a dust or water resistant certification.
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