Having used the OnePlus Nord 2 as my daily driver, I can confidently say it’s a mid-range smartphone that punches above its weight. This review delves into my hands-on experience, showcasing why this phone is a compelling choice in 2024.
Design & Build: Sleek and Stylish
The Nord 2 boasts a sleek design reminiscent of the OnePlus 9 series, with a glass back and a plastic frame. It feels comfortable in the hand, and the curved edges ensure a secure grip. It’s available in Gray Sierra, Blue Haze, and Green Woods colors, each with its own unique aesthetic. While the plastic frame might not feel as premium as metal, the overall build quality is excellent.
Display: Fluid AMOLED Goodness
The 6.43-inch Fluid AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate is a delight to use. It’s incredibly smooth and responsive, making scrolling and swiping a joy. The colors are vibrant and punchy, and the display gets bright enough for outdoor use. While it doesn’t have a QHD+ resolution like some flagship models, the 1080p resolution is more than adequate for everyday use.
Performance: MediaTek Dimensity 1200-AI Shines
The Nord 2 is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 1200-AI chipset, which delivers impressive performance for a mid-range device. It handles everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and email with ease. Multitasking is smooth, and even demanding games run without any significant issues. The AI enhancements offer some noticeable optimizations in photography and gaming.
Camera: 50MP AI Triple Camera System
The triple rear camera system, headlined by a 50MP Sony IMX766 sensor, captures detailed and vibrant photos with excellent dynamic range. The 8MP ultrawide lens is great for landscape shots, and the 2MP monochrome sensor adds depth and detail. The 32MP front-facing camera takes sharp and clear selfies. The camera performs admirably in most lighting conditions, and the Nightscape mode further enhances low-light photography.
Battery Life: Warp Charge 65 for Rapid Refueling
The 4500mAh battery comfortably lasts a full day with moderate to heavy use. With lighter usage, you can easily get a day and a half of battery life. The Warp Charge 65 is incredibly fast, juicing up the phone from 0 to 100% in just about 30 minutes. However, wireless charging is not supported.
Software & User Experience: OxygenOS with a Touch of ColorOS
The Nord 2 runs OxygenOS 11.3 based on Android 11, with some elements from Oppo’s ColorOS. The interface is clean, smooth, and intuitive. The inclusion of some ColorOS features adds a few extra customization options and functionalities. Overall, the software experience is excellent, and OnePlus is committed to providing regular updates.
Connectivity & Additional Features: 5G Ready
The Nord 2 supports 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and NFC. It also has an in-display fingerprint sensor and stereo speakers. While it lacks a headphone jack, it offers a USB Type-C port for charging and audio.
Buying Recommendation
Who’s it for?
The OnePlus Nord 2 is ideal for users seeking a mid-range smartphone with flagship-level features and performance. It’s perfect for those who want a great all-around phone for everyday use, photography, and gaming without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- Sleek design and premium build quality
- Fluid AMOLED display with 90Hz refresh rate
- Powerful MediaTek Dimensity 1200-AI performance
- Impressive 50MP AI triple camera system
- Warp Charge 65 for super-fast charging
Cons:
- No wireless charging
- No headphone jack
- Plastic frame instead of metal
Overall:
The OnePlus Nord 2 is an exceptional mid-range smartphone that delivers an impressive user experience. Its combination of features, performance, and value makes it a top contender in its price range. If you’re looking for a phone that offers a flagship experience without the flagship price, the Nord 2 is a great choice.
| Feature | Specification | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | OnePlus | |
| Model | Nord 2 | |
| Release Date | July 2021 | |
| Dimensions | 159.1 x 73.5 x 8.2 mm | |
| Weight | 189 g | |
| Battery | Li-Po 4500 mAh, non-removable | |
| Colors | Gray Sierra, Blue Haze, Green Woods | |
| Display | Fluid AMOLED, 6.43 inches | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 90Hz |
| Chipset | MediaTek Dimensity 1200-AI | 6 nm |
| CPU | Octa-core (1×3.0 GHz Cortex-A78 & 3×2.6 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4×2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | |
| GPU | Mali-G77 MC9 | |
| RAM | 8GB/12GB | |
| Storage | 128GB/256GB | UFS 3.1 |
| Rear Camera | Triple: 50 MP + 8 MP + 2 MP | |
| Front Camera | 32 MP | |
| OS | Android 11, up to Android 13 | OxygenOS 12.1 |
| Connectivity | 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC |
Roshan Kumar Sahoo is a multifaceted journalist with expertise in entertainment-related news, sports , tech, and international relations. His ability to navigate these diverse fields allows him to provide readers with a rich blend of content, from the latest entertainment buzz to cutting-edge sports technology and insightful analysis of global affairs. Roshan’s writing is characterized by its depth, accuracy, and engaging style, making him a trusted voice across multiple domains.
