OnePlus 5 Review: The Flagship Killer Still Packs a Punch

The OnePlus 5, once hailed as a “flagship killer,” might be a few years old, but it continues to impress with its blend of performance, design, and value. In this review, we revisit this classic smartphone to see if it still holds its own in today’s market.

Design & Build: A Sleek and Solid Companion

The OnePlus 5 boasts a sleek and minimalist design, with a unibody aluminum construction that feels premium in the hand. Its rounded edges and slim profile make it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. The fingerprint sensor is snappy and conveniently located below the display.

Display: A Vibrant Window to Your World

While not the highest resolution available today, the OnePlus 5’s 5.5-inch Optic AMOLED display still delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks. It’s bright enough for outdoor use and offers good viewing angles. However, it lacks the high refresh rates found in newer models.

Performance: A Powerhouse for Everyday Tasks and Gaming

Equipped with the Snapdragon 835 processor and up to 8GB of RAM, the OnePlus 5 remains a capable performer. It handles everyday tasks like web browsing, social media, and email with ease. Demanding games also run smoothly, although you might notice slightly longer loading times compared to the latest flagship devices.

Camera: Capturing Moments with Dual-Lens Versatility

The OnePlus 5’s dual-lens camera system consists of a 16MP primary sensor and a 20MP telephoto lens, offering 2x optical zoom. It captures sharp and detailed photos with accurate colors in good lighting conditions. The portrait mode creates pleasing bokeh effects. However, low-light performance isn’t as impressive as newer phones with larger sensors and advanced night modes.

Battery Life: Keeping You Powered Throughout the Day

The 3300mAh battery provides decent battery life for moderate usage. You can expect a full day of use with web browsing, social media, and some light gaming. It also supports OnePlus’s Dash Charge technology, which quickly replenishes the battery.

Software & User Experience: OxygenOS, A Smooth and Customizable Experience

The OnePlus 5 runs OxygenOS, a clean and near-stock Android skin known for its smooth performance and customization options. It’s easy to navigate and offers features like gesture controls and a reading mode. While the phone originally launched with Android 7.1 Nougat, it has received updates up to Android 9 Pie.

Connectivity & Additional Features: Essential Features Covered

The OnePlus 5 supports fast LTE speeds, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.0, and NFC. It lacks some modern features like 5G, but the essentials are covered. Unfortunately, there’s no headphone jack, so you’ll need to use Bluetooth headphones or a USB-C adapter.

Buying Recommendation

Who’s it for?

The OnePlus 5 is ideal for budget-minded users who want a solid all-around performer with a premium design. It’s still a capable phone for everyday tasks, gaming, and photography, especially if you can find it at a discounted price.

Pros:

• Sleek design and premium build
• Capable performance for everyday tasks and gaming
• OxygenOS offers a smooth and customizable experience
• Dash Charge for fast charging

Cons:

• Display lacks high refresh rate
• Low-light camera performance could be better
• No headphone jack
• No 5G support

Overall:

The OnePlus 5 remains a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize performance and value. While it doesn’t match the latest flagship phones in every aspect, it offers a well-rounded experience that won’t disappoint. If you can look past its minor shortcomings, the OnePlus 5 could be a fantastic addition to your pocket.