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If you’re into mid-range phones that punch way above their weight, buckle up—OnePlus just dropped two serious contenders in the game: the OnePlus Nord 5 and OnePlus Nord CE5. Launched in July 2025, these two smartphones are shaking up the market with flagship-level specs, aggressive pricing, and some sleek new features that’ll make even premium phone users look twice.
So, what is the Nord 5 series all about? And how do the Nord 5 and CE5 stack up against their competition? Let’s dive in.
Quick Specs Overview
| Feature | OnePlus Nord 5 | OnePlus Nord CE5 |
| Display | 6.74″ AMOLED, 1.5K, 120Hz (LTPO), 2150 nits | 6.7″ AMOLED, 120Hz, FHD+ |
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 | MediaTek Dimensity 8350 |
| RAM / Storage | Up to 16GB LPDDR5X / 512GB UFS 4.0 | Up to 12GB / 256GB |
| Main Camera | 50MP Sony IMX890 (OIS) + 8MP ultrawide | 50MP Sony LYT600 (OIS) |
| Front Camera | 16MP | 16MP |
| Battery | 5200 mAh, 100W SUPERVOOC | 5500 mAh, 80W SUPERVOOC |
| Software | OxygenOS 14, which can be upgraded to 15+, is built on top of Android 14. | OxygenOS 14 (also upgradeable) |
| Cooling | 7300mm² Vapor Chamber | Graphite Sheet Cooling |
| Extra | Stereo speakers, Plus Key, NFC, VC cooling, IR Blaster | Stereo speakers, Plus Key |
Design & Build: Premium Looks Without the Premium Price
With its glass rear and curved AMOLED front screen that shout “flagship,” the Nord 5 is successfully bringing online sex back to life. The price feels much higher than it actually is. The camera module now has a bold dual-ring design that looks more mature and polished than previous Nord generations.
Meanwhile, the Nord CE5 opts for a flat AMOLED screen and a plastic back, but don’t sleep on it—it still feels solid and classy, especially for its price range. Plus, it’s lighter in hand, making it easier to use one-handed.
Performance: Fast, Fluid, and Built for the Long Run
Under the hood, the OnePlus Nord 5 runs the powerful Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, a beast of a chip that’s super close to the flagship 8 Gen 3 but at a lower cost. This phone’s 16GB of RAM allows it to multitask and play games without experiencing any issues. And thanks to the 7300mm² vapor chamber cooling, it stays chill even during long Genshin Impact sessions.
The Nord CE5, on the other hand, is powered by the new MediaTek Dimensity 8350, a potent mid-range SoC that provides consistent performance and energy efficiency. Paired with 12GB RAM, it’s no slouch for daily use, streaming, or even light gaming.
Gaming, Multitasking & Daily Use
Want smooth frame rates and zero lag? The LTPO 120Hz display on the Nord 5 dynamically adjusts its refresh rate, saving battery when you’re scrolling Instagram, and going full speed when you’re gaming. CE5 may not have LTPO, but that 120Hz AMOLED is still buttery smooth.
Both phones come with OxygenOS 14 (Android 14), and OnePlus has guaranteed four years of security patches and three years of major updates. You’ll be future-proof for Android 15, 16, and beyond.
Cameras That Actually Impress
The Nord 5’s Sony IMX890 50MP main sensor (same one used in the OnePlus 11) with OIS delivers crisp, vibrant shots in all lighting. Paired with an 8MP ultrawide, it’s great for travel, food, and lifestyle content. The 16MP selfie cam is decent, with good dynamic range and AI beauty tweaks.
The Nord CE5, surprisingly, doesn’t cut too many corners. It uses Sony’s LYT600 50MP sensor, also with OIS, offering great detail and color. Night shots are solid, although ultrawide is absent—something to note if you love wide-angle cityscapes or group shots.
Battery & Charging: Warp-Speed Power
Here’s where things get wild:
- It takes roughly 26 minutes for the Nord 5 to go from 0 to 100% (5200mAh + 100W SUPERVOOC).
- The Nord CE5 requires 5500mAh and 80W SUPERVOOC to get from 0% to 100% in about 34 minutes.
No wireless charging, but at these speeds? You won’t miss it.
Cool Extras: Not Just Buzzwords
- Plus Key: A customizable side button that can launch apps, trigger routines, or mute calls.
- IR Blaster: Control your AC, TV, or fan like it’s 2012—in a good way.
- Stereo speakers: Loud, clear, and finally symmetrical.
- AI Boost: System-level AI optimization for app launching and multitasking.
How Do They Compare to the Competition?
| Phone | Chipset | Main Camera | Display | Charging |
| OnePlus Nord 5 | Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 | 50MP IMX890 | 1.5K AMOLED LTPO | 100W |
| Galaxy A55 | Exynos 1480 | 50MP | FHD+ AMOLED 120Hz | 25W |
| Pixel 9a | Tensor G4 | 64MP | FHD+ OLED 120Hz | 27W |
| Redmi Note 13 Pro+ | Dimensity 7200 Ultra | 200MP | 1.5K AMOLED 120Hz | 120W |
Yep, Nord 5 is absolutely a beast in this price range.
Pricing & Availability
- OnePlus Nord 5: Starts at $379 (8GB + 128GB)
- At $299, the OnePlus Nord CE5 comes with 8GB and 128GB of storage.
starting July 10, 2025, available worldwide on the OnePlus website, Amazon, and a few physical retailers.
Who Should Buy These?
- If money is tight and you’re a power user, get the Nord 5.
- Everyday users who want solid specs & big battery → Nord CE5
- Gamers who don’t care about brand hype → Either one works
Final Thoughts
The OnePlus Nord 5 series is proof that the mid-range market is anything but boring in 2025. With near-flagship performance, super-fast charging, great cameras, and a clean software experience, these phones are easy recommendations for anyone who doesn’t want to drop $1000+ on a phone.
OnePlus is back to doing what it does best—giving you way more phone for way less money.
