The latest addition to the OnePlus Nord series, the OnePlus Nord CE 5, introduces enhanced features typically found in premium smartphones to the midrange market. This iteration builds upon the foundations of its predecessor, the Nord CE 4, boasting a more robust processor and an upgraded battery capacity. Additionally, the device integrates some of OnePlus’s AI software capabilities. In India, it competes with other midrange phones such as the iQOO Z10, Motorola Edge 60 Fusion, Infinix GT 30 Pro, and Vivo T4.
The OnePlus Nord CE 5 starts at Rs. 24,999 for the version featuring 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. A variant offering 256GB of storage is available for Rs. 26,999, while the 12GB+256GB model is priced at Rs. 28,999. These price points align with other midrange models having comparable specifications. For an in-depth analysis of how the OnePlus Nord CE 5 compares against its competitors, refer to our comprehensive review.
OnePlus Nord CE 5 Design: Aesthetic and Ergonomic
- Dimensions – 163.58 x 76 x 8.2 mm
- Weight – 199g
- Colours – Black Infinity, Marble Mist, Nexus Blue (Highlighted in this review)
The review unit of the OnePlus Nord CE 5 we received features an appealing blue finish that looks striking from various angles. The rear panel and edges are constructed from plastic. Similar to its predecessor, its back houses a dual rear camera setup in the top left corner, with an LED flash now positioned to the right of the camera module.
The OnePlus Nord CE 5 features a rear-mounted infrared (IR) transmitter
OnePlus has equipped this device with a single bottom speaker, which sits adjacent to the USB Type-C port and SIM tray. The 6.77-inch display includes a centrally located selfie camera with slim bezels. The volume controls and power button are situated on the right side, while the left side notably lacks an alert slider or Plus Key. The device’s infrared transmitter is found on its top edge, positioned between the two rear cameras, requiring the rear panel to point toward the appliance for operation. The phone comes packaged with a matching TPU case, charger, and SIM ejector tool.
OnePlus Nord CE 5 Software: Fluid and AI-infused
- Software – OxygenOS 15
- Version – Android 15
- Latest security patch – June 1, 2025
The OnePlus Nord CE 5 operates on Android 15 with the OxygenOS 15 skin on top. OnePlus guarantees four years of operating system updates and six years of security upgrades, a commendable support period for a smartphone in this price range. The device also includes various AI features previously seen in higher-end models.
OxygenOS 15 interface on the OnePlus Nord CE 5
The OxygenOS 15 interface provides a smooth and responsive experience, efficiently managing multiple apps concurrently without significant performance drops. The only instance of lag occurred during outdoor use while utilizing GPS features on a hot day. During setup, prompts appeared to install several apps, including Amazon and Candy Crush Saga, which can be easily uninstalled if not desired. The software experience mirrors that of the pricier OnePlus Nord 5.
OnePlus AI features available on the Nord CE 5
This model also includes access to various new AI features, although it lacks a dedicated Plus Key for quick access. Instead, users can invoke the quick save feature by swiping up with three fingers. Notable features include VoiceScribe, which summarizes recorded calls, and a screen-scanning translation tool that performs reliably.
OnePlus Nord CE 5 Performance: Significant Enhancements
- Processor – MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Apex
- Memory – Up to 12GB LPDDR5x
- Storage – 256GB UFS 3.1
The OnePlus Nord CE 5 is powered by the updated MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Apex SoC, replacing the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 found in the Nord CE 4. Benchmark scores reveal an impressive 9% and 25% improvement in single-core and multi-core CPU performance, respectively.
Benchmark comparisons: AnTuTu v10, PCMark Work 3.0, Geekbench 6 (tap to expand)
While everyday tasks may not highlight these performance advancements significantly, the upgraded chipset is likely to provide better resource management for future applications. The Nord CE 5 performs exceptionally well, from 4K video editing to running various heavy-duty apps, drawing comparisons to the more expensive OnePlus Nord 5.
In my gaming tests with titles such as Call of Duty: Mobile, BGMI at high settings, and Asphalt Legends Unite, performance remained steady and uninterrupted even after extended play sessions. Like the Nord 5, the Nord CE 5 allows for bypass charging during gameplay without causing interruptions.
Benchmark results: PCMark Work 3.0 Battery, GFXBench 5.1, 3DMark (tap to expand)
The OnePlus Nord CE 5 features a 6.77-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1,080×2,392 pixels, which adjusts its refresh rate between 60Hz and 120Hz, and a touch sampling rate of up to 300Hz. It is Widevine L1 certified, enabling users to stream HD and HDR content on platforms like Netflix and Prime Video.
During setup, I chose the Cinematic display color mode, but options for Standard and Vivid are also available for those preferring different color profiles. The display remains functional in bright outdoor environments, and it is very responsive even when used with wet hands.
The OnePlus Nord CE 5 displays a vibrant 6.77-inch screen
It is advisable to disable the ProXDR feature in the Photos app, as it tends to alter the appearance of images stored on the device, producing varying results if viewed on another system.
OnePlus Nord CE 5 Cameras: A Competent Primary Shooter
- Main camera – 50-megapixel (f/1.8), OIS, supports up to 4K/30fps video
- Ultrawide camera – 8-megapixel (f/2.2)
- Selfie camera – 16-megapixel, EIS (f/2.4), supports up to 1080p/60fps video
The primary camera retains the same Sony IMX600 sensor utilized in the Nord CE 4, offering sharp images during daylight hours. Generally, the colors remain accurate, with minimal issues regarding saturation or exposure. However, blue hues may appear slightly more vivid than reality. Nighttime photography yields decent results, but stability is essential until the shot is captured.
Camera samples captured at 1x (primary) and 2x (crop) zoom (Tap to expand)
This smartphone offers a 2x zoom mode using an in-sensor crop feature, ideal for photographing more distant subjects. Portrait mode allows switching between 26mm and 35mm focal lengths for 1x shots, while the 2x zoom is restricted to 51mm. The built-in night mode delivers commendable performance in low-light conditions, provided the subject remains stationary.
The ultrawide camera utilizes an OV08D10 sensor and captures 8-megapixel images during the day, albeit occasionally displaying edge warping. Color consistency with the primary camera is generally maintained, though low-light performance is lacking, making the standard camera a better option for nighttime photography.
Ultrawide camera samples, including a selfie and a portrait image (Tap to expand)
The Nord CE 5’s selfie camera uses the Sony IMX480 sensor, producing high-quality images without any automatic beautification effects. Daytime selfies are detailed, while low-light selfies undergo some smoothing. Portrait mode shots captured from the primary camera at 2x zoom also reflect some of this smoothening effect.
This main camera supports optical image stabilization (OIS) for video recording up to 1080p at 30fps, while those opting for 4K recording may do so at 60fps without OIS. The ultrawide camera is limited to filming at 1080p at 30fps, while the selfie camera can also manage 1080p at 60fps, with a drop to 30fps when using the Ultra Steady mode.
OnePlus Nord CE 5 Battery: Extended Life and Quick Charging
- Battery Capacity – 7,100mAh
- Wired Charging – 80W SuperVOOC (USB Type-C)
Boasting a substantial 7,100mAh battery, the OnePlus Nord CE 5 is one of the largest batteries introduced in a smartphone. Coupled with the energy-efficient Dimensity 8350 processor, the device consistently provided two days of usage on a single charge throughout testing phases.
The OnePlus Nord CE 5 features a single speaker
Charging the Nord CE 5 took just over an hour (ranging between 65 and 68 minutes) with the provided 80W SuperVOOC charger. Performance during synthetic battery tests yielded 27 hours and 10 minutes in HD video streaming and 17 hours and 44 minutes during the PCMark Work 3.0 test. As with all reviews, real-world battery life may vary based on user habits.
OnePlus Nord CE 5: Final Thoughts
The OnePlus Nord CE 5 enhances its predecessor’s performance and battery efficiency while delivering a reliable camera experience. With the assurance of four years of operating system upgrades and five years of security updates, it stands out as a strong contender in its category. Useful AI functionalities enhance the user experience despite the absence of the Plus Key found in the OnePlus Nord 5.
While the ultrawide camera’s performance is somewhat disappointing and the device lacks stereo speakers, these issues do not overshadow its overall value within the pricing space. Key competitors for the OnePlus Nord 5 include the Motorola Edge 60 Fusion, Nothing Phone 3a, Infinix GT 30 Pro 5G, and Vivo T4 5G, making it essential to consult our reviews of these models before finalizing a purchase.
Disclosure: OnePlus sponsored the correspondent’s flights and hotel for an event in Vietnam.
