OnePlus launched the Nord CE 2 Lite in India in April 2022 at Rs 19,999, making it the most affordable OnePlus phone at the time. It targeted buyers who wanted the OnePlus software experience on a budget, and it kept practical features such as a headphone jack and microSD card slot.
The 6.59-inch LCD runs at 120 Hz with full HD+ resolution, smooth if lacking the contrast of AMOLED. The Snapdragon 695 is efficient and handles daily use well, with moderate gaming possible. The 64 MP main camera produces decent daylight photos, supported by 2 MP depth and macro sensors. A 5,000 mAh battery with 33 W charging gives solid endurance.
Competitors included the Redmi Note 11 Pro+, the Realme 9 Pro, the Samsung Galaxy M33 and the iQOO Z6. The Realme 9 Pro had very similar hardware, while the Redmi Note 11 Pro+ offered an AMOLED screen and faster charging. The CE 2 Lite appealed mainly for its clean OxygenOS software.
Key specifications
| Launch price (India) | Rs 19,999 (base variant) |
|---|---|
| India launch | April 2022 |
| Segment | Budget |
| Display | 6.59-inch, IPS LCD, 120Hz, 1080 x 2412 |
| Processor | Snapdragon 695 |
| RAM | 6 GB / 8 GB |
| Storage | 128 GB |
| Expandable storage | Yes |
| Rear cameras | 64 MP main + 2 MP depth + 2 MP macro |
| Front camera | 16 MP |
| Battery | 5000 mAh |
| Charging | 33W wired |
| Software at launch | Android 12, OxygenOS 12.1 |
| 5G | Yes |
| Headphone jack | Yes |
| Weight | 195 g |
| Colours | Black Dusk, Blue Tide |
What we like
- Clean OxygenOS software
- Smooth 120 Hz display
- Headphone jack and microSD slot
- Good battery life
What could be better
- LCD instead of AMOLED
- Filler depth and macro cameras
- No IP rating
Who should buy it
Budget buyers who want OnePlus software and dependable battery life on an affordable 5G phone.
Specifications and price are as at the India launch (April 2022). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.