Author: Abhishek

  • Realme 11 Pro+

    The Realme 11 Pro+ launched in India in June 2023 at Rs 27,999 for 8 GB and 256 GB, alongside the 11 Pro. It shares the same luxury-inspired vegan leather design and curved display, but upgrades the camera system and charging speed to compete with the Redmi Note 12 Pro+.

    Its 200 MP Samsung HP3 main sensor with OIS is the headline feature and supports up to 4x in-sensor zoom with good results. An 8 MP ultrawide and 2 MP macro complete the setup, and the front camera is a 32 MP sensor. The Dimensity 7050 is the same as in the 11 Pro, adequate for daily use but not for heavy gaming. The 5,000 mAh battery charges at 100 W.

    Rivals included the Redmi Note 12 Pro+, the OnePlus Nord CE3, the iQOO Neo 7 and the Nothing Phone (1). The iQOO Neo 7 offered much better performance, while the Redmi had a similar 200 MP pitch. The 11 Pro+ appealed most to camera and design-conscious buyers. Gamers are better served elsewhere.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 27,999 (base variant)
    India launchJune 2023
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.7-inch, Curved AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2412
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 7050
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras200 MP main + 8 MP ultrawide + 2 MP macro
    Front camera32 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging100W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, Realme UI 4.0
    5GYes
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursSunrise Beige, Oasis Green, Astral Black

    What we like

    • 200 MP OIS main camera with good in-sensor zoom
    • 100 W charging
    • Premium vegan leather design
    • 32 MP selfie camera

    What could be better

    • Average Dimensity 7050 performance
    • Weak macro camera
    • No IP rating

    Who should buy it

    Camera and design-focused buyers who want a premium-looking phone with fast charging.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (June 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Realme 11 Pro

    Realme launched the 11 Pro in India in June 2023 at Rs 23,999 for 8 GB and 128 GB. Design was a major focus: the phone has a curved display and a vegan leather back with a large circular camera module, inspired by luxury travel luggage, giving it a premium feel at a mid-range price.

    The 6.7-inch curved AMOLED runs at 120 Hz with full HD+ resolution. Performance comes from the Dimensity 7050, which is fine for everyday use and casual gaming but not a powerhouse. The 100 MP main camera with OIS produces detailed photos with good colour, but the only other rear camera is a 2 MP depth sensor, so there is no ultrawide. The 5,000 mAh battery charges at 67 W.

    Rivals included the Redmi Note 12 Pro, the Samsung Galaxy M34, the iQOO Z7 Pro and the Motorola Edge 40 Neo. The iQOO Z7 Pro offered similar specs with a faster chip, while the Motorola had IP68. The Realme 11 Pro's appeal was largely its design and curved display. Those who want an ultrawide should look elsewhere.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 23,999 (base variant)
    India launchJune 2023
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.7-inch, Curved AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2412
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 7050
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras100 MP main + 2 MP depth
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging67W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, Realme UI 4.0
    5GYes
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursSunrise Beige, Oasis Green, Astral Black

    What we like

    • Premium vegan leather design
    • Curved 120 Hz AMOLED
    • 100 MP OIS main camera
    • 67 W charging

    What could be better

    • No ultrawide camera
    • Dimensity 7050 is only average
    • Preinstalled apps

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who prioritise design and a curved display in a mid-range phone.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (June 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite

    The Nord CE4 Lite arrived in India in June 2024 at Rs 19,999 for 8 GB and 128 GB. It moved the entry-level Nord from an LCD to an AMOLED display for the first time, and OnePlus highlighted its very high peak brightness and the ability to charge other devices through its USB-C port.

    The 6.67-inch AMOLED at 120 Hz is bright, rated for up to 2,100 nits, and comfortable to use outdoors. The Snapdragon 695 is an older chip; it handles daily use but is modest for gaming. A 50 MP Sony LYT-600 main camera with OIS takes reliable photos, supported by a 2 MP depth sensor. The 5,500 mAh battery delivers excellent endurance and charges at 80 W. The headphone jack and IP54 rating are welcome.

    Rivals included the Redmi Note 13 5G, the Realme Narzo 70 Pro, the Samsung Galaxy M35 and the iQOO Z9. The iQOO Z9 had a faster chip, while the Galaxy M35 offered longer updates. The CE4 Lite stood out with its battery, charging and bright display. Its chip, however, is clearly ageing.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 19,999 (base variant)
    India launchJune 2024
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.67-inch, AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorSnapdragon 695
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 2 MP depth
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5500 mAh
    Charging80W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, OxygenOS 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP54
    Headphone jackYes
    ColoursMega Blue, Super Silver, Ultra Orange

    What we like

    • Very bright AMOLED display
    • 5,500 mAh battery with 80 W charging
    • Reverse wired charging
    • Headphone jack

    What could be better

    • Older Snapdragon 695 chip
    • No ultrawide camera
    • Modest gaming performance

    Who should buy it

    Budget buyers who want excellent battery life and a bright screen with clean software.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (June 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • OnePlus Nord CE4

    OnePlus launched the Nord CE4 in India in April 2024 at Rs 24,999 for 8 GB and 128 GB. It was the first phone in India with the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, and its 100 W charging, previously seen only on pricier OnePlus phones, was one of its main selling points. The Celadon Marble finish gave it a distinctive look.

    The 6.7-inch AMOLED runs at 120 Hz with full HD+ resolution and is bright and colourful. The Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 handles everyday use smoothly and runs popular games well. The camera system is simpler than before: a 50 MP Sony LYT-600 main with OIS and an 8 MP ultrawide. The 5,500 mAh battery lasts well over a day and charges at 100 W. Unusually, it kept a hybrid microSD slot.

    Rivals included the Redmi Note 13 Pro, the Realme 12+, the Poco X6 Pro and the Motorola Edge 50 Fusion. The Poco X6 Pro was faster, and the Redmi had a sharper screen, but the CE4 led on charging speed and battery life. Its hybrid microSD slot is also rare at this price.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 24,999 (base variant)
    India launchApril 2024
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.7-inch, AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2412
    ProcessorSnapdragon 7 Gen 3
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 8 MP ultrawide
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5500 mAh
    Charging100W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, OxygenOS 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP54
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursDark Chrome, Celadon Marble

    What we like

    • 100 W charging
    • Large 5,500 mAh battery
    • OIS main camera
    • Hybrid microSD slot

    What could be better

    • Only 8 GB RAM
    • No headphone jack
    • Ultrawide is basic

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want long battery life and very fast charging in an affordable OnePlus.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (April 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • OnePlus Nord CE3 Lite

    OnePlus launched the Nord CE3 Lite in India in April 2023 at Rs 19,999 for 8 GB and 128 GB. It stood out visually with its bright Pastel Lime colour and kept the budget-friendly recipe of the CE 2 Lite while upgrading the camera, display and charging speed. It was positioned for students and first-time OnePlus buyers.

    The 6.72-inch LCD runs at 120 Hz with full HD+ resolution. The Snapdragon 695 handles everyday tasks smoothly but is showing its age in demanding games. A 108 MP main camera captures good daylight detail, supported by 2 MP depth and macro sensors. The 5,000 mAh battery charges at 67 W, a big step up from the previous 33 W. OnePlus also marketed its loud stereo speakers and kept the headphone jack.

    Rivals included the Redmi Note 12 5G, the Realme 10 Pro, the Samsung Galaxy M34 and the iQOO Z7. The iQOO Z7 offered an AMOLED with OIS and a faster chip for similar money, while the CE3 Lite appealed mainly through its clean software and fast charging. Gamers will want something faster.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 19,999 (base variant)
    India launchApril 2023
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.72-inch, IPS LCD, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorSnapdragon 695
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras108 MP main + 2 MP depth + 2 MP macro
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging67W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, OxygenOS 13.1
    5GYes
    Headphone jackYes
    Weight195 g
    ColoursPastel Lime, Chromatic Gray

    What we like

    • 108 MP main camera
    • 67 W charging
    • Headphone jack and microSD
    • Clean OxygenOS

    What could be better

    • LCD instead of AMOLED
    • Ageing Snapdragon 695
    • Filler secondary cameras

    Who should buy it

    Budget buyers who want fast charging and a clean software experience at under Rs 20,000.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (April 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • OnePlus Nord CE3

    OnePlus launched the Nord CE3 in India in August 2023 at Rs 26,999 for 8 GB and 128 GB. It sat between the cheaper Nord CE3 Lite and the more powerful Nord 3, and its headline feature was the Sony IMX890 main sensor with OIS, the same one found in the OnePlus 11.

    The 6.7-inch AMOLED runs at 120 Hz with full HD+ resolution and is vivid and bright. The Snapdragon 782G is a refined version of the 778G, smooth in daily use and capable in games at moderate settings. The IMX890 main camera is the highlight, producing sharp, well-exposed photos, while the 8 MP ultrawide and 2 MP macro are basic. A 5,000 mAh battery charges at 80 W.

    Rivals included the Redmi Note 12 Pro+, the Realme 11 Pro+, the Samsung Galaxy M34 and the iQOO Z7 Pro. The iQOO Z7 Pro had a curved screen and faster chip, while the Realme 11 Pro+ offered a 200 MP sensor. The Nord CE3 appealed with clean software and a strong main camera.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 26,999 (base variant)
    India launchAugust 2023
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.7-inch, AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2412
    ProcessorSnapdragon 782G
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 8 MP ultrawide + 2 MP macro
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging80W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, OxygenOS 13.1
    5GYes
    ColoursAqua Surge, Grey Shimmer

    What we like

    • Sony IMX890 main camera with OIS
    • Vivid 120 Hz AMOLED
    • 80 W charging
    • Clean OxygenOS

    What could be better

    • Snapdragon 782G is not class-leading
    • Weak ultrawide and macro
    • Pricier than similar-spec rivals

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want a strong main camera and clean software in a mid-range phone.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (August 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite

    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 launchApril 2022
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.59-inch, IPS LCD, 120Hz, 1080 x 2412
    ProcessorSnapdragon 695
    RAM6 GB / 8 GB
    Storage128 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras64 MP main + 2 MP depth + 2 MP macro
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging33W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 12, OxygenOS 12.1
    5GYes
    Headphone jackYes
    Weight195 g
    ColoursBlack 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.

  • OnePlus Nord 4

    OnePlus launched the Nord 4 in India in July 2024 at Rs 29,999 for 8 GB and 128 GB. Its most distinctive feature is a metal unibody design, unusual for a modern 5G phone because of antenna challenges, which gives it a durable, premium feel. OnePlus also promised four years of OS updates and six years of security patches.

    The Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 delivers near-flagship performance, handling demanding games smoothly. The 6.74-inch AMOLED at 1240 x 2772 resolution and 120 Hz is bright and sharp. Cameras include a 50 MP Sony LYT-600 main with OIS and an 8 MP ultrawide, a simpler setup that drops the macro lens. The 5,500 mAh battery lasts well beyond a day and charges at 100 W.

    Rivals included the Poco F6, the Realme GT 6T, the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus and the Motorola Edge 50 Pro. The Poco F6 had a slightly faster chip and the Edge 50 Pro a telephoto lens, while the Nord 4 stood out for build quality and long software support. Its camera remains the weak spot.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 29,999 (base variant)
    India launchJuly 2024
    SegmentUpper mid-range
    Display6.74-inch, Fluid AMOLED, 120Hz, 1240 x 2772
    ProcessorSnapdragon 7+ Gen 3
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 8 MP ultrawide
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5500 mAh
    Charging100W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, OxygenOS 14.1
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP65
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight199.5 g
    ColoursMercurial Silver, Oasis Green, Obsidian Midnight

    What we like

    • Premium metal unibody
    • Near-flagship Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3
    • Long software support promise
    • 100 W charging

    What could be better

    • Only two rear cameras
    • No telephoto
    • Ultrawide is basic

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who value build quality and long-term software support in a fast mid-range phone.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (July 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • OnePlus Nord 3

    OnePlus launched the Nord 3 in India in July 2023 at Rs 33,999 for 8 GB and 128 GB. It was a major step up from the Nord 2T, borrowing the previous year's flagship Dimensity 9000 chip and adding the alert slider, a feature usually reserved for the numbered series.

    Performance is excellent for the price, handling demanding games at high settings. The 6.74-inch AMOLED at 1240 x 2772 resolution and 120 Hz is sharp and bright. The 50 MP Sony IMX890 main camera with OIS, shared with the OnePlus 11, delivers reliable photos, though the 8 MP ultrawide and 2 MP macro are weak. A 5,000 mAh battery charges at 80 W, reaching full in about 30 minutes.

    Rivals included the Poco F5, the Samsung Galaxy A54, the Nothing Phone (2) and the iQOO Neo 7 Pro. The Poco F5 was cheaper with similar performance, while the Galaxy A54 offered IP67 and longer updates. The Nord 3 balanced speed, camera and charging well, with a cleaner software experience than most rivals.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 33,999 (base variant)
    India launchJuly 2023
    SegmentUpper mid-range
    Display6.74-inch, Fluid AMOLED, 120Hz, 1240 x 2772
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 9000
    RAM8 GB / 16 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 8 MP ultrawide + 2 MP macro
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging80W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, OxygenOS 13.1
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP54
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight193.5 g
    ColoursMisty Green, Tempest Gray

    What we like

    • Flagship-class Dimensity 9000
    • Good 50 MP OIS main camera
    • Alert slider
    • 80 W charging

    What could be better

    • Weak ultrawide and macro
    • Only IP54
    • No wireless charging

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want flagship-level performance and clean software in a mid-range Nord.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (July 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • OnePlus Open

    OnePlus entered the foldable market in October 2023 with the Open, priced at Rs 1,39,999 for 16 GB and 512 GB. Co-developed with Oppo, it was praised for its light weight, almost invisible crease and a cover screen with a normal phone aspect ratio, which made it far more usable when closed than Samsung's narrow Galaxy Z Fold5.

    The inner 7.82-inch 2K LTPO AMOLED and the 6.31-inch cover display both refresh at 120 Hz and are very bright. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is fast and efficient, and OxygenOS includes Open Canvas, a clever multitasking system for running several apps at once. The triple camera system pairs a 48 MP main, a 48 MP ultrawide and a 64 MP 3x telephoto, and it is one of the best on any foldable. The 4,805 mAh battery charges at 67 W.

    Its main rival was the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5, which offered IPX8 water resistance, wireless charging and S Pen support. The Open countered with a better camera, a more practical cover screen and faster charging at a lower price. Its IPX4 rating and lack of wireless charging were the main compromises.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 139,999 (base variant)
    India launchOctober 2023
    SegmentFoldable
    Display7.82-inch, LTPO AMOLED (6.31-inch cover display), 120Hz, 2268 x 2440
    ProcessorSnapdragon 8 Gen 2
    RAM16 GB
    Storage512 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras48 MP main + 48 MP ultrawide + 64 MP 3x telephoto
    Front camera32 MP (cover) + 20 MP (inner)
    Battery4805 mAh
    Charging67W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, OxygenOS 13.2
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIPX4
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursEmerald Dusk, Voyager Black

    What we like

    • Light for a book-style foldable
    • Practical, normal-width cover screen
    • Excellent triple camera
    • Open Canvas multitasking

    What could be better

    • Only IPX4 splash resistance
    • No wireless charging
    • Very expensive

    Who should buy it

    Professionals who want a large screen for multitasking in a foldable that still works well as a normal phone.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (October 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.