OnePlus Nord 3: Mid-ranger of the year?

Finding the perfect balance between flagship features and affordability can be unfeasible at times. Smartphone makers have to compromise on one feature or another to reach an economical price range for the public.

OnePlus however seems to have cracked the code with their releases. For a long time, the brand was known as the ‘flagship killer’. Because their smartphones featured top-of-the-line specifications while being cheaper than other competitors.

The OnePlus Nord 3 which was unveiled during the OnePlus Nord Summer Launch Event, seems to deliver on the promise of offering top-notch features at a budget price.

Design & Display

The OnePlus Nord 3 boasts an eye-catching flat display, coupled with thin bezels, and a punch-hole camera up front. The phone features a 6.74-inch AMOLED screen with a refresh rate of 120Hz. This means users can expect a smooth multimedia experience and fluid frame rates.

At the back, users are welcomed with a glass back with Gorilla Glass 5 protection. The camera module features three sensors and a dual flashlight setup. The OnePlus Nord 3 introduces two colour options: Tempest Grey and Misty Green.

The iconic alert slider is present on the OnePlus Nord 3 feature allowing users to seamlessly switch between sound profiles and notifications with a simple flick.

Performance

The OnePlus Nord 3 houses the MediaTek Dimensity 9000 chipset, complemented by UFS 3.1 storage. Whether it’s gaming, streaming, or handling demanding tasks, the Nord 3 is expected to provide a smooth experience that exceeds expectations in the mid-range price segment.

The processor is accompanied by either 8 or 16 GB of RAM and 128 or 256 GB of internal storage.

Camera

Equipped with a 50MP OIS primary rear camera, featuring the Sony IMX890 sensor, the smartphone promises to deliver stunning photos and videos across various lighting conditions.

The camera technology found in OnePlus’s flagship OnePlus 11 has been integrated into the Nord 3, further raising expectations for its imaging capabilities.

Supporting the main lens are 8MP ultrawide and 2MP depth sensors. The rear cameras are capable of recording videos at 4K@30fps.

At the front, the 16MP selfie camera should take share-worthy selfies easily.

Software

Shipping with Android 13, the OnePlus Nord 3 offers users the latest and most secure OS version. OnePlus promises three (3) more OS updates and four (4) years of security updates.

Battery

The Nord 3 packs a robust 5000mAh battery, with support for 80W charging technology. It however does not support wireless charging.

Pricing

The 128/8GB variant costs €449 ($499) while the 256/16GB variant will sell for €549 ($599)

OnePlus Nord 3 is poised to be the ultimate value-for-money phone in 2023. With its impressive design, powerful performance, and attractive price point.