The budget smartphone segment in 2025 is dynamic, with brands pushing the boundaries of design and technology to deliver flagship-like experiences without premium pricing. The OnePlus Nord 5 is the latest entrant aiming to disrupt the market by packing a 144Hz AMOLED display, 80W fast charging, and a competitive price tag under ₹30,000. But is it truly worth buying? Let’s dive deep into the specs, features, and real-world performance of the OnePlus Nord 5 to find out.
Stunning 144Hz AMOLED Display
One of the headline features of the Nord 5 is its 6.43-inch Fluid AMOLED display supporting a blazing 144Hz refresh rate. This is exceptional at this price point, offering fluid animations, enhanced responsiveness, and a gaming experience typically reserved for more expensive phones.
The display also features HDR10+ support and a Full HD+ resolution (2400×1080), ensuring vibrant colors and stunning contrast levels that elevate everyday smartphone usage, from streaming videos to scrolling social feeds.
Performance Powered by MediaTek Dimensity 9200+
At its core, the OnePlus Nord 5 comes equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 9200+ chipset, one of the most powerful and efficient mid-range processors in 2025. This chip handles daily tasks, multitasking, and even intensive gaming with ease.
Paired with up to 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM and UFS 4.0 storage, the Nord 5 delivers smooth app launches, quick game loading, and reliable background app management, making it a solid performer for its class.
Camera Setup: Versatile and Capable
The Nord 5 sports a versatile triple rear camera system consisting of:
- A 64MP primary sensor that captures sharp, detailed images in daylight and performs well in low light thanks to AI optimizations.
- An 8MP ultra-wide lens catering to group or landscape shots with decent color accuracy.
- A 2MP macro camera for close-up shots.
The 16MP selfie camera delivers crisp self-portraits with natural color tone, suitable for social media and video calls.
Massive 4500mAh Battery with 80W SUPERVOOC Charging
Battery life on the Nord 5 is balanced with a 4500mAh battery that comfortably supports a full day of moderate to heavy use. The standout feature is the 80W SUPERVOOC fast charging technology, which can recharge the battery from 0 to 100% in around 30 minutes, minimizing downtime for users always on the go.
Software and Additional Features
- Ships with OxygenOS 14 based on Android 13 – Stock-like, clean, and optimized for speed.
- Features such as dual stereo speakers, in-display fingerprint sensor, and 5G connectivity enhance the overall package.
- Supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for faster wireless performance.
Price and Availability
The OnePlus Nord 5 enters the market aggressively priced under ₹30,000, targeting young buyers seeking premium specs without breaking the bank. Availability in India and select markets in August 2025 has garnered positive attention due to the strong value proposition.
Should You Buy the OnePlus Nord 5?
Pros:
- Industry-leading 144Hz AMOLED display for ultra-smooth visuals.
- Powerful Dimensity 9200+ chipset with efficient performance.
- Fast 80W charging—one of the fastest in its segment.
- Clean and smooth OxygenOS experience.
Cons:
- Battery capacity is somewhat average compared to rivals with 5000mAh+.
- Macro camera at 2MP is more of a gimmick than a must-have feature.
If you want a gaming-friendly, visually stunning phone with flagship-level charging speeds and a powerful processor under ₹30,000, the OnePlus Nord 5 is a compelling choice.
However, if you prioritize battery life above all, you might consider competitors offering bigger batteries but slightly lower refresh rates
