Apple iPhone 11 Pro vs OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date September 20, 2019 February 22, 2022
Release Year 2019 2022

Physical

Volume 83.28 cm³ 91.7 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.09 "/g 3.72 "/g
Weight 188 g 173 g
Height 144 mm 160.6 mm
Width 71.4 mm 73.2 mm
Thickness 8.1 mm 7.8 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Matte Space Gray
  • Matte Silver
  • Matte Gold
  • Matte Midnight Green
  • Gray Mirror
  • Bahama Blue

Display

Screen Size 5.8 " 6.43 "
Resolution 1125 x 2436 1080 x 2400
Aspect Ratio 19.5:9 20:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 80.3 % 84.9 %
Pixel Density 458 PPI 409 PPI
Refresh Rate N/A 90 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness 800 nits N/A
Peak Brightness 1200 nits N/A

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 90.55 mAh/in² 108.84 mAh/in²
Battery Density 36.57 mAh/cm³ 49.08 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 3046 mAh 4500 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Apple A13 Bionic (7 nm+) Mediatek Dimensity 900 (6 nm)
CPU Hexa-core (2x2.65 GHz Lightning + 4x1.8 GHz Thunder) Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)
GPU Apple GPU (4-core graphics) Mali-G68 MC4

Connectivity

USB Version 2.0 2.0
OTG Support 1
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features Lightning 2.0 USB Type-C 2.0, OTG

Software

Operating System iOS Android
Initial OS Version 13 11
Maximum OS Version 18 13

Comparison Summary

Okay, let's dive into a user-focused comparison of the Apple iPhone 11 Pro and the OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G. I'm going to translate these tech specs into a narrative about how each phone might fit into your life.

1. Design and Usability Assessment

FeatureApple iPhone 11 ProOnePlus Nord CE 2 5GUser Experience Impact
Interface DesigniOS: Intuitive, established ecosystem, tight app integrationAndroid: Highly customizable, open-source feel, flexibilityiOS: Smooth, reliable, ideal for users deep in Apple ecosystem; Android: Great for tinkerers, open to varied user styles
Interaction FlowGesture-based, seamless, consistent across appsGesture or button navigation, may vary between appsiPhone: Streamlined, easy to learn; OnePlus: Options for diverse tastes, requires some initial customization
AccessibilityStrong, includes VoiceOver, switch control, robust optionsSolid, with screen readers, captions, customization optionsBoth have good accessibility, iPhone generally seen as the gold standard; OnePlus might require additional setup
ErgonomicsSmaller, denser, premium feelLarger, lighter, may feel less premiumiPhone: Fits in one hand; OnePlus: Large screen for media, but might be less pocket-friendly

Narrative:

Imagine Sarah, a graphic designer, who has been using Apple products for years. The iPhone 11 Pro, with its iOS ecosystem, feels like a natural extension of her digital workspace. She appreciates the fluid gesture navigation and the consistency between her phone, iPad, and MacBook. On the other hand, Mark, a software developer, enjoys the open and customizable nature of Android. The OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G allows him to tailor his experience precisely, giving him the freedom he enjoys.

2. Narrative-Driven Feature Exploration

Let's explore key features through user stories:

  • The Visual Storyteller: Imagine a travel blogger, Alex, using the camera. The iPhone 11 Pro's triple 12MP camera system, offering optical zoom and stunning HDR video, lets Alex capture breathtaking landscapes and vibrant street scenes. The high brightness OLED display means she can easily view her shots, even under bright sunlight. The OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G's 64MP main sensor provides rich detail, and the 90Hz AMOLED screen offers a smooth experience when reviewing content, especially for social media, but may struggle in bright sun.
  • The Power User: Think of a busy professional, Jamie, who's always on the go. The OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G's 4500mAh battery and 65W fast charging mean Jamie's device is ready to go at any moment. The iPhone's smaller battery, while efficient, might require midday charging for heavy users.
  • The Gaming Enthusiast: Suppose Liam is a mobile gamer. The iPhone 11 Pro, with its Apple A13 Bionic chip, offers smooth graphics and faster app loading times, crucial for high-performance gaming. The OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G, although capable, doesn't quite match the iPhone's graphical prowess, making its user feel at times the difference.
  • The Connected Communicator: Consider Maria, who juggles work and family. Both devices offer dual SIM support. The iPhone 11 Pro goes a step further with its eSIM functionality, making it seamless to switch between networks when she travels. For everyday communication, both devices offer excellent call quality, but the OnePlus’s Bluetooth 5.2 and additional codecs might appeal to a music enthusiast like David, giving a richer listening experience.

3. Inclusive Technology Evaluation

Both phones cater to different user needs:

  • Visual Impairment: The iPhone’s VoiceOver and accessibility features make it easier to use for those with vision issues. The OnePlus, with its screen readers, is also capable, but the iPhone's ecosystem offers tighter integration.
  • Physical Limitations: The smaller, more compact iPhone 11 Pro might be easier for users with hand mobility issues to manage. The OnePlus might be challenging to use with one hand.
  • Tech Novices: The iPhone's streamlined experience may be less intimidating for users new to smartphones, while the OnePlus's flexibility can be overwhelming at first.
  • Cost-Conscious Users: The OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G is more affordable and provides good performance for the price-conscious user. The iPhone 11 Pro, being from the premium bracket, offers cutting-edge tech, but at a higher price point.

4. Design-Centric Decision Framework

Here's a simple guide to help you decide:

  • For the Apple Ecosystem User: If you’re deep in the Apple world and prioritize a streamlined, consistent experience, the iPhone 11 Pro is a natural fit, its power and camera capabilities being an asset.
  • For the Android Customizer: If you value customization, a larger screen and a powerful battery with rapid charging, the OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G offers great flexibility at an affordable price point, making it ideal for the tech-savvy.
  • For the Camera Focused: The iPhone 11 Pro excels in image and video quality, featuring a better display, while the OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G offers a more basic camera setup.
  • For the Gamer: The Apple iPhone 11 Pro is better for gaming, with its higher benchmark scores, while the OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G will be a good option for mid-level gaming.
  • For the Long-Lasting User: The OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G offers better battery and faster charging and longer-lasting use.
  • For the Security Conscious: The Apple iPhone 11 Pro provides basic security, while the OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G offers a fingerprint scanner and other sensors.

My Choice and Why:

If I were making a choice based purely on the user experience, I would lean towards the Apple iPhone 11 Pro. Here's why:

  1. Ecosystem Integration: As a technology communicator, I appreciate the seamless integration Apple offers. The ability to switch between devices effortlessly is a huge advantage for productivity.
  2. Superior Display and Camera: For visually engaging communication, having a high-quality display and camera is paramount. The iPhone 11 Pro excels in both.
  3. Performance & User experience: Although the OnePlus offers a smooth experience, the iPhone performs significantly better in demanding tasks and gaming, offering a more consistent user experience
  4. Long-Term Support: Apple’s track record for long-term software support, ensuring I have the latest features and security updates makes the iPhone 11 Pro a reliable choice for a longer period of time.

While the OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G offers great value and a larger screen, the iPhone 11 Pro provides a more refined, powerful, and integrated user experience tailored for my specific needs.

In essence, the "best" phone truly depends on the individual. The iPhone 11 Pro is a premium, polished experience, while the OnePlus Nord CE 2 5G offers excellent value and versatility for those who like to tinker and customize. Understanding your personal needs is the key to making the right decision.

Sophia Rodriguez
Sophia Rodriguez

Technology Communications Specialist

Expert in transforming complex technological innovations into accessible, engaging narratives.

Key Strengths:

  • Technology storytelling
  • User experience design analysis
  • Inclusive technology communication
  • Design-driven technology insights

Bridging technical complexity with human-centered understanding.