OnePlus 12 vs OnePlus Nord 4 - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification
OnePlus 12
OnePlus 12
Oneplus
OnePlus Nord 4
OnePlus Nord 4
Oneplus

General

Launch Date December 11, 2023 August 8, 2024
Release Year 2023 2024

Physical

Volume 114.58 cm³ 97.56 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.1 "/g 3.38 "/g
Weight 220 g 199.5 g
Height 164.3 mm 162.6 mm
Width 75.8 mm 75 mm
Thickness 9.2 mm 8 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Flowy Emerald
  • Silky Black
  • Silver (Glacial White)
  • Oasis Green
  • Obsidian Midnight
  • Mercurial Silver

Display

Screen Size 6.82 " 6.74 "
Resolution 1440 x 3168 1240 x 2772
Aspect Ratio 20:9 20:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 90.8 % 89.6 %
Pixel Density 510 PPI 450 PPI
Refresh Rate 120 Hz 120 Hz
Typical Brightness 600 nits N/A
HBM Brightness 1600 nits N/A
Peak Brightness 4500 nits 2150 nits

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 116.10 mAh/in² 121.07 mAh/in²
Battery Density 47.13 mAh/cm³ 56.38 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 5400 mAh 5500 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Qualcomm SM8650-AB Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) Qualcomm SM7675 Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 (4 nm)
CPU Octa-core (1x3.3 GHz Cortex-X4 & 3x3.2 GHz Cortex-A720 & 2x3.0 GHz Cortex-A720 & 2x2.3 GHz Cortex-A520) Octa-core (1x2.8 GHz Cortex-X4 & 4x2.6 GHz Cortex-A720 & 3x1.9 GHz Cortex-A520)
GPU Adreno 750 Adreno 732

Connectivity

USB Version 3.2 2.0
OTG Support 1
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 3.2, OTG USB Type-C 2.0

Software

Operating System Android Android
Initial OS Version 14 14
Maximum OS Version 18 18

Comparison Summary

Let's dive into a comparative analysis of the OnePlus 12 and OnePlus Nord 4, focusing on the user experience rather than just specs.

1. Design and Usability Assessment:

FeatureOnePlus 12OnePlus Nord 4User Experience Impact
Display6.82" LTPO AMOLED, 4500 nits peak brightness6.74" Fluid AMOLED, 2150 nits peak brightnessThe OnePlus 12 offers a potentially more vibrant and detailed visual experience, especially outdoors.
Dimensions164.3 x 75.8 x 9.2mm162.6 x 75 x 8mmThe Nord 4 is slightly thinner and lighter, potentially offering a more comfortable one-handed grip.
Battery5400 mAh5500 mAhWhile the Nord 4 has a slightly larger battery capacity, real-world usage will depend on optimization.
Interface DesignOxygenOS (based on Android 14)OxygenOS (based on Android 14)Both offer a similar software experience, but long-term updates and feature additions could differentiate them.
Interaction FlowExpected to be smooth with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3Expected to be smooth with Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3The OnePlus 12's more powerful processor may handle demanding tasks and multitasking more efficiently.
AccessibilityStandard Android accessibility featuresStandard Android accessibility featuresBoth likely offer similar accessibility options, but custom features could impact the experience.
Design ErgonomicsSlightly larger and heavierSlightly thinner and lighterPersonal preference will dictate which feels better in hand. The 12's curvature might improve grip despite the larger size.

2. Narrative-Driven Feature Exploration:

Imagine a sunny afternoon at a park. You're trying to capture a video of your dog playing frisbee. The OnePlus 12's superior brightness ensures you can clearly see the screen even in direct sunlight, allowing for perfect framing. Its 8K video recording capability captures every detail in stunning clarity. Meanwhile, the Nord 4, while still capable, might struggle with screen visibility under intense sunlight.

3. Inclusive Technology Evaluation:

For a user who prioritizes portability and comfortable one-handed use, the Nord 4's slimmer profile might be preferable. However, for a power user who demands top-tier performance and a brilliant display for media consumption and creation, the OnePlus 12 would be the better choice. Users with visual impairments would benefit from the comprehensive accessibility features offered by both Android devices.

4. Design-Centric Decision Framework:

Choosing between these devices hinges on individual priorities. If you value a premium, visually immersive experience with top-tier performance, the OnePlus 12 is the clear winner. If you prefer a more affordable, lightweight device that doesn't compromise on core features, the Nord 4 is an excellent alternative.

My Choice: The OnePlus 12

As a technology communications specialist focused on user experience, I would choose the OnePlus 12. The brighter, more vibrant display, along with the superior processing power, creates a more engaging and immersive user experience. While the Nord 4 is a compelling option for its price, the 12's focus on delivering a premium visual and performance experience aligns more closely with my appreciation for design excellence and its impact on user interaction. The subtle differences in ergonomics, while favoring the Nord 4 in some aspects, are outweighed by the significant advantages in display quality and overall performance offered by the OnePlus 12. For me, these factors contribute to a more fulfilling and enjoyable user experience in the long run.

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.