Okay, let's dive deep into this comparison between the OnePlus Nord 2T and the Realme 12 Pro+. I'll break down the specs, translate them into real-world implications, and help you figure out which of these phones might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the specs, with a focus on practical implications:
| Feature | OnePlus Nord 2T | Realme 12 Pro+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-05-21 | 2024-01-29 | Realme 12 Pro+ is significantly newer, likely with updated features and tech. |
| Size | 159.1 × 73.2 × 8.2 mm | 161.5 × 74 × 8.8 mm | Realme 12 Pro+ is slightly larger and thicker, may feel more substantial. |
| Weight | 190g | 196g | OnePlus Nord 2T is lighter, possibly more comfortable for long-term holding. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.7" | Realme 12 Pro+ offers more screen real estate for content consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2412 | Both offer sharp, clear images; resolution differences are negligible. |
| PPI | 409 | 394 | Both are very sharp, minor difference isn't really noticeable. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Vibrant colors and deep blacks, excellent for multimedia. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Realme 12 Pro+ provides smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Missing Data: A key spec that is identical, should be considered missing data |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 1300 (6 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 (4 nm) | Different architectures; OnePlus has slightly better benchmark scores. |
| AnTuTu Score | 699,576 | 603,400 | OnePlus Nord 2T shows slightly better raw performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G77 MC9 | Adreno 710 | Both can handle gaming, but with different performance profiles. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Realme 12 Pro+ has a larger battery, likely better battery life. |
| Charging | 80W Fast Charging | 67W Fast Charging | OnePlus Nord 2T charges faster, minimizes downtime. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard (Main) | 50MP (Sony IMX766) | 50MP (Sony IMX890) | Both use good sensors, slight improvements for Realme in newer sensor |
| Selfie | 32MP (Sony IMX615) | 32MP (Sony IMX615) | Similar selfie performance. |
| Telephoto | None | 64MP (Omnivision OV64B) | Realme 12 Pro+ has a telephoto lens for optical zoom. |
| Wide Angle | 8MP | None | OnePlus Nord 2T has a dedicated wide-angle lens. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | None | 8MP (Hynix HI-846) | Realme 12 Pro+ combines wide angle and macro capabilities. |
| Black & white | 2MP | None | OnePlus Nord 2T has a dedicated black and white sensor. |
| Video | 4K@30fps with EIS, Slow-motion 960fps | 4K@30fps with EIS, Slow-motion 240fps | Both offer 4K video; OnePlus has faster slow motion. |
| DXOMark Score | Mobile 114, Photo 119, Video 123 | Not Tested | Missing Data: only OnePlus has score, can give idea of the performance |
| Features | Night Mode | Optical Zoom, Panorama, RAW | OnePlus Nord 2T has an excellent night mode, Realme 12 Pro+ for more advanced shooters |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (upgradable to 14) | Android 14 | Realme 12 Pro+ ships with the latest Android version. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6 | Both support the latest Wi-Fi standards, excellent speed. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 with EDR | Bluetooth 5.2 | Similar Bluetooth standards, OnePlus with Enhanced Data Rate. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5), NavIC | QZSS, BeiDou (B1) | Both have robust GPS; OnePlus with L1+L5, NavIC and Realme with QZSS, BeiDou (B1) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano) | Both support dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256GB | 128/256/512GB | Realme 12 Pro+ has larger storage option available. |
| RAM | 8/12GB | 8/12GB | Both offer ample RAM for smooth multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither supports expandable storage, keep that in mind when choosing storage options. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers, Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, 2 microphones | Realme 12 Pro+ is better for audiophiles, more immersive experience. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Fingerprint Sensor | Fingerprint Sensor | Both have basic fingerprint sensor for security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Unknown | OnePlus Nord 2T offers superior screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Compass | Geomagnetic | Both have standard motion and proximity sensors, minor variations. |
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord 2T Strengths:
- Slightly better raw performance due to the MediaTek Dimensity 1300 chipset.
- Faster 80W charging, convenient for quick top-ups.
- More versatile video with 960fps slow motion, and dedicated night mode.
- Gorilla Glass 5, better screen protection.
Realme 12 Pro+ Strengths:
- Newer device with a more up-to-date Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset and latest Android version
- Larger 5000mAh battery for longer battery life.
- 120Hz refresh rate display for smoother visuals.
- 64MP telephoto lens for optical zoom and extra wide angle + macro capabilities.
- Better audio experience with Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio.
- Larger 512GB storage option available.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- OnePlus Nord 2T: Lacks a telephoto lens, older software, no expandable storage, slightly outdated design.
- Realme 12 Pro+: Slower charging, no wide angle lens.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
OnePlus Nord 2T is Best For:
- Users who prioritize raw processing power and speed.
- Those who value fast charging and don't want to wait.
- Mobile photographers who prioritize high quality night mode.
Realme 12 Pro+ is Best For:
- Users who want the latest software and longer battery life.
- Those who often use zoom capabilities in photos.
- Audiophiles who want better audio quality and experience.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Consider these questions when making your choice:
- Do you prioritize raw processing speed or smoother everyday visuals?
- If performance is critical, the Nord 2T is for you.
- If a smoother display and more modern software is your priority, the Realme 12 Pro+ makes more sense.
- How important is battery life vs. fast charging?
- If long-lasting battery is a priority, the Realme 12 Pro+ is the clear winner.
- If you prefer topping up quickly, the Nord 2T's 80W charging is a big draw.
- What are your camera priorities?
- If telephoto zoom and more options are crucial, the Realme 12 Pro+ excels.
- If you prefer a wide-angle lens and better night photography, the Nord 2T may suit you better.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two, I would lean towards the Realme 12 Pro+. Here’s why:
As a tech journalist who uses my phone daily for a mix of content consumption, photography, and communications, the Realme 12 Pro+ is more appealing. The larger battery and smoother 120Hz display would make my daily experience more enjoyable, and that telephoto zoom lens is great when I want to capture detailed shots at a distance. While it is true that it is slower charging, that's an acceptable trade-off for the additional screen real estate, longer battery life, and the software upgrades.
The Realme 12 Pro+ offers a slightly more rounded package of modern features, making it a better choice for my personal use case.
