Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G and the Huawei nova 12i. I'll break down the specs, highlight key differences, and help you figure out which phone might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed table comparing the key specs, along with a look at what they mean in real-world use:
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G | Huawei nova 12i | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions (mm) | 164.3 x 75.6 x 8.5 | 163.3 x 74.7 x 8.4 | Very similar size and feel in hand. The Huawei is negligibly more compact. |
| Weight (g) | 195 | 199 | Both phones are relatively lightweight and comfortable to hold. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.59" | 6.7" | Huawei offers a slightly larger screen, potentially better for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2412 | 1080 x 2388 | Both have sharp, full-HD displays for detailed visuals. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 401 | 391 | Both displays are crisp, with the OnePlus having a marginally higher PPI. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Both use IPS LCD technology, offering good color reproduction. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | OnePlus has a smoother display, especially noticeable when scrolling and gaming. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | We don't have the actual brightness numbers, making it difficult to compare display visibility in bright conditions. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 695 5G | Snapdragon 680 4G | OnePlus has a more powerful processor, supporting 5G connectivity. |
| AnTuTu Score | 406,221 | 289,000 | OnePlus scores significantly higher, indicating faster app loading and better overall performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 610 | OnePlus has a better GPU, offering improved gaming performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Camera (Main) | 64MP, f/1.7 | 108MP, f/1.9 | Huawei offers higher resolution but a slightly narrower aperture; the sensor size is also larger. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0 | 8MP, f/2.0 | OnePlus has a higher-resolution front camera for better selfies. |
| Depth Camera | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both have similar depth sensors for portrait mode. |
| Macro Camera | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | OnePlus has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps, Slow-mo: 120fps | 1080p@30fps, Slow-mo: 30fps | OnePlus provides better slow-motion, but both are limited to 1080p. |
| Features | Triple cam, D-Stabilization, CDAF | Dual cam, PDAF | OnePlus has an extra camera, while Huawei has PDAF, leading to different strengths. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have similar capacity, promising all-day battery life. |
| Charging | 33W fast charging | 40W fast charging | Huawei has faster charging, reducing time plugged in. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12, upgradable to 13 | Android 13 | OnePlus's OS is more mature, but the lack of information on Huawei's software is a problem. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 5, MIMO | Wi-Fi 5 | Both have similar Wi-Fi standards, OnePlus supports MIMO for better speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2, APT-x | 5.0 | OnePlus has newer Bluetooth, potentially better audio performance with aptX. |
| GPS | Yes | Yes | Both have similar GPS capabilities. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB | 128GB or 256GB | Huawei provides an option for more storage. |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 8GB | Huawei has a base of 8GB, which helps with multitasking, OnePlus has that too in its higher config. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | Noise cancellation mic | Basic Audio | OnePlus has a noise cancellation mic for clearer voice calls. |
| Security | Side fingerprint | Side fingerprint | Both have convenient side fingerprint sensors. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Ultrasonic Proximity virtual | Both have a basic set, OnePlus comes with more sensors. |
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G
Strengths:
- Performance: The Snapdragon 695 5G chipset and Adreno 619 GPU offer superior processing power and gaming performance compared to the Huawei.
- Display: The 120Hz refresh rate provides a smoother visual experience, making scrolling and animations feel fluid.
- Camera: While the main camera is slightly lower resolution, the inclusion of a macro lens and a better selfie camera offers more versatility.
- Connectivity: Newer Bluetooth with aptX support and Wi-Fi MIMO for faster speeds.
- Audio: Noise cancellation microphone ensures clearer calls.
- Sensors: A more extensive range of sensors is included.
Competitive Advantage: Offers a better overall performance and smoother display experience with better camera versatility and connectivity.
Trade-offs: It does not offer the option for 256 GB internal storage like the Huawei does and no expandable storage.
Huawei nova 12i
Strengths:
- Camera: The 108MP main camera with a larger sensor will likely capture more detail and perform better in low-light conditions.
- Charging: 40W fast charging is faster than OnePlus' 33W.
- Storage: The 256 GB option provides more space for photos, videos, and apps.
Competitive Advantage: Superior main camera and faster charging.
Trade-offs: The Snapdragon 680 4G is less powerful, it lacks 5G, and has a lower refresh rate display compared to the OnePlus. The lack of information about the operating system is also concerning.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G is best for:
- Gamers: The superior processor and smoother display offer a better mobile gaming experience.
- Multimedia users: Those who enjoy watching videos, browsing social media, and are on the go will appreciate the smoother experience.
- Selfie Enthusiasts: A higher resolution selfie camera is better for taking high quality selfies.
Huawei nova 12i is best for:
- Photography enthusiasts: The higher resolution main camera offers more detail and better low-light capabilities, as well as a larger sensor.
- Heavy media consumers: 256GB of storage allows for storing lots of photos and videos.
- Users who prioritise fast charging: The faster charging allows for a quick recharge.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you decide:
How important is gaming and general performance to you? If you want the best possible performance for gaming and everyday use, the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G is the better choice.
How important is the main camera to you? If taking high-quality photos is your priority, the Huawei nova 12i offers a higher resolution sensor and larger size.
How much storage do you need? If you need a lot of space for media files, the 256GB option in the Huawei is a good choice.
Scenario-based recommendations:
- If you are a gamer: Go for the OnePlus. The combination of faster performance, 120Hz refresh rate, and a better GPU will give you a much smoother gaming experience.
- If you're a photographer: The Huawei will give you better photos, and the 256GB storage option is a bonus.
- If you use your phone for browsing, social media, and a little gaming: The OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G provides the best all-around experience at a comparable price.
- If you are looking for the cheapest alternative: Consider the OnePlus as the Huawei is likely to cost more due to its newer release date and better main camera.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two devices, I'd lean towards the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G. The superior performance of the Snapdragon 695 5G, combined with the smoother 120Hz display, better video slow motion and inclusion of extra sensors would greatly enhance the overall user experience for my needs. While the Huawei has a better main camera and faster charging, I believe that the performance upgrade and better selfie camera are more essential in daily life and offer a more balanced package.
