Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G and the Huawei nova Y90. Both phones are aiming for the budget-conscious market, but they take slightly different approaches. As always, we're not just looking at spec sheets; we’re figuring out what these numbers mean for you, the user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at how these two phones stack up:
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G | Huawei nova Y90 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Size | 164.3 × 75.6 × 8.5 mm | 163.3 × 74.7 × 8.4 mm | Very similar; will feel almost identical in hand. |
| Weight | 195g | 195g | Both feel the same weight, should feel solid in-hand |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.59" | 6.7" | Huawei’s slightly bigger screen will be a bit more immersive |
| Resolution | 1080x2412 | 1080x2388 | Sharp, detailed viewing experience on both. |
| PPI | 401 | 391 | Both offer crisp images; minimal difference |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Good color accuracy and brightness, typical of IPS LCD. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | OnePlus has smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 695 5G | Snapdragon 680 4G | OnePlus significantly better for gaming and demanding tasks. |
| Antutu Score | 406,221 | 249,000 | OnePlus offers faster app loading, better multitasking. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 610 | OnePlus can handle more graphically intensive games. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP f/1.7, 1/2" Omnivision OV64B, 0.70µm | 50MP f/1.8, 0.70µm | OnePlus has potentially better low-light and detailed shots. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP f/2.0 | 8MP f/2.0 | OnePlus captures more detailed selfies. |
| Additional Lenses | 2MP Depth, 2MP Macro | 2MP Secondary, 2MP Tertiary | OnePlus gives you creative options for depth, macro, while the Huawei adds extra sensors |
| Video | 1080p@30fps, slow-mo 120fps | 1080p@30fps, slow-mo 30fps | Both are fine for everyday video, OnePlus has slightly better slow motion support |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should last a full day with typical use. |
| Charging | 33W fast charging | 40W fast charging | Huawei charges up faster, letting you get back to using your device more quickly. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Non-removable | Not designed to be user-replaceable |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (upgradable to 13) | No OS | OnePlus will have the benefit of a more modern Android experience |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac, MiMO | 802.11ac | Both support modern Wi-Fi standards. OnePlus has Wi-Fi MiMO support, which boosts performance in high-congestion situations. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2, AptX, LDAC, SBC, AAC | 5.0 | OnePlus has more advanced Bluetooth for better audio experience |
| Storage & RAM | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB | 128GB | Sufficient for most users but not expandable |
| RAM | 6 GB or 8 GB | 4 GB or 6 GB or 8 GB | Both will have decent multitasking, OnePlus might feel faster with the better processor |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Limited storage for users who need more space |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Fast, reliable unlock access on both devices |
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G:
- Strengths: The Snapdragon 695 5G chip delivers a significant performance advantage, especially for gaming and heavy multitasking. The 120Hz display makes for a smoother user experience, and the camera setup offers greater flexibility with dedicated depth and macro lenses.
- Advantages: More advanced Bluetooth audio codecs and better GPU for gaming.
- Trade-offs: Slower charging compared to the Huawei.
Huawei nova Y90:
- Strengths: The 40W fast charging is a great convenience. While the performance is a step down, it's still adequate for everyday use. The slightly bigger screen is also a plus for those who like to consume a lot of media.
- Advantages: Faster charging and a larger screen.
- Trade-offs: Significantly less powerful processor, slower refresh rate and no OS mentioned.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G:
- Best for: Gamers, multitaskers, and those who prefer smoother animations. If you’re someone who spends a lot of time on social media, or gaming, this phone is a solid bet. The better performing processor gives you the ability to switch between apps quickly and smoothly.
- Use Cases: Mobile gaming, video editing, streaming, social media scrolling.
- Price-to-Value: Offers a strong balance of performance and features at a budget-friendly price.
Huawei nova Y90:
- Best for: Users who prioritize fast charging and media consumption on a slightly larger screen. If you need a basic smartphone for calls, social media and web surfing, this will do the job.
- Use Cases: General daily use, watching videos, casual photography.
- Price-to-Value: A good budget option if you want a slightly bigger screen with good battery.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you choose:
- How important is performance to you? If you are a gamer or require a smooth experience for resource-intensive tasks, the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G is the better choice. The Snapdragon 695 is a far superior chipset compared to the Snapdragon 680
- How much do you prioritize fast charging and a large display? If you value a quick recharge and bigger screen for media, then the Huawei nova Y90 might be more appealing to you.
- How important are software updates? If you want the latest updates and the most modern operating system, the OnePlus is a better option. The Huawei nova Y90 does not mention a specific OS.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Gamer: Go for the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G. The better chipset and high refresh rate display will provide a significantly improved gaming experience.
- The Casual User: The Huawei nova Y90 will meet your needs, with the advantage of faster charging.
- The Media Lover: If you primarily watch videos or movies, the Huawei nova Y90’s slightly larger screen could be preferable for a more immersive experience, provided the slower refresh rate doesn't bother you.
- The Photography Enthusiast: OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G, due to it's more versatile camera lenses and better sensor for low light photography.
My Choice
If I were buying a phone from these two options, I would choose the OnePlus Nord CE 2 Lite 5G. The reason is simple: its balance of performance and features is better suited for the type of activities I find myself doing on a daily basis. The Snapdragon 695 chipset and 120Hz display are great for a fast and smooth experience. The improved camera is also a strong selling point for me. While the Huawei does have fast charging and larger display, these are not the most important considerations for me. The OnePlus provides a more rounded user experience.
