OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Blackview A96: A Practical Showdown
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how these two mid-range smartphones compare in real-world use, based on their specifications and engineering trade-offs.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Blackview A96 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 161.8 × 74.2 × 8.6 mm | The Nord CE 5G is slimmer and lighter (170g vs. 193.9g), making it easier to handle for long periods. The A96 feels slightly bulkier but may offer better grip. |
| Weight | 170g | 193.9g | If you dislike heavy phones, the Nord CE 5G is the clear winner. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic (under-display) | Side-mounted | The A96’s side-mounted sensor is faster and more reliable, but the Nord’s under-display version feels more premium. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Blackview A96 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.5" IPS LCD | Almost identical size, but the Nord’s AMOLED panel offers deeper blacks, better contrast, and vibrant colors. The A96’s LCD is decent but lacks punch. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | The A96’s 120Hz makes scrolling slightly smoother, but the Nord’s AMOLED compensates with better overall display quality. |
| Brightness | 700 nits (peak) | Not specified (likely dimmer) | The Nord is far superior outdoors—700 nits ensures readability even in bright sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Blackview A96 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8nm) | MediaTek Helio G99 (6nm) | The G99 is slightly more efficient and scores ~10% higher in benchmarks, but the 750G has better GPU optimization for gaming. |
| RAM Options | 6GB/8GB/12GB | 8GB/12GB | The Nord offers more flexibility; 6GB is fine for casual use, while 12GB is great for heavy multitasking. |
| Storage | 128GB/256GB (non-expandable) | 256GB (non-expandable) | No microSD on either, so the A96’s single 256GB option might be limiting if you need flexibility. |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Blackview A96 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79, 1/2" sensor) | 48MP (f/1.6, 1/2" sensor) | The Nord’s higher resolution helps in cropping, but the A96’s wider aperture captures more light. Low-light performance may be close. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.25) | 8MP (f/2.4) | The Nord’s slightly wider aperture gives marginally better low-light shots. |
| Extra Lenses | 2MP B&W (low utility) | 2MP Macro (niche use) | Neither adds much value—these are filler lenses. |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 240fps slow-mo | 1440p@30fps, no slow-mo | The Nord is far superior for video—4K and high-FPS slow-motion are useful for content creators. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (Sony IMX471) | 16MP (Hynix HI-1634) | The Nord’s Sony sensor is likely better tuned for skin tones and detail. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Blackview A96 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4380mAh | Negligible difference—both should last a full day. |
| Charging Speed | 30W fast charging | 18W fast charging | The Nord charges significantly faster (~1hr vs. ~1.5hrs). |
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Strengths:
✅ Superior display (AMOLED vs. IPS LCD, brighter, better contrast)
✅ Faster charging (30W vs. 18W)
✅ Better video capabilities (4K, 240fps slow-mo)
✅ More RAM options (6GB/8GB/12GB)
✅ Lighter and slimmer (easier one-handed use)
Blackview A96 Strengths:
✅ Slightly better chipset (Helio G99 is ~10% faster in benchmarks)
✅ Higher refresh rate (120Hz vs. 90Hz)
✅ Extra macro lens (though low utility)
✅ Newer OS out of the box (Android 13 vs. 11 on Nord, though Nord can upgrade to 13)
Trade-Offs:
- The A96’s 120Hz display is smoother, but the Nord’s AMOLED is better overall.
- The A96’s Helio G99 is slightly faster, but the Nord’s 750G has better GPU optimization.
- The Nord’s camera setup is more versatile (4K video, better ultrawide), but the A96 has a slightly brighter main lens (f/1.6 vs. f/1.79).
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the OnePlus Nord CE 5G?
✔ Display enthusiasts (AMOLED, brightness, color accuracy)
✔ Video creators (4K, slow-motion, better stabilization)
✔ Fast-charging lovers (30W makes a big difference)
✔ Those who prefer lightweight phones (170g vs. 193.9g)
Who Should Buy the Blackview A96?
✔ Gamers who want the Helio G99’s marginally better performance
✔ Those who prioritize 120Hz smoothness (but at the cost of AMOLED quality)
✔ Users who need Android 13 out of the box (Nord can upgrade, but A96 ships with it)
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do I care more about display quality or a higher refresh rate?
- AMOLED (Nord) > 120Hz IPS LCD (A96)
- Is fast charging important to me?
- Nord’s 30W is noticeably quicker.
- Do I need 4K video recording?
- Only the Nord offers it.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Best for multimedia & general use: OnePlus Nord CE 5G (better display, faster charging)
- Best for gaming & smoothness: Blackview A96 (Helio G99, 120Hz)
- Best for photography/videography: OnePlus Nord CE 5G (4K, better sensors)
Final Verdict: My Choice
I’d pick the OnePlus Nord CE 5G.
While the Blackview A96 has a newer chipset and 120Hz refresh rate, the Nord’s AMOLED display, faster charging, better cameras, and lighter design make it the more well-rounded package. The superior display and 4K video are particularly compelling for daily use, and 30W charging is a game-changer for quick top-ups. The only reason to pick the A96 is if you really value the Helio G99’s slight performance edge or 120Hz smoothness over display quality. For most users, the Nord CE 5G is the smarter buy.
