OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Honor X8a: Which Mid-Ranger Should You Pick?
Choosing between two solid mid-range smartphones can be tricky. The OnePlus Nord CE 5G (2021) and Honor X8a (2023) offer different strengths—performance versus camera versatility. Let’s break them down to see which one fits your needs better.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a structured comparison of key features and their real-world implications:
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Honor X8a | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.43" AMOLED, 90Hz | 6.7" IPS LCD, 90Hz | AMOLED offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and better battery efficiency for dark mode users. The Honor has a bigger screen but sacrifices vibrancy. |
| Brightness | 700 nits (peak) | No data (likely ~500 nits) | The Nord CE is far better in direct sunlight—important for outdoor use. |
| Performance | Snapdragon 750G (8 nm) | Helio G88 (12 nm) | The Nord CE is 52% faster (AnTuTu 385K vs. 253K), meaning smoother multitasking and better gaming performance. |
| RAM Options | 6/8/12GB | 6/8GB | Nord CE’s 12GB option helps heavy multitaskers and gamers. |
| Battery & Charging | 4500mAh, 30W fast charging | 4500mAh, 22.5W charging | Similar endurance, but the Nord CE charges faster (~10 mins quicker for a full top-up). |
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79), OV64B sensor | 100MP (f/1.9) | The Honor has higher resolution but lacks sensor details—likely worse low-light performance. Nord CE’s 4K video is a big plus. |
| Ultrawide Camera | 8MP (f/2.25) | 5MP (f/2.2) | Nord CE’s ultrawide is sharper, but neither is exceptional. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (f/2.45) | 16MP (f/2.45) | Similar performance, but Nord CE has a better sensor (Sony IMX471). |
| Software | Android 11 (up to 13) | Android 12 | Nord CE has a confirmed update path, Honor’s software future is unclear. |
| Connectivity | 5G, Wi-Fi 6, BT 5.1 | 4G, Wi-Fi 5, BT 5.1 | The Nord CE is future-proofed with 5G—Honor X8a is stuck on 4G. |
| Audio | Noise-canceling mic, LDAC | Basic audio features | Better call clarity and wireless audio on the Nord CE. |
| Security | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint | More convenient placement on the Honor, but both are reliable. |
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Wins If You Want...
✅ Performance & Future-Proofing – The Snapdragon 750G is significantly faster, handles games better, and supports 5G (Honor doesn’t).
✅ Display Quality – AMOLED offers richer colors, better contrast, and 700 nits brightness (great for outdoor use).
✅ Camera Flexibility – 4K video, better ultrawide shots, and a proven sensor (vs. Honor’s unproven 100MP).
✅ Software Support – Guaranteed Android 13 update vs. uncertain future for Honor.
Honor X8a Wins If You Want...
✅ Bigger Screen – 6.7" IPS LCD (but worse colors than AMOLED).
✅ Higher-Resolution Camera – 100MP sounds impressive, but real-world detail may not be much better.
✅ Side-Mounted Fingerprint – More ergonomic than the Nord’s basic sensor.
Trade-Offs
- Honor has a newer launch date (2023 vs. 2021), but the Nord CE still outperforms it.
- Nord CE has faster charging (30W vs. 22.5W).
- Honor lacks 5G—a dealbreaker if you plan to keep the phone long-term.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Buy the OnePlus Nord CE 5G If You...
🔹 Game or multitask heavily – The Snapdragon 750G is way faster than the Helio G88.
🔹 Prioritize display quality – AMOLED is a major upgrade over IPS LCD.
🔹 Want 5G for future-proofing – The Honor is stuck on 4G.
🔹 Care about camera versatility – 4K video, better ultrawide, and proven sensors.
Buy the Honor X8a If You...
🔹 Prefer a bigger screen – 6.7" vs. 6.43", but with worse colors.
🔹 Only take photos casually – 100MP sounds good, but doesn’t guarantee better quality.
🔹 Don’t care about 5G – If you’re in an area where 5G isn’t a priority.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself These 3 Questions:
- Do I need 5G? → Nord CE wins.
- Do I prioritize performance or camera resolution? → Performance: Nord CE. Camera hype: Honor X8a.
- Do I care about display quality? → AMOLED (Nord CE) vs. bigger LCD (Honor).
Scenario Recommendations:
- Gamers & Power Users: Nord CE (faster chip, 90Hz AMOLED).
- Casual Users & Media Lovers: Honor X8a (bigger screen, but worse display tech).
- Photography Enthusiasts: Nord CE (better sensors and 4K video).
Final Verdict: Which One Would I Choose?
I’d pick the OnePlus Nord CE 5G.
Despite being older, it outperforms the Honor X8a in almost every meaningful way:
✔ Faster processor (better for gaming & multitasking).
✔ Superior AMOLED display (brighter, more vibrant).
✔ 5G support (future-proofing).
✔ Better camera system (4K video, better sensors).
✔ Faster charging (30W vs. 22.5W).
The Honor X8a’s only real advantages are a bigger screen and higher MP count—but neither outweighs the Nord CE’s better performance, display, and longevity.
If you want a balanced mid-ranger that still holds up today, the Nord CE 5G is the clear winner. 🚀
