OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Motorola Moto G35: The Ultimate Mid-Range Showdown
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Motorola Moto G35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 166.3 × 76 × 7.8 mm | Nord CE 5G is more compact and lighter (170g vs. 188g), making it easier for one-handed use. Moto G35 has a larger footprint, which may suit users who prefer bigger screens. |
| Build Protection | Unknown screen protection | Gorilla Glass 3 | Moto G35 offers better screen durability against scratches, while Nord CE 5G’s display protection is unspecified. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Motorola Moto G35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size & Type | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.72" IPS LCD | AMOLED on Nord CE 5G delivers richer colors, deeper blacks, and better power efficiency. Moto G35’s larger LCD is less vibrant but brighter (1000 nits vs. 700 nits), making it superior in sunlight. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Moto G35 feels smoother in scrolling and animations, but Nord CE 5G’s AMOLED still feels fluid. |
| Resolution & PPI | 1080x2400 (410 PPI) | 1080x2400 (392 PPI) | Nearly identical sharpness, but Nord CE 5G has a slight edge in pixel density. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Motorola Moto G35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G 5G (8nm) | Unisoc T760 (6nm) | Snapdragon 750G is more established with better optimization. Unisoc T760 is newer (6nm) and benchmarks ~10% faster but may lack long-term driver support. |
| RAM Options | 6/8/12GB | 4/8GB | Nord CE 5G’s 12GB option is better for heavy multitasking and future-proofing. |
| Benchmark (AnTuTu) | 385K | 423K | Moto G35 has a slight edge in synthetic benchmarks, but real-world performance between the two is close. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Motorola Moto G35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Moto G35 lasts longer (~11% extra capacity), but Nord CE 5G’s AMOLED and efficiency help offset the difference. |
| Charging Speed | 30W | 18W | Nord CE 5G charges significantly faster (30W vs. 18W), ideal for quick top-ups. |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Motorola Moto G35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79, 1/2") | 50MP (f/1.8, 1/2.76") | Nord CE 5G’s larger sensor and wider aperture means better low-light performance and detail. Moto G35’s 50MP sensor is decent but smaller. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.25) | 8MP (f/2.2) | Both are similar, but Moto G35’s slightly wider aperture helps marginally. |
| Selfie | 16MP (Sony IMX471) | 16MP (basic sensor) | Nord CE 5G’s Sony sensor ensures better selfie quality. |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 240fps slow-mo | 4K@30fps, 120fps slow-mo | Nord CE 5G offers better stabilization and higher slow-motion frame rates. |
Software & Extras
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Motorola Moto G35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS & Updates | Android 11 (up to 13) | Android 14 (latest) | Moto G35 ships with a newer OS, but Nord CE 5G has a longer update track record. |
| Audio | Single speaker, mic noise cancellation | Stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos | Moto G35 offers a significantly better multimedia experience. |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.1, NavIC GPS | Bluetooth 5.0, basic GPS | Nord CE 5G has better Bluetooth codec support (LDAC, aptX) and NavIC for navigation. |
2. Key Insights & Trade-Offs
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Advantages:
✅ Superior Display – AMOLED offers deeper blacks and better contrast.
✅ Better Camera System – Larger sensor, better selfies, and more video features.
✅ Faster Charging (30W) – Refuels quickly when needed.
✅ More RAM Options (up to 12GB) – Better for multitasking and longevity.
Motorola Moto G35 Advantages:
✅ Brighter Screen (1000 nits) – Much better outdoor visibility.
✅ Bigger Battery (5000mAh) – Extra endurance for heavy users.
✅ 120Hz Refresh Rate – Smoother scrolling and animations.
✅ Stereo Speakers & Dolby Atmos – Better for media consumption.
Trade-Offs to Consider:
- Nord CE 5G’s battery is smaller but charges faster.
- Moto G35’s LCD screen is less vibrant but brighter under sunlight.
- Unisoc vs. Snapdragon: While Unisoc benchmarks higher, Qualcomm has better optimization for gaming and long-term support.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the OnePlus Nord CE 5G?
✔ Photography enthusiasts (better camera hardware, DxOMark-tested).
✔ Fast-charging fans (30W vs. 18W makes a big difference).
✔ AMOLED lovers (richer colors, better night viewing).
Who Should Buy the Motorola Moto G35?
✔ Media consumers (bigger screen, stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos).
✔ Outdoor users (1000-nit brightness is a game-changer).
✔ Battery-life-focused users (5000mAh + efficient 6nm chip).
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself These 3 Questions:
- Do you prioritize camera quality and display vibrancy? → OnePlus Nord CE 5G.
- Do you watch a lot of videos or use your phone outdoors often? → Motorola Moto G35.
- Do you care more about fast charging or battery capacity? → Nord CE 5G for speed, Moto G35 for endurance.
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the OnePlus Nord CE 5G.
- Why? The AMOLED screen, better cameras, and faster charging align more with my daily use (photography, readability in dim lighting, and quick top-ups). While the Moto G35 has a bigger battery and brighter screen, the Nord CE 5G’s overall balance of performance, display, and charging speed makes it the better all-rounder.
That said, if battery life and outdoor visibility are critical, the Moto G35 is a strong alternative. Both are great, but for my needs, the Nord CE 5G wins. 🚀
