OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Motorola Moto G54: In-Depth Comparison
Smartphones in the mid-range segment often offer the best balance of price and performance, and the OnePlus Nord CE 5G (2021) and Motorola Moto G54 (2023) are two solid contenders. But which one is right for you? Below, we break down their key differences, real-world performance, and which users each device suits best.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Motorola Moto G54 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 161.6 × 73.8 × 8 mm | Both are slim and easy to hold, but the Nord CE 5G is slightly lighter (170g vs. 177g). |
| Build Quality | Plastic frame | Plastic frame | Neither stands out in premium feel, but both should survive daily wear. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Under-display | Side-mounted | The side-mounted sensor on the Moto G54 might be faster and more convenient. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Motorola Moto G54 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.5" IPS LCD | AMOLED on OnePlus means deeper blacks, better contrast, and power efficiency. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 (410 PPI) | 1080x2400 (405 PPI) | Both sharp, but AMOLED gives OnePlus better vibrancy. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Moto G54's 120Hz offers smoother scrolling, but AMOLED vs. LCD is a bigger factor. |
| Brightness | 700 nits (peak) | No official rating | OnePlus is far better in sunlight visibility. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Motorola Moto G54 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8nm) | Dimensity 7020 (6nm) | Dimensity 7020 is newer and slightly more efficient, but real-world differences are minor. |
| AnTuTu Score | 385,000 | 455,400 | Moto G54 is ~18% faster in benchmarks, but both handle daily tasks well. |
| RAM Options | 6/8/12GB | 4/8/12GB | OnePlus offers a 6GB base option, while Moto G54 starts at 4GB (avoid this variant). |
| Storage | 128/256GB (no microSD) | 128/256GB (no microSD) | Neither supports expandable storage—get the 256GB variant if you need space. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Motorola Moto G54 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Moto G54 wins with 11% larger battery, better for all-day use. |
| Charging Speed | 30W fast charging | 15W fast charging | OnePlus charges twice as fast—a huge advantage if you're often in a rush. |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Motorola Moto G54 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79, OV64B) | 50MP (f/1.8) | OnePlus has higher resolution, but Moto might optimize better in software. |
| Ultrawide Lens | 8MP (f/2.25) | ❌ None | OnePlus wins for landscapes and group shots. |
| Macro Lens | ❌ None | 2MP (f/2.4) | Moto’s macro is low-res and not very useful. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (Sony IMX471) | 16MP | Similar, but OnePlus has a slightly better sensor. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps, 1080p@120fps | 1080p@60fps | OnePlus supports 4K and better slow-motion. |
Software & Updates
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Motorola Moto G54 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS at Launch | Android 11 (up to 13) | Android 13 (latest) | Moto G54 is newer, but OnePlus may not get more updates soon. |
| UI Skin | OxygenOS (clean, fast) | Near-stock Android | Both are smooth, but OxygenOS offers more customization. |
Other Features
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Motorola Moto G54 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audio | Single speaker | Stereo speakers + Dolby Atmos | Moto G54 has much better sound. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | Moto G54 supports newer Bluetooth with better efficiency. |
| GPS | Standard | Dual-band (L1+L5) | Moto G54 has more accurate location tracking. |
2. Key Insights: Strengths & Weaknesses
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Wins If You Want:
✅ Superior display (AMOLED, brighter, more vibrant)
✅ Faster charging (30W vs. 15W)
✅ Better camera versatility (ultrawide lens)
✅ More RAM options (6/8/12GB vs. 4/8/12GB)
❌ Weaknesses: Smaller battery, older software (Android 11 at launch), no stereo speakers.
Motorola Moto G54 Wins If You Want:
✅ Longer battery life (5000mAh)
✅ Smoother screen (120Hz refresh rate)
✅ Newer Bluetooth & GPS (5.3, dual-band)
✅ Better speakers (stereo + Dolby Atmos)
❌ Weaknesses: IPS LCD instead of AMOLED, slower charging, no ultrawide camera.
3. Who Should Buy Which?
For Power Users & Multitaskers
✔ OnePlus Nord CE 5G (better RAM options, faster charging, AMOLED)
For Media Consumers & Battery Lovers
✔ Motorola Moto G54 (120Hz, stereo speakers, 5000mAh battery)
For Casual Users on a Budget
✔ OnePlus Nord CE 5G (better display, fast charging, good all-rounder)
For Future-Proofing
✔ Motorola Moto G54 (newer chipset, Bluetooth 5.3, dual-band GPS)
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do you prioritize screen quality or battery life? (AMOLED vs. 5000mAh)
- Do you need fast charging or a smoother refresh rate? (30W vs. 120Hz)
- Do you care about camera versatility? (Ultrawide vs. Macro)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Photographers & Social Media Users: OnePlus Nord CE 5G (better cameras).
- Movie Lovers & Gamers: Motorola Moto G54 (120Hz, stereo sound).
- Daily Commuters Who Need Quick Top-Ups: OnePlus Nord CE 5G (30W charging).
Final Verdict: Which One Would I Choose?
I'd pick the OnePlus Nord CE 5G—because I value AMOLED displays, fast charging, and a more versatile camera setup over the Moto G54's slightly better battery and 120Hz refresh rate.
However, if battery life and media consumption are your top priorities, the Moto G54 is the better buy.
Which one suits you? Let me know your priorities, and I’ll help you decide! 🚀
