OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs Nokia X30: A Practical Comparison
Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build Quality
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Nokia X30 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 158.9 × 73.9 × 8 mm | Both are compact, but OnePlus is slightly slimmer and lighter |
| Weight | 170g | 185g | Nord CE 5G is more comfortable for long use |
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass Victus | Nokia X30 is more durable against drops/scratches |
Key Takeaway:
- OnePlus Nord CE 5G wins in portability (lighter, slimmer).
- Nokia X30 has better durability with Gorilla Glass Victus.
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Nokia X30 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.43" AMOLED | Identical screen size & tech |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Smooth scrolling on both |
| Peak Brightness | 700 nits | ~Unknown (likely lower) | Nord CE 5G much better in sunlight |
Key Takeaway:
- Identical panels in size and fluidity.
- OnePlus Nord CE 5G has a strong advantage outdoors with higher brightness.
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Nokia X30 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8nm) | Snapdragon 695 (6nm) | Nokia X30 slightly more efficient |
| Benchmark (AnTuTu) | 385,000 | 410,072 | X30 ~7% faster, but both mid-range chips |
| RAM Options | 6/8/12GB | 6/8GB | Nord CE 5G better for heavy multitasking |
Key Takeaway:
- Nokia X30 has a slight performance edge, but OnePlus offers more RAM options (up to 12GB).
- Both are good for casual gaming (PUBG, COD Mobile), but neither is a powerhouse.
Camera
Main Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Nokia X30 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Sensor | 64MP (f/1.79) | 50MP (f/1.8) | Nord CE 5G higher resolution, slightly better low-light |
| Wide-Angle | 8MP (f/2.25) | 13MP (f/2.4) | X30’s ultrawide is sharper |
| Stabilization | Digital (EIS) | Optical (OIS) + EIS | X30 wins for stable video & night shots |
| 4K Video | Yes (30fps) | No (max 1080p) | Nord CE 5G better for high-res recording |
| DXOMARK Score | 84 (Photo: 89) | No data | OnePlus tested, Nokia unrated |
Key Takeaway:
- OnePlus Nord CE 5G: Better main sensor resolution and 4K video.
- Nokia X30: Better ultrawide camera & stabilization (OIS)—great for handheld shots.
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Nokia X30 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 4500mAh | 4200mAh | OnePlus lasts slightly longer |
| Charging Speed | 30W (Li-Polymer) | 33W (Lithium) | Nokia charges marginally faster |
Key Takeaway:
- Similar endurance, but OnePlus has a slight battery advantage.
- Nokia charges slightly faster (but not a huge difference).
Key Insights & Trade-Offs
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Strengths
✅ Better outdoor display (700 nits brightness)
✅ Higher main camera resolution (64MP) & 4K video
✅ Larger battery (4500mAh)
✅ More RAM options (up to 12GB)
Nokia X30 Strengths
✅ Better build quality (Gorilla Glass Victus)
✅ Optical image stabilization (OIS) for steadier shots
✅ Slightly faster chipset (Snapdragon 695)
✅ Wi-Fi 6 support (better for future-proofing)
Trade-Offs
- OnePlus lacks OIS, so Nokia X30 is better for low-light video.
- Nokia X30 skips 4K video, a downside for content creators.
- OnePlus has more RAM, but Nokia’s software is cleaner (longer updates).
User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Get the OnePlus Nord CE 5G?
✔ Content creators (4K video, higher-res main camera)
✔ Multitaskers (12GB RAM option)
✔ Outdoor users (brighter screen)
Who Should Get the Nokia X30?
✔ Durability-focused users (Gorilla Glass Victus)
✔ Casual photographers (OIS for stable shots)
✔ Those who prefer cleaner Android (Nokia’s near-stock OS)
Buying Decision Framework
Ask yourself:
- Do I care more about camera stabilization (OIS) or resolution (64MP + 4K)?
- Do I need Wi-Fi 6 for future-proofing?
- Is a brighter display or tougher glass more important?
Scenario-Based Picks
- Best for photography? Nokia X30 (OIS & better ultrawide).
- Best for media & multitasking? OnePlus Nord CE 5G (brighter screen, more RAM).
- Best for longevity? Nokia X30 (better build, Wi-Fi 6).
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the Nokia X30.
- Why? The OIS stabilization, Gorilla Glass Victus, and Wi-Fi 6 make it a more balanced, future-proof choice. The OnePlus Nord CE 5G has strengths (4K video, brighter screen), but Nokia’s durability and camera stability win for everyday reliability.
If media consumption or multitasking is your top priority, the OnePlus Nord CE 5G is a great alternative—but for most users, the Nokia X30 is the better all-rounder.
