OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite: A Practical Comparison
The OnePlus Nord CE 5G (2021) and Nord CE 3 Lite (2023) are both budget-friendly 5G devices, but they cater to slightly different needs. Below, we break down their specs, real-world performance, and ideal use cases.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 165.5 × 76 × 8.3 mm | CE 5G is more compact and lighter (170g vs. 195g), making it easier to handle. CE 3 Lite is bulkier but feels more substantial. |
| Weight | 170g | 195g | CE 5G is noticeably lighter for long one-handed use. |
| Fingerprint | Basic sensor | Side-mounted sensor | CE 3 Lite’s side-mounted sensor is more convenient than the under-display sensor in the CE 5G. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.43" | 6.72" | CE 3 Lite offers a bigger screen, better for media, but less one-hand friendly. |
| Panel Type | AMOLED | IPS LCD | AMOLED in CE 5G has deeper blacks and better contrast, while IPS LCD in CE 3 Lite has higher brightness (950 nits vs. 700 nits). |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | CE 3 Lite feels smoother in scrolling, but AMOLED on CE 5G still looks superior. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8nm) | Snapdragon 695 (6nm) | CE 3 Lite has a minor performance edge (5% higher benchmark) and slightly better efficiency. |
| RAM Options | 6GB/8GB/12GB | 8GB | CE 5G offers a 12GB variant, better for heavy multitasking. |
| Storage | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | No expandable storage on either. |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79) | 108MP (f/1.7) | CE 3 Lite has a higher-res sensor, but CE 5G’s 64MP is proven with better DxOMark scores (84 vs. untested). |
| Ultrawide | 8MP | None | CE 5G has an ultrawide lens, missing in CE 3 Lite. |
| Depth/Macro | None | 2MP (Depth + Macro) | CE 3 Lite adds depth/macro sensors, but these are mostly gimmicky. |
| Video | 4K@30fps | 1080p@30fps | CE 5G supports 4K, better for videographers. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | CE 3 Lite lasts longer, ~15% more endurance. |
| Charging | 30W | 67W | CE 3 Lite charges twice as fast—a huge advantage. |
| Extras | None | Reverse charging | CE 3 Lite can double as a power bank. |
2. Key Insights
Nord CE 5G Strengths
✔ Better display quality (AMOLED) – Richer colors, deeper blacks.
✔ More RAM options (up to 12GB) – Better for power users.
✔ 4K video recording – Useful for content creators.
✔ Lighter & more compact – Easier to handle.
Nord CE 3 Lite Strengths
✔ Faster charging (67W vs. 30W) – Big real-world advantage.
✔ Larger battery (5000mAh vs. 4500mAh) – Better battery life.
✔ 120Hz screen refresh rate – Slightly smoother scrolling.
✔ Brighter display (950 nits vs. 700 nits) – Easier outdoor visibility.
Trade-Offs
- CE 5G has an AMOLED screen, but CE 3 Lite has a faster refresh rate and higher brightness.
- CE 3 Lite has a bigger battery and faster charging, but CE 5G is more compact.
- CE 5G has a better ultrawide camera; CE 3 Lite has a higher-res main sensor but skips 4K video.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Get the Nord CE 5G?
- Media consumers – AMOLED screen is superior for Netflix, YouTube.
- Videographers – 4K video support.
- Lightweight preference – More comfortable in hand.
Who Should Get the Nord CE 3 Lite?
- Battery life enthusiasts – 5000mAh + 67W charging is a game-changer.
- Gamers – 120Hz refresh rate (though GPU is the same).
- Outdoor users – Brighter display helps in sunlight.
4. Buying Decision Framework
3 Key Questions to Ask Yourself:
- Do you prioritize battery life and charging speed? → CE 3 Lite.
- Do you value display quality and video recording? → CE 5G.
- Do you need a lighter phone for daily use? → CE 5G.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- College student (needs battery + fast charging) → CE 3 Lite.
- Photography hobbyist (wants 4K video & AMOLED) → CE 5G.
- Casual user (just wants a smooth experience) → CE 3 Lite for longevity.
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite.
Here’s why:
- 67W fast charging is a game-changer—no more overnight charging.
- Bigger battery (5000mAh) ensures better endurance.
- 120Hz screen feels smoother, even if it’s not AMOLED.
- Brighter display is great for outdoor use.
The Nord CE 5G is still a great phone—especially for AMOLED lovers and videographers—but the CE 3 Lite’s superior battery and charging make it the better daily driver for most users.
If you can live without AMOLED and 4K video, the CE 3 Lite is the smarter buy in 2024.
