OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Oppo Reno11: In-Depth Comparison
The OnePlus Nord CE 5G (2021) and Oppo Reno11 (2024) represent two mid-range contenders with distinct strengths. While the Nord CE is older, it still holds some appeal, whereas the Reno11 brings notable upgrades. Below, we dissect their technical differences and real-world usability.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Oppo Reno11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 162.4 × 74.3 × 7.9 mm | The Reno11 is slightly taller, but both are slim and comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 170g | 182g | Nord CE is lighter, making it marginally better for long usage. |
| Build Quality | Plastic frame, glass front | Plastic frame, glass front | Both use similar materials—not flagship-grade, but durable. |
🔹 Verdict: Tie – Differences are minor, though the Nord CE is slightly more pocket-friendly.
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Oppo Reno11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.7" AMOLED | Reno11 offers a larger display for media consumption. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Smoother scrolling and animations on the Reno11. |
| Peak Brightness | 700 nits | 1400 nits | Huge advantage for Reno11—far better outdoor visibility. |
| Resolution/PPI | 1080x2400 (410 PPI) | 1080x2412 (394 PPI) | Negligible difference in sharpness. |
🔹 Verdict: Oppo Reno11 wins – Higher brightness and refresh rate make it the better display.
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Oppo Reno11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8nm) | Dimensity 7050 (6nm) | Reno11 has a newer, more efficient chip. |
| Benchmark (AnTuTu) | 385,000 | 923,559 | Massive performance gap—Reno11 is much faster. |
| RAM/Storage | 6/8/12GB + 128/256GB | 8/12GB + 256/512GB | Reno11 offers better base storage and RAM configurations. |
🔹 Verdict: Oppo Reno11 dominates – Nearly 2.4x faster in benchmarks, better for gaming and multitasking.
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Oppo Reno11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79, OV64B) | 50MP (f/1.88, Sony LYT-600) | Nord CE has higher MP count, but Reno11 has a better sensor. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.25) | 8MP (f/2.2, Sony IMX355) | Similar but Reno11 has a slightly better sensor. |
| Telephoto | ❌ None | ✅ 32MP (f/2.0, Sony IMX709) | Big win for Reno11—better portrait shots. |
| Selfie | 16MP (f/2.45) | 32MP (f/2.4) | Reno11 has a sharper front camera. |
| Video | 4K@30fps (EIS) | 4K@30fps (EIS + OIS) | Reno11 adds OIS for smoother video. |
🔹 Verdict: Oppo Reno11 wins – Better sensors, telephoto lens, and OIS make it more versatile.
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Oppo Reno11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4800mAh | Slightly better endurance on Reno11. |
| Charging Speed | 30W | 67W | Huge advantage—Reno11 charges twice as fast. |
🔹 Verdict: Oppo Reno11 – Faster charging and slightly larger battery.
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Strengths
✔ Lighter design – More comfortable for extended use.
✔ Higher MP main camera – On paper, but real-world performance is debatable.
✔ NavIC support – Better GPS accuracy in India.
Oppo Reno11 Strengths
✔ Faster performance – Dimensity 7050 is a big leap over the SD 750G.
✔ Better display – 120Hz + double the brightness.
✔ Superior cameras – Telephoto lens, OIS, and better selfies.
✔ Faster charging – 67W vs. 30W is a game-changer.
Trade-Offs
- The Reno11 is slightly heavier.
- The Nord CE has a slightly wider main camera aperture (f/1.79 vs. f/1.88), but sensor quality matters more.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the OnePlus Nord CE 5G?
- Budget-conscious users – Likely cheaper due to age.
- Light users – If you don’t need peak performance.
- Those who prefer OxygenOS – Though the Nord CE is stuck on Android 13.
Who Should Buy the Oppo Reno11?
- Power users & gamers – Far superior chipset.
- Photo & video enthusiasts – Telephoto lens + OIS.
- Those who prioritize display & charging – Brighter screen and 67W fast charging.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do you need future-proof performance? → Reno11 (much faster).
- Do you take a lot of photos? → Reno11 (better camera system).
- Do you need fast charging? → Reno11 (67W is a big upgrade).
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Student on a budget? Nord CE if cheaper, else Reno11 for longevity.
- Mobile gamer? Reno11, no contest.
- Content creator? Reno11 for better cameras and video stabilization.
Final Verdict: Which One Would I Choose?
I’d pick the Oppo Reno11—no hesitation.
Why?
- Performance gap is massive – The Dimensity 7050 is in a different league.
- Display and charging are major upgrades – 120Hz + 1400 nits + 67W charging.
- Better cameras – The telephoto lens and OIS are worth it alone.
The Nord CE is still decent, but the Reno11 is the better long-term investment. Unless you get the Nord CE at a much lower price, the Reno11 is the clear winner.
Bottom Line:
- For most users: Oppo Reno11 (better in almost every way).
- Only if budget is tight: OnePlus Nord CE 5G (but expect compromises).
Would you prioritize performance or price? Let me know in the comments! 🚀
