OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. realme 8: A Practical Showdown
Let’s decode these two mid-range contenders, focusing on how their specs translate to real-world use.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Comfort
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | realme 8 | Real-World Implications |
|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 162 × 75.1 × 8.7 mm | OnePlus is slimmer and lighter (170g vs. 191g), easier for one-handed use. realme 8 feels bulkier. |
| Build | Plastic frame | Plastic frame | Both opt for budget materials—no premium feel, but durable enough. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | realme 8 | Real-World Implications |
|---|
| Size/Type | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.78" AMOLED | realme 8’s larger screen is better for media, but Nord’s compact size is more pocketable. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | realme 8 offers smoother scrolling/gaming, but Nord’s 90Hz is still fluid for most tasks. |
| Brightness | 700 nits | Not listed (likely ~600 nits) | Nord wins for outdoor visibility—far clearer in sunlight. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 (410 PPI) | 1264x2780 (450 PPI) | realme 8’s sharper display is noticeable for text/videos, but Nord’s PPI is still solid. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | realme 8 | Real-World Implications |
|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8nm) | Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 (4nm) | realme 8 dominates—newer 4nm chip = better efficiency + ~30% faster CPU/GPU. |
| RAM/Storage | 6/8/12GB + 128/256GB | No data (likely 8GB+128GB) | Nord offers more RAM options; realme’s storage likely similar. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 732 | realme 8 handles demanding games (e.g., Genshin Impact) better. |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | realme 8 | Real-World Implications |
|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79, OIS) | No data | Nord’s tested DxOMark score (84) confirms solid photo/video quality. realme 8’s camera specs are unclear—likely inferior. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP | None | Nord’s ultrawide adds versatility for landscapes/group shots. |
| Selfie | 16MP (Sony IMX471) | None | Nord’s selfie cam is reliable; realme 8’s omission is a downside. |
| Video | 4K@30fps (EIS) | 4K@60fps (OIS) | realme 8’s 60fps 4K is smoother, but Nord’s EIS stabilizes footage well. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | realme 8 | Real-World Implications |
|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | No data (likely ~5000mAh) | realme 8 might last longer, but Nord’s 30W fast charging is a perk. |
| Charging | 30W wired | Standard (likely 18W) | Nord refuels 50% in ~30 mins; realme 8 slower. |
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Wins At:
- Compact, lightweight design (better for small hands).
- Brighter display (critical for outdoor use).
- More versatile cameras (ultrawide, better selfies, proven quality).
- Faster charging.
realme 8 Wins At:
- Performance (newer chipset = faster, more efficient).
- Larger, smoother 120Hz display.
- Potential battery life (if it has 5000mAh).
3. Who Should Buy Which Phone?
Choose the OnePlus Nord CE 5G If You:
- Prioritize cameras (travel, social media).
- Want a lighter, more portable phone.
- Need fast charging.
Choose the realme 8 If You:
- Crave raw power (gaming, multitasking).
- Prefer a bigger, smoother screen.
- Can live with slower charging and weaker cameras.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask yourself:
- Do you value cameras or performance more? (Nord for photos, realme for speed.)
- Is a compact phone or big screen more important?
- How critical is fast charging?
Scenario Recommendations:
- Student on a budget: realme 8 (performance for multitasking).
- Photography enthusiast: Nord CE 5G (better cameras).
- Commuter: Nord CE 5G (lighter, brighter screen).
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the OnePlus Nord CE 5G. While the realme 8’s chipset is impressive, the Nord offers a more balanced package: better cameras, brighter display, and faster charging—all in a sleeker design. For everyday use, these perks outweigh raw performance gains unless you’re a heavy gamer.
But if realme 8’s battery is indeed 5000mAh, it’s a closer call—though the lack of camera data makes Nord the safer choice. 🏆
