OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Realme 11: A Practical Comparison
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme 11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 165.7 × 76 × 8.1 mm | The Nord CE 5G is more compact and 20g lighter, making it easier to handle one-handed. The Realme 11 is larger and heavier, which may feel bulkier. |
| Weight | 170g | 190g | Nord CE 5G is better for long-term comfort. |
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass 5 | Realme 11 has better drop resistance, while Nord CE 5G’s protection is unspecified. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic (Under-display) | Side-mounted (Faster) | Realme’s side sensor is quicker, but Nord’s under-display is sleeker. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme 11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.72" IPS LCD | Nord has deeper blacks & better contrast (AMOLED), while Realme is larger. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Realme feels smoother in scrolling/gaming, but Nord’s AMOLED compensates with better visuals. |
| Brightness | 700 nits | 1000 nits | Realme is far better in sunlight—300 nits brighter. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 (410 PPI) | 1080x2400 (392 PPI) | Both sharp, but Nord has slightly higher PPI. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme 11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8nm) | Dimensity 6100+ (6nm) | Near-identical performance (1% difference in benchmarks). Snapdragon may have better GPU optimization. |
| RAM Options | 6/8/12GB | 8/12GB | Nord offers more budget-friendly RAM options. |
| Storage | 128/256GB (No microSD) | 128/256GB (No microSD) | Same storage choices, no expansion on either. |
Cameras
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme 11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79, OV64B) | 64MP (f/1.79, OV64B) | Same sensor, similar daylight performance. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP | None | Nord has a proper ultrawide, Realme lacks this flexibility. |
| Selfie | 16MP (Sony IMX471) | 8MP | Nord dominates selfies with higher resolution & better sensor. |
| Video | 4K@30fps (EIS) | 1080p@30fps | Nord supports 4K video, Realme is limited to Full HD. |
| Extra Features | Night Mode, CDAF | Dual Camera Setup | Nord has better manual controls & night mode. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme 11 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Realme lasts longer (~10-15% extra battery life). |
| Charging | 30W | 33W | Nearly identical speeds (3W difference is minor). |
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Wins If You:
✅ Prefer AMOLED displays (better contrast, deeper blacks).
✅ Want a better selfie & ultrawide camera (16MP vs. 8MP).
✅ Need 4K video recording.
✅ Like a lighter, more compact phone.
Realme 11 Wins If You:
✅ Want a larger, brighter display (better outdoors).
✅ Prioritize battery life (5000mAh vs. 4500mAh).
✅ Prefer smoother scrolling (120Hz vs. 90Hz).
✅ Want a more durable screen (Gorilla Glass 5).
Trade-Offs:
- Nord CE 5G lacks 120Hz and has a smaller battery.
- Realme 11 lacks ultrawide and has a weaker selfie cam.
3. User Recommendations
For Casual Users (Social Media, Videos, Battery Life)
👉 Realme 11—Bigger battery, brighter screen, smoother scrolling.
For Photography & Video Enthusiasts
👉 OnePlus Nord CE 5G—Better selfies, ultrawide, 4K video.
For One-Handed Use & Compact Design
👉 Nord CE 5G—Lighter and easier to handle.
4. Final Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do I care more about display quality (AMOLED) or battery life?
- Will I use the ultrawide camera or prioritize smoothness (120Hz)?
- Is 4K video recording important to me?
Scenario-Based Picks:
- Best All-Around Phone? Nord CE 5G (better cameras, display, compact).
- Best for Longevity & Outdoor Use? Realme 11 (battery, brightness).
My Choice: OnePlus Nord CE 5G
Why?
While the Realme 11 has a bigger battery and brighter screen, the Nord CE 5G’s AMOLED display, superior selfie camera, and ultrawide lens make it more versatile. 4K video recording is a big plus for content creators, and the lighter build makes it more comfortable for daily use. Unless you really need extra battery life or outdoor visibility, the Nord CE 5G is the better-balanced phone.
Final Verdict:
- For most users: OnePlus Nord CE 5G (better cameras & display).
- For battery-first buyers: Realme 11 (longer endurance & brighter screen).
