OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs Realme C35: The Ultimate Mid-Range Showdown
Let’s cut through the noise and compare these two mid-range contenders—the OnePlus Nord CE 5G and the Realme C35—to see which one delivers the best value for your money.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme C35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 164.4 × 75.6 × 8.1 mm | Nord CE 5G is sleeker and easier to handle, while C35 is bulkier but offers a larger display. |
| Weight | 170g | 189g | Nord CE 5G is lighter, making it more comfortable for long-term use. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic (optical in-display) | Side-mounted | C35’s side sensor is faster; Nord’s in-display is more premium but slower. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme C35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.6" IPS LCD | Nord has better blacks, contrast, and colors; C35 is bigger but lower quality. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 60Hz | Nord feels smoother in scrolling and gaming. |
| Brightness | 700 nits | No data (likely ~500 nits) | Nord wins in sunlight visibility—better for outdoor use. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme C35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G 5G | Unisoc Tiger T616 | Nord is significantly faster—better for gaming, multitasking. |
| Antutu Score | 385,000 | 230,726 | Nord outperforms by 67%—smoother experience overall. |
| RAM Options | 6/8/12GB | 4GB | More RAM in Nord = better multitasking & future-proofing. |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme C35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79, OV64B) | 50MP (f/1.8) | Nord has better detail, low-light performance. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP | None | Nord has a useful ultrawide lens for landscapes/groups. |
| Selfie Cam | 16MP (Sony IMX471) | 8MP | Nord’s selfies are sharper and more detailed. |
| Video | 4K@30fps + 1080p@120fps | 1080p@30fps | Nord is way better for video—great for vloggers. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme C35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Size | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | C35 lasts longer on a charge. |
| Charging Speed | 30W | 18W | Nord charges much faster (0-70% in ~30 mins). |
Software & Extras
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme C35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS Support | Up to Android 13 | Likely stuck on Android 11 | Nord gets longer updates. |
| Bluetooth/Wi-Fi | BT 5.1, Dual-band Wi-Fi | BT 5.0, Basic Wi-Fi | Nord has better wireless connectivity. |
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Wins In:
✅ Performance – 67% faster CPU, better GPU, more RAM.
✅ Display – AMOLED, 90Hz, brighter screen.
✅ Cameras – 64MP main sensor, 4K video, ultrawide lens.
✅ Charging – 30W fast charging (vs. 18W on C35).
✅ Software – Longer update support (Android 13).
Realme C35 Wins In:
✔ Battery Life – 5000mAh vs. 4500mAh.
✔ Bigger Screen – 6.6" vs. 6.43" (but IPS LCD is worse).
✔ Fingerprint Sensor – Side-mounted is faster than in-display.
Trade-Offs
- Nord CE 5G – Smaller battery, no microSD slot.
- Realme C35 – Slower performance, worse display, no ultrawide camera.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy OnePlus Nord CE 5G?
🔹 Power users – Gamers, multitaskers, performance seekers.
🔹 Photography lovers – Better main cam, ultrawide, and 4K video.
🔹 Those who want a premium display – AMOLED, 90Hz, bright screen.
Who Should Buy Realme C35?
🔸 Budget-conscious users – Cheaper, bigger battery.
🔸 Casual users – Basic tasks, social media, calls.
🔸 Those who prefer bigger screens – 6.6" vs. 6.43".
4. Buying Decision Framework
3 Questions to Ask Yourself:
- Do you value performance & cameras more than battery life? → Nord CE 5G.
- Do you need a cheaper phone with a big screen? → Realme C35.
- Do you care about future software updates? → Nord CE 5G.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- "I game & take lots of photos" → Nord CE 5G.
- "I just need a big screen & long battery life" → Realme C35.
Final Verdict: What I’d Choose
I’d go with the OnePlus Nord CE 5G. Here’s why:
- The Snapdragon 750G provides much better performance than the Unisoc T616.
- The AMOLED display & 90Hz refresh rate make everything smoother.
- 4K video & 64MP camera are far superior.
- 30W fast charging means less waiting.
The Realme C35 is a good budget backup phone, but the Nord CE 5G is the clear winner if you want better performance, cameras, and display without spending flagship money.
