OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Realme C61: A Practical Comparison
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme C61 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 167.3 × 76.7 × 7.8 mm | Nord CE 5G is more compact and easier to handle one-handed. Realme C61 is larger but only slightly thinner. |
| Weight | 170g | 188g | Nord CE 5G is noticeably lighter, better for long-term comfort. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic (under-display) | Side-mounted | Side-mounted sensor on Realme C61 may be faster and more convenient. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme C61 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | AMOLED | IPS LCD | AMOLED offers deeper blacks, better contrast, and superior power efficiency (especially with dark mode). |
| Size | 6.43" | 6.74" | Realme C61 has a larger screen, but Nord CE 5G’s AMOLED makes up for size with better quality. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 (410 PPI) | 720x1600 (260 PPI) | Nord CE 5G’s higher resolution means sharper text and smoother visuals. |
| Brightness | 700 nits (peak) | Not specified | Nord CE 5G will be easier to see in bright sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme C61 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8nm) | Unisoc Tiger T612 (12nm) | Snapdragon 750G is more efficient and powerful, especially for gaming. |
| Antutu Score | 385,000 | 252,597 | Nord CE 5G is ~52% faster, better for multitasking and demanding apps. |
| RAM | 6/8/12GB | 4/6/8GB | Nord CE 5G offers up to 12GB RAM for smoother long-term performance. |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme C61 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79) | 32MP (f/1.8) | Nord CE 5G has a higher-resolution sensor with better low-light performance. |
| Ultra-Wide | 8MP | None | Nord CE 5G offers more versatility for landscape and group shots. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (f/2.45) | 5MP (f/2.0) | Nord CE 5G has a much better front camera for video calls and selfies. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps, 1080p@120fps | 1080p@30fps | Nord CE 5G supports higher-quality video with slow-motion options. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme C61 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Realme C61 has a larger battery for longer endurance. |
| Charging Speed | 30W | 45W | Realme C61 charges faster (45W vs. 30W). |
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Strengths
✔ Superior Display – AMOLED, higher resolution, and better brightness make it a better media device.
✔ Better Performance – Faster chipset and more RAM for gaming and multitasking.
✔ Superior Cameras – Higher-res sensors, ultra-wide lens, and 4K video support.
Realme C61 Strengths
✔ Bigger Battery & Faster Charging – 5000mAh + 45W charging means less downtime.
✔ Newer Software – Ships with Android 14 (vs. Android 11 on Nord CE 5G).
✔ Larger Screen – Better for media consumption if resolution isn’t a priority.
Trade-Offs
- Nord CE 5G sacrifices battery life and fast charging for better performance and display.
- Realme C61 has a lower-resolution display and weaker chipset but offers better endurance.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the OnePlus Nord CE 5G?
- Gamers & Power Users – Better chipset and RAM for performance.
- Photography Enthusiasts – Higher-res cameras, ultra-wide lens, and 4K video.
- Media Consumers – AMOLED display with better brightness and sharpness.
Who Should Buy the Realme C61?
- Battery-Life Seekers – 5000mAh + 45W charging is excellent for heavy users.
- Budget Buyers – Likely cheaper (if price is similar, Nord CE 5G is better).
- Casual Users – Adequate for social media, calls, and light apps.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do you prioritize performance and display quality? → Nord CE 5G
- Is battery life and fast charging most important? → Realme C61
- Do you take a lot of photos/videos? → Nord CE 5G
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Student/Media Lover: Nord CE 5G (better display, performance).
- Frequent Traveler: Realme C61 (longer battery life).
- Budget Shopper: Depends on pricing—if similar, Nord CE 5G is superior.
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
Winner: OnePlus Nord CE 5G
Why?
- The display quality (AMOLED vs. IPS LCD) is a major advantage for daily use.
- The performance gap (Snapdragon 750G vs. Unisoc T612) is significant for gaming and future-proofing.
- The camera system is far more versatile with an ultra-wide lens and better selfies.
The Realme C61 has a bigger battery and faster charging, but if you can live with slightly shorter battery life, the Nord CE 5G is the better all-rounder.
Unless you absolutely need the bigger battery, the Nord CE 5G is the clear choice.
