OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs Realme C65: A Practical Face-Off
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme C65 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 164.6 × 76.1 × 7.6 mm | Nord CE 5G is more compact and easier to grip, while C65 is slightly taller and wider. |
| Weight | 170g | 185g | Nord CE feels lighter and more comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic (under-display) | Side-mounted | Side-mounted on C65 is faster and more convenient, while Nord CE’s is less ergonomic. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme C65 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size & Type | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.67" IPS LCD | AMOLED on Nord CE offers deeper blacks, better contrast, and power efficiency. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 (410 PPI) | 720x1604 (264 PPI) | Nord CE has a much sharper display—text and images look crisper. |
| Brightness | 700 nits (peak) | Not specified | Nord CE is far better outdoors—usable in direct sunlight. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling, but Nord CE’s AMOLED makes motion look more fluid. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme C65 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G 5G (8nm) | Helio G85 (12nm) | Nord CE is significantly faster—better for gaming and multitasking. |
| Benchmark Score | 385,000 (Antutu) | 225,154 (Antutu) | Nord CE is ~70% faster—less lag, better future-proofing. |
| RAM Options | 6/8/12GB | 6/8GB | Nord CE’s 12GB option is great for power users and heavy multitasking. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Mali-G52 MC2 | Nord CE handles higher-end games (Genshin, COD Mobile) better. |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme C65 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79, 1/2" sensor) | 50MP (f/1.8, 1/2.76") | Nord CE has a larger sensor for better low-light performance. |
| Ultrawide Lens | 8MP (f/2.25) | None | Nord CE offers real ultrawide shots—better for landscapes and group photos. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (f/2.45) | 8MP (f/2.0) | Nord CE’s selfies are sharper and more detailed. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps, 1080p@120fps | 1080p@30fps | Nord CE is far superior for video—better stabilization, slow-mo (240fps). |
| DXOMARK Score | 84 (Photo: 89, Video: 80) | Not tested | Nord CE has proven camera quality—great for photography. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme C65 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | C65 has longer battery life—better for heavy users. |
| Charging Speed | 30W | 45W | C65 charges much faster (45W vs 30W). |
| Efficiency | More efficient AMOLED | IPS LCD consumes more power | Nord CE compensates with better display efficiency. |
Software & Connectivity
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Realme C65 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS Version | Android 11 (up to 13) | Android 14 | C65 is newer out of the box, but Nord CE still gets updates. |
| Wi-Fi & Bluetooth | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ac), BT 5.1 | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11n), BT 5.0 | Nord CE has faster Wi-Fi and better Bluetooth codecs. |
| 5G Support | Yes | No | Nord CE is future-proof for 5G networks. |
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Strengths
✅ Superior display (AMOLED, 410 PPI vs. IPS LCD, 264 PPI)—better for media, gaming.
✅ Faster performance (Snapdragon 750G vs. Helio G85)—smoother multitasking, gaming.
✅ Better cameras (64MP main, 8MP ultrawide, 4K video vs. 50MP, no ultrawide, 1080p).
✅ 5G support—future-proof for next-gen networks.
Realme C65 Strengths
✅ Bigger battery (5000mAh vs. 4500mAh)—longer screen-on time.
✅ Faster charging (45W vs. 30W)—quicker top-ups.
✅ Newer Android version out of the box (Android 14 vs. 11)—more features.
✅ Side-mounted fingerprint sensor—faster unlocking.
Trade-Offs
🔹 Nord CE has better performance and display but weaker battery life.
🔹 C65 offers better endurance and charging but weaker performance and display.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Choose the OnePlus Nord CE 5G?
✔ Gamers & Power Users – Faster chipset, better GPU, smoother display.
✔ Photographers – Superior main & ultrawide cameras, 4K video.
✔ Media Consumers – AMOLED screen, sharper resolution, better brightness.
✔ Future-proof buyers – 5G support, better Wi-Fi, Bluetooth.
Who Should Choose the Realme C65?
✔ Battery-first users – 5000mAh + 45W charging = all-day endurance.
✔ Budget-conscious buyers – Likely cheaper (depends on market pricing).
✔ Those who prefer newer software – Ships with Android 14.
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 C65.
- Do you care about cameras and future-proofing? → Nord CE 5G.
Scenario Recommendations:
- Student on a budget needing long battery? → Realme C65.
- Mobile gamer/photographer? → OnePlus Nord CE 5G.
- Casual user who just wants a reliable phone? → Depends on pricing (C65 if cheaper).
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
Winner: OnePlus Nord CE 5G
Despite the Realme C65’s newer launch and better battery specs, the Nord CE 5G wins overall because:
✔ Better display (AMOLED vs. IPS LCD).
✔ Significantly faster performance (Snapdragon 750G vs. Helio G85).
✔ Superior cameras (64MP + ultrawide, 4K video).
✔ 5G support for future-proofing.
The Realme C65 is a good pick if you strictly want long battery life and fast charging, but the Nord CE 5G offers a more premium experience in every other department.
My Pick: OnePlus Nord CE 5G—it’s the better all-rounder.
