OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Samsung Galaxy A05: A Detailed Comparison
When choosing between the OnePlus Nord CE 5G (2021) and the Samsung Galaxy A05 (2023), you're comparing two budget-friendly smartphones with different strengths. While the Galaxy A05 is newer, the Nord CE 5G still holds key advantages in display, performance, and camera quality. Let's break down how these differences translate to real-world use.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy A05 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 168.8 × 78.2 × 8.8 mm | Nord CE 5G is more compact and lighter, making it easier to handle one-handed. |
| Weight | 170g | 195g | Nord CE 5G is 25g lighter, reducing strain during prolonged use. |
| Build Quality | Plastic frame & back | Plastic frame & back | Both use plastic, but Nord CE 5G has a sleeker, more premium feel. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy A05 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.7" PLS LCD | A05 has a slightly bigger screen, but Nord CE 5G has a far superior AMOLED panel with richer colors and deeper blacks. |
| Resolution | 1080 × 2400 (410 PPI) | 720 × 1600 (262 PPI) | Nord CE 5G is much sharper—great for reading and media. A05’s lower res is noticeable in text clarity. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 60Hz | 90Hz makes scrolling smoother on Nord CE 5G. |
| Brightness | 700 nits (peak) | Not specified (~450 nits?) | Nord CE 5G is better in sunlight, while A05 may struggle outdoors. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy A05 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8nm) | MediaTek Helio G85 (12nm) | Nord CE 5G has a more efficient & powerful chipset—better for gaming and multitasking. |
| Benchmark (AnTuTu) | 385,000 | 225,154 | Nord CE 5G is 71% faster—apps open quicker, less lag. |
| RAM Options | 6/8/12GB | 4/6GB | More RAM on Nord CE 5G means better multitasking and future-proofing. |
| Storage Options | 128/256GB | 64/128GB | Nord CE 5G offers more storage, useful for apps, photos, and videos. |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy A05 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79, OV64B) | 50MP (f/1.8) | Nord CE 5G has a slightly better sensor with better low-light performance. |
| Ultrawide Lens | 8MP (f/2.25) | None | Nord CE 5G has a dedicated ultrawide—more versatile for landscapes. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (f/2.45) | 8MP (f/2.0) | Nord CE 5G has higher-resolution selfies with better detail. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps, EIS, 240fps slo-mo | 1080p@60fps, no slo-mo | Nord CE 5G records higher-quality video with stabilization. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy A05 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 4,500mAh | 5,000mAh | A05 lasts slightly longer, but Nord’s efficiency helps it compete. |
| Charging Speed | 30W (Li-Po) | 25W (Li-Ion) | Nord CE 5G charges slightly faster (Li-Po batteries also degrade slower). |
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Strengths:
✔ Better Display: AMOLED with 90Hz, higher resolution, and brighter panel for media & gaming.
✔ Superior Performance: Faster chipset (Snapdragon 750G), more RAM, and smoother UI.
✔ More Versatile Camera: 64MP main, 8MP ultrawide, and 16MP selfie—better overall versatility.
✔ Faster Charging: 30W vs. 25W, though battery is slightly smaller.
Samsung Galaxy A05 Strengths:
✔ Larger Battery: 5,000mAh gives slightly better endurance.
✔ Newer OS: Ships with Android 13 (Nord CE 5G launched on Android 11, upgradable to 13).
✔ Bigger Screen: 6.7" vs. 6.43"—better for video, but lower quality panel.
Trade-Offs:
- Nord CE 5G is older (2021), but performance & display still hold up well.
- A05 has a bigger battery but weaker chipset—expect occasional slowdowns.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Get the OnePlus Nord CE 5G?
✅ Gamers & Power Users – Faster chipset, 90Hz AMOLED, and more RAM.
✅ Photography Enthusiasts – Better cameras, 4K video, and ultrawide shots.
✅ Those Who Value Display Quality – AMOLED with sharper resolution.
Who Should Get the Samsung Galaxy A05?
✅ Long Battery Life Seekers – 5,000mAh for all-day endurance.
✅ Budget-Conscious Buyers – Likely cheaper now due to being newer entry-level.
✅ Big-Screen Lovers – 6.7" display, though quality is lower.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do I care more about performance or battery life? (Nord CE 5G for speed, A05 for endurance)
- Do I prefer a premium display or a larger screen? (Nord CE 5G for AMOLED, A05 for size)
- Will I use the camera often? (Nord CE 5G is significantly better)
Scenario-Based Picks:
- Best for Multimedia & Gaming → OnePlus Nord CE 5G
- Best for Battery & Basic Use → Samsung Galaxy A05
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the OnePlus Nord CE 5G. Despite being older, it outperforms the Galaxy A05 in display quality, performance, and camera versatility. Unless battery life is your absolute priority, the Nord CE 5G offers a much better overall experience—smoother UI, better gaming, and superior media consumption. The A05 is decent for basics, but its weaker chipset and lower-resolution display make it feel like a step down.
Winner: OnePlus Nord CE 5G 🏆 (if you can still find it at a good price).
