OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Samsung Galaxy A73 5G: A Practical Comparison
Both the OnePlus Nord CE 5G and Samsung Galaxy A73 5G are strong mid-range 5G contenders, but they cater to slightly different audiences. Below, we break down their specs in detail, analyze real-world implications, and help you decide which one is right for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy A73 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 163.7 × 76.1 × 7.6 mm | A73 is slightly taller and wider; Nord CE is thinner and lighter (170g vs. 181g). Better one-handed use for Nord CE. |
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | A73 has better drop/scuff resistance. |
Verdict: If you prefer a lighter phone, the Nord CE wins. If durability matters more, the A73’s Gorilla Glass 5 is a plus.
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy A73 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.7" AMOLED | A73 is better for media consumption; Nord CE easier for one-hand use. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Smoother scrolling & animations on A73. |
| Brightness | 700 nits | Not specified | Nord CE much better in bright sunlight. |
| Resolution & PPI | 1080x2400, 410 PPI | 1080x2400, 393 PPI | Nearly identical sharpness. |
Verdict: A73 has a smoother 120Hz display, but Nord CE’s 700-nit brightness is a major advantage outdoors.
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G (SD 750G) | Samsung Galaxy A73 5G (SD 778G) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8nm) | Snapdragon 778G (6nm) | A73 is 49% faster (AnTuTu 575K vs. 385K). |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 642L | A73 handles gaming better. |
| RAM Options | 6/8/12GB | 6/8GB | More multitasking headroom on Nord CE. |
Verdict: A73 is the clear performance winner, but Nord CE’s 12GB RAM variant offers better future-proofing.
Camera
Main Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G (64MP) | Samsung Galaxy A73 5G (108MP) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 64MP (f/1.79) | 108MP (f/1.8) | A73 captures more detail, but Nord CE has slightly better low-light performance (wider aperture). |
| Stabilization | EIS only | OIS + EIS | A73 has smoother, more stable video. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.25) | 12MP (f/2.2) | A73’s ultrawide is sharper. |
| Extra Cameras | 2MP monochrome | 5MP macro + 5MP depth | A73 offers more versatility. |
Selfie Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G (16MP) | Samsung Galaxy A73 5G (32MP) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 16MP (f/2.45) | 32MP (f/2.2) | A73 selfies are more detailed. |
Verdict: If photography is a priority, the A73 is superior, especially with OIS and better ultrawide/macro options.
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy A73 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | A73 lasts longer (11% bigger battery). |
| Charging Speed | 30W | 25W | Nord CE charges faster. |
| Bypass Charging | No | Yes | A73 can charge safely while gaming. |
Verdict: A73 has better battery life, but Nord CE charges faster.
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Strengths
✅ Better brightness (700 nits) – Superior outdoor visibility.
✅ Faster charging (30W vs. 25W) – Less downtime.
✅ Lighter & more compact – Easier for one-handed use.
✅ Higher RAM option (12GB) – Better for heavy multitaskers.
Samsung Galaxy A73 5G Strengths
✅ Better performance (SD 778G) – Smoother gaming & app usage.
✅ Superior cameras (108MP + OIS) – More versatile photography.
✅ Bigger battery (5000mAh) – Longer endurance.
✅ 120Hz display – Smoother scrolling.
3. Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the OnePlus Nord CE 5G if you:
- Want a lighter, more compact phone.
- Need faster charging (30W).
- Use your phone outdoors often (700-nit brightness).
- Prefer higher RAM configurations (up to 12GB).
Choose the Samsung Galaxy A73 5G if you:
- Prioritize camera quality (108MP + OIS).
- Want better battery life (5000mAh).
- Value smoother performance (120Hz + SD 778G).
- Like Samsung’s software & ecosystem.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask yourself:
- Do I care more about camera quality or display brightness?
- A73 for cameras, Nord CE for sunlight legibility.
- Do I want longer battery life or faster charging?
- A73 for endurance, Nord CE for quick top-ups.
- Do I need a faster processor or more RAM?
- A73 for speed, Nord CE for future-proof multitasking.
Scenario Recommendations:
- Casual Users: Nord CE 5G (better value, lighter).
- Photographers: A73 5G (better cameras, OIS).
- Gamers: A73 5G (better GPU, 120Hz).
- Multitaskers: Nord CE 5G (12GB RAM option).
Final Verdict: Which One Would I Choose?
If I had to pick one, I’d go with the Samsung Galaxy A73 5G. Here’s why:
- Better camera system (OIS, 108MP, macro lens).
- Stronger performance (SD 778G vs. 750G).
- Longer battery life (5000mAh).
- Smoother 120Hz display.
The OnePlus Nord CE 5G is still a great phone—especially for fast charging and outdoor use—but the A73’s all-around superiority makes it the better long-term choice.
Your move? Decide based on your top priorities—speed, cameras, or convenience! 🚀
