OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Samsung Galaxy M32: A Practical Comparison
Both the OnePlus Nord CE 5G and Samsung Galaxy M32 are budget-friendly mid-range smartphones, but they cater to different user priorities. Below, we break down their key differences and highlight which device excels in real-world usage.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy M32 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 159.3 × 74 × 8.4 mm | Nord CE 5G is slightly slimmer and lighter. |
| Weight | 170g | 180g | Nord CE 5G feels more comfortable in hand. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic (under-display) | Side-mounted | M32's side sensor is faster and more convenient. |
Takeaway: The Nord CE 5G is sleeker and lighter, while the M32 has a more ergonomic fingerprint sensor.
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy M32 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.4" AMOLED | Nearly identical size, no noticeable difference. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both. |
| Brightness | 700 nits | Not specified (~500 nits estimate) | Nord CE 5G is much better in sunlight. |
Takeaway: Both have excellent AMOLED screens, but the Nord CE 5G is significantly brighter outdoors.
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy M32 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G 5G (8nm) | MediaTek Helio G80 (12nm) | Snapdragon is more efficient & powerful. |
| Antutu Score | 385,000 | 204,000 | Nord CE 5G is ~89% faster in benchmarks. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Mali-G52 MC2 | Better gaming performance on Nord CE 5G. |
| RAM Options | 6/8/12GB | 4/6/8GB | Nord CE 5G supports higher RAM configurations. |
Takeaway: The Nord CE 5G is vastly superior for gaming, multitasking, and future-proofing.
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy M32 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79, OV64B) | 64MP (f/1.8) | Similar main cameras, but Nord CE 5G has better processing. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (f/2.45) | 20MP (f/2.2) | M32 has a higher-res front camera. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.25) | 8MP (f/2.2) | Very similar. |
| Extra Cameras | 2MP mono (B&W) | 2MP macro + 2MP depth | M32 has more versatility (macro & depth). |
| Video Quality | 4K@30fps + EIS | 1080p@30fps | Nord CE 5G records higher-res, stabilized video. |
| DxOMark Score | 84 (Photo: 89) | Not rated | Nord CE 5G has better overall camera performance. |
Takeaway: Nord CE 5G has better video, stabilization, and low-light performance, while M32 offers more camera modes (macro & depth).
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy M32 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | M32 lasts longer on a single charge. |
| Charging Speed | 30W fast charging | 25W fast charging | Nord CE 5G charges slightly faster. |
| Battery Type | Li-Polymer | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer is generally more durable. |
Takeaway: M32 has better battery life, but Nord CE 5G charges faster and may have better longevity.
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Advantages
✅ Faster performance (Snapdragon 750G vs. Helio G80)
✅ Brighter, better outdoor display (700 nits vs. ~500 nits)
✅ 4K video recording with stabilization (M32 maxes at 1080p)
✅ Faster charging (30W vs. 25W)
✅ More RAM options (up to 12GB)
Samsung Galaxy M32 Advantages
✅ Larger battery (5000mAh vs. 4500mAh)
✅ Better selfie camera (20MP vs. 16MP)
✅ More camera versatility (macro & depth sensors)
✅ Side-mounted fingerprint sensor (faster & more ergonomic)
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the OnePlus Nord CE 5G?
✔ Gamers & power users (better chipset & GPU)
✔ Photographers & vloggers (4K video, better stabilization)
✔ Those who prioritize speed & smoothness (faster UI, more RAM)
Who Should Buy the Samsung Galaxy M32?
✔ Battery life enthusiasts (5000mAh with decent efficiency)
✔ Selfie lovers (20MP front camera)
✔ Budget-conscious users who want versatility (macro & depth cameras)
4. Buying Decision Framework
Three Questions to Help You Decide:
- Do you care more about performance or battery life?
- Performance? → Nord CE 5G
- Battery? → M32
- Are you a mobile content creator?
- Yes? → Nord CE 5G (4K video, better stabilization)
- No? → M32 (better battery & selfies)
- Do you prefer a side-mounted fingerprint sensor?
- Yes? → M32
- No? → Nord CE 5G
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Student on a budget who needs battery life? → M32
- Gamer who wants smooth performance? → Nord CE 5G
- Casual user who likes taking selfies? → M32
- Photography/vlogging enthusiast? → Nord CE 5G
Final Verdict: Which One Would I Choose?
I’d pick the OnePlus Nord CE 5G. Here’s why:
- Performance matters more – The Snapdragon 750G is significantly better than the Helio G80.
- Display is brighter – 700 nits vs. ~500 nits makes a big difference outdoors.
- 4K video & better stabilization – If I ever want to record high-quality clips, the Nord CE 5G delivers.
- Faster charging & future-proof RAM – The 30W charging and up to 12GB RAM ensure longevity.
That said, if battery life and selfies are your top priorities, the Samsung Galaxy M32 is still a solid choice. But for most users, the Nord CE 5G is the better all-rounder.
Which one would you pick? Let me know your thoughts! 🚀
