OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Samsung Galaxy S24 FE: A Practical Showdown
Here’s how these two mid-range contenders stack up in real-world use, stripped of marketing fluff.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 162 × 77.3 × 8 mm | S24 FE is slightly bulkier; Nord CE 5G is more pocketable. |
| Weight | 170g | 213g | Nord CE 5G is 43g lighter—better for one-handed use. |
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass Victus+ | S24 FE wins for drop/scuff resistance. |
Takeaway: Prefer portability? Nord CE 5G. Want durability? S24 FE.
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.7" AMOLED | S24 FE’s larger screen is better for media. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Smoother scrolling/gaming on S24 FE. |
| Brightness | 700 nits | 1900 nits | S24 FE is 2.7x brighter—far superior outdoors. |
| Resolution/PPI | 1080x2400 (410 PPI) | 1080x2340 (385 PPI) | Nearly identical sharpness; Nord CE 5G has a slight PPI edge. |
Takeaway: S24 FE’s display is the clear winner for brightness and fluidity.
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8nm) | Exynos 2400e (4nm) | S24 FE’s chip is 3 generations newer and far more efficient. |
| Antutu Score | 385,000 | 1,600,000 | S24 FE is 316% faster—handles heavy apps/games effortlessly. |
| RAM Options | 6/8/12GB | 8GB | Nord CE 5G’s 12GB variant better for extreme multitasking. |
Takeaway: S24 FE demolishes the Nord CE 5G in raw power and future-proofing.
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Sensor | 64MP (f/1.79, 1/2") | 50MP (f/1.8, 1/1.57") | S24 FE’s larger sensor captures more light (better low-light shots). |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.25) | 13MP (f/2.2) | S24 FE’s ultrawide is sharper and wider. |
| Telephoto | ❌ None | ✅ 8MP (f/2.4) | S24 FE offers optical zoom—a huge advantage. |
| Video | 4K@30fps | 8K@30fps, 4K@120fps | S24 FE supports pro-grade video features. |
| DxOMark Score | 84 | 133 | S24 FE’s camera system is objectively superior. |
Takeaway: Samsung’s camera hardware and software (like Night Mode 2.0) outclass OnePlus’.
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4700mAh | S24 FE’s extra 200mAh may mean ~1hr more screen time. |
| Charging | 30W wired | 25W wired + 15W wireless | Nord CE 5G charges faster, but S24 FE has wireless charging. |
| Extras | ❌ No extras | ✅ Bypass/Reverse charging | S24 FE can power other devices or game without overheating. |
Takeaway: Toss-up—Nord CE 5G for speed, S24 FE for flexibility.
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Strengths
- Lighter and more compact (better for small hands).
- Faster wired charging (30W vs. 25W).
- Higher RAM options (up to 12GB for heavy multitaskers).
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Strengths
- Vastly superior performance (3x faster in benchmarks).
- Brighter, smoother display (120Hz + 1900 nits).
- Better cameras (telephoto, 8K video, larger sensors).
- More future-proof (newer chipset, longer software support).
Trade-Offs
- Nord CE 5G’s chipset is dated—struggles with AAA games.
- S24 FE is heavier—less comfortable for extended use.
3. User Recommendations
Who Should Buy the OnePlus Nord CE 5G?
- Budget-focused users who prioritize portability and charging speed.
- Casual users who don’t need top-tier performance or cameras.
Who Should Buy the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE?
- Power users who demand speed, camera versatility, and display quality.
- Media consumers who want a brighter, larger screen.
- Photographers needing telephoto and 8K video.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask yourself:
- Do you care more about performance or portability?
- Performance → S24 FE. Portability → Nord CE 5G.
- Are cameras a priority?
- Yes → S24 FE (telephoto, better sensors). No → Nord CE 5G.
- Will you keep this phone for 3+ years?
- Yes → S24 FE (newer chipset, longer updates).
Final Verdict: What I’d Choose
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE—hands down. The performance gap, camera superiority, and display tech justify its slightly higher price (assuming it’s within budget). The Nord CE 5G is a competent phone, but the S24 FE is a generational leap ahead in almost every meaningful way.
Exception: If you’re on a tight budget or absolutely need a lighter phone, the Nord CE 5G still holds up—but expect compromises.
