OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: In-Depth Comparison
These two phones sit at opposite ends of the spectrum—the Nord CE 5G is an affordable mid-ranger from 2021, while the S24 Ultra is Samsung’s 2024 flagship powerhouse. Let’s break down how they compare in real-world use.
1. Specifications Breakdown
(Key differences summarized in a user-focused table)
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 162.3 × 79 × 8.6 mm | S24 Ultra is larger and heavier (232g vs. 170g), making it less pocket-friendly but more premium-feeling. |
| Weight | 170g | 232g | Nord CE 5G is much lighter, better for one-handed use. |
| Build Protection | Unknown screen protection | Gorilla Glass Armor | S24 Ultra has better drop and scratch resistance. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.8" Dynamic AMOLED 2X | S24 Ultra has a much larger screen, better for media and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 (410 PPI) | 1440x3120 (505 PPI) | S24 Ultra is sharper, with richer detail—noticeable in text and high-res content. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | S24 Ultra offers smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 700 nits | 2600 nits (peak) | S24 Ultra is far more visible in direct sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4nm) | S24 Ultra is 371% faster (AnTuTu 1.8M vs. 385K)—handles heavy gaming, AI tasks, and multitasking with ease. |
| RAM | 6/8/12GB | 12GB (fixed) | S24 Ultra ensures better long-term performance. |
| Storage | 128/256GB (no expandable) | 256/512GB/1TB (no expandable) | S24 Ultra offers more storage options, better for power users. |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79, 1/2" sensor) | 200MP (f/1.7, 1/1.3" sensor) | S24 Ultra captures far more detail, better in low light. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.25) | 12MP (f/2.2) | S24 Ultra’s ultrawide is higher resolution and sharper. |
| Telephoto | None | 50MP (5x optical zoom) + 10MP (3x) | S24 Ultra excels in zoom shots and portraits. |
| Selfie | 16MP (f/2.45) | 12MP (f/2.2) | Nord CE 5G has more megapixels, but S24 Ultra likely processes better. |
| Video | 4K@30fps | 8K@30fps, 4K@120fps | S24 Ultra is far superior for videography. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | S24 Ultra has longer endurance (11% more battery). |
| Charging | 30W wired | 45W wired + 15W wireless | S24 Ultra charges faster and adds convenient wireless charging. |
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Strengths
✅ Lighter & more compact – Easier to handle, better for one-handed use.
✅ Decent AMOLED display – Good for media at a lower price.
✅ Lower cost – A budget-friendly 5G option with solid performance for everyday tasks.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Strengths
✅ Best-in-class performance – Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 demolishes mid-range chips.
✅ Superior display – Brighter, sharper, smoother—perfect for media and productivity.
✅ Pro-grade cameras – 200MP sensor + dual telephoto lenses for unmatched versatility.
✅ Longer battery life + faster charging – 5000mAh + 45W wired/15W wireless charging.
Trade-Offs
- Size & weight: S24 Ultra is larger and heavier, which may not suit small hands.
- Price gap: S24 Ultra costs significantly more, while Nord CE 5G is budget-friendly.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the OnePlus Nord CE 5G?
✔ Budget-conscious users who want a lightweight, solid mid-ranger.
✔ Casual users who don’t need pro cameras or top-tier performance.
✔ Those prioritizing one-handed use over premium features.
Who Should Buy the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra?
✔ Power users & professionals who demand best-in-class performance and cameras.
✔ Content creators & multitaskers who need a large, high-end display.
✔ Future-proof buyers who want long-term software support (7 years of updates).
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself These Questions:
- Do you need flagship performance? → S24 Ultra (Nord CE 5G is mid-range).
- Is camera quality a priority? → S24 Ultra (Nord CE 5G can’t compete).
- Do you prefer portability over specs? → Nord CE 5G (lighter & smaller).
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Best for gaming & productivity? → S24 Ultra (Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 crushes it).
- Best for tight budgets? → Nord CE 5G (great value at ~1/4th the price).
- Best all-around phone? → S24 Ultra (no compromises).
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Why? The performance, camera, display, and battery life are in a different league. If budget isn’t a constraint, this is the best Android phone you can buy right now.
That said, if you just need a solid daily driver and don’t care about specs, the Nord CE 5G is a great budget pick—but it’s no match for the Ultra’s power.
Ultimate Takeaway: If you can afford it, the S24 Ultra is the clear winner. If not, the Nord CE 5G still holds up well for its price.
