OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4: A User-Centric Comparison
These two smartphones cater to entirely different audiences—the Nord CE 5G is a budget-friendly 5G mid-ranger, while the Z Flip4 is a premium foldable. Let’s break down how their specs translate to real-world use.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Standard slab phone | Foldable (clamshell) | Z Flip4 offers compact portability when folded; Nord is larger but lighter. |
| Weight | 170g | 187g | Nord CE 5G is noticeably lighter for one-handed use. |
| Durability | Unknown screen protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Z Flip4 has better screen protection; Nord is more basic. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic (under-display) | Side-mounted | Z Flip4's sensor is more reliable and faster. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.43" AMOLED (90Hz) | 6.7" Dynamic AMOLED (120Hz) | Z Flip4 has a smoother, brighter display but folds in half. |
| Brightness | 700 nits | 1200 nits | Z Flip4 is far more legible outdoors. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 (410 PPI) | 1080x2640 (426 PPI) | Both sharp, but Z Flip4 has a taller aspect ratio. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8nm) | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4nm) | Z Flip4 is significantly faster—better for gaming and multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 385,000 | 1,050,371 | Z Flip4 is 2.7x faster in benchmarks. |
| RAM Options | 6/8/12GB | 8GB | Nord CE 5G offers a 12GB variant, but Z Flip4’s chipset is stronger. |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79, 1/2" sensor) | 12.2MP (f/1.8, 1/2.55") | Nord has higher resolution, but Z Flip4's processing (DxOMark 112 vs. 84) is clearly superior. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.25) | 13MP (better sensor) | Z Flip4 wins in quality and detail. |
| Selfie | 16MP (f/2.45) | 10MP (f/2.4) | Nord has a sharper selfie cam, but Z Flip4’s cover screen enables better selfies. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps (EIS) | 4K@60fps (HDR + OIS) | Z Flip4 has better stabilization and HDR. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 3700mAh | Nord CE 5G lasts longer on a charge. |
| Charging | 30W wired | 25W wired + 15W wireless | Nord charges faster wired; Z Flip4 adds wireless charging. |
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Strengths
✔ Better battery life (4500mAh vs. 3700mAh)
✔ Higher-resolution cameras (64MP main, 16MP selfie)
✔ Lighter and thinner (170g vs. 187g)
✔ More RAM options (up to 12GB)
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 Strengths
✔ Faster processor (Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1)—great for gaming
✔ Superior camera quality (better HDR, OIS, DxOMark score)
✔ Foldable form factor—unique and pocket-friendly
✔ Brighter, smoother 120Hz display
✔ Wireless charging support
Trade-Offs
- The Z Flip4’s battery is smaller, so heavy users may struggle.
- The Nord CE 5G has better RAM options but weaker raw performance.
- Foldables are more fragile—Z Flip4 requires extra care.
3. Who Should Buy Which Phone?
🔹 OnePlus Nord CE 5G is Best For:
- Budget-conscious users who want solid performance without paying flagship prices.
- Long battery life seekers—4500mAh is great for all-day use.
- Photography enthusiasts on a budget (high-res sensors, but weaker processing).
🔸 Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 is Best For:
- Tech enthusiasts who want a futuristic foldable with flagship power.
- Social media & content creators—better cameras and unique selfie angles using the cover screen.
- Users who prioritize performance (Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 crushes the 750G).
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
Do you care more about raw performance and a foldable screen or battery life and price?
- Performance? → Z Flip4
- Battery/price? → Nord CE 5G
Do you take a lot of photos and videos?
- Yes (and want better processing)? → Z Flip4
- Yes (but prefer high-res sensors)? → Nord CE 5G
Do you want wireless charging and a more premium feel?
- Yes → Z Flip4
- No (willing to trade for battery life)? → Nord CE 5G
Final Verdict: What Would I Choose?
If I prioritized performance, camera quality, and a unique foldable design, I’d pick the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4. The Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1, superior cameras, and 120Hz display make it a better long-term device.
But if I wanted battery life, a lightweight phone, and a lower price, the OnePlus Nord CE 5G is the smarter pick.
My choice? Galaxy Z Flip4—I love its foldable form factor and flagship performance, even with the smaller battery.
What’s yours? 🚀
