OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. TCL 40 SE: A Practical Comparison
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | TCL 40 SE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 167.9 × 76.5 × 8.5 mm | TCL is larger and heavier (190g vs 170g), making the OnePlus more pocket-friendly and comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 170g | 190g | OnePlus is 20g lighter, better for long use. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic (optical) | Side-mounted | TCL’s side-mounted sensor is faster and more ergonomic. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | TCL 40 SE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.43" | 6.75" | TCL has a larger screen, better for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 (410 PPI) | 720x1600 (260 PPI) | OnePlus’ sharper display is better for text clarity and gaming. |
| Panel Type | AMOLED | IPS LCD | AMOLED means deeper blacks and better contrast (OnePlus wins). |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling. |
| Peak Brightness | 700 nits | 900 nits | TCL is brighter outdoors, enhancing visibility in sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | TCL 40 SE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8nm) | Helio G37 (12nm) | OnePlus has a more efficient and powerful processor. |
| AnTuTu Score | 385,000 | 160,000 | OnePlus is 141% faster, ideal for gaming and multitasking. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | PowerVR GE8320 | OnePlus delivers better gaming performance. |
| RAM Options | 6/8/12GB | 4/6GB | OnePlus supports heavier multitasking. |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | TCL 40 SE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Sensor | 64MP (f/1.79) | 50MP (f/1.85) | OnePlus captures more detail and performs better in low light. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.25) | None | OnePlus offers a more versatile shooting experience. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (Sony IMX471) | 8MP | OnePlus takes sharper selfies. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps, 1080p@120fps | 1080p@30fps | OnePlus supports higher-quality video. |
| DxOMark Score | 84 (Photo: 89) | Not tested | OnePlus has better-tuned camera software. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | TCL 40 SE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5010mAh | TCL lasts longer, but OnePlus compensates with faster charging. |
| Charging Speed | 30W | 18W | OnePlus charges significantly faster. |
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Strengths:
✅ Better Performance – Superior chipset, GPU, and RAM for gaming and multitasking.
✅ Sharper Display – AMOLED with higher resolution (~410 PPI) for crisp visuals.
✅ Faster Charging – 30W vs. 18W on TCL.
✅ More Versatile Cameras – 4K video, better sensors, and an ultrawide lens.
TCL 40 SE Strengths:
✅ Larger Display – 6.75" screen is better for media but lower resolution.
✅ Bigger Battery – 5010mAh vs. 4500mAh (but slower charging).
✅ Brighter Screen – 900 nits peak brightness helps in sunlight.
Trade-Offs:
🔹 The TCL 40 SE sacrifices performance and display quality for a larger battery and screen.
🔹 The OnePlus Nord CE 5G offers flagship-like performance but has a smaller battery.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the OnePlus Nord CE 5G?
✔ Gamers – Stronger GPU and higher refresh rate.
✔ Photography Enthusiasts – Better camera system with 4K video.
✔ Power Users – More RAM and faster processor.
Who Should Buy the TCL 40 SE?
✔ Budget Media Consumers – Bigger screen and longer battery for Netflix/YouTube.
✔ Casual Users – Adequate for social media and calls.
✔ Outdoor Users – Brighter display helps in sunlight.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
Do you prioritize performance or battery life?
- Performance? OnePlus Nord CE 5G.
- Battery? TCL 40 SE.
Do you value display quality or size?
- Sharpness & colors? OnePlus.
- Bigger screen? TCL.
Do you take a lot of photos/videos?
- Yes? OnePlus.
- No? TCL is passable.
Scenario-Based Picks:
- Best for Gaming & Speed: OnePlus Nord CE 5G.
- Best for Media & Battery: TCL 40 SE.
- Best All-Rounder: OnePlus Nord CE 5G.
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the OnePlus Nord CE 5G.
Why?
- Performance matters more than battery for me – The Snapdragon 750G is far more capable than the Helio G37.
- AMOLED + 1080p is a better daily experience – The TCL’s 720p LCD feels dated.
- Faster charging (30W) compensates for the smaller battery.
- Superior camera system – 4K video and better low-light performance are big pluses.
The TCL 40 SE is a decent budget phone, but the OnePlus Nord CE 5G delivers better value overall for most users. Unless you really need the extra battery or a bigger screen, the OnePlus is the smarter buy. 🚀
