OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Xiaomi Poco F4 GT: A Practical Comparison
Let's cut through the specs and see how these two mid-range contenders actually stack up in daily use.
Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Poco F4 GT | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 162.5 × 76.7 × 8.5 mm | Nord is significantly more pocketable and easier to use one-handed |
| Weight | 170g | 210g | 40g difference is noticeable - Nord feels like a feather in comparison |
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass Victus | F4 GT has better drop protection, but both need cases |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Side-mounted | F4 GT's sensor is faster and more ergonomic |
Key Takeaway: The Nord wins for comfort and portability, while the F4 GT offers better durability.
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Poco F4 GT | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.67" AMOLED | F4 GT better for media, Nord better for one-hand use |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Smoother scrolling in F4 GT noticeable in games/UI |
| Brightness | 700 nits | Not specified | Nord has excellent sunlight visibility advantage |
| Resolution/PPI | 1080x2400 (410ppi) | 1080x2400 (395ppi) | No visible difference in sharpness |
Key Takeaway: F4 GT for gamers who want smoothness, Nord for outdoor use with its brighter display.
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Poco F4 GT | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | F4 GT is a generational leap ahead |
| Antutu Score | 385,000 | 1,178,365 | F4 GT 3x more powerful - future-proof for years |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 730 | F4 GT handles demanding games easily |
| RAM Options | 6/8/12GB | 8/12GB | Both good for multitasking |
Key Takeaway: If performance matters at all, the F4 GT demolishes the Nord - it's not even close.
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Poco F4 GT | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Sensor | 64MP (OV64B) | 64MP (IMX686) | F4 GT has better Sony sensor with larger pixels |
| Selfie | 16MP | 20MP | F4 GT has higher resolution front camera |
| Video | 4K@30fps | 4K@60fps+HDR | F4 GT offers more professional video options |
| Special Features | B&W sensor | Gimbal EIS | Different approaches - F4 GT better for video |
Key Takeaway: F4 GT has the hardware advantage, but Nord's image processing might be more consistent.
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Poco F4 GT | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4700mAh | Negligible real-world difference |
| Charging Speed | 30W | 120W | F4 GT charges 0-100% in ~20 mins vs ~1hr on Nord |
| Battery Tech | Li-Polymer | Li-Ion | Both non-removable |
Key Takeaway: F4 GT's charging is revolutionary - you'll never worry about battery life.
Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Strengths:
- Lightweight design that disappears in your pocket
- Brighter display for outdoor visibility
- More affordable price point
- Cleaner software experience (OxygenOS)
Xiaomi Poco F4 GT Advantages:
- Flagship-level performance that crushes the Nord
- 120W charging changes how you use your phone
- Better gaming experience with 120Hz and superior GPU
- More advanced camera hardware
Trade-Offs:
- The F4 GT's power comes with more heat and worse battery efficiency
- Nord's software support may be more consistent long-term
- F4 GT is noticeably heavier and larger
Who Should Buy Which?
Get the OnePlus Nord CE 5G if:
- You prioritize comfort and one-hand use
- Don't play demanding mobile games
- Want the best sunlight-readable display
- Prefer a lighter, more compact device
Choose the Xiaomi Poco F4 GT if:
- You're a mobile gamer or power user
- Want near-flagship performance at mid-range price
- Value insanely fast charging
- Don't mind the extra weight and size
Buying Decision Framework
Ask yourself:
- How important is raw performance to my daily usage?
- Do I frequently charge during the day where 120W would help?
- Am I sensitive to phone size/weight in my pocket or hand?
Scenario Recommendations:
- Student on budget who values portability: Nord CE 5G
- Mobile gamer who wants max performance: Poco F4 GT
- Photography enthusiast: Poco F4 GT (better hardware)
- Business user needing all-day reliability: Nord CE 5G
The Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I'd pick the Xiaomi Poco F4 GT - but with caveats.
The performance gap is simply too large to ignore. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 ensures this phone will stay relevant for years, while the 120W charging is genuinely transformative - you can top up during a coffee break. The gaming-focused features (triggers, cooling) are bonuses.
That said, I'd miss the Nord's lighter weight and brighter display. If I weren't a power user or didn't game, the Nord would be the more comfortable daily driver. But for most users who want their phone to "just work fast" for everything, the F4 GT's advantages outweigh its bulk.
