OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs Xiaomi Poco F6 Pro: The Ultimate Mid-Ranger vs Flagship Killer Showdown
Let’s cut through the marketing fluff and compare these two phones based on what actually matters to users. The Nord CE 5G (2021) and Poco F6 Pro (2024) represent different generations and philosophies—does the newer Poco justify its upgrades, or does the Nord still hold value?
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Poco F6 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 160.9 × 75 × 8.2 mm | Poco is slightly larger & heavier—better for media, Nord is more pocketable. |
| Weight | 170g | 209g | Nord is 39g lighter—better for long use, Poco feels more premium. |
| Build Quality | Plastic frame, glass back | Likely glass/plastic hybrid | Neither has an IP rating—both are mid-range builds. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Poco F6 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.67" AMOLED | Poco offers bigger screen for media/gaming. |
| Resolution | 1080p (410 PPI) | 1440p (526 PPI) | Poco is sharper—great for reading & videos. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Smoother scrolling & animations on Poco. |
| Brightness | 700 nits | 4000 nits (peak) | Poco dominates in sunlight visibility. |
Verdict: The Poco F6 Pro’s display is far superior—higher res, smoother, brighter. The Nord’s screen is still good but dated.
Performance & Hardware
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Poco F6 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4nm) | Poco is massively faster, better for gaming & multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 385K | 1,642K | Poco is 4x more powerful—future-proof. |
| RAM | 6/8/12GB | 12/16GB | Poco’s 16GB variant is a multitasking beast. |
| Storage | 128/256GB | 256/512GB/1TB | Poco offers way more storage (1TB option!). |
Verdict: The Poco demolishes the Nord in raw power—this is a flagship-tier chip vs a mid-range one.
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Poco F6 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Poco has a larger battery + better efficiency. |
| Charging Speed | 30W | 120W | Poco charges 4x faster (0-100% in ~20 mins). |
| Extras | None | Reverse charging | Poco can charge other devices (useful for emergencies). |
Verdict: Poco wins easily—bigger battery, blazing-fast charging, and reverse charging.
Camera Comparison
Main Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Poco F6 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensor | 64MP (OV64B, 1/2") | 50MP (OV50E, 1/1.55") | Poco’s larger sensor captures more light. |
| Aperture | f/1.79 | f/1.6 | Poco performs better in low light. |
| Stabilization | Digital only | OIS + EIS | Poco has smoother videos & better night shots. |
Front Camera
- Both have 16MP, but Poco’s sensor is slightly larger.
Video
- Nord: 4K@30fps
- Poco: 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps, superior stabilization
Verdict: Poco is better overall—larger sensor, OIS, and 8K video. The Nord has a higher MP count, but megapixels ≠ quality.
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Strengths
✅ Lighter & more compact (easier one-handed use).
✅ Cheaper (if buying used/renewed).
✅ Decent mid-range performance for everyday tasks.
Xiaomi Poco F6 Pro Strengths
✅ Flagship-level Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (future-proof).
✅ Much better display (1440p, 120Hz, 4000 nits).
✅ Super-fast 120W charging (game-changer).
✅ Superior camera system (OIS, 8K video).
Trade-Offs
❌ Poco is heavier & bulkier—less comfortable for some.
❌ Nord’s chipset is outdated (won’t age well).
3. User Recommendations
Who Should Buy the OnePlus Nord CE 5G?
- Budget-conscious users who want a lightweight phone.
- Casual users who don’t need high-end performance.
- If you find it under $250 (great secondary device).
Who Should Buy the Xiaomi Poco F6 Pro?
- Gamers & power users (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is a beast).
- Media lovers (better display, bigger battery).
- Photography enthusiasts (OIS, 8K video).
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do I need flagship-level performance? → Poco F6 Pro.
- Is fast charging & battery life critical? → Poco F6 Pro.
- Do I prefer a lighter, more compact phone? → Nord CE 5G.
Scenario-Based Picks:
- Best Overall Performance: Poco F6 Pro (no contest).
- Best Budget Option: Nord CE 5G (if heavily discounted).
- Best Media & Gaming Device: Poco F6 Pro (display & chipset win).
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the Xiaomi Poco F6 Pro—no hesitation.
Why?
- Performance gap is massive (Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 vs 750G).
- 120Hz 1440p display vs 90Hz 1080p is a huge upgrade.
- 120W charging is life-changing (full charge in ~20 mins).
- Camera is objectively better (OIS, larger sensor, 8K video).
The Nord CE 5G is still a decent phone, but in 2024, the Poco F6 Pro is the clear winner unless you really prioritize lightness or find the Nord at a steep discount.
Winner: Xiaomi Poco F6 Pro 🏆
