OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Xiaomi Redmi 10 5G: In-Depth Comparison
Choosing between these two 5G mid-range contenders? Let’s break down their strengths, weaknesses, and real-world usability.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 10 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 164 × 76.1 × 8.9 mm | Redmi is bulkier (taller, wider, thicker), Nord CE is sleeker and more pocket-friendly. |
| Weight | 170g | 200g | Nord CE is 30g lighter, better for one-handed use. |
| Screen Protection | N/A (No Gorilla Glass) | Gorilla Glass 3 | Redmi has better scratch resistance, Nord CE may need a screen protector. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic (in-display) | Side-mounted | Side-mounted (Redmi) is faster but less premium-feeling than in-display. |
📌 Takeaway: OnePlus prioritizes slimness and lightness, while Xiaomi opts for durability.
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 10 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.58" IPS LCD | Redmi has a larger screen, but Nord CE’s AMOLED offers deeper blacks and better contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling, but AMOLED makes Nord CE feel more premium. |
| Peak Brightness | 700 nits | Not specified (~450 nits?) | Nord CE is far better in sunlight (700 nits vs. likely sub-500 nits on Redmi). |
📌 Takeaway: Nord CE wins for display quality, with AMOLED vibrancy and outdoor visibility.
Performance & Software
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 10 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8nm) | Dimensity 700 (7nm) | Similar raw power, but Snapdragon has better GPU efficiency. |
| AnTuTu Score | 385,000 | 381,300 | Nearly identical—both handle daily tasks well but aren’t flagship-level. |
| RAM Options | 6/8/12GB | 4/6GB | Nord CE’s 12GB option is better for heavy multitasking. |
| Storage | 128/256GB (No microSD) | 64/128GB (No microSD) | Nord CE offers more storage (256GB vs. 128GB max). |
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable) | Android 12 (MIUI) | Nord CE has a cleaner OxygenOS, while Redmi runs heavier MIUI. |
📌 Takeaway: Nord CE has better RAM/storage flexibility, while Redmi’s Dimensity 700 is decent for budget gaming.
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 10 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79) + 8MP UW + 2MP Mono | 50MP (f/1.8) + 2MP depth | Nord CE has a triple-camera setup with ultrawide, Redmi lacks this. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (f/2.45) | 5MP (f/2.0) | Nord CE has a much better front camera (16MP vs. 5MP). |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps, 1080p@120fps | 1080p@30fps only | Nord CE is far superior for video, including slow-motion. |
| DXOMARK Score | 84 (Photo: 89, Video: 80) | No score available | Nord CE’s camera is tested and validated as better. |
📌 Takeaway: Nord CE is the clear winner for photography and videography.
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 10 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Redmi has longer endurance, but Nord’s AMOLED helps efficiency. |
| Charging Speed | 30W (Faster) | 18W (Slower) | Nord CE charges significantly faster (30W vs. 18W). |
| Reverse Charging | No | Yes | Redmi can act as a power bank, Nord CE can’t. |
📌 Takeaway: Redmi lasts longer, but Nord charges quicker.
2. Key Insights & Trade-Offs
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Wins If You Want:
✅ Better display (AMOLED vs. LCD)
✅ Superior cameras (64MP + ultrawide vs. 50MP)
✅ Faster charging (30W vs. 18W)
✅ More premium design (lighter, sleeker)
Xiaomi Redmi 10 5G Wins If You Want:
✅ Bigger battery (5000mAh vs. 4500mAh)
✅ Reverse charging (handy for emergencies)
✅ Cheaper price (likely better value for budget buyers)
3. Who Should Buy Which?
OnePlus Nord CE 5G is Best For:
- Photography & video enthusiasts (better cameras, 4K recording)
- Those who prefer AMOLED displays (deeper blacks, better colors)
- Fast-charging fans (30W is a big upgrade over 18W)
Xiaomi Redmi 10 5G is Best For:
- Battery-life-first users (5000mAh lasts longer)
- Budget-conscious buyers (likely cheaper)
- Casual users (good for calls, social media, light gaming)
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask yourself:
- Do you care more about cameras or battery life?
- Pick Nord CE for cameras, Redmi 10 5G for battery.
- Do you prefer AMOLED or a larger screen?
- Nord CE = AMOLED, Redmi = Bigger LCD.
- Is fast charging or reverse charging more useful?
- 30W (Nord) vs. Reverse Charging (Redmi).
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Student/Media Consumer? → Nord CE (better display, faster performance).
- Long Travels/Outdoor Use? → Redmi 10 5G (bigger battery).
- Influencer/Gamer? → Nord CE (better GPU, cameras).
Final Verdict: Which One Would I Pick?
👉 I’d choose the OnePlus Nord CE 5G.
Why?
- The AMOLED display makes everything look better.
- 30W fast charging is a game-changer for quick top-ups.
- Cameras are significantly better (64MP + ultrawide vs. 50MP).
- Lighter and sleeker design feels more premium.
The Redmi 10 5G is great for battery life, but the Nord CE 5G offers a more well-rounded experience at a slightly higher price. If budget is tight, Redmi is fine, but Nord CE is the better phone overall. 🚀
