OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Xiaomi Redmi A3: A Practical Comparison
The OnePlus Nord CE 5G (2021) and the Xiaomi Redmi A3 (2024) cater to different segments of the budget smartphone market. While the Nord CE 5G was a mid-range contender at launch, the Redmi A3 is an ultra-budget device. Here's how they stack up in real-world use.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi A3 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 168.3 × 76.3 × 8.3 mm | Redmi A3 is bulkier and heavier (193g vs. 170g), making the Nord CE more pocket-friendly. |
| Weight | 170g | 193g | Nord CE is significantly lighter, better for one-handed use. |
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass 3 | Redmi A3 has superior scratch resistance. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi A3 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.43" | 6.71" | Redmi A3 has a bigger screen, but Nord CE’s panel is far sharper. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 (410 PPI) | 720x1650 (268 PPI) | Nord CE’s AMOLED is noticeably crisper—better for reading, gaming, and media. |
| Panel Type | AMOLED | IPS LCD | Nord CE has deeper blacks, better contrast, and better battery efficiency with dark mode. |
| Brightness | 700 nits (peak) | Unknown | Nord CE is much better outdoors; Redmi A3 may struggle in sunlight. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling, but Nord CE benefits from AMOLED fluidity. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G (SD 750G 5G) | Xiaomi Redmi A3 (Helio G36) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Benchmark (AnTuTu) | 385,000 | 127,000 | Nord CE is over 3x faster—handles games, multitasking, and future updates better. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | PowerVR GE8320 | Nord CE is much better for gaming (Genshin, COD Mobile, etc.). |
| RAM Options | 6GB / 8GB / 12GB | 3GB / 4GB / 6GB | Nord CE is better for power users—Redmi A3 struggles with heavy apps. |
| Storage | 128GB / 256GB | 64GB / 128GB | Nord CE offers more storage options; neither has expandable storage. |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi A3 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79) | 8MP (f/2.0) | Nord CE’s sensor is vastly superior—sharper, better low-light shots. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.25) | None | Nord CE has more versatility. |
| Selfie | 16MP (f/2.45) | 5MP (f/2.2) | Nord CE’s selfies are much more detailed. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps (EIS) | 1080p@30fps | Nord CE offers smoother, higher-quality video. |
| DXOMark Rating | 84 (Photo: 89) | 45 (Photo: 53) | Nord CE’s camera is in a completely different league. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi A3 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Redmi A3 lasts longer, but Nord CE’s efficient AMOLED helps offset difference. |
| Charging | 30W (fast) | 10W (slow) | Nord CE charges 3x faster—big advantage for quick top-ups. |
2. Key Insights
OnePlus Nord CE 5G Wins In:
✅ Performance – 3x faster chipset, smoother multitasking, better gaming.
✅ Display – Sharper AMOLED, better brightness, deeper blacks.
✅ Camera – 64MP vs. 8MP, 4K video, and superior low-light performance.
✅ Charging – 30W vs. 10W—much quicker refills.
Xiaomi Redmi A3 Wins In:
✅ Battery Life – 5000mAh lasts longer (though charging is slow).
✅ Screen Protection – Gorilla Glass 3 vs. unknown on Nord CE.
✅ Newer OS – Ships with Android 14 (Nord CE launched with 11, updates uncertain).
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the OnePlus Nord CE 5G?
✔ Gamers & Power Users – Faster chipset, more RAM, better GPU.
✔ Photography Enthusiasts – Far superior camera system.
✔ Media Consumers – Crisp AMOLED screen with HDR.
✔ Those Who Hate Slow Charging – 30W is a major convenience.
Who Should Buy the Xiaomi Redmi A3?
✔ Ultra-Budget Shoppers – Likely cheaper at launch.
✔ Battery-First Users – Bigger battery, but slower charging.
✔ Casual Users – Basic social media, calls, light apps only.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do you prioritize performance & cameras? → Nord CE 5G
- Is battery life your #1 concern? → Redmi A3
- Do you need a modern OS & don’t care about speed? → Redmi A3
Scenario Recommendations:
- Student on a Budget (Needs Performance): Nord CE 5G (better for apps, study tools, gaming).
- Elderly/Primary Phone for Calls + Battery: Redmi A3 (simpler, lasts longer).
- Photography & Social Media: Nord CE 5G (better selfies, video, detail).
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
Winner: OnePlus Nord CE 5G
Despite being older, the Nord CE 5G is the better phone in almost every way—performance, display, cameras, and charging. The Redmi A3 is only a better pick if you prioritize battery life first and price second, but its slow chipset and weak camera make it a tough sell otherwise.
If you can find the Nord CE 5G at a similar price, it’s the clear winner. If the Redmi A3 is significantly cheaper and you only need basic functionality, it’s acceptable—but expect noticeable compromises in speed and camera quality.
My pick? Nord CE 5G—no contest.
