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Examining the OnePlus Nord 5: Does it possess the durability of higher-priced models?

The new OnePlus Nord 5 forgoes the metal construction of its forerunner, instead showcasing its features for the current generation.

Assessing the OnePlus Nord 5: Does this mid-tier phone showcase robust performance?
Assessing the OnePlus Nord 5: Does this mid-tier phone showcase robust performance?

Examining the OnePlus Nord 5: Does it possess the durability of higher-priced models?

The OnePlus Nord 5 has made its debut, offering a new design and improved specifications over its predecessor. Here's what you need to know about this latest offering from OnePlus.

Design and Aesthetics

The OnePlus Nord 5 departs from the unique metal unibody design of its predecessor, adopting a more conventional look with a polycarbonate frame and impact-resistant glass. This change gives the Nord 5 a more mainstream appearance, reminiscent of typical 2025 smartphones, including a vertical camera layout similar to Samsung phones.

The new design brings several advantages. The device boasts a matte glass back that reduces fingerprint smudges, a cleaner look, and an IP65 water resistance rating, enhancing its durability for daily use. Furthermore, the larger 6.83-inch 144Hz AMOLED display, with a 1.5K+ resolution and Corning Gorilla Glass 7i, offers a brighter and smoother visual experience than before.

One of the standout features of the OnePlus Nord 5 is the introduction of the ‘Plus Key’, which replaces the traditional alert slider. This innovative addition offers customizable quick-access functions, appealing to power users.

However, the new design also comes with some trade-offs. The loss of the distinctive metal unibody design may disappoint fans who valued the original's special identity. Additionally, the polycarbonate frame, while practical, may feel less premium and potentially less durable than the predecessor’s metal body.

Performance and Features

Under the hood, the OnePlus Nord 5 is powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor, a significant step up from the Snapdragon 7-Series used in previous models. This upgrade ensures smooth and efficient performance, whether you're multitasking, gaming, or browsing the web.

The OnePlus Nord 5 is available in two configurations: an 8/256GB model priced at £399 and a 12/512GB model for £499. Both versions offer 6 years of software updates and 4 OS versions, ensuring long-term support for the device.

The device's battery capacity is larger than some flagship phones but smaller than the Nord 4 in this segment of the market. The OnePlus Nord 5 packs a 5200mAh battery and supports 80W charging, ensuring you can quickly top up your device when needed.

In terms of photography, the OnePlus Nord 5 offers a 50MP main rear camera with f/1.8 aperture, 1/56in sensor, autofocus (AF), optical stabilisation (OIS), and a 50MP front camera with f/2.0 aperture, AF. The ultra-wide camera shows a distinct color difference between the two lenses, a characteristic that some users may find appealing or distracting.

The OnePlus Nord 5's display offers variable refresh rates, a higher daily brightness than the Nord 4, and supports Google's Ultra HDR. The front camera also offers autofocus, a feature rare at this price range, and even supports 4K 60fps video recording.

However, the OnePlus Nord 5 does not support wireless charging, which may be a drawback for some users.

Availability and Colours

The OnePlus Nord 5 is not available in the USA. In other regions, it comes in the colours Phantom Grey, Dry Ice, and Marble Sands.

In conclusion, the OnePlus Nord 5 offers a refreshed design, improved performance, and a host of new features. While it trades some of the unique and premium metal build features of its predecessor for a more mainstream, practical design, it still delivers a compelling package for those seeking a powerful and feature-rich smartphone.

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