Looking for a powerful budget smartphone? Check out our in-depth OnePlus Nord CE5 Review – covering display, battery, camera, design, performance, OxygenOS 15, and more. Discover why the OnePlus Nord CE5 is the best value smartphone under £300 in 2025.
Table of Contents
OnePlus Nord CE5 Review Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.77″ AMOLED, Full HD+, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10 |
| Processor | MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Apex |
| RAM & Storage | 8GB RAM, 128GB Storage (expandable via microSD) |
| Rear Cameras | 50MP Main (Sony LYT600) + 8MP Ultra-Wide |
| Front Camera | 16MP Selfie Camera |
| Battery | 5,200mAh with 80W SUPERVOOC Fast Charging |
| Software | OxygenOS 15 (4 OS + 6 Years Security Updates) |
| Audio | Mono Speaker, 3.5mm Headphone Jack |
| Water Resistance | IP65 Splash and Dust Resistant |
| Price | $299 (Launch Price) |
OnePlus Nord CE5 Detailed Review
If you’re hunting for a smartphone in 2025 that doesn’t completely torch your wallet, the OnePlus Nord CE5 might already be on your radar. With a price tag starting at just $299, this device is aimed at users who want a taste of premium design and performance without forking over flagship-level cash.
The “CE” in the name stands for Core Edition, which basically translates to stripped-down specs and a lighter feature set compared to the mainline Nord series—but that’s not always a bad thing.
So, does this budget-friendly smartphone deliver solid value for money, or is it just a watered-down compromise? After using it as my main device for over a week, I’ve got a pretty good idea of what works, what doesn’t, and whether the OnePlus Nord CE5 deserves a spot in your pocket.
Design and Build Quality
Right off the bat, the OnePlus Nord CE5 feels like a premium device when you first pull it out of the box. Sure, it’s not crafted out of metal or ceramic, but the glass back and plastic frame combo actually looks and feels surprisingly classy for a phone at this price point. The device is available in two color variants: Black Infinity and Marble Mist. The Marble Mist finish, with its swirling pattern, gives off a more playful, unique vibe—though it may also remind you a bit of your nan’s bathroom tiles.
Measuring in with a 6.77-inch display, this is not a small phone by any means. It fills the hand quite completely, and while it’s not exactly thin, it remains comfortable to grip thanks to its subtly curved back and smooth edges. It’s definitely more hand-filling than the previous CE models, but thankfully, the weight distribution makes it easy to hold and use one-handed—most of the time.
You’ll also appreciate that the phone comes with a pre-installed screen protector, which is always a bonus at this price point. On the durability front, the IP65 rating ensures some basic protection against dust and water splashes, though it’s not exactly built for full-on water submersion. That said, it can survive a drizzle or a sweaty workout without issue.
Display – Big, Bright, and Smooth
Here’s where things start to get interesting. The OnePlus Nord CE5 boasts a 6.77-inch Full HD+ AMOLED display, which is honestly a win at this price. Whether you’re bingeing Netflix, scrolling through TikTok, or editing your next Instagram post, the screen holds up beautifully. The colors are vibrant, text is sharp, and the contrast is exactly what you’d expect from an AMOLED panel—even if it’s not quite at flagship level.
One of the standout features is the 120Hz refresh rate, which makes every swipe and scroll feel silky smooth. From a visual standpoint, the difference is night and day compared to 60Hz panels, and even some budget phones in this range are still stuck there. This alone makes the OnePlus Nord CE5 feel a lot more premium than its price tag would suggest.
What’s more, the screen supports HDR10 streaming, which means you’ll get more dynamic color and contrast when watching compatible content on apps like YouTube and Netflix. While it’s not the brightest panel in the Nord lineup, it still holds up well in direct sunlight. I tested it during a rare British sunny day, and the outdoor visibility was impressive—even with sunglasses on.
The auto-brightness setting can sometimes be a bit too aggressive in dim lighting, but that’s a small nitpick. OnePlus also includes PWM dimming to reduce eye strain, and their Aqua Touch technology ensures touch sensitivity even when your fingers or the screen are wet. Handy when the unpredictable UK weather decides to throw a rainstorm your way.
Software Experience – OxygenOS 15 Onboard
Software is often where budget phones falter—but not here. The OnePlus Nord CE5 runs on OxygenOS 15, which remains one of the cleanest, most intuitive Android skins around. It’s fast, bloat-free, and doesn’t bombard you with notifications or ads every two minutes like some other budget-friendly brands (cough Xiaomi cough).
You’re getting four years of major Android updates and six years of security patches, which is the same promise offered on higher-end OnePlus phones like the Nord 5. That’s more than respectable in this price tier and guarantees some solid longevity.
A few standout features worth mentioning include the Zen Space and Mind Space modes. Zen Space helps you disconnect by locking access to distracting apps, while Mind Space allows you to quickly capture and store screenshots and notes. It’s sort of like a stripped-down version of Google’s Keep + screenshot tool—but baked right into the OS.
Multitasking is smooth, transitions are fluid, and there’s only the occasional hiccup when jumping between heavier apps. It’s not the buttery-smooth experience of a flagship, but it’s definitely good enough to not get in your way.
Performance – Dimensity 8350 Apex In Action
Now let’s talk power. Under the hood, the OnePlus Nord CE5 is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Apex chipset, backed by 8GB of RAM. It’s not the most well-known processor, but don’t let that scare you off—it performs impressively well for everyday tasks.
Opening apps, browsing the web, messaging, and even moderate gaming all run smoothly. In real-world usage, I didn’t notice any significant lag or slowdown. Games like Call of Duty Mobile, PUBG, and Genshin Impact played well at moderate settings. Push it to the limits, and you’ll see frame rate dips, especially at 60fps mode—but that’s expected in this range.
OnePlus has also implemented a 7,000mm² vapor chamber cooling system. This helps keep temperatures down during intense use, and while the phone does get warm, it never gets uncomfortably hot or causes thermal throttling. That’s a huge plus for gamers and heavy users alike.
Storage and Connectivity Options
When it comes to storage, the OnePlus Nord CE5 keeps things pretty simple: it comes with 128GB of internal UFS 2.2 storage. While this isn’t going to impress power users or those who store a ton of 4K video files, it’s more than sufficient for the average user. Apps load fast enough, and media playback doesn’t suffer from any noticeable slowdowns.
What’s refreshing here—especially in a world where expandability is becoming a rare feature—is that OnePlus gives you a microSD card slot. The second SIM tray doubles as a storage expansion slot, allowing you to boost your space by up to 1TB. For a phone under £300, this is a huge win. You won’t have to constantly delete old photos, videos, or WhatsApp memes just to make room for software updates.
On the connectivity front, you’re looking at 5G support, which makes future-proofing this device much easier. Calls are crisp, data speeds are fast (when the signal cooperates), and Wi-Fi 6 support ensures speedy performance at home or at the office. Bluetooth 5.3 is also on board for a more stable and power-efficient connection with wireless earbuds or smartwatches.
There’s no eSIM functionality, which might be a dealbreaker if you’re a frequent traveler who prefers using local plans. But this is still a rarity at this price point, so it’s hard to complain too much.
Camera Setup – Decent for the Price
Now let’s talk about the bit most of us care about: the camera. The OnePlus Nord CE5 rocks a dual-lens rear setup, headlined by a 50MP Sony LYT600 primary sensor and supported by an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens. While this won’t rival a Pixel or Galaxy camera, it absolutely holds its own in the budget and mid-range space.
In well-lit conditions, the primary shooter delivers bright, sharp, and punchy photos. Colors are slightly on the saturated side—OnePlus seems to have taken a leaf from Apple’s book here—but most users will actually prefer this enhanced look for social sharing. It handles dynamic range surprisingly well, preserving details in both shadows and highlights.
The 8MP ultra-wide camera is more of a “nice to have” than a standout feature. It’s serviceable for group shots or capturing wide landscapes but suffers from softness and distortion around the edges. Still, it’s useful when you want to fit more into the frame without stepping back.
Low-light performance is where things get a bit shaky. While the camera app includes a dedicated Night mode, results vary. The sensor struggles with focus and sharpness when light is limited, often introducing grain. This is where you feel the limitations of the price tag. You can get usable night shots, but don’t expect magic.
The selfie camera is a 16MP shooter, and it gets the job done for video calls and quick front-facing snaps. It supports 1080p video at 60fps, which is pretty decent for a budget device. The skin tones are natural, background separation in portrait mode is fine, and overall, it won’t disappoint unless you’re an Instagram influencer demanding flagship performance.
For video recording, the Nord CE5 supports 4K video at both 30 and 60fps from the rear camera. Stabilization isn’t as smooth as what you’d find on pricier phones, but it works well enough for basic vlogging or family videos. Audio capture is fairly clear too, even in busy environments.
Bonus: The AI-powered photo editing tools in the OnePlus gallery app offer some surprisingly fun extras. Features like AI Eraser, Recompose, and Portrait Enhancer allow for decent post-shot tweaking. AI Eraser, in particular, can remove photo bombers or random objects in the background—though it’s not perfect and sometimes leaves ghosting behind.
Audio Performance – Loud But Not Lovely
Here’s where the OnePlus Nord CE5 really shows its budget limitations: audio quality. The phone features a single bottom-firing mono speaker, and while it can get impressively loud, the sound quality is nothing to write home about.
Crank up the volume and you’ll notice that it quickly gets tinny, with highs becoming sharp and bass almost entirely absent. It’s good enough for podcasts, YouTube videos, or speakerphone calls, but don’t expect immersive audio when watching a movie or listening to music.
What’s more frustrating is the lack of stereo speakers. Most of OnePlus’s competitors—even in the sub-£300 price tier—are now moving toward stereo setups that deliver a more balanced and spatial audio experience. Sadly, the Nord CE5 feels a bit behind the times here.
Thankfully, you do get a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is something of a unicorn in 2025. Plug in a decent pair of wired headphones and the sound quality improves drastically, thanks to the built-in DAC. Bluetooth audio also holds up well, with support for aptX HD and LDAC, ensuring high-quality wireless streaming when paired with compatible devices.
Battery Life – Reliable All-Day Endurance
Battery life is another area where the OnePlus Nord CE5 earns solid marks. It’s equipped with a 7,100mAh battery, which might not sound huge on paper in 2025, but thanks to efficient software optimization and the Dimensity 8350 chip, it delivers dependable day-long performance.
On most days, with about 5-6 hours of screen-on time involving web browsing, YouTube, Spotify, Instagram, and a few video calls, I still had around 20-25% battery left by bedtime. Even with some gaming thrown into the mix, I could confidently get through the day without having to reach for the charger.
That said, if you’re a heavy gamer or use the camera a lot, you’ll probably drain it faster—but still not to the point of frustration. In gaming tests, I managed around 3.5 to 4 hours of continuous gameplay before needing to plug in.
And speaking of charging, here’s another win: the OnePlus Nord CE5 supports 80W SUPERVOOC charging. That’s incredibly fast for this price bracket. In my experience, the phone charges from 0% to 100% in just under 40 minutes. A 10-minute charge can easily get you back to 40%—perfect for those mornings when you’re in a rush.
Unfortunately, there’s no wireless charging here, which isn’t surprising given the price. But if you’re mostly a wired charging user, you won’t miss it much.
Final Verdict – Should You Buy the OnePlus Nord CE5 in 2025?
After spending a full week living with the OnePlus Nord CE5, the verdict is clear: this phone delivers excellent value for money, even with a few sacrifices. For just $299, you’re getting a big, bright 120Hz AMOLED display, smooth OxygenOS software, 5G support, solid everyday performance, and super-fast charging. That’s a lot of value packed into a stylish chassis.
Of course, it’s not perfect. The lack of stereo speakers, no wireless charging, no eSIM, and a somewhat inconsistent camera in low light remind you that this is a budget phone. But given its price, these compromises are easier to forgive.
The key strength here is balance. The OnePlus Nord CE5 doesn’t try to overpromise or fake its way into flagship territory. It gives you just enough of everything, and it does so reliably. Whether you’re upgrading from a budget device, or just want a dependable secondary phone without draining your bank account, this is a solid option.
If you’re someone who values smooth software, reliable battery life, and fast charging more than top-tier camera magic or audio bliss, then the OnePlus Nord CE5 should absolutely be on your shortlist in 2025.
Pros & Cons: OnePlus Nord CE5
Pros
- Sleek design with attractive finishes
- 6.77-inch AMOLED 120Hz display
- OxygenOS 15 – clean, fast, and customizable
- Expandable storage via microSD
- Fast 80W SUPERVOOC charging
- 5G + Wi-Fi 6 support
- Long-term software updates (4 years of OS, 6 years of security)
Cons
- No stereo speakers
- No wireless charging
- No eSIM support
- Camera struggles in low-light conditions
- Mono audio is underwhelming
Conclusion: OnePlus Nord CE5 Review
In the world of budget smartphones, there are always trade-offs. But what matters most is where those compromises are made, and whether they affect your daily experience. With the OnePlus Nord CE5, the cuts are smartly made—it delivers where it matters most, like display quality, performance, battery life, and software polish.
If you’re shopping with a £300 budget, the OnePlus Nord CE5 is one of the most well-rounded phones you can buy in 2025. It might not “explode your bollocks,” as some reviewers might put it, but it certainly won’t disappoint you either.
FAQs: OnePlus Nord CE5
1. Is the OnePlus Nord CE5 waterproof?
No, the OnePlus Nord CE5 is not fully waterproof, but it does come with an IP65 rating, meaning it’s resistant to dust and light water splashes. Just don’t take it swimming.
2. Does the Nord CE5 support wireless charging?
Unfortunately, no. While the OnePlus Nord CE5 supports 80W wired fast charging, it does not include wireless charging, which is typical for phones in this price range.
3. Can I expand the storage on the OnePlus Nord CE5?
Yes! The OnePlus Nord CE5 phone comes with 128GB internal storage but supports microSD cards up to 1TB via the hybrid SIM slot—great for users who store a lot of media locally.
4. How many Android updates will the Nord CE5 receive?
OnePlus promises 4 years of major OS updates and 6 years of security patches for OnePlus Nord CE5, which is incredibly generous for a $299 smartphone.
5. Is the OnePlus Nord CE5 good for gaming?
Yes, for casual to moderate gaming. The MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Apex chip handles most titles like PUBG, Call of Duty, and Genshin Impact reasonably well on medium settings. Just don’t expect high-performance 60fps gaming consistently.
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