OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite Review: When All You Need Is Power

The OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite is the latest addition to the Nord CE range, targeting consumers who need a powerful smartphone at an affordable price point. At £299 in the UK, OnePlus has made strategic choices to offer a phone that excels in certain areas while making compromises in others. This review will delve into the design, display, performance, battery life, camera quality, and overall value for money of the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite.

Key Takeaways

Affordable Power: The OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite offers substantial power and battery life at a competitive price point.
Battery and Charging: With a 5,500 mAh battery and 80W fast charging, this phone ensures longevity and quick power-ups.
Display: A 6.67-inch OLED screen with 2100 nits brightness and variable refresh rates provides a top-tier viewing experience.
Camera Compromises: The 50-megapixel main lens and 2-megapixel depth sensor offer decent quality but lack advanced features.
Target Audience: Ideal for users prioritizing battery life, display quality, and performance over advanced camera capabilities.

OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite Review

Today we take a detailed look at the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite, examining its design, display, performance, and camera capabilities. We’ll also explore how it fits into the broader landscape of mid-range smartphones and what makes it a compelling choice for those prioritizing value without compromising on essential features. Whether you’re a long-time OnePlus fan or new to the brand, this review will provide you with the insights needed to decide if the Nord CE4 Lite is the right smartphone for you.

Design and Build

The OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite maintains a sleek and modern design, consistent with the aesthetics of the Nord CE range. Its minimalist approach with smooth edges and a slim profile makes it comfortable to hold and use. The build quality feels robust, ensuring durability for daily use. Compared to previous models, there are subtle improvements in ergonomics and weight distribution, making the CE4 Lite feel more balanced in hand.

Specifications:

Dimensions: 164.3 x 74.8 x 8.4 mm
Weight: 190 grams
Material: Polycarbonate frame and back

Display

The 6.67-inch OLED screen is a standout feature for the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite. With a peak brightness of 2100 nits, the display remains clear and readable even under direct sunlight. The inclusion of Aqua Touch technology enhances touch sensitivity in wet conditions, a practical addition for everyday use.

The phone offers two refresh rates, 60Hz and 120Hz, which can be switched based on user preference. This binary option allows users to either optimize for battery life or enjoy a smoother scrolling experience. While some may prefer the fluidity of 120Hz, the 60Hz mode is beneficial for extending battery life.

Display Features:

Size: 6.67 inches
Type: OLED
Resolution: 1080 x 2400 pixels
Brightness: 2100 nits peak
Refresh Rates: 60Hz, 120Hz
Special Feature: Aqua Touch technology

Performance and Battery Life

The heart of the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite is its impressive battery life. The phone is equipped with a 5,500 mAh battery, which is one of the largest in its price range. This capacity allows the phone to comfortably last through two days of normal usage. However, due to regulations around shipping battery cells with more than 20 watt-hours capacity, some European customers will receive a slightly smaller 5,110 mAh battery.

One of the notable features is the 80W Supervooc fast charging. Despite the high charging speed, it’s important to note that the package does not include a charger, let alone a fast charger. This could be a consideration for potential buyers. Additionally, while the phone lacks wireless charging, it offers a reverse charge option, allowing it to act as a power bank for other devices via USB-C at 5W.

Battery and Charging:

Capacity: 5,500 mAh (5,110 mAh in some regions)
Fast Charging: 80W Supervooc
Wireless Charging: Not available
Reverse Charging: 5W via USB-C

Camera

The camera setup on the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite includes a 50-megapixel main lens and a 2-megapixel depth sensor. This is a step down from last year’s Nord CE3 Lite, which featured a 108-megapixel main lens. The decision to use a lower resolution sensor is likely a cost-saving measure to keep the price competitive.

The absence of a telephoto lens and an ultrawide camera means that the CE4 Lite’s photography capabilities are somewhat limited. The depth sensor aids in portrait mode by providing a better separation of the subject from the background. However, users should not expect the same level of detail and versatility found in higher-end models.

Camera Specifications:

Main Lens: 50 megapixels
Depth Sensor: 2 megapixels
Special Modes: Portrait mode
Image Quality: Increased saturation and vibrancy, decent for the price

Software and User Experience:

Running on OnePlus’ OxygenOS, the Nord CE4 Lite offers a clean and intuitive user interface. Known for its smooth performance and minimal bloatware, OxygenOS enhances the overall user experience by prioritizing speed and customization options. Users benefit from timely software updates and optimizations, ensuring the device remains responsive and secure throughout its lifecycle.

Value for Money:

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At £299, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite presents a compelling value proposition in the mid-range smartphone segment. By focusing on essential features such as battery life, display quality, and performance, OnePlus strikes a balance between affordability and functionality. While compromises are made in areas like camera capabilities and included accessories, the Nord CE4 Lite remains a competitive choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking reliable performance and modern smartphone features.

Conclusion

The OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite excels in delivering essential smartphone features at an accessible price point. With a robust battery, vibrant OLED display, and fast charging capabilities, it caters to users prioritizing functionality over premium extras. However, the camera setup reflects trade-offs made to achieve affordability, which may not satisfy users seeking top-tier photography capabilities. Overall, the Nord CE4 Lite stands out as a strong contender in its price category, offering a balanced blend of power, performance, and affordability.

This comprehensive review of the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite highlights its strengths and weaknesses, helping consumers make informed decisions based on their priorities. Whether you prioritize battery endurance, display quality, or overall performance, the Nord CE4 Lite offers a compelling package that meets the needs of budget-conscious smartphone users.

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