Introduction
The latest Nord CE 3 Lite, one of OnePlus’ Core Edition models, demonstrates that this doesn’t imply “no-frills” because it has a 108MP main camera. The business also revealed a Nord Buds follow-up that now includes ANC.
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite‘s 108MP camera is powered by a 1/1.67″ ISOCELL HM6 sensor. It has 0.64m pixels that can be binned 9-to-1 for 12MP output with 1.92m effective pixel size (up from the Nord CE 2 Lite’s 64MP/0.7m). This also enables 3x lossless magnification. (and up to 6x digital zoom). With CE and Lite certifications, it should come as no surprise that this is the only true camera on the back; the other two modules are a 2MP macro and a 2MP depth sensor.
The Snapdragon 695 used in the Nord CE 3 Lite also powers the 2022 version. Although this 6nm processor performs reasonably well for its class, it cannot compete with Snapdragon chips from the 7-series or the newest Dimensity chips. The video recording speed cap of 1080p @ 30fps, which seems out of place for a 108MP camera, is one of its greatest drawbacks.
The Snapdragon 695 used in the Nord CE 3 Lite also powers the 2022 version. Although this 6nm processor performs reasonably well for its class, it cannot compete with Snapdragon chips from the 7-series or the newest Dimensity chips. The video recording speed cap of 1080p @ 30fps, which seems out of place for a 108MP camera, is one of its greatest drawbacks.
The OxygenOS 13.1 (Android 13) operating system allows users to add an additional 8GB of virtual RAM on top of the 8GB of base RAM that OnePlus increased at least this year. One can choose between 128GB and 256GB of UFS 2.2 storage, and there is also a hybrid microSD port that can accommodate a second SIM or a memory card up to 1TB.
In addition to the camera, OnePlus changed the screen on the Nord CE 3 Lite. It has a 6.72″ FHD+ LCD (20:9, 8-bit) with 120Hz refresh and 240Hz touch sampling rates. It has an average brightness of 550 nits and a maximum brightness of 680 nits. A sheet of Gorilla Glass protects the monitor. (version unknown).
The thickness of the phone has decreased slightly to 8.3mm. (down from 8.5mm). It continues to weigh 195g. Pastel Lime and Chromatic Gray are the two colorways that are available at debut.
The battery still has a 5,000mAh size after being reduced by 0.2mm. The battery has actually undergone the greatest improvement since the camera because it now supports 67W SuperVOOC. Accordingly, a flat battery can be charged to 80% in 30 minutes (as opposed to 50% with the 33W system of the previous iteration). The battery should last you four years of daily charging thanks to the SuperVOOC Endurance Edition, which stops overcharging and slows down battery ageing.
Some of the features that make this an excellent value for money phone were retained by OnePlus. In addition to the stereo speakers (with a 200% Ultra Volume Mode) and the microSD slot that was already stated, it has a 3.5mm port for wired headphones. A charger, USB-C cable (USB 2.0 is what the phone allows), and a screen protector are all included with the phone.
OnePlus Nord Buds 2
If you prefer, you can use the new Nord phone with connected headphones, but many people prefer wireless. The OnePlus Nord Buds 2 is designed for them, at least those on a limited budget. These, unlike the originals, have Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), which can decrease background noise by 25dB. This has an effect on battery life; with ANC enabled, the flowers can last up to 5 hours. (and the expected 7 hours with ANC off).
The good news is that the earbuds enable fast charging and only take 10 minutes to fully charge for 5 hours of listening time. Depending on the ANC status, the case can give a total of 27 or 36 hours of listening time.
These earbuds, like their predecessors, enable Dolby Atmos audio and have 12.4mm drivers. Additionally, there are a Sound Master Equalizer and a Dirac Tuner on board. (these are accessible via the HeyMelody app). Although the connectivity has been updated to Bluetooth 5.3, the fundamentals, such as fast Pair support and a 94ms gaming mode, remain the same. The AAC codec is used by the buds for audio.
The buds are dust and water resistant, with an IP55 rating, so they can withstand rain and perspiration. They have the same design as the originals, with short stems that contain the touch controls. The Nord Buds 2 are available in Lightning White and Thunder Grey, and OnePlus has included emoji stickers in the retail box to allow you to personalise their appearance.
The earbuds can withstand rain and perspiration because they have an IP55 rating for dust and water protection. Similar to the originals, they have short stems that contain touch controls. The Nord Buds 2 are available in Thunder Grey and Lightning White, and OnePlus has added emoji stickers to the retail box so you can personalise their appearance.
Pricing & availability
Beginning on April 25, European customers will start receiving their OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite deliveries. For now, the only available option is the 8/128GB model, which costs €330/£300. The phone will go on sale on April 11 for 20,000 for the 8/128GB model and 22,000 for the 256GB edition in India.
The Nord Buds 2 are currently on sale for €70/£70 and are readily accessible. On April 11, the blooms will go on sale in India for 3,000.
