The smartphone scene has evolved with time — it is not just Apple and Samsung dominating the industry anymore. Nowadays, you have plenty of popular phone brands to choose from. One of the most prolific brands is OnePlus. Despite being relatively new to the competitive market of smartphones, OnePlus has managed to carve a place for itself among consumers. However, with so many models on offer, it can be hard to take your pick.
Here are the best OnePlus phones you can buy this 2022.
Best OnePlus Phones
Adore
- Excellent fast charging capabilities
- Great display performance
- Improved cameras
- Superb gaming and overall performance
Dislike
- Slightly reduced battery capacity from the previous model
- Lack of HDR video recording on the selfie camera
- Absence of memory card slot
- Price not affordable
The OnePlus 9 Pro is the standing flagship phone of the brand as of writing, and in our opinion, it’s legitimately a premium device not just in terms of price but in overall aspect. As OnePlus said, they made 9 Pro in a manner that will shine on both fronts, which are gaming and performance.
Equipped with the Snapdragon 888 processor and a maximum of 12 GB RAM, gaming would expectedly be swift with this device. The experience is further optimized by the 6.7″ display with a 120Hz refresh rate. Altogether, they make for crisp, vibrant, and smooth graphics.
The OnePlus 9 Pro has also seen a significant improvement on the stale camera system of the brand, although they still have to play catch-up with other giants. The upgrades are mainly seen in its optical zoom and ultrawide capability, but the selfie camera stays pretty much the same as the 8 Pro.
Some people were disappointed that the battery capacity for the OnePlus 9 Pro was reduced. But in our opinion, it’s very minimal and can’t be big trouble. They compensated for that anyway by overhauling the fast charging capability from the previous flagship.
As expected from a flagship model, the OnePlus 9 Pro is not anywhere near cheap. Upon launch, it would originally exceed the one-thousand dollar mark on retail, but merchants nowadays would offer it below the original price.
Adore
- 120Hz, HDR10+ display
- Reliable battery and excellent fast charging
- Versatile camera
- Dependable Snapdragon 865 chipset
Dislike
- Lack of wireless charging
- No water or dust resistance
You don’t have the budget for a flagship OnePlus phone, but you don’t want to settle with an entry-level phone either — the OnePlus 8T would be a good pick for you. It’s a decent mobile phone that could find a middle ground between specs and price.
The OnePlus 8T has the Snapdragon 865 inside that delivers speed and efficiency for gaming and overall performance. Its chipset is also partly responsible for its jaw-dropping graphics with a 120Hz refresh rate.
Although not at par with the flagships, its camera performance is also decent. The OnePlus 8T has a quad-camera setup: 48 MP (wide), 16 MP (ultrawide), 5 MP (macro), 2 MP (monochrome). In front, it is equipped with a 16 MP lens. This OnePlus phone has two variations: 128GB 8GB RAM and 256GB 12GB RAM. Both, however, are non-expandable.
One thing to nitpick about OnePlus 8T is the lack of wireless charging. Although it has capable battery capacity and impressive fast charging, its lack of wireless compatibility is a bit disappointing.
Nord 200
Adore
- Powerful battery
- Storage expandability
- Inclusion of 3.5mm jack
Dislike
- Undesirable camera specs
- Overall poor build quality
Most OnePlus phones on this list are not exactly wallet-friendly but the Nord 200 is an exception. Because of its affordability, it’s one of the best OnePlus phones to get so far.
For the apparent reason, the Nord 200 doesn’t have the most powerful specs. It settles with Snapdragon 480 as its processor. Its selfie and triple main camera setup are neither desirable. It’s also built using rather low-end materials. In short, it truly is an entry-level smartphone.
However, there is also a lot to love about Nord 200 other than its price. For its price, it surprisingly has a bright screen paired with a 90 Hz refresh rate. Its battery capacity is also incredibly impressive, with 5000 mAh, although it lacks a true wireless charging capability. Lastly, it has two of the things flagship phone users wish for — a 3.5mm jack and a memory card slot.
Adore
- Powerful chipset and performance
- Premium build quality
- Great display performance
Dislike
- Wireless charging is at 15w only
- Lacks telephoto
- No memory card slot
OnePlus 9 is the cheaper version of the OnePlus 9 Pro, sold at around a quarter less than its big brother upon launch. Being the cheaper version, you can expect a number of downgrades on this OnePlus phone. Regardless, it’s still something you would want to clutch if you are looking for an excellent smartphone at a mid-range price.
Upon first glance, there’s not really a huge difference between the OnePlus 9 and the OnePlus 9 Pro to notice physically. OnePlus 9 almost got the same glass front and back, only with a plastic frame instead of aluminum. It even got the same processor and maximum memory, so performance should not be that different if there’s any difference.
The biggest departure of the OnePlus 9 from the pro version can be seen on the camera. Instead of a quad, it only got a triple set of cameras, which eliminates telephoto. It also has the same battery and fast-charging capability through a cable. However, fast wireless charging for this device is significantly reduced.
Adore
- Large screen display with 1440p resolution and 120 Hz refresh rate
- Outstanding camera quality supporting telephoto, ultra-wide, and wide-angle
- Dual-SIM capacity
- Wireless charging
Dislike
- Bulky in size
- Doesn’t have memory expandability
- Ultrawide camera not optimal in a low-light environment
The OnePlus 8 Pro was once the most powerful OnePlus phone, and it remains the best device to get from the esteemed electronic manufacturer. If the latest OnePlus flagship doesn’t sit well with your budget, the OnePlus 8 Pro would be a good alternative because of its high-end features at a price that’s cheaper than ever.
It has a Snapdragon 865 chipset running it under the hood. It also has a whopping 4,510 mAh battery, which means you can get longer use out of the phone before it dies on you. In terms of RAM, the OnePlus 8 Pro has 8 and 12 GB variants. Memory-wise, you can get 256 GB of storage.
When it comes to the display, the OnePlus 8 Pro has a 6.78-inch display with a 1,440 x 3,168 resolution. The smartphone ships with Android 10 out of the box and weighs 199 grams. It also boasts 5G capabilities as well as wireless charging and reverses wireless charging. Other than that, it is water-resistant and comes with an in-display fingerprint scanner for security purposes.
But, perhaps one of its most attractive features is its cameras. The front camera comes with 16 MP, which is not unheard of in most contemporary smartphones. However, it is the rear cameras that have managed to truly capture worldwide attention. It has four back cameras, each one with 48, 48, 8, and 5 MP, respectively. The cameras allow you to take impressive photos, but they can be a bit bulky. All in all, the OnePlus 8 Pro certainly packs a whole lot of punch in one smartphone.
Adore
- Excellent battery life
- Fast charging
- Good phone for music
- Value for money
- Ultra quick fingerprint reader
Dislike
- Unattractive front camera
- Only macro camera instead of ultra-wide and telephoto
- Shaky 4K video and unsharp video quality
- No wireless charging
If you want 5G connectivity without staggering prices, then the OnePlus 8 is the answer to your problems. It is much lighter than the OnePlus 8 Pro, at only 180 grams, but it is just as new as its more expensive sibling.
Display-wise, the OnePlus 8 comes with a 6.55-inch screen with a 1,080 x 2,400 resolution. Powering it under the hood is a Snapdragon 865 chipset and a 4,300 mAh battery. It runs on Android 10 out of the box, too. The design is similar to the Pro version, with its sleek and curved style. In terms of memory, you get 256 GB of storage and 8/12 GB of RAM.
The main difference between the OnePlus 8 and its Pro sibling is its rear cameras. The OnePlus 8 comes with a triple rear camera setup, whereas the Pro version comes with a quad-camera setup. With this OnePlus phone, you get 48, 16, and 2 MP for its main cameras. For selfies, you get a decent 16 MP camera. Apart from that, the OnePlus 8 supports fast charging, though it does not have wireless charging like its more expensive sibling. Regardless, the OnePlus 8 is still a speedy smartphone with plenty to boast.
If you want a smartphone that runs on the Snapdragon 865 but want to save money as well, the OnePlus 8 is the model for you. It gives you just as much power without the extra bells and whistles. Granted, a lot of people like the bells and whistles. However, if you are just looking for a powerful smartphone that can get the job done, get the OnePlus 8. It is also cheaper than the Pro version.
Adore
- Loud stereo speakers
- Outstanding battery life with fast charging ability
- Flagship-grade photo quality even in a low light environment
- Better video and photo quality as compared to its successors
Dislike
- No wireless charging
- Does not come with an auto jack
- Does not support microSD memory expansion
The OnePlus 7T Pro doesn’t necessarily have the latest specs, but it can easily clutch on the best OnePlus phone title. It is heavier than the newer models, at 206 grams. However, its specifications more than make up for its heftier build. It has a 6.67-inch display with a 1,440 x 3,120 resolution, which means it is smooth and crisp all in one.
When you take a look under the hood, the OnePlus 7T Pro is powered by a Snapdragon 855 Plus chipset and a 4,085 mAh battery. It comes with 256 GB of storage, so you can save plenty of files without worrying much about the limit. In terms of RAM, it has both 8 and 12 GB variants. This OnePlus phone also boasts a pop-up front camera with 16 MP, which means it gives you more screen without the hassle of a notch. The rear cameras, on the other hand, have 48, 8, and 16 MP.
One of the only downsides to the OnePlus 7T Pro is that it does not support wireless charging. So, if you are in a pinch, you can’t just place it and leave it. However, if that is not much of a bother to you, you can get your money’s worth with this OnePlus phone. It is more expensive than the other smartphones in the OnePlus 7 lineup. But, for its specs, its price is definitely a bargain.
Adore
- Quick fingerprint scanner
- Excellent display with Fluid AMOLED screen
- Good price to performance ratio
- Perfect phone size and design, and comfortable to hold
Dislike
- Does not come with a headphone jack
- Inconsistent camera quality
- No wireless charging function
Also released back in October 2019, the OnePlus 7T (or OnePlus 7+) model is a handset to be reckoned with. It comes with powerful specs that you can buy without breaking the bank. Lighter than the 7T Pro version, this OnePlus phone weighs 190 grams. It has a screen size of 6.55 inches and boasts a resolution of 1,080 x 2,400 pixels. The 7T also offers an incredible refresh rate, much like other OnePlus phones on this list.
The OnePlus 7T is powered by a Snapdragon 855 Plus chipset and runs on Android 10 out of the box. In terms of battery, you get a decent 3,800 mAh one, which will certainly last you a long while before you need to charge again. It comes with 8 GB of RAM and variants of 128 and 256 GB of internal storage.
Unlike the OnePlus 7T Pro, though, this OnePlus phone does not have a pop-up selfie camera. It sits right on the screen in a tiny notch at the top, but it is small enough to not get in the way. The front camera boasts 16 MP and the rear cameras boast 48, 12, and 16 MP. It also does not support wireless charging.
Despite all of its flaws, though, the OnePlus 7T remains a decent handset with a mid-range price. It manages to get the job done and gives you an impressive experience, to boot. So, if you are looking for a good OnePlus phone that you can easily afford, the OnePlus 7T is your best bet.
Adore
- Competitive pricing
- Sleek and unique design
- Superb super AMOLED display
- 90Hz refresh rate
Dislike
- Curved edges that might be disturbing for some users
- Phone size weighing heavy and not mobile gaming-friendly
- Battery draining quicker than its predecessor
The OnePlus 7 Pro made its debut back in May 2019, but that does not mean it is behind in terms of specs. In fact, this OnePlus phone has plenty to offer. First of all, it comes with a 6.67-inch display with a screen resolution of 1,440 x 3,120 px. There is a Snapdragon 855 chipset powering it under the hood and a 4,000 mAh battery that is capable of fast charging. It also ships with Android 10 out of the box.
Interestingly, the OnePlus 7 Pro is the first “Pro” model in the brand’s lineup. And, with its crisp all-screen display and impressive features, it is easy to see why it warranted the “Pro” name. As stated, the OnePlus 7 Pro boasts a full screen with no notch to hinder your experience. So, where is the front-facing camera, you ask? Like the 7T Pro, the 7 Pro comes with a pop-up 16-MP selfie camera setup. At the back, this OnePlus phone has a triple camera setup, with 48, 8, and 16 MP.
The OnePlus 7 Pro is decidedly bulkier than its other cousins on this list. So, if you have particularly small hands, this OnePlus phone may not be the one for you. However, if you can get over its size and 206-gram weight, you will surely be satisfied with your purchase. With its fast performance and brilliant design, there is no denying the appeal of the OnePlus 7 Pro.
OnePlus 7
Adore
- Competitive pricing
- Outstanding battery life
- Solid stereo quality and loudness
DIslike
- No ultra-wide or telephoto camera
- No microSD card slot
- Lacking versatility as compared to its competitors
When the OnePlus 7 first dropped in June 2018, it made waves in the tech industry. It was ultra-light, coming in at only 182 grams. Despite its lightweight build, though, it still had a formidable screen size. The OnePlus 7 boasts a 6.41-inch display with a resolution of 1,080 x 2,340 px. It comes with a Snapdragon 855 under its hood, which means you get enough power for your use as well.
In terms of battery, the OnePlus 7 carries a 3,700 mAh unit that will last you a good long while. This OnePlus phone also runs on Android 10 out of the box, so you get the latest Android operating system, too. For memory, the OnePlus 7 has 6 and 8 GB RAM variants. Meanwhile, you can choose from a storage space of either 128 or 256 GB. With that kind of internal memory, you can bet you will not run out.
When it comes to cameras, this OnePlus phone has a solid 16-MP selfie camera. At the back, there are two cameras, with one at 48 MP and the other at 5 MP. For most people, this type of dual-camera setup is already fine. However, others may prefer something a bit more powerful in terms of camera ability. Other than that, the OnePlus 7 does not have a microSD slot or headphone jacks, so you will need to buy a pair of Bluetooth earphones if you want a more private listening session.
Who Makes the OnePlus Phone?
OnePlus is a brand originating from China. It is owned by BBK Electronics under the official name of One Plus Technology Co., Ltd. Commonly, though, people know it as OnePlus. Despite only entering the smartphone market in 2013, OnePlus has managed to pierce the American market and remain relevant throughout its seven years in the industry so far. Other than the United States, OnePlus also serves 33 other countries.
Wrap-Up: OnePlus Phone Review
Overall, the appeal of these OnePlus phones is undeniable. It comes as no surprise that people love these units, considering their formidable specs. Plus, they offer great value for their price. They are certainly not as expensive as other high-end models in the market today. However, they still stay relevant with impressive specs and features. So, if you want a solid smartphone with competitive pricing, OnePlus is the way to go.