OnePlus has expanded its global smartphone lineup with the launch of the Nord 5 and Nord CE5, two mid-range devices that blend impressive specifications with AI-driven features. These models come shortly after the India-exclusive OnePlus 13S, signaling the brand’s intent to strengthen its presence in international markets. Both phones offer powerful hardware and software capabilities, but also introduce some region-specific changes, particularly in battery capacity.
The OnePlus Nord 5 is the more premium of the two, equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor, which is an underclocked variant of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. It offers configurations of 8GB or 12GB RAM and 256GB or 512GB of UFS 3.1 storage. The device features a vibrant 6.38-inch AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ support, and a peak brightness of 1,400 nits. Photography is handled by a dual rear camera setup comprising a 50MP primary sensor with optical image stabilization and an 8MP ultrawide lens, while the front camera boasts a sharp 50MP sensor with autofocus.
One of the standout features of the Nord 5 is the introduction of the “Plus Key,” an AI-focused button that replaces the traditional alert slider. Inspired by the iPhone 16’s Action Button, this key provides quick access to OnePlus’s “Mind Space” — a smart assistant that can summarize screengrabs, manage information, assist with message writing, transcribe voice notes, and offer real-time translation during calls (currently limited to English). All AI data is securely processed through the company’s “Private Computing Cloud,” emphasizing user privacy.
Battery capacity varies significantly by region due to European Union regulations. While the Asian market receives a large 6,800mAh battery, the UK and Europe get a reduced 5,200mAh pack. Despite this, the Nord 5 supports fast 80W charging and features bypass charging technology to prevent overheating during gaming sessions. The phone’s build includes a glass back but uses a plastic mid-frame, a departure from the all-metal design seen in previous Nord models. It is available in three colors: Marble Sands, Dry Ice, and Phantom Grey.
The Nord CE5 targets users looking for a more affordable yet capable mid-range smartphone. Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8350 chipset, it supports up to 12GB of RAM and offers 128GB or 256GB of internal storage with microSD expansion. Its 6.77-inch Full HD+ AMOLED display supports a 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+. The camera setup mirrors the Nord 5 with a 50MP primary and 8MP ultrawide rear sensors, though with smaller and less advanced components. The front camera is a 16MP shooter without autofocus. The device runs Android 15 with OxygenOS and promises four years of platform updates and six years of security patches.
Like the Nord 5, the Nord CE5 also faces battery size reductions in Europe and the UK, dropping from 7,100mAh in India to 5,200mAh in these regions, while maintaining 80W fast charging. Its build is more budget-conscious, featuring plastic for both the back and mid-frame, and is available in Black Infinity, Marble Mist, and Nexus Blue.
Pricing & Availability
| Model | RAM/Storage | UK Price (GBP/USD) | India/Asia Battery | UK/EU Battery |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OnePlus Nord 5 | 8GB/256GB | £399 (~$540) | 6,800mAh | 5,200mAh |
| OnePlus Nord 5 | 12GB/512GB | £499 (~$680) | 6,800mAh | 5,200mAh |
| OnePlus Nord CE5 | 8GB/128GB | £299 (~$405) | 7,100mAh | 5,200mAh |
- Both phones are available in the UK immediately.
- US availability remains uncertain, with only “Lite” CE-series models occasionally rebranded for the US market. Potential regulatory issues may further delay or prevent a US launch.
Additional Launches
Alongside the Nord 5 and CE5, OnePlus also introduced:
- OnePlus Pad Lite
- OnePlus Buds 4
- OnePlus Watch 3 (smaller variant)
These accessories will be available in the US, expanding OnePlus’s ecosystem offerings.
In addition to these smartphones, OnePlus is launching several accessories globally, including the OnePlus Pad Lite tablet, Buds 4 wireless earbuds, and a smaller variant of the Watch 3 smartwatch, which will be available in the US market. Overall, the Nord 5 and Nord CE5 offer a compelling mix of performance, AI capabilities, and value, albeit with some compromises tailored to regional regulations and market demands.