OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite Review: 108MP Camera & 67W Fast Charging – Is It Worth It?
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite is the latest addition to OnePlus’s budget-friendly Nord series, offering premium features at an affordable price. With a 108MP primary camera, 67W SuperVOOC fast charging, and a 120Hz display, this smartphone aims to redefine the mid-range segment.
But does it live up to the hype? In this in-depth review, we’ll analyze its design, display, camera, performance, battery life, and software to see if it’s worth your money.
Evolution of the OnePlus Nord Series
Since its debut in 2020, the OnePlus Nord series has bridged the gap between budget and flagship smartphones, offering high-end features at competitive prices.
Key Milestones of the Nord Series:
- 2020: OnePlus Nord launched with Snapdragon 765G, 90Hz AMOLED display, and 5G support.
- 2020: Nord N100 & N10 5G introduced for ultra-budget users.
- 2021: Nord 2 arrived with MediaTek Dimensity 1200 and improved cameras.
- 2022: Nord CE 2 & CE 2 Lite balanced affordability with new features.
- 2023: Nord CE 3 Lite raises the bar with a 108MP camera, 67W charging, and 120Hz display.
The Nord CE 3 Lite continues this legacy, packing flagship-like features into a budget-friendly package.
Design & Build: Premium Look Without the Premium Price
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite features a sleek, glossy plastic back that mimics a premium glass finish. Despite its budget positioning, it doesn’t feel cheap.
Design Highlights:
✔ Lightweight (195g) & Slim (8.3mm) – Comfortable for one-handed use.
✔ Glossy Plastic Back – Resistant to fingerprints, available in Chromatic Grey & Pastel Lime.
✔ Minimal Bezels – 6.72-inch display with a punch-hole selfie camera.
Verdict on Design:
While it doesn’t have a metal frame or glass back, the Nord CE 3 Lite still offers a premium aesthetic that rivals more expensive phones.
Display: Smooth 120Hz FHD+ LCD Panel
The phone sports a 6.72-inch FHD+ LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and gaming.
Display Features:
✔ 120Hz Refresh Rate – Smoother animations and better gaming.
✔ Full HD+ Resolution (2400 x 1080) – Sharp and vibrant visuals.
✔ 450 Nits Brightness – Decent outdoor visibility (though not as bright as AMOLED).
How Does It Compare?
- Pros: Smooth 120Hz experience, good color accuracy.
- Cons: LCD panel (not AMOLED), brightness could be better.
Verdict: A great display for the price, but AMOLED would have been better.
Camera: 108MP Primary Sensor – Is It Worth It?
The 108MP main camera is the star feature of the Nord CE 3 Lite, promising DSLR-like detail.
Camera Setup:
📷 108MP Primary Sensor – Uses pixel-binning for sharper 12MP photos.
📷 2MP Depth Sensor – Helps with portrait mode bokeh effects.
📷 2MP Macro Lens – Decent for close-up shots (but not exceptional).
📸 16MP Selfie Camera – Good for social media selfies.
Camera Performance:
✅ Daylight Photos: Excellent detail, vibrant colors.
✅ Portrait Mode: Natural bokeh, good edge detection.
❌ Low-Light Performance: Average (needs Night Mode).
❌ Macro Shots: Limited usefulness.
Verdict: The 108MP sensor delivers great daylight photos, but low-light performance is mediocre.
Performance: Snapdragon 695 5G – Smooth or Laggy?
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G, the Nord CE 3 Lite handles daily tasks and light gaming well.
Performance Specs:
✔ Snapdragon 695 5G – Efficient for multitasking & casual gaming.
✔ 6GB/8GB RAM Options – Decent for app switching.
✔ 128GB Storage – Expandable via microSD (dedicated slot).
✔ 5G Support – Future-proof connectivity.
Gaming Performance:
🎮 PUBG Mobile (Medium Settings, 60FPS) – Smooth gameplay.
🎮 Call of Duty Mobile (High Settings, 50-60FPS) – Playable but not maxed out.
Verdict: A solid mid-range performer, but not for hardcore gamers.
Battery & Charging: 5000mAh + 67W SuperVOOC
The 5000mAh battery ensures all-day usage, while 67W fast charging refuels the phone in just 40 minutes.
Battery Highlights:
🔋 5000mAh Capacity – Lasts 1.5 days with moderate use.
⚡ 67W SuperVOOC Charging – 0% to 100% in ~40 mins (one of the fastest in this segment).
Verdict: Best-in-class charging speed for a budget phone.
Software: OxygenOS 13.1 – Clean & Bloatware-Free
The phone runs OxygenOS 13.1, offering a clean, bloat-free Android experience.
Software Features:
✔ Near-Stock Android – Smooth and responsive.
✔ Material You Theming – Customizable UI colors.
✔ Enhanced Privacy Controls – App permissions and data security.
Verdict: One of the best Android skins – no unnecessary apps or ads.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite?
Pros:
✔ 108MP Camera – Great for daylight photography.
✔ 67W Fast Charging – Unmatched in this price range.
✔ 120Hz Display – Smooth scrolling & gaming.
✔ Clean OxygenOS – No bloatware, fast updates.
Cons:
❌ LCD Display (Not AMOLED) – Colors lack depth.
❌ Average Low-Light Camera – Needs Night Mode.
❌ Plastic Build – Not as premium as glass/metal phones.
Who Should Buy It?
- Budget-conscious users who want fast charging & a good camera.
- Casual gamers & multitaskers.
- Those who prefer clean software (OxygenOS).
Alternatives to Consider:
- Redmi Note 12 Pro (AMOLED display, better low-light camera)
- Samsung Galaxy A34 (Better software support, IP67 rating)
Final Rating: 8.5/10
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite is a strong mid-range contender, offering great value for money. If you prioritize fast charging, a smooth display, and a clean OS, this phone is a great pick.
