OnePlus 12R Review: Low in Price, Big in Power

The OnePlus 12 has garnered attention for its exceptional performance and remarkable battery life, but its starting price of $800 may be daunting for some consumers. In such cases, the OnePlus 12R, priced at $500 (£649, roughly AU$1,250), emerges as a compelling alternative. While it shares certain design elements with its pricier counterpart and offers decent battery life and performance, it does make some compromises to achieve its lower price point.

Performance

Running on the slightly older Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, the OnePlus 12R delivers commendable performance, although it falls short of the cutting-edge capabilities of the OnePlus 12’s 8 Gen 3 chip. Additionally, the 12R features a scaled-back camera setup, comprising a 50-megapixel main camera, an 8-megapixel ultrawide camera, and a 2-megapixel camera with a macro lens. While capable of capturing decent shots in various conditions, it may not satisfy users seeking a more robust photography experience offered by its flagship counterpart.

Disappointing Support

One noteworthy aspect of the OnePlus 12R is its disappointing shorter software support period. Unlike the standard OnePlus 12, which receives three years of software updates and four years of security updates, the 12R falls short by a year in each category. This disparity raises concerns about sustainability, suggesting that longer support is a premium feature reserved for higher-end models.

Battery Performance

Despite these drawbacks, the OnePlus 12R boasts an impressive 5,500-mAh battery, surpassing even the OnePlus 12 in terms of capacity. While its performance may not match that of its pricier sibling, it still offers above-average battery life, ensuring a full day of mixed usage. Moreover, the inclusion of 80-watt wireless charging, and in the UK, 100-watt fast charging, enhances its appeal, providing rapid recharging capabilities out of the box.

Performance

The device’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip delivers robust performance, excelling in benchmark tests and handling demanding tasks and games with ease. Its sleek design, featuring a frosted glass back and a vibrant 6.78-inch display with wet-touch technology, contributes to its premium feel. Additionally, the phone’s IP64 water resistance rating ensures usability even in adverse weather conditions.

Compelling Camera

In terms of photography, the OnePlus 12R’s main 50-megapixel camera captures impressive shots, displaying rich colors and detail in various settings. While the ultrawide lens offers decent performance, there is a noticeable color discrepancy between lenses, and details at the edges may appear less defined. Despite lacking a telephoto optical zoom lens, the camera delivers satisfactory results in low-light conditions, making it suitable for everyday photography needs.

Ultimately, the OnePlus 12R presents a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers seeking a capable Android phone. While it may not offer the same level of performance and features as its flagship counterpart, its affordability and respectable specifications make it a worthwhile consideration. However, potential buyers should weigh the trade-offs carefully and consider whether the additional features of the flagship OnePlus 12 justify the higher price tag.

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OnePlus 12 Vs 12R specs comparison chart

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