The OnePlus Nord N30 5G is a budget smartphone that often gets overlooked in favor of more expensive options like the iPhone 15 and Galaxy S24. However, it is a solid choice for those on a tight budget, offering a 6.7-inch 120Hz display, Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 chipset, and all-day battery life with 50W fast charging. It also includes features like stereo speakers, NFC chip, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a microSD card slot for expandable storage. Despite being considerably cheaper than competitors like the Pixel 7A and Samsung Galaxy A54 5G, the Nord N30 5G performs well in most areas and is a good value for the price.
While the OnePlus Nord N30 5G offers excellent value for its price, there are a few drawbacks to consider. It is nearing the end of its software support cycle and will only receive one major update beyond Android 13. The camera system, while decent, falls short of more expensive options like the Google Pixel phones. The triple-sensor setup includes a 16-megapixel selfie camera, two-megapixel depth and macro sensors, and a 108-megapixel main sensor with pixel binning. While it can capture good photos in well-lit situations, the 3x zoom photos are soft and it struggles in low-light conditions. However, considering the price point, the camera performance is forgivable.
Despite its limitations, the OnePlus Nord N30 5G remains a compelling option for those looking for a budget smartphone. With a current price of $249.99 for an unlocked model, it offers a great value proposition with its solid performance, good battery life, and useful features. The phone’s 128GB of storage can be expanded up to 1TB with a microSD card, providing ample space for photos, videos, and apps. The inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack is a welcome feature for those who prefer wired audio, and the stereo speakers deliver decent sound quality for media consumption.
Overall, the OnePlus Nord N30 5G stands out as one of the best budget smartphones under $300, offering a good balance of performance, features, and affordability. While it may not have the latest and greatest camera or software support, it delivers well enough in most areas to be a solid choice for budget-conscious consumers. Whether you’re looking for a secondary phone, a backup device, or a starter smartphone for a teen or young adult, the Nord N30 5G offers a compelling package that punches above its weight class in the budget segment. With a $50 discount currently available, now is a great time to consider picking up this affordable champ.