In the ever-competitive smartphone market, the “flagship killer” moniker gets thrown around quite often. But does the OnePlus 12R live up to this title? After spending weeks testing this mid-range contender, here’s our comprehensive review:
Design and Display:
The OnePlus 12R ditches the iconic alert slider from previous models, opting for a cleaner, sleeker look. It’s comfortable to hold and feels premium, thanks to the Gorilla Glass Victus front and matte finish options. While some might miss the alert slider, the overall design exudes elegance and practicality.
The 6.78-inch AMOLED display is a true highlight. Boasting a 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+ support, it delivers smooth visuals and vibrant colors. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or browsing, the display provides a truly immersive experience.
Performance and Power:
Packing the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset, the 12R punches above its weight in terms of performance. It handles everyday tasks and demanding games with ease, offering a lag-free experience. However, some benchmark tests show slightly lower scores compared to true flagships like the OnePlus 12 Pro.
The phone comes in configurations with 8GB or 12GB of RAM, paired with 128GB or 256GB of storage. Multitasking isn’t an issue, and there’s ample space for your apps and media. Additionally, the 5,000mAh battery ensures all-day usage for most users, with the 80W fast charging getting you back to 100% in about 30 minutes.
Camera System:
The triple-camera setup on the rear consists of a 50MP main sensor, an 8MP ultrawide, and a 2MP macro lens. While the main sensor captures decent photos in good lighting, low-light performance could be better. The ultrawide provides decent shots but lacks detail compared to flagships. The macro lens, while a fun addition, feels unnecessary and doesn’t add much value.
The 16MP front-facing camera produces good selfies and video calls. However, compared to top-tier phones, the overall camera system feels like a missed opportunity. If photography is a major priority, other alternatives might be more suitable.
Software and Features:
The 12R runs OxygenOS 12.1 based on Android 12, offering a clean and user-friendly interface with some additional customization options. However, OnePlus has recently merged its software with OPPO’s ColorOS, raising concerns about future updates and potential bloatware. Time will tell how this merger impacts the user experience in the long run.
The phone includes features like an in-display fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, and Wi-Fi 6. However, it lacks a headphone jack and expandable storage, which may be a dealbreaker for some users.
Verdict: A Worthy Flagship Killer?
The OnePlus 12R delivers solid performance, a beautiful display, and long-lasting battery life, all at a competitive price point. However, its camera system falls short of flagship expectations, and the software situation remains uncertain.
Here’s who the 12R might be perfect for:
- Gamers and power users: The top-of-the-line processor and smooth display ensure a flawless gaming and multitasking experience.
- Those looking for a premium feel: The sleek design and high-quality materials make it a phone you’ll be proud to hold.
- Battery life warriors: The massive battery and fast charging keep you powered up all day.
However, consider other options if:
- You prioritize camera quality: The 12R’s camera system doesn’t compete with true flagships.
- Expandable storage and a headphone jack are essential: The 12R lacks these features.
- You’re concerned about future software updates: The upcoming merger with ColorOS creates uncertainty.
Overall, the OnePlus 12R is a compelling mid-range option, offering excellent performance, a stunning display, and long-lasting battery life. However, its camera system and software situation hold it back from truly claiming the “flagship killer” title.