The OnePlus 13T has hit the market, and while it’s an update to the T series that fans have been eagerly awaiting, the initial impressions have left many feeling disappointed. At first glance, the specifications reveal a dual camera system, lack of wireless charging, and limited IP rating, raising eyebrows among tech enthusiasts. However, a closer look at its pricing and performance reveals a more nuanced picture.
Initially priced at $460, which is $100 less than the competing Xiaomi 15s, this device has its merits. It boasts a sleek design, a powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, and a remarkable 6,000 mAh battery packed into a compact frame. These features suggest that the OnePlus 13T could cater to a specific audience looking for a smaller phone with robust performance.
Design and Build Quality
Upon first holding the OnePlus 13T, many users experience a sense of déjà vu, as its design seems reminiscent of various other smartphones. It has a familiar feel, akin to the Xiaomi 15, while its operation resembles the Oppo Find X8s. From the fun side, it appears similar to the iPhone 16, and the back design brings to mind the Mi11 Lite. The overall build quality, however, is commendable, featuring a frosted aluminum frame and glass that lend a more premium feel than its price might suggest.
The camera module is neatly positioned in the top left corner, minimizing interference with your grip, regardless of whether you’re left- or right-handed. But despite these appealing design elements, the phone’s features leave something to be desired in comparison to its competitors.
Performance and Gaming Experience
One of the standout features of the OnePlus 13T is its processing power, driven by the Snapdragon 8 Elite. While some might argue that a MediaTek chip, such as the Dimensity 9400 Plus, could have provided a more cost-effective alternative, the Snapdragon chip does deliver impressive performance. The phone’s ability to handle mobile gaming is particularly noteworthy.
During a recent mobile gaming tournament hosted by OnePlus under the midday sun, the device showcased its capabilities, outperforming other compact phones in terms of frame rates and thermal management. The gaming experience is enhanced by various features such as:
- Bypass charging
- AI-assisted controls
- Frame interpolation
- Super-resolution capabilities
These gaming-centric features set the OnePlus 13T apart, making it a competitive option for gamers looking for a compact device.
Battery Life and Charging
Another highlight of the OnePlus 13T is its impressive battery life. With 80-watt charging capabilities, users can expect a 28% charge in just 10 minutes and 82% in half an hour, with a full charge taking around 52 minutes. The silicon carbon battery technology allows for a compact design without compromising battery size, ensuring that even non-gamers can comfortably last a full day without needing a recharge.
Display Quality
The OnePlus 13T sports a display that, on paper, rivals flagship models. The TMA panel boasts a peak brightness of over 800 nits, with a high brightness mode reaching an impressive 1,600 nits. Users will appreciate the options for DC dimming and the device’s ability to handle varying lighting conditions effectively. However, some aspects of the design, such as the low position of the fingerprint sensor and a thicker bottom bezel, could be improved, especially when compared to the sleeker design of its sibling, the Find X8s.
Camera Performance
When it comes to photography, the OnePlus 13T features a dual-camera setup with a 24mm main camera and a 49mm telephoto lens. In good lighting conditions, it captures decent photos, but nighttime performance is where it falters, aligning more closely with what one might expect from a phone priced around $250. The absence of an ultra-wide lens is a significant drawback, as panoramic mode cannot fully compensate for the lack of versatility in low-light scenarios.
Video performance is another area where the 13T struggles, particularly in low-light conditions where focus hunting becomes an issue, and video quality suffers. The front-facing camera maxes out at 1080p 30fps, which is underwhelming for a device in this price range.
Price Comparison and Market Reception
Despite being priced lower than the Xiaomi 15, which has seen significant price reductions on third-party platforms, the OnePlus 13T is facing criticism for its lack of features. For just a $50 increase, users can opt for the Xiaomi 15, which offers additional benefits such as an extra camera, wireless charging, an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, and a higher IP rating. The OnePlus 13T’s standout feature remains its large battery, but it seems this alone may not be enough to win over consumers.
Conclusion
In summary, the OnePlus 13T presents a mixed bag of features and performance. While it shines in battery life and gaming capabilities, its overall camera performance and missing features may leave some potential buyers unimpressed. If you’re in the market for a compact phone with decent performance and a large battery, the OnePlus 13T may be worth considering. However, for those who prioritize camera quality and additional features, alternatives like the Xiaomi 15 could be more appealing.
Credit: gizmochina
