Reviews
OnePlus Watch 2 Review
OnePlus has returned to the smartwatch arena with its latest offering, the OnePlus Watch 2, aiming to rectify the shortcomings of its predecessor and make a mark in the competitive wearable market. Released three years after the lukewarm reception of the first-gen OnePlus Watch, this iteration boasts significant improvements, particularly in battery life and software support.
The Pros:
1. Excellent battery life
2. WearOS 4 support
3. Diverse workout and sports modes
The Cons:
1. Limited to one large size
2. Non-functional digital crown
3. Absence of advanced health-tracking features
Learning from Past Mistakes:
The debut OnePlus Watch faced criticism for its software glitches, basic fitness features, and limited app support. In response, OnePlus has equipped the Watch 2 with a dual-chip architecture, optimizing performance and efficiency tasks.
Design and Display:
Sporting a premium stainless steel body and a sizable 1.43-inch circular AMOLED display, the OnePlus Watch 2 exudes sophistication. Despite its larger size, it remains comfortable to wear for extended periods, unlike some competitors.
Functionality and Customization:
Featuring customizable buttons and intuitive controls, the Watch 2 offers a seamless user experience. However, the digital crown-like button lacks scrolling functionality, detracting from its overall usability.
WearOS Integration:
With WearOS 4 support, the OnePlus Watch 2 addresses the app support issues plaguing its predecessor, expanding its compatibility and functionality for Android users.
Battery Performance:
One of the standout features of the Watch 2 is its impressive battery life, thanks to its 500mAh battery and dual operating modes. Users can enjoy extended usage in Smart Mode or opt for Power Saver Mode to conserve battery during longer periods without access to charging.
Health and Fitness Tracking:
The OnePlus Watch 2 excels in tracking activities such as walking, running, and various sports, providing comprehensive metrics and insights. However, it falls short in advanced health monitoring features like ECG and temperature sensing.
Priced competitively at $399.99, the OnePlus Watch 2 appeals to fitness enthusiasts seeking a robust wearable with long-lasting battery life and seamless integration with Android devices. While it may lack certain advanced features and cater exclusively to larger wrists, its overall performance and value make it a strong contender in the wearable market.
Reviews
OnePlus 13 Series Specifications
Build and Design
OnePlus 13:
Materials: Glass front and back, aluminum frame
Dimensions: 161.7 x 73.8 x 8.5 mm
Weight: 200 g
Color Options: Black, White, Blue
IP Rating: IP68 water and dust resistance
OnePlus 13 Pro:
Materials: Ceramic back, aluminum frame
Dimensions: 163.4 x 75.1 x 8.9 mm
Weight: 218 g
Color Options: Black, White, Green
IP Rating: IP68 water and dust resistance with increased durability
OnePlus 13 Ultra:
Materials: Leather back, aluminum frame
Dimensions: 164.8 x 75.9 x 9.1 mm
Weight: 227 g
Color Options: Black, White, Orange
IP Rating: IP69 for enhanced resistance to water and dust
Display
OnePlus 13:
Type: 6.7-inch AMOLED
Resolution: FHD+ (2400 x 1080 pixels)
Refresh Rate: 120Hz
Peak Brightness: 1600 nits
OnePlus 13 Pro:
Type: 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED
Resolution: QHD+ (3200 x 1440 pixels)
Adaptive Refresh Rate: 1Hz–120Hz, HDR10+ support
Peak Brightness: 2000 nits
OnePlus 13 Ultra:
Type: 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED
Resolution: QHD+ (3200 x 1440 pixels)
Adaptive Refresh Rate: 1Hz–144Hz, HDR10+, Dolby Vision
Peak Brightness: 2500 nits
Processor and Software
Processor for All Models: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
Cooling (Pro & Ultra): Advanced cooling system with vapor chambers for sustained performance
OS for All Models: Android 15 with OxygenOS 14
Storage and Memory
OnePlus 13:
Configurations: 12GB RAM / 256GB storage; 16GB RAM / 512GB storage (UFS 4.0)
OnePlus 13 Pro:
Configurations: 16GB RAM / 512GB storage; 24GB RAM / 1TB storage (UFS 4.0)
OnePlus 13 Ultra:
Configurations: 24GB RAM / 1TB storage; special edition with 32GB RAM / 1TB storage (UFS 4.0)
Camera System
OnePlus 13:
Rear Camera Setup:
Main: 50 MP, f/1.8, OIS
Telephoto: 48 MP, 3x optical zoom, OIS
Ultrawide: 48 MP, 120° FOV
Front Camera: 32 MP for clear selfies
OnePlus 13 Pro:
Rear Camera Setup:
Main: 50 MP Sony IMX sensor, f/1.6, OIS, Hasselblad tuning
Telephoto: 50 MP, 5x optical zoom, OIS
Ultrawide: 48 MP, 120° FOV, macro support
Front Camera: 32 MP with 4K video support
OnePlus 13 Ultra:
Rear Camera Setup:
Main: 64 MP, f/1.4, with Hasselblad Summilux optics, OIS
Telephoto: 50 MP, 10x periscope zoom, OIS
Ultrawide: 50 MP, 125° FOV, macro capability
Front Camera: 48 MP with advanced low-light and 4K video support
Battery and Charging
OnePlus 13:
Battery Capacity: 5000 mAh
Wired Charging: 80W
Wireless Charging: 50W
OnePlus 13 Pro:
Battery Capacity: 5200 mAh
Wired Charging: 100W
Wireless Charging: 65W, reverse wireless charging
OnePlus 13 Ultra:
Battery Capacity: 5500 mAh
Wired Charging: 120W
Wireless Charging: 65W, reverse wireless charging at 10W
Audio and Connectivity
Audio for All Models: Dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support
Connectivity for All Models:
5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC
USB-C with USB 3.2 for high-speed data transfer
Special Features
OnePlus 13 Ultra Exclusive Features:
Material: Optional leather finish for a premium look and feel
Enhanced IP Rating: IP69, offering higher resistance to water and dust
Special Battery Technology: Dual-cell battery for longer life and safety
Reviews
iQOO 13 Specifications
Build and Design
Materials: Glass front, glass back, aluminum frame
Dimensions: 164.6 x 77.4 x 8.3 mm
Weight: 229 g
Color Options: Cosmic Blue, Night Black, and Aurora Green
IP Rating: IP68 for dust and water resistance
Display
Type: 6.82-inch BOE Q10 OLED
Resolution: 2K (1440 x 3200 pixels), 19:8:9 aspect ratio
Refresh Rate: 144Hz, with a 300Hz touch sampling rate
Peak Brightness: 1800 nits
Processor and Software
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite, featuring 2nd Gen Oryon cores
Cooling System: Advanced liquid cooling technology
Operating System: OriginOS 5, based on Android 15
Storage and Memory
RAM: LPDDR5X, available in configurations of 12GB or 16GB
Internal Storage: UFS 4.0, available in options of 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB
Camera System
Rear Camera Setup:
Main: 50 MP, f/1.88, LYT-702 sensor, with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS)
Ultra-Wide: 50 MP, f/2
Telephoto: 50 MP, f/1.85 with 2x optical zoom, also with OIS
Front Camera: 32 MP
Battery and Charging
Battery Capacity: 6,150 mAh, composed of dual cells (2 x 2990 mAh)
Wired Charging: 120W, ultra-fast power-ups
Wireless Charging: Not supported
Audio and Connectivity
Audio: Stereo speakers with high-resolution audio support
Connectivity:
Network: 5G capability
Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 7
Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.3
NFC: Supported
USB: USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 1
Special Features
Security: In-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, facial recognition (software-based)
Custom Display Chip: iQOO Q2 for gaming enhancements
Unique OS Features: Atomic Island on OriginOS 5, enhancing notification handling
Pricing & Availability
Launch Date: Pre-orders available, shipping starts November 10, 2024
Price Options:
12GB + 256GB: ¥3,999 (~$561)
16GB + 256GB: ¥4,299 (~$603)
12GB + 512GB: ¥4,499 (~$631)
Gadgets Buying Guide
Xiaomi 15 vs. Xiaomi 15 Pro
Xiaomi released the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 15 Pro models in October 2024. Although they share a core identity, these devices are distinctly tailored to suit different types of users. Below, we dive into the specifications, features, and unique selling points that set these two flagship devices apart.
Design and Build Quality
Aesthetic and Durability Differentiation
Xiaomi 15: With Gorilla Glass protection on both the front and back, the Xiaomi 15 embraces a classic, durable design enhanced by an aluminum frame. The flat-edged display is minimalistic, creating a more subtle profile that appeals to users who prefer a compact and lightweight feel at 189 grams.
Xiaomi 15 Pro: The Pro model elevates the experience with a premium Dragon Crystal Glass front, ceramic back, and an aluminum frame, delivering a luxurious finish. The curved 6.73-inch display adds a high-end touch, while the ceramic back enhances durability. Weighing in at 213 grams, it is slightly heavier than the Xiaomi 15, a trade-off for those prioritizing a more robust, refined design. Both models are IP68 rated, though the Pro’s materials offer enhanced scratch resistance and aesthetic longevity.
Verdict: If durability and premium materials matter, the Xiaomi 15 Pro’s ceramic and crystal glass build are the superior choice.
Display Technology
Standard vs. Pro-Level Experience
Xiaomi 15: The Xiaomi 15 features a 6.36-inch AMOLED flat display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels (FHD+), peaking at an impressive 2500 nits. It delivers a fluid 120Hz refresh rate with HDR10+ support, making it ideal for immersive viewing without consuming as much power.
Xiaomi 15 Pro: The Pro model takes it up a notch with a larger 6.73-inch LTPO AMOLED display, featuring a sharper QHD+ resolution (1440 x 3200 pixels) and adaptive refresh rate ranging from 1Hz to 120Hz. Dolby Vision support and peak brightness at 3200 nits elevate the Pro’s display, particularly in outdoor settings and HDR media.
Verdict: The Xiaomi 15 Pro offers a more dynamic, detailed viewing experience. For users focused on media consumption, HDR quality, or enhanced brightness, the Pro’s display is superior.
Camera System
Tailored for Photographers and Casual Users
Both models offer versatile camera setups, but the Pro version is engineered for users looking for high-end photography capabilities.
Xiaomi 15: The rear camera system includes a 50 MP main sensor with OIS, a 50 MP telephoto lens (2x optical zoom), and a 50 MP ultrawide lens with a 115° field of view. The Xiaomi 15’s setup is highly capable, delivering clear, balanced shots across different lighting environments.
Xiaomi 15 Pro: The Pro model builds on this with a 50 MP main sensor featuring a faster f/1.4 aperture and Leica Summilux lenses for increased light capture. It’s paired with a 50 MP periscope telephoto lens (5x optical zoom) and a 50 MP ultra-wide lens. Enhanced features like phase-detection autofocus, 8K video recording, and greater low-light performance make the Pro ideal for users seeking DSLR-like quality.
Verdict: The Xiaomi 15 Pro’s advanced camera hardware and additional features make it the clear winner for photography enthusiasts.
Performance and Processing Power
Speed Meets Efficiency
Both models are powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite, but the Pro includes enhanced cooling for demanding tasks.
Processor: Both the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 15 Pro share the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, built on a 4nm process that provides fast, efficient performance for multitasking, gaming, and media.
Cooling System: The Xiaomi 15 Pro, however, includes advanced cooling mechanisms to support prolonged usage without thermal throttling, making it more suitable for intensive applications or extended gaming sessions.
Verdict: Performance-wise, both phones offer top-tier responsiveness, but the Pro is a better option for heavy users who prioritize sustained performance.
Battery and Charging Capabilities
Power for Prolonged Usage
Battery capacity and charging speeds slightly differ, but both models are designed to keep users powered throughout the day.
Xiaomi 15: Equipped with a 5000 mAh battery, the Xiaomi 15 supports 67W wired charging and 50W wireless charging. It offers excellent battery life for day-to-day activities.
Xiaomi 15 Pro: The Pro model includes a larger 6100 mAh battery, along with faster 90W wired charging and 50W wireless charging, plus 10W reverse wireless charging. This added capacity and charging speed make it ideal for users needing longer battery life without frequent recharges.
Verdict: The Pro model’s larger battery and faster charging options make it more convenient for power users.
Audio and Connectivity
Enhanced Media and Connectivity for All
Both models come with stereo speakers and support for high-resolution audio, although the Xiaomi 15 Pro benefits from Snapdragon Sound for enhanced audio fidelity.
Connectivity: Both models support 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and NFC, ensuring fast, versatile connectivity.
Verdict: For audiophiles, the Xiaomi 15 Pro provides a slightly enhanced listening experience with Snapdragon Sound.
Conclusion: Xiaomi 15 or Xiaomi 15 Pro?
The Xiaomi 15 is an excellent choice for users who want a flagship experience without the extras, offering powerful performance, a vibrant display, and capable cameras in a sleek, lightweight design. However, if you prioritize photography, display quality, and extended battery life with premium materials, the Xiaomi 15 Pro is worth the investment.