The OnePlus 13R is the latest addition to OnePlus’s performance-driven “R” series, offering flagship-level specs at a competitive price. Positioned between the mid-range and premium segments, it delivers a powerful processor, high-refresh-rate display, and fast charging. This review covers its design, display, performance, camera, battery life, and software experience in detail.
Key Specifications
Display
- 6.74-inch Fluid AMOLED
- Resolution: 2772 x 1240 pixels (1.5K, ~450 PPI)
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz (LTPO 4.0, adaptive 1-120Hz)
- Peak Brightness: 1600 nits (HDR), 800 nits (typical)
- Protection: Gorilla Glass Victus 2
Processor & Performance
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4nm)
- CPU: Octa-core (1x Cortex-X3 @ 3.2GHz + 4x Cortex-A715/A710 @ 2.8GHz + 3x Cortex-A510 @ 2.0GHz)
- GPU: Adreno 740
- RAM: 12GB / 16GB LPDDR5X
- Storage: 256GB / 512GB UFS 4.0 (non-expandable)
Camera System
- Rear Cameras:
- 50MP Sony IMX890 (main, f/1.8, OIS, PDAF)
- 8MP ultra-wide (f/2.2, 120° FoV)
- 2MP macro (f/2.4)
- Front Camera: 16MP (f/2.4, fixed focus)
- Video Recording:
- 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps (main camera only)
- 1080p@240fps slow motion
Battery & Charging
- 5,500mAh battery
- 100W SuperVOOC fast charging (0-100% in ~25 mins)
- No wireless charging
Design & Build
- Glass back (matte finish) + aluminum frame
- Dimensions: 163.3 x 74.3 x 8.7 mm
- Weight: 207g
- IP64 dust/water resistance
- In-display fingerprint sensor (optical)
- Color Options: Iron Gray, Jade Green
Software & Features
- OxygenOS 14 (based on Android 14)
- 3 major OS updates, 4 years of security patches
- Stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos support
- 5G (dual-SIM), Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC
Design & Build Quality
The OnePlus 13R features a premium glass-and-metal construction with a refined matte finish that resists fingerprints. The flat-edge design ensures a secure grip, and the IP64 rating provides basic splash resistance. The alert slider (a OnePlus signature) remains for quick sound profile switching. While the phone is slightly heavy at 207g, the weight distribution feels balanced.
Display Quality
The 6.74-inch 1.5K AMOLED panel is a highlight, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent brightness. The LTPO 4.0 adaptive refresh rate (1-120Hz) ensures smooth scrolling while optimizing battery life. HDR10+ and Dolby Vision support enhance streaming, making Netflix and YouTube content look stunning. The Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection adds durability against scratches.
Performance & Software
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, the OnePlus 13R delivers flagship-level performance.
- Gaming: Handles Genshin Impact, Call of Duty Mobile, and Apex Legends at high settings without throttling.
- Multitasking: The 16GB RAM variant keeps apps open effortlessly.
- Thermals: The advanced cooling system prevents overheating during extended gaming sessions.
OxygenOS 14 remains clean and bloat-free, with useful features like Zen Mode, Work-Life Balance, and customizable always-on display.
Camera Performance
Daylight Photography
- The 50MP main sensor (IMX890) captures sharp, well-exposed shots with accurate colors.
- OIS helps in low-light and moving subjects.
- The 8MP ultra-wide is decent but lacks detail compared to the primary sensor.
- The 2MP macro lens is largely unnecessary.
Low-Light Photography
- Nightscape mode improves brightness and reduces noise but struggles with fine details.
Video Recording
- 8K@24fps and 4K@60fps are smooth with good stabilization.
- Slow-motion (1080p@240fps) works well for dynamic shots.
Selfie Camera
- The 16MP front camera is average, with decent skin tones but soft details in low light.
Battery Life & Charging
- The 5,500mAh battery easily lasts 1.5 days with moderate use.
- Heavy users (gaming, 5G, video streaming) may need a daily charge.
- 100W SuperVOOC charging is extremely fast (0-100% in ~25 mins).
- No wireless charging is a downside at this price.
Connectivity & Extras
- 5G support is excellent, with strong signal retention.
- Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3 ensure future-proof connectivity.
- Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos provide an immersive audio experience.
- In-display fingerprint sensor is fast and reliable.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Flagship-grade Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 performance
- 1.5K 120Hz LTPO AMOLED display
- 100W fast charging (full charge in 25 mins)
- Clean OxygenOS 14 with long-term updates
- Premium glass-metal build with IP64 rating
Cons
- No wireless charging
- Ultra-wide camera is mediocre
- Macro sensor is practically useless
- No telephoto lens
Final Verdict
The OnePlus 13R is a high-performance smartphone that excels in display quality, speed, and fast charging. While the ultra-wide and macro cameras are underwhelming, the primary camera and chipset performance make it a strong contender in its segment.
Who Should Buy It?
- Gamers who want flagship performance without the premium price.
- Power users needing long battery life and ultra-fast charging.
- Media consumers who prioritize a high-quality AMOLED display.
Who Should Avoid It?
- Photography enthusiasts wanting a versatile camera system.
- Users who need wireless charging.
Alternatives to Consider
- iQOO 12 (similar performance, better cameras).
- Nothing Phone (2) (unique design, cleaner software).
- Samsung Galaxy S23 FE (better cameras, wireless charging).