For anyone looking to buy a reliable, budget-friendly smartphone in July 2025, the OnePlus Nord CE 5G 128GB still holds surprising value. Originally launched as a mid-range phone, it’s aged better than many expected — and for the right user, it could still be a solid daily driver today. But is it still a smart buy in the current tech landscape?
Let’s take a real-world look at how the Nord CE 5G (128GB variant) performs in 2025, what it offers, and whether it deserves your money.
Performance That Still Holds Up
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G processor, the Nord CE 5G isn’t breaking any speed records in 2025, but it remains snappy enough for daily use. Scrolling through social apps, multitasking, and even casual gaming all feel smooth. If you’re not into high-end gaming or heavy multitasking, this phone won’t disappoint.
With 8GB RAM paired with 128GB of internal storage, you get just the right mix for stable performance and enough space for apps, photos, and offline videos. No, it’s not UFS 4.0-fast like the latest flagships, but for most people, it’s more than fast enough.
A Display That Still Feels Premium
The 6.43-inch AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate still feels fluid and vibrant in 2025. Colors pop, contrast is solid, and brightness is decent even outdoors. Watching YouTube, Netflix, or scrolling through Instagram on this screen still feels modern and enjoyable.
What’s more, the flat display design means no accidental touches — a rare plus in today’s world of curved screens. If you’re someone who values simplicity and comfort, this design choice still hits the mark.
Camera: Not a Flagship, But Surprisingly Capable
The 64MP main sensor may not compete with today’s ultra high-res camera setups, but it still captures sharp, well-balanced photos in daylight. Low-light images aren’t perfect — expect some noise — but Nightscape mode helps salvage decent shots.
The front 16MP selfie camera is perfectly fine for video calls and casual selfies, though don’t expect Instagram-influencer-level detail. In 2025, it’s a capable camera setup for the average user who wants quality without complexity.
Battery Life and Software Experience
With a 4500mAh battery and 30W Warp Charging, the Nord CE 5G easily lasts a full day with typical use. Charging from 0 to 70% in just about half an hour still feels incredibly convenient — especially if you’re always on the move.
Software is a mixed bag. While OnePlus promised two years of Android updates and three years of security patches, the Nord CE 5G is now nearing the end of its official support cycle. However, the OxygenOS experience remains clean, fast, and free from bloat. Even in mid-2025, it feels lighter than many newer budget phones bloated with unnecessary apps.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It in 2025?
If you find the OnePlus Nord CE 5G 128GB at a reasonable price — say under ₹15,000 — it’s still one of the better options for light to moderate users. It’s ideal for students, second-phone users, or anyone who doesn’t care about the latest specs but still wants a reliable, fast, and good-looking phone.
However, if software longevity or cutting-edge camera performance is a priority for you, it may be worth exploring newer alternatives in the same price range.
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Takeaway
In a market full of flashy phones with gimmicks, the OnePlus Nord CE 5G quietly proves that solid specs, good design, and reliable performance can still matter — even in 2025. If your needs are simple and your budget is tight, this phone might be all you actually need.
Hi, I’m Ricky, the founder of OKSociety.in. I’m a tech enthusiast with a deep passion for smartphones, mobile technology, and everything that makes our digital lives smarter. I started OKSociety to share honest reviews, the latest phone updates, and practical buying guides to help people make better choices in this fast-paced tech world.