Ever wondered if a phone from 2021 can still compete in 2025’s cutthroat smartphone market? The OnePlus 9RT 5G, with its Snapdragon 888 power and sleek design, continues to spark buzz on platforms like X, especially with its price dropping to as low as ₹25,999 on Flipkart. With recent chatter about its long-term software updates and blazing-fast charging, users are asking: “Is this still the best value-for-money flagship killer?” Let’s dive into what makes this phone a contender.
Key Highlights: Why It’s Still in the News
Launched in October 2021, the OnePlus 9RT 5G was a mid-cycle refresh of the 9R, but it’s no slouch even today. Its 65W Warp Charge, which juices up the 4,500mAh battery in about 20 minutes, remains a standout. Recent posts on X highlight its smooth OxygenOS 13 (upgradable to Android 14), and its 50MP camera still holds up for casual photographers. Priced competitively against newer mid-rangers like the Redmi Note 14 5G, it’s a favorite for budget-conscious buyers seeking premium vibes without the 2025 flagship price tag.
Full Specifications: Power-Packed for 2025
The OnePlus 9RT 5G is built to impress with specs that still feel fresh:
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Display: 6.62-inch Full-HD+ AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, 1080×2400 pixels, 397ppi, Corning Gorilla Glass 5.
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Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 (5nm), Adreno 660 GPU, with 600Hz touch response for gaming.
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RAM & Storage: 8GB/12GB LPDDR5 RAM, 128GB/256GB UFS 3.1 storage, no microSD slot.
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Rear Camera: 50MP Sony IMX766 main sensor (OIS), 16MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro, 4K video at 60fps.
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Front Camera: 16MP selfie camera, good for video calls but average in low light.
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Battery: 4,500mAh with 65W Warp Charge, no wireless charging.
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OS & UI: OxygenOS 13 based on Android 13, upgradable to Android 14.
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Build & Design: Glass front and back (Gorilla Glass 5), aluminum frame, 198.5g, Hacker Black or Nano Silver colors.
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Extra Features: In-display fingerprint sensor, 5G support, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, NFC, no 3.5mm jack, IP54 splash resistance.
This setup ensures smooth multitasking, gaming (think Call of Duty Mobile at high settings), and vibrant visuals for streaming.
Launch Date, Price & Variants
The OnePlus 9RT 5G hit the Indian market on January 14, 2022, after its China debut in October 2021. As of July 2025, it’s priced at ₹25,999 for the 8GB/128GB variant and ₹29,999 for the 12GB/256GB model on Flipkart, with bank offers shaving off up to ₹5,000. Available in Hacker Black and Nano Silver, it’s ideal for students, gamers, or anyone wanting a near-flagship experience on a budget.
Should You Consider It? The Verdict
In 2025, the OnePlus 9RT 5G remains a solid pick for value seekers. Its Snapdragon 888 matches the performance of newer mid-range chips like the Dimensity 7300, and the 120Hz AMOLED display is as smooth as the Moto Edge 60 Fusion’s. The 50MP camera, while not on par with 2025 flagships like the OnePlus 13, delivers vibrant shots for social media. The 4,500mAh battery lasts about 20 hours of mixed use, though heavy gamers might need a top-up by evening.
Pros:
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Blazing-fast 65W charging (0-100% in ~20 minutes)
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Smooth 120Hz AMOLED display, great for streaming and gaming
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Snapdragon 888 still handles heavy tasks effortlessly
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Affordable pricing with frequent discounts
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Clean OxygenOS with long-term updates
Cons:
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No wireless charging or full water resistance
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Average low-light camera performance
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Smaller battery compared to 2025 rivals like the Redmi Note 14 5G
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No microSD slot for storage expansion
Who Should Buy It? The 9RT is perfect for gamers craving high performance, students needing a reliable daily driver, or anyone who loves OxygenOS’s bloat-free experience. It’s a worthy upgrade from older phones like the OnePlus 7T, but less compelling if you own a OnePlus 9R. If you prioritize battery life or cutting-edge cameras, the Nord CE 5 5G or Motorola Edge 60 Fusion might edge it out. Still, at ₹25,999, it’s hard to beat for a near-flagship experience.
OnePlus Nord CE 5 5G: The Mid-Range Game Changer You Need in 2025
Why It Holds Up in 2025
The OnePlus 9RT 5G proves that a well-built phone from 2021 can still shine. Its premium design, fast charging, and smooth software make it a steal at current prices. Whether you’re scrolling X, gaming, or snapping photos, it delivers without feeling dated. Check Flipkart or OnePlus for the latest deals, and you might snag this gem for even less. Is it the ultimate flagship killer? Maybe not, but it’s darn close for the price.
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.