Discover the OnePlus 13R in our in-depth review. A solid mid-range performer with impressive features, but does it deliver on all fronts? Explore its strengths and missed opportunities.
Hello everyone, Sharely here! Over the past 10 days, I’ve been putting the OnePlus 13R to the test. Priced at ₹40,000, it positions itself as a premium mid-range device, much like its predecessors, the OnePlus 11R and 12R. While it is a solid performer in many aspects, I believe OnePlus missed a significant opportunity to perfect this device. Here’s my in-depth take on the OnePlus 13R.
Design: A Step Back?
One of the most noticeable changes is the design. The OnePlus 13R features flat side frames, which I found uncomfortable compared to the curved and premium-feeling OnePlus 12R. Despite being marketed as a 2025 release, it only comes with an IP64 rating. Considering even budget phones like the Motorola H5 Neo offer IP68, this feels like a missed chance to provide better water resistance.
The placement of the fingerprint scanner has also shifted, moving lower on the display. While functional, it’s less ergonomic than the centrally placed scanner on the 12R. Additionally, the 13R uses Gorilla Glass 7 for display protection, which is a downgrade from the tougher Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the previous model.
Display: A True Highlight
Despite its design shortcomings, the OnePlus 13R delivers an outstanding display experience. The 6.7-inch AMOLED panel is flagship-level, featuring:
- LTPO 4.1 technology for smooth adaptive refresh rates.
- 10-bit color depth and Dolby Vision support for vibrant visuals.
- High brightness and excellent touch response.
OnePlus also offers a lifetime screen warranty against green line issues, a great move for consumer trust.
Performance and Software
Powered by last year’s flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, the OnePlus 13R performs admirably. Gaming enthusiasts will appreciate its ability to run titles like PUBG at 120 FPS and Genshin Impact at 60 FPS on the highest settings with minimal lag.
Key upgrades include:
- 12GB RAM and 256GB UFS 4.0 storage in the base model.
- Smooth animations and fluid multitasking, ensuring longevity for at least 3–4 years.
The phone ships with Android 13 and promises updates up to Android 19. While there are pre-installed apps, they can be easily disabled.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is another standout feature, thanks to the 6,000mAh capacity enhanced by silicon-carbon technology. This provides an impressive 8–9 hours of screen-on time during heavy usage, including gaming and video streaming.
In India, OnePlus bundles an 80W charger in the box, which, while a downgrade from last year’s 100W charger, remains a welcome inclusion compared to brands that exclude chargers altogether.
Camera: Good, But Not Great
The camera setup is where the OnePlus 13R stumbles:
- Primary Camera: A 50MP Sony IMX700 sensor. While capable of sharp and detailed shots, its performance is inconsistent, especially with highlights and exposure.
- Ultra-Wide Lens: The 8MP Sony IMX355 is dated, lacking detail and dynamic range, and unable to record in 4K.
- Telephoto Lens: A 2X zoom lens, useful for portraits but inferior to a 3X lens commonly found in competitors.
Selfies are vibrant and detailed but limited to 1080p video recording, leaving 4K enthusiasts disappointed.
Missed Opportunities
If I were the product manager at OnePlus, here’s what I’d change to make the 13R perfect:
- Retain the premium design of the 12R.
- Upgrade the camera system, incorporating Hasselblad optimization or a larger sensor for the main lens, and a 50MP ultra-wide lens with autofocus.
- Improve the vibration motor for refined haptic feedback.
- Include a 3X telephoto lens for superior portrait photography.
Verdict
The OnePlus 13R is a capable phone with excellent performance, a stunning display, and outstanding battery life. However, its compromises in design, camera, and build quality hold it back from being a perfect mid-range option. If you value performance and display over cameras, the OnePlus 13R is worth considering. But for a well-rounded experience, you might want to explore alternatives or even consider the OnePlus 13.
Let me know your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe for more reviews. Until next time, this is Sharely signing off!
