iPhone SE 2020 versus OnePlus Nord: A Detailed Face-Off
Key Takeaways
- iPhone SE 2020 priced at NPR 76,000 (128GB), OnePlus Nord at NPR 53,999 (8/128GB)
- OnePlus Nord leads in display, design, and battery; iPhone SE 2020 leads in performance and software updates
- OnePlus Nord offers better overall value for most users in Nepal despite iPhone SE's premium performance
iPhone SE 2020 vs OnePlus Nord: A Detailed Face-Off
This year delivered intriguing options for mid-range smartphone buyers with the launch of both the iPhone SE 2020 and the OnePlus Nord. These devices represent the best non-flagship choices available in many markets, though availability can vary. In Nepal, the price gap is notable, with the iPhone SE commanding a premium over its Android counterpart.
Design and Build
The iPhone SE 2020 adopts a compact, retro-inspired design reminiscent of the iPhone 8, making it easy to handle and pocket. In contrast, the OnePlus Nord features a modern, sleek appearance with minimal bezels and an in-display fingerprint sensor, offering a more contemporary feel. While the iPhone SE earns an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, the Nord only offers splash resistance. For users prioritizing a modern aesthetic and larger screen real estate, the Nord is the clear winner.
Display Quality
The OnePlus Nord boasts a 6.44-inch Fluid AMOLED panel with a smooth 90Hz refresh rate, delivering vivid colors, deep blacks, and fluid scrolling. The iPhone SE 2020, however, features a smaller 4.7-inch Retina IPS LCD with an older 16:9 aspect ratio and lower resolution, resulting in a more dated viewing experience. The Nord’s superior display technology gives it a decisive edge in this category.
Performance and Software
Under the hood, the iPhone SE 2020 is powered by Apple’s A13 Bionic chipset, offering top-tier performance for multitasking, gaming, and app handling. The OnePlus Nord, equipped with the Snapdragon 765G, struggles to match this efficiency, especially in demanding tasks. Additionally, the iPhone SE benefits from iOS 13 and promised long-term updates, whereas the Nord runs OxygenOS over Android 10 with a less certain update roadmap. For performance and software support, the iPhone SE 2020 is unmatched.
Camera Capabilities
The OnePlus Nord boasts a quad-camera setup including a 48MP main lens, an 8MP ultra-wide angle, and additional macro and depth sensors, providing versatile photography options. The iPhone SE 2020 relies on a single 12MP rear camera and a 7MP front camera. While both devices produce competent images, the Nord’s extra lenses and Nightscape mode for low-light photography provide clear advantages, making it the winner in camera capabilities.
Connectivity and Audio
The OnePlus Nord supports 5G, dual SIMs, Bluetooth 5.1, and aptX HD audio, along with a robust single bottom-firing speaker. The iPhone SE 2020 includes Wi-Fi 6 and stereo speakers but lacks 5G and advanced audio codecs. In terms of connectivity features, the Nord offers more advanced options for modern users.
Battery Life
The OnePlus Nord houses a large 4115mAh battery with Warp Charge 30T fast charging, included in the box, while the iPhone SE 2020’s 1821mAh battery suffers from poor endurance and does not even include a fast charger. The Nord’s superior battery performance and charging capabilities make it the clear winner in this area.
Verdict
The OnePlus Nord excels in design, display, camera versatility, connectivity, and battery life. The iPhone SE 2020, however, dominates in raw performance and software longevity. For most users in Nepal, the OnePlus Nord offers better overall value due to its lower price and well-rounded feature set. Only those specifically needing an iPhone environment may find the SE 2020’s performance justification for its higher cost.
