The OnePlus 12R is back on the German market and it feels like having an old friend back. It has been possible to get one of these smartphones since the end of January 2024 and the anticipation was great. Sure, it may not be the ultimate breakthrough, but it brings solid technology at a price that won't break the bank. In this article, we take a closer look at the 12R, check out the features and give you our very personal opinion. Can the OnePlus 12R convince and is it perhaps even worth a purchase recommendation?
OnePlus 12R: The most important features
Now let's take a look at the highlights that make the OnePlus 12R so special. As a mid-range smartphone, it has specifications that seem more than just interesting at first glance. From the impressive performance to the high-resolution camera - this smartphone seems to have a lot to offer.
performance
The OnePlus 12R draws its power from the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, supported by an impressive 16 GB of RAM. This not only ensures smooth multitasking, but also first-class gaming experiences. We welcome the 256 GB of storage space, as the competition often still offers 128 GB as standard. This combination means you are prepared for everything, from everyday tasks to the most demanding apps.
camera
The camera equipment of the OnePlus 12R is a highlight. The 50-megapixel main sensor captures even the finest details, while the versatile video functions, such as 4K recordings and super slow motion, ensure creative freedom. Whether wide-angle scenes or macro close-ups, the camera's specs are promising.
display
The 6.78-inch AMOLED ProXDR display of the OnePlus 12R shines with a resolution of 2780 x 1264 pixels and a dynamic refresh rate of up to 120 Hz. The result? Smooth image transitions and razor-sharp content that looks good in any light. Supported by LTPO4.0 technology, the display intelligently adapts to the content, optimizing both performance and energy efficiency.
battery and charging speed
The biggest selling point? The 5,500 mAh battery promises long usage times! But the real ace up its sleeve is the 100 W SUPERVOOC charging capability. Quickly charge it and you're good to go - without long waiting times. As you would expect from Chinese manufacturers, this combination of endurance and fast charging capability makes it an insider tip.
Personal assessment: Mid-range with flagship quality?
size and weight of the smartphone
The OnePlus 12R weighs a little more due to its larger battery, which we see as a positive. It gives a feeling of robustness and durability. Many users want exactly that, especially when you get a battery life of around 1.5 days in return.
Build quality: flagship level
When it comes to build quality, the OnePlus 12R leaves nothing to be desired. Despite the price of €699, it feels like a high-end device. It proves that you can get excellent quality without the price of a flagship.
Software – unfortunately not a pure Android experience
It's a little disappointing to see OxygenOS becoming more and more like ColorOS, especially since OnePlus was once known for its pure and no-frills Android experience.This move could be a departure for long-time fans of the brand, but since OnePlus often values feedback from its customers, we hope that future software updates will bring back the pure Android interface.
Performance and display: Very good, but not excellent
In terms of performance and display quality, the OnePlus 12R may be a little behind the current top models, but given the price, this is certainly bearable. It delivers performance that would have been top class a year or two ago - a strong statement for a mid-range device.
price-performance ratio
We think the price-performance ratio of the OnePlus 12R is very good. For €699 you get a smartphone that is close to the flagships, but significantly cheaper. It will be particularly exciting if the device is offered at a reduced price or as a refurbished model in the future - that could make it an attractive option for even more people.
What do the reviews say about the OnePlus 12R?
In the current reviews, the OnePlus 12R is examined by various tech experts - the opinions are consistently positive. TechRadar praises especially the design of the device, which impresses with an elegant combination of curved glass and metal. They emphasize the high-quality workmanship and the pleasant feel of the smartphone. The 6.78-inch LTPO 4.0 ProXDR AMOLED display, which is characterized by a high peak brightness of 4500 nits and the Aqua Touch technology, is also well received by TechRadar.
On the other hand raises Gadgets 360 the performance of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, which in combination with up to 16 GB RAM ensures first-class performance. The long battery life thanks to the 5500 mAh battery and the fast charging capability with 100W are particularly praised. However, they also mention that the camera is weak in poor lighting conditions and the ultra-wide-angle and macro camera only deliver average results.
Overall, the OnePlus 12R offers strong value for money and is an attractive choice for many users. While some minor weaknesses are mentioned, such as the lack of wireless charging and average camera quality in low light, the positive aspects outweigh them, such as the outstanding display, fast performance and impressive battery life.
These perspectives make it clear that the OnePlus 12R offers a successful mix of mid-range and flagship features and is therefore worth considering if you are looking for a powerful and attractively priced smartphone.
Conclusion
The OnePlus 12R presents itself as a solid mid-range smartphone that scores with its well-thought-out specifications and features. From the robust construction to the powerful hardware and the versatile camera equipment, the device shows that quality and high-tech do not necessarily have to come with an exorbitant price. Particularly noteworthy is the combination of long battery life and fast charging, which is extremely practical in everyday life.
buy recommendation
Our My personal assessment is positive: For 699€ you get a device that can keep up with more expensive flagships in many areas.So if you are looking for a reliable smartphone without breaking the budget, the OnePlus 12R is a recommendable option.
Alternatives to the OnePlus 12R
Now comes the highlight: If you are on the hunt for a bargain and don’t shy away from a previous year’s model, you could also take a look at refurbished flagships like the Samsung S23 Ultra or that Google Pixel 8 Pro These often offer similar, if not better, features, but after a complete overhaul, they are available at a price that is in the same league as the OnePlus 12R. The Google Pixel 8 Pro in particular is interesting here, as it offers one of the best camera systems on the market and delivers a pure Android experience that many OnePlus fans want. But if you want to experience a completely new OnePlus smartphone, you can't avoid the OnePlus 12R. The choice is yours
OnePlus 12R specifications
display
- display: 6.78 inch AMOLED ProXDR, LTPO4.0 technology
- resolution: 2780 x 1264 pixels, 450 ppi
- Dynamic refresh rate: 1–120 Hz
- color support: sRGB, Display P3, 10 bit color depth, HDR10+
- Protection: Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus 2
Performance
- operating system: OxygenOS 14.0, based on Android™ 14
- processor: Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 8 Gen 2
- RAM: 16 GB LPDDR5X RAM
- memory: 256 GB UFS 3.1
camera
- main camera: 50 megapixels, Sony IMX890 sensor
- ultra-wide-angle camera: 8 megapixels, 112° field of view
- macro lens: 2 megapixels
- video capabilities: 4K at 60/30 fps, super slow motion, ultra steady mode
battery and charging
- battery capacity: 5,500 mAh
- loading speed: 100 W SUPERVOOC
Connectivity and Multimedia
- SIM cards: Dual-SIM (no eSIM support)
- network: 5G NR, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC
- Audio: Dual stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos®
Further specifications
- Dimensions: 163.3 mm x 75.3 mm x 8.8 mm
- Weight: 207 g
- color options: Cool Blue, Iron Gray
