Introduction
The OnePlus 12R hits the German market again and it feels like you have an old friend back. It has been possible to grab one of these smartphones since the end of January 2024, and the anticipation has been 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 the features and give you our very personal assessment of it. 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 128 GB is often standard for the competition. 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 versatile video features such as 4K recording 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 look 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 5,000 mAh battery promises a long service life! But the real ace up the sleeve is the 100W SUPERVOOC charging capability. Quickly charge up and get going - without long waiting times. As usual 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 due to battery
The OnePlus 12R weighs a little more due to its larger battery, which I personally find to be a positive thing. It conveys the feeling of robustness and longevity. And that's exactly what many users want in return for a battery life of around 1.5 days.
Processing quality: flagship level
The OnePlus 12R leaves nothing to be desired when it comes to build quality. Despite the price of €699, it feels like a high-end device. It proves that you can get excellent quality even 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 mean a change for long-time fans of the brand. 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.
Value for money
I 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.
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 to the versatile camera equipment, the device shows that quality and high-tech do not necessarily have to go hand in hand 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
My personal assessment is positive: for €699 you get a device that can compete with more expensive flagships in many areas. So if you're looking for a reliable smartphone without breaking the bank, the OnePlus 12R is a recommended option.
Alternatives to the OnePlus 12R
Now comes the highlight: If you're 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 the Google Pixel 8 Pro. These often offer similar, if not better, features, but are available after a makeover 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 obviously 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
- Memory: 16GB LPDDR5X RAM
- Storage: 256GB 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: 5,000 mAh
- Charging speed: 100W 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®
Other specifications
- Dimensions: 163.3 mm x 75.3 mm x 8.8 mm
- Weight: 207 g
- Color options: Cool Blue, Iron Gray
