iQOO 12 vs OnePlus 11 vs Nothing Phone 2: Is the iQOO 12’s New SD 8 Gen 3 Processor Worth the Hype?

In the ever-evolving world of smartphone processors, the anticipation for a thorough comparison is at its peak. Today, we delve into the performance and battery prowess of iQOO 12 (equipped with the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3), OnePlus 11 (equipped with Snapdragon 8 Gen 2), and Nothing Phone 2 (equipped with Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1).

Which phone reigns supreme? Let's find out.

The Lineup

iQOO 12 storms into the competition, featuring the newest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. In the OnePlus 11 corner, we have the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. Lastly, Nothing Phone 2 joins the race, equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1.

Testing Methodology

Before we dissect the results, let's familiarize ourselves with the testing parameters. All devices are fully charged, connected to the same Wi-Fi network, and set to airplane mode. Maximum brightness and refresh rates are standardized. OnePlus 11 and Nothing Phone 2 boast a 120Hz refresh rate, while iQOO 12 takes it a notch higher with a 144Hz refresh rate.

Performance Benchmark

In the first round, the iQOO 12 took the lead, outperforming the OnePlus 11 and Nothing Phone 2 in both single-core and multi-core tests. The OnePlus 11 came in second place, thanks to its powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, which outperformed the Nothing Phone 2.

Endurance Test

As the second round comes to a close, there is a slight decrease in scores. The iQOO 12 maintains its lead, while the OnePlus 11 and Nothing Phone 2 show resilience. It is worth noting that the Nothing Phone 2 shows improvements in both single-core and multi-core performance.

Battery Life

Regarding battery longevity, iQOO 12 emerges as the leader, maintaining a robust performance with the optimized Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. Nothing Phone 2 also displays efficient battery management, but the OnePlus 11 lags slightly in this department.

Looking Ahead

Talking about the entire two hours of rigorous testing of the smartphones would become never-ending, so you can watch our video of the same, which we've embedded below.

If you want to get to the juicy stuff and can't watch the whole thing, the running theme is that the iQOO 12 delivers the best performance across the board, with the Nothing Phone 2 coming in at second place surprisingly thanks to its better battery efficiency and performance stability. The OnePlus 11, on the other hand, disappointed in its results, coming in dead last with the most battery drain, highest temperature, and the least stable performance of the three, despite rocking the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.

Choosing the Right Smartphone

After an in-depth performance and battery analysis of iQOO 12, OnePlus 11, and Nothing Phone 2, the decision-making process for the ideal smartphone becomes nuanced. Let's consider key factors, including the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 pricing in iQOO 12.

iQOO 12 - The Powerhouse at a Competitive Price

Despite featuring the top-tier Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, iQOO 12 stands out for its competitive pricing at Rs 52,999. It not only delivers superior performance but also boasts efficient battery management. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 justifies its premium price tag with a commendable balance of power and efficiency.

OnePlus 11 - A Glass Cannon

The OnePlus 11, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, is a capable performer for everyday tasks. However, it falls behind the iQOO 12 and the Nothing Phone 2 in terms of battery life. If you prioritize the OnePlus brand and user experience, this device remains a solid option. However, if you frequently game for extended periods, you may want to look elsewhere, as the phone's performance can be inconsistent.

Nothing Phone 2 - The Wildcard

The Nothing Phone 2, which has the Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1, exceeds expectations with significant performance enhancements. While it may not outperform the iQOO 12, it is a strong contender, particularly for those seeking a well-rounded performance without spending a fortune. It also outperformed the OnePlus 11 in terms of battery life and did not exhibit erratic performance. As a result, if you are on a budget but want a well-rounded and capable smartphone, the Nothing Phone 2 is the best option.

The Verdict

Despite its use of the priciest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, the iQOO 12 is the clear frontrunner due to its competitive pricing and outstanding performance. However, if cost is a concern, the Nothing Phone 2 is a viable alternative, thanks to its balanced performance. The OnePlus 11 is also a respectable option, but it falls slightly short in the overall comparison.