OnePlus 12 vs OnePlus 12R: Battle of the Flagship Killers

OnePlus has unleashed a dual-tiered assault with the OnePlus 12 and OnePlus 12R, targeting different market segments. With both phones packing impressive specifications, which phone is right for you?

Let's find out.

Pricing in India

The OnePlus 12R emerges as the more budget-friendly option in the Indian market, starting at Rs 39,999 for the base 8GB/128GB variant. For those seeking higher storage capacity, the 16GB/256GB configuration is priced at Rs 45,999.

On the other hand, the OnePlus 12, being the premium offering, starts at Rs 64,999 for the base 12GB/256GB configuration. For users with more demanding storage needs, a variant with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage is also available, costing Rs 69,999.

Design

Despite sharing a familial resemblance, the OnePlus 12 and 12R exhibit subtle design deviations. The OnePlus 12, being slightly larger and heavier at 164.3 x 75.8 x 9.2mm and 220g, features an off-center circular camera array and a distinct button layout. In contrast, the OnePlus 12R, measuring 163.3 x 75.3 x 8.8mm and weighing 207g, draws design cues from its predecessor, the OnePlus 11.

The OnePlus 12 is available in Flowy Emerald and Silky Black colorways. On the other hand, the OnePlus 12R comes in Iron Gray and Cool Blue color options.

Display

The OnePlus 12 flaunts a stunning visual experience with its expansive 6.82-inch QHD+ LTPO display. This remarkable screen delivers vibrant visuals, enhanced by a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, ensuring smooth and seamless transitions. With a remarkable pixel density of 510 PPI and an absurd peak brightness of 4,500 nits, the OnePlus 12 is perfect for users who value immersive content consumption, gaming, and intricate visual details.

On the other side, the OnePlus 12R opts for a 6.78-inch FHD+ LTPO display with the same 120Hz adaptive refresh rate and a peak brightness of 4,500 nits. While slightly smaller and with a lower resolution, it remains formidable for everyday use and delivers a smooth experience.

Performance

The OnePlus 12 takes the lead with the cutting-edge Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, offering higher clock speeds and enhanced multitasking capabilities. Boasting configurations with up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of UFS 4.0 storage, it's a powerhouse for users demanding peak performance.

Conversely, the OnePlus 12R opts for the previous-gen Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, providing a competent but more budget-conscious performance. With base configurations of 8GB RAM and storage options reaching 256GB (UFS 3.1), it caters to users seeking a balance between performance and cost-effectiveness.

While benchmark scores favor the OnePlus 12, the OnePlus 12R stands as an appealing choice for those prioritizing a sensible blend of performance and budget considerations.

Camera

Equipped with a cutting-edge camera system, the OnePlus 12 showcases its prowess with a triumvirate of sensors: a 50MP primary camera, a versatile 48MP ultrawide lens, and an exceptional 64MP 3x telephoto lens featuring optical image stabilization (OIS). This strategic partnership with Hasselblad elevates the camera's capabilities to new heights, excelling in challenging low-light conditions and catering to photography enthusiasts.

In contrast, the OnePlus 12R adopts a more straightforward approach with its camera setup. It boasts a 50MP main sensor, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 2MP macro camera. While it may not offer the elaborate sensor arrangement of its sibling, the OnePlus 12R's single-camera setup is designed to cater to users who prefer straightforward yet competent photography.

The OnePlus 12 and OnePlus 12R both feature front-facing cameras, with the OnePlus 12 boasting a 32MP sensor and the OnePlus 12R equipped with a 16MP sensor.

The choice between the two models ultimately comes down to user priorities. If photography is the top priority, then the OnePlus 12's advanced sensor setup gives it the edge. However, if cost is a factor, then the OnePlus 12R is the way to go.

Real-world testing will reveal the nuances of image quality, color accuracy, and low-light performance for both phones, providing further insight into their respective strengths and weaknesses.

Battery and Charging

The OnePlus 12 packs a 5400mAh battery while the OnePlus 12R packs a marginally larger 5500mAh battery. Both phones offer super-fast 100W SUPERVOOC charging, but only the OnePlus 12 offers 50W AIRVOOC charging.

The Verdict

The OnePlus 12 stands out with superior performance, an advanced camera system, and a larger, higher-resolution display. Ideal for power users, it comes at a higher price point. On the other hand, the OnePlus 12R provides a balanced experience, catering to budget-conscious consumers with competent features and a slightly smaller screen.

The decision hinges on individual priorities - for cutting-edge specs and premium experiences, the OnePlus 12 excels, while the OnePlus 12R delivers pragmatic performance at a more accessible price.