The OnePlus Nord series has seen significant evolution over the years, incorporating spec upgrades and design overhauls, often accompanied by price increases.
The fourth-generation model, known as the OnePlus Nord 4, stands out as the most distinct in the lineup.
This time around, the Nord 4 comes with a price reduction instead of an increase. It features a fresh design and new materials, while still offering spec upgrades.
Priced at ₹29,999, it falls into the sub-₹30,000 smartphone category in India, which has been highly competitive in recent years.
Several alternatives exist, but the OnePlus Nord 4 has unique features that distinguish it from its rivals. Let’s explore these features.
Metal Unibody Design
The OnePlus Nord 4 is currently the only metal unibody smartphone available in India. While metal phones were once standard, glass and plastic backs have become more common.
Metal phones are generally more durable, with bodies that may dent or scratch but not crack like plastic or glass panels. The Nord 4 also has a dual finish on the back, with the camera section featuring glass, reminiscent of the first three generations of Google Pixel phones.
The cameras are arranged horizontally, making them easier to keep smudge-free. The device is available in three colors: Obsidian Midnight for a subtle look, and Mercurial Silver or Oasis Green for a fancier appearance.
Longest Software Support
The OnePlus Nord 4 runs on OxygenOS 14, based on Android 14, and the company promises 6 years of software updates. This includes 4 Android updates and 6 years of security updates, ensuring support up to Android 18 and security updates until 2030.
This level of software support surpasses other phones in its segment, including the OnePlus 12, which is only guaranteed 5 years of support. Additionally, OnePlus claims that the phone will maintain peak battery capacity for 4 years. If the battery does degrade, replacement is cheaper than buying a new phone.
Premium Experience
In India, OnePlus is known for its premium offerings, often compared to brands like Apple and Samsung. The unboxing experience is unique, with a high-quality, color-matching case, necessary adapters and cables for fast charging, a Red Cable membership card, and brand stickers.
OnePlus also excels in after-sales service, being the only brand to offer assistance for the 'green line' issue.
Better Deals With Ageing
OnePlus now offers regular discounts on its products, a change from earlier practices. These discounts improve as the devices age and are available both online and offline.
The OnePlus Nord 4, starting at ₹29,999 for the 8GB + 128GB variant, may see price reductions in the coming months. Historical trends suggest that the 8GB + 256GB (₹32,999) and 12GB + 256GB (₹35,999) variants could also drop below ₹30,000.
