Is the OnePlus 5 Still Worth Buying in 2020?

TL;DR

The OnePlus 5 remains a solid smartphone option in 2020, offering decent performance with its Snapdragon 835 processor and a vibrant 1080p AMOLED display. Although it lacks features like wireless charging and has an average camera, its price point makes it appealing for budget-conscious users seeking reliable performance.

Transcript

welcome back everyone you guys know you won plus 18 a pro came out so you know your boy had to go in review the 2017 model of the 1 plus lineup 1 plus decided not to send me out a phone which is kind of salty you know I talked about oneplus a lot I think I've owned all of them for the most part and they still don't want to support the boy but onepl... Read More

Key Insights

• 😀 The OnePlus 5 continues to offer decent performance with its Snapdragon 835 processor, keeping up well with modern app demands.
• 🥳 The AMOLED display, despite being 1080p, still delivers vibrant visuals that many users appreciate in day-to-day use.
• ❣️ OxygenOS is praised for its near-stock Android experience, continually attracting users who prefer a clean, functional interface over heavier skins.
• 😫 The phone's design, while not cutting-edge, remains appealing, showing how OnePlus set trends that many brands follow today.
• 💄 While the OnePlus 5 lacks wireless charging and IP rating, its price makes it competitive in the budget smartphone market.
• 🙂 The camera capabilities are decent for everyday photography but fall short compared to newer flagship models, particularly in low light.
• 🤕 The battery life is average but can be affected by aging, requiring users to be mindful of potential degradation over time.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why does the reviewer want OnePlus to send them a phone?

The reviewer has discussed OnePlus products extensively and feels slighted that they weren’t sent a device for review. They express a desire to provide comparisons and detailed analyses to their audience, indicating their commitment to covering OnePlus thoroughly.

Q: How does the OnePlus 5 compare to its competitors from 2017?

Compared to contemporaries like the Samsung Galaxy S8 and iPhone X, the OnePlus 5 performs admirably, especially with its Snapdragon 835 chipset. The reviewer notes it may even perform faster than the Galaxy S8, highlighting its efficient software and solid hardware for the time.

Q: What are the camera capabilities of the OnePlus 5?

The OnePlus 5 sports a dual rear camera setup with a 16MP wide-angle lens and a 20MP standard lens. It can shoot 4K video at 30fps, but the camera performance is seen as average for its time, especially in low-light conditions compared to competitors' offerings.

Q: What is the battery life like on the OnePlus 5?

The OnePlus 5 has a 3,300 mAh battery which works well with its 1080p display, offering decent battery life. However, the reviewer warns that battery degradation is expected in older units, which may impact performance over time.

Q: Why does the reviewer recommend rooting the OnePlus 5?

Rooting the OnePlus 5 can allow users to install custom ROMs, enhancing the phone’s capabilities and extending its lifespan. The vibrant development community around the OnePlus series suggests many users can benefit from personalized software experiences.

Q: How does the OnePlus 5 perform with its software updates?

The OnePlus 5 originally launched with Android 7.1.1 Nougat and later received an upgrade to Android 10. The software, OxygenOS, is appreciated for its close relationship with stock Android, providing users with essential features and good support, enhancing usability.

Q: What are the design features of the OnePlus 5?

The OnePlus 5 retains a solid build with a 5.5-inch AMOLED display, which the reviewer finds appealing despite being somewhat outdated in style. It lacks premium materials and IP certification, but its ergonomics make it feel sturdy in hand.

Q: Is the OnePlus 5 still worth purchasing in 2020?

Yes, the OnePlus 5 can still be a viable option for budget-conscious consumers in 2020, especially if they can find it at a good price. However, buyers are encouraged to consider newer models like the OnePlus 6 or 7 if they seek improved performance and features.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The OnePlus 5, released in 2017, still holds up well in 2020, featuring a decent design and performance for its time.

• Its AMOLED display, while only 1080p, offers vibrant colors, and the software, OxygenOS, provides a smooth user experience reminiscent of stock Android.

• Despite limitations like no wireless charging and an average camera, the OnePlus 5 can still satisfy users looking for budget-friendly options.