OnePlus Nord 2T 5G: OnePlus has officially unveiled the Nord 2T 5G, marking a significant milestone as the first device in the popular Nord series to receive the coveted ‘T’ designation. The phone was officially launched on 13 May 2022 although several details were officially leaked by OnePlus in the run up to that date including the design and processor. This strategic move brings the Nord lineup closer to OnePlus’s flagship methodology, where ‘T’ variants traditionally represent refined and enhanced versions of existing models.
A Strategic Evolution in OnePlus’s Mid-Range Portfolio
It’s also the first Nord phone to adopt the firm’s ‘T’ branding for an updated version of its phones. This usually applies to the top of the range OnePlus phones since the 3 and 3T in 2016, though there was never a 9T launched. The introduction of the Nord 2T represents OnePlus’s commitment to bringing premium features traditionally reserved for flagship devices to the more accessible mid-range segment.
The device serves as a successor to the well-received Nord 2, which gained significant traction in markets worldwide. OnePlus Nord 2T premiered in May, coming to replace the Nord 2 on store shelves. Industry analysts suggest this launch strategy reflects OnePlus’s response to increasing competition in the mid-range smartphone segment, particularly from brands offering similar specifications at competitive price points.
Performance Powerhouse: Dimensity 1300 Takes Center Stage
At the heart of the Nord 2T lies the MediaTek Dimensity 1300 chipset, representing a notable upgrade from its predecessor. The Nord 2T packs in the MediaTek Dimensity 1300 processor, an upgrade on the Dimensity 1200 in the Nord 2. This octa-core processor features a sophisticated architecture with one Cortex-A78 core clocked at 3.0 GHz, three additional Cortex-A78 cores at 2.6 GHz, and four efficiency-focused Cortex-A55 cores running at 2.0 GHz.
The enhanced chipset promises improved performance across multiple use cases, from intensive gaming sessions to content creation tasks. OnePlus emphasizes that the Dimensity 1300’s advanced AI capabilities enable superior night photography and enhanced low-light image processing, addressing one of the most crucial aspects of modern smartphone photography.
Memory configurations remain robust, with the device available in two variants: 8GB LPDDR4X RAM paired with 128GB UFS 3.1 storage, and a premium 12GB RAM option with 256GB storage. The two models have either 8GB or 12GB of LPDDR4X RAM and either 128GB or 256GB of UFS 3.1 storage, which is non expandable, but there are two nano SIM slots.
Revolutionary Charging Technology Trickles Down
Perhaps the most significant upgrade in the Nord 2T is its charging capability. 80W SUPERVOOC flagship charging brings the device in line with OnePlus’s premium offerings. Possibly the best upgrade here is the 80W wired fast charging for the 4,500mAh battery (there’s no wireless charging). This is the same speed as the OnePlus 10 Pro and faster than the 65W speeds of the original Nord 2.
The implications of this charging technology are substantial for daily users. It charges from zero to over 70 per cent in around 15 minutes, offering users a fast and convenient way to stay powered throughout the day without long charging breaks. OnePlus claims the 4,500mAh battery can reach full capacity in approximately 27 minutes, addressing one of the primary pain points for smartphone users who require quick top-ups during busy schedules.
Camera System: Proven Technology with Enhanced Processing
The Nord 2T maintains the successful camera configuration of its predecessor while leveraging the improved processing power of the Dimensity 1300. The camera specs are practically identical to the Nord 2 with the Sony IMX766 sensor used for the 50Mp f1/9 main camera, which has optical image stabilisation (OIS).
The triple-camera setup includes a 50-megapixel primary sensor with Sony’s IMX766 technology, complemented by optical image stabilization for sharper images and reduced motion blur. An 8-megapixel ultra-wide camera with f/2.3 aperture captures expansive scenes with a 120-degree field of view, while a 2-megapixel monochrome sensor assists with depth information and artistic effects.
Front-facing photography receives equal attention, with the Nord 2T featuring a 32-megapixel selfie camera. Pleasingly, the 32Mp selfie camera is the same sensor found on the OnePlus 10 Pro. This strategic component sharing ensures consistent image quality across OnePlus’s product lineup while maintaining cost efficiency for the mid-range positioning.
Video capabilities extend to 4K recording, with the enhanced chipset enabling slow-motion capture at up to 960 frames per second, opening creative possibilities for content creators and enthusiasts.
Display Technology: AMOLED Excellence with Room for Growth
The Nord 2T features a 6.43-inch AMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution (2400 x 1080 pixels). In addition, its screen has up to a 90 Hz refresh rate and supports HDR10+ for an immersive viewing experience. The display benefits from Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection, ensuring durability against everyday wear and scratches.
While the 90Hz refresh rate provides smooth scrolling and responsive touch interactions, some industry observers note that competitors in similar price brackets now offer 120Hz displays. The Nord 2T’s 6.43in AMOLED display refreshes at 90Hz, a slight shame as other midrange phones are managing 120Hz for the price or less.
Software Experience: OxygenOS Evolution
The device ships with OxygenOS 12.1 based on Android 12, representing OnePlus’s continuing software evolution. OxygenOS 12.1 comes pre-installed in the box⁷, which means better multi-tasking, faster app launching, improved power consumption, and smoother gallery viewing from the moment you power on your new Nord 2T.
However, the software landscape reflects broader changes within OnePlus following its closer integration with Oppo. OnePlus is shipping the Nord 2T with Oxygen OS 12.1 based on Android 12 but again, this is closely modelled on Oppo’s ColorOS post-merger. This transition has generated mixed reactions among OnePlus enthusiasts who appreciated the brand’s previously distinctive software approach.
OnePlus commits to providing two major Android updates and three years of security patches, ensuring longevity for users’ investments. A great everyday phone isn’t just about flashy hardware and specs — we’ll make sure Nord 2T keeps delivering a seamless experience with two major Android updates and three years of security updates.
Design Philosophy: Familiar Excellence with Practical Considerations
The Nord 2T maintains OnePlus’s design language while incorporating practical improvements. There’s also the familiar and excellent alert slider for quickly setting the phone to silent, vibrate, or ring. This hardware feature, increasingly rare among smartphone manufacturers, continues to differentiate OnePlus devices in the marketplace.
Available color options include Gray Shadow and Jade Fog, providing users with sophisticated aesthetic choices that appeal to professional and personal use cases. The device measures 159.1 × 73.2 × 8.2mm and weighs 190 grams, striking a balance between substantial feel and comfortable handling.
Market Positioning and Pricing Strategy
The OnePlus Nord 2T costs £369 in the UK for the 8GB RAM/128GB storage model, while the 12GB RAM/256GB model costs £469. In international markets, pricing reflects OnePlus’s strategy of delivering premium features at accessible price points.
The OnePlus Nord 2T was officially released on 01 July 2022. It launched as part of the OnePlus Nord series, offering a balance of performance and affordability. The strategic timing positions the device to capture market share during peak smartphone purchasing seasons while competing directly with established mid-range offerings from Samsung, Xiaomi, and other manufacturers.
Industry Implications and Future Outlook
The Nord 2T launch signals OnePlus’s mature approach to product segmentation, bringing flagship technologies to broader audiences without compromising the premium positioning of its numbered series devices. The 80W charging technology’s inclusion at this price point may pressure competitors to accelerate their own fast-charging implementations across mid-range lineups.
The Nord 2T looks like a modest upgrade on 2021’s OnePlus Nord 2 but has a couple of features that match the £799 OnePlus 10 Pro, meaning it should be a solid Android option if you don’t want to spend big on a smartphone.
The device’s success will likely influence OnePlus’s future product roadmap, potentially establishing the ‘T’ designation as a regular feature within the Nord series. Market reception will also inform the company’s strategy regarding feature distribution across its increasingly complex product portfolio.
Connectivity and Future-Proofing
5G connectivity remains a central feature, with the device supporting dual 5G SIM cards for enhanced network flexibility. Currently can supports dual 5G SIM cards ， But this may vary due to differeent network service ，please confirm with your carrier. This capability ensures users can take advantage of expanding 5G infrastructure while maintaining compatibility with existing 4G networks.
Wi-Fi 6 support, Bluetooth 5.2, and comprehensive location services including GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo provide comprehensive connectivity options for modern smartphone users.
Conclusion: Evolutionary Excellence in the Mid-Range Segment
The OnePlus Nord 2T represents thoughtful evolution rather than revolutionary change, bringing meaningful improvements to an already successful formula. The combination of enhanced processing power, flagship-level charging speeds, and proven camera technology creates a compelling package for users seeking premium experiences without flagship pricing.
Since its release, it has become a popular choice among users looking for a stylish and powerful smartphone at a mid-range price. As OnePlus continues navigating its position in an increasingly competitive smartphone landscape, the Nord 2T demonstrates the company’s ability to identify and deliver the features that matter most to everyday users.
The device’s launch establishes a new benchmark for mid-range smartphones, potentially influencing industry standards for charging speeds, camera capabilities, and performance expectations. For consumers, the Nord 2T offers a mature smartphone experience that bridges the gap between budget constraints and flagship aspirations, maintaining OnePlus’s reputation for delivering exceptional value in the increasingly crowded Android ecosystem.