OnePlus has unveiled its latest mid-range powerhouse, the OnePlus 15R, delivering flagship-level performance at a competitive $699 price point. The device sets a new standard for battery capacity in its price segment, undercutting major competitors like Samsung and Google while offering impressive specifications.
Key Features and Specifications
The OnePlus 15R arrives with a compelling package that includes an LTPS AMOLED display, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, and a massive 7,400mAh battery – larger even than the flagship OnePlus 15. This device targets consumers seeking premium performance without the flagship price tag.
True to OnePlus’s R-series philosophy, the 15R prioritizes value-for-money by focusing on powerful performance, a flagship-grade display, and exceptional battery life, though it makes compromises in camera versatility.
Design and Durability
The OnePlus 15R follows a familiar design language with a rectangular camera module, flat sides, and curved corners. An AI Key on the left side functions similarly to an Action Button. The phone comes in three colors: Mint Breeze (an elegant light green), Charcoal Black, and Electric Violet (India-exclusive).
While the design may appear generic at first glance, the device excels in durability. It carries an impressive IP66, IP68, IP69, and IP69K rating for dust and water resistance, protecting against not just water submersion but also high-pressure jet sprays.
Display and Performance
The front features a 6.8-inch LTPS AMOLED display with 1.5K resolution and a 165Hz refresh rate. During typical usage, it maintains a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, with the higher rate activating for specific mobile games like Call of Duty Mobile. The screen delivers sharp, responsive, and bright visuals.
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor – comparable to last year’s flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite – the device pairs this with 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM and either 256GB or 512GB of storage. Testing revealed that demanding titles like Red Dead Redemption loaded quickly at high graphics settings, handling graphics-intensive tasks effortlessly.
Battery Life and Software
The OnePlus 15R runs Android 16-based OxygenOS 16.0 and features a remarkable 7,400mAh battery with 80W fast wired charging. The charging system can power the device from 5% to 50% in under 30 minutes. This represents a significant upgrade over the OnePlus 15’s 7,300mAh battery and a substantial improvement compared to the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra’s 5,000mAh cell.
Camera System
The OnePlus 15R features a dual camera setup with a 50MP primary camera and an 8MP ultrawide-angle camera. Notably absent is a telephoto lens, reflecting the device’s value-focused positioning.
The main sensor performs well, particularly in 4K 120fps videos and daylight photography. While it relies more on artificial blur for portrait shots, it delivers good dynamic range and detail in most scenarios. The 32MP selfie camera offers adequate performance for everyday use.
Availability and Pricing
The OnePlus 15R is priced at $699 for the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage configuration in the United States. Pre-orders are currently available, with the official sale date set for December 22. Unlike the flagship OnePlus 15, which faced FCC delays, the 15R launch appears to be proceeding smoothly, making it an attractive option for consumers seeking affordable flagship performance.
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