Notebookcheck Logo

OnePlus Nord 2T smartphone review: Budget high-end phone with little innovation

A new design - but what else? The OnePlus Nord 2T takes its cues from classic OnePlus phones with its roughened surface. Apart from that, little has changed compared to the predecessor at first glance. In our review, we'll see if we can identify any refinements that could justify an update.
OnePlus Nord 2T

The OnePlus Nord series sells well, so it's not surprising that the OnePlus Nord 2 has been updated after just 9 months: The OnePlus Nord 2T hits the market with an updated design at the same price as its predecessor.

We want to discover the modifications in our review, even though they don't seem to be much at first glance. Although there's a new SoC on paper, it turns out to be an almost exact clone of the SoC in the OnePlus Nord 2 upon closer inspection. So, is the Nord 2T purely a design update?

OnePlus Nord 2T (Nord Series)
Processor
MediaTek Dimensity 1300 8 x 2 - 3 GHz, Cortex-A78 / A55
Graphics adapter
Memory
12 GB 
Display
6.43 inch 20:9, 2400 x 1080 pixel 409 PPI, capacitive touchscreen, AMOLED, Gorilla Glass 5, 180 Hz sampling rate, glossy: yes, HDR, 90 Hz
Storage
256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash, 256 GB 
, 240 GB free
Connections
1 USB 2.0, Audio Connections: audio via USB-C, 1 Fingerprint Reader, NFC, Brightness Sensor, Sensors: acceleration sensor, gyroscope, proximity sensor, compass
Networking
802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/ax = Wi-Fi 6/), Bluetooth 5.2, 2G (850/​900/​1800/​1900), 3G (B1/​B2/​B4/​B5/​B8/​B19), 4G (B1/​B2/​B3/​B4/​B5/​B7/​B8/​B12/​B17/​B18/​B19/​B20/​B26/​B28/​B32/​B34/​B38/​B39/​B40/​B41/​B66), 5G (n1/​n3/​n7/​n8/​n20/​n28/​n38/​n41/​n78), Dual SIM, LTE, 5G, GPS
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 8.2 x 159.1 x 73.2 ( = 0.32 x 6.26 x 2.88 in)
Battery
4500 mAh Lithium-Polymer, 80-watt SuperVOOC charging
Charging
fast charging / Quickcharge
Operating System
Android 12
Camera
Primary Camera: 50 MPix f/​1.8, phase-comparison AF, contrast AF, OIS, dual-LED flash, videos @2160p/​30fps, videos @720p/​960fps (camera 1); 8.0 MP, f/​2.2, wide-angle lens (camera 2); 2.0 MP, f/​2.2, monochrome (camera 3)
Secondary Camera: 32 MPix f/​2.4, videos @1080p/​30fps
Additional features
Speakers: stereo speakers (hybrid), Keyboard: virtual keyboard, charger, USB cable, SIM tool, silicon case, 24 Months Warranty, LTE Cat 18/​13 (1200Mbps/​150Mbps), fanless
Weight
190 g ( = 6.7 oz / 0.42 pounds) ( = 0 oz / 0 pounds)
Price
499 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Possible contenders in comparison

Rating
Date
Model
Weight
Drive
Size
Resolution
Best Price
85.4 %
06/2022
OnePlus Nord 2T
Dimensity 1300, Mali-G77 MP9
190 g256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash6.43"2400x1080
85.1 %
08/2021
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9
189 g256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash6.43"2400x1080
85.3 %
02/2022
Motorola Moto G200 5G
SD 888+ 5G, Adreno 660
202 g128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash6.80"2460x1080
86.6 %
10/2021
Xiaomi 11T
Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9
203 g128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash6.67"2400x1080
83.4 %
06/2022
Samsung Galaxy A53
Exynos 1280, Mali-G68 MP4
189 g128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash6.50"2400x1080

Case – Reminiscent of the OnePlus One

The rough back of the OnePlus Nord 2T in the gray color variant is reminiscent of early OnePlus phones, but it's not quite as grippy as in those early models. Obviously, OnePlus wants to do a bit of fan service with it. Unlike the smooth glass surface on the OnePlus Nord 2, there's also the advantage that fingerprints aren't visible, as we could determine with our test device.

The second color variant is called "Jade Fog", and it comes with a glossy surface, so it should be a bit more susceptible to fingerprints.

The OnePlus Nord 2T is a slightly more manageable phone, and it's also a bit lighter than, for example, the massive Moto G200. The chassis can be twisted to a minor extent, which is probably also due to the plastic frame that continues to be present. However, the build quality and stability are at a high level overall.

OnePlus Nord 2T 5G
OnePlus Nord 2T 5G
OnePlus Nord 2T 5G
OnePlus Nord 2T 5G
OnePlus Nord 2T 5G

Size comparison

168.1 mm / 6.62 inch 75.5 mm / 2.97 inch 8.9 mm / 0.3504 inch 202 g0.4453 lbs164.1 mm / 6.46 inch 76.9 mm / 3.03 inch 8.8 mm / 0.3465 inch 203 g0.4475 lbs159.6 mm / 6.28 inch 74.8 mm / 2.94 inch 8.1 mm / 0.3189 inch 189 g0.4167 lbs159.1 mm / 6.26 inch 73.3 mm / 2.89 inch 8.3 mm / 0.3268 inch 189 g0.4167 lbs159.1 mm / 6.26 inch 73.2 mm / 2.88 inch 8.2 mm / 0.3228 inch 190 g0.4189 lbs148 mm / 5.83 inch 105 mm / 4.13 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 1.5 g0.00331 lbs

Connectivity – Same price level

The OnePlus phone is available in two storage configurations:

  • 8 GB RAM / 128 GB storage: 399 Euros (~$420)
  • 12 GB RAM / 256 GB storage: 499 Euros (~$525)

Storage configurations and prices have remained exactly the same compared to the predecessor.

High-end features like wireless charging or an IP certification aren't available, and there's no 3.5 mm jack for connecting headphones, or a microSD reader.

A USB-C port is located at the bottom edge, which internally only supports USB 2.0 speeds and can therefore only transfer a maximum of 480 Mb/s. Just like with the predecessor, NFC and Bluetooth 5.2 are available as wireless interfaces.

A risky situation: The microphone is located directly next to the SIM tray at the bottom. You have to be careful to choose the correct hole for the SIM tool here, otherwise you could accidentally pierce the membrane.

Left: Volume rocker
Left: Volume rocker
Right: Standby button, notification slider
Right: Standby button, notification slider
Top: Microphone
Top: Microphone
Bottom: SIM slot, microphone, USB-C port, speaker
Bottom: SIM slot, microphone, USB-C port, speaker

Software – Relatively short update policy

OxygenOS 12.1, which is based on Android 12, is preinstalled. This is the first major version of OxygenOS that's no longer completely independent; instead, it was developed based on its partner company Oppo's ColorOS.

Once again, the manufacturer has promised two new Android versions and three years of security updates. Since the security patches are already two months old at the time of testing, the update frequency is probably expected to be quarterly.

Software OnePlus Nord 2T
Software OnePlus Nord 2T
Software OnePlus Nord 2T

Communication and GNSS – OnePlus with Wi-Fi problem

The OnePlus smartphone can connect to mobile networks using all current standards, and it also supports 5G SA. There are also enough 4G frequencies to be able to access the mobile Internet while traveling.

During our review, we constantly checked the smartphone's mobile network reception quality. The result: The OnePlus Nord 2T is on par with many high-end smartphones here, and it shows very good signal quality.

Wi-Fi 6 is also available, and the smartphone is on par with its comparison devices when it comes to sending data, but it's much slower when it comes to receiving data. This could simply be a software problem that can be solved via an update. The data rates are very stable during the test.

Networking
iperf3 receive AXE11000
Average of class Smartphone
  (34.8 - 1875, n=210, last 2 years)
654 MBit/s +45%
OnePlus Nord 2T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
451 (397min - 461max) MBit/s
Samsung Galaxy A53
Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
345 (328min - 351max) MBit/s -24%
iperf3 transmit AXE11000
OnePlus Nord 2T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
884 (867min - 902max) MBit/s
Average of class Smartphone
  (40.5 - 1810, n=211, last 2 years)
690 MBit/s -22%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
269 (255min - 281max) MBit/s -70%
iperf3 transmit AX12
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
888 (842min - 904max) MBit/s
Xiaomi 11T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
884 (817min - 939max) MBit/s
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
864 (759min - 906max) MBit/s
iperf3 receive AX12
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
877 (657min - 928max) MBit/s
Xiaomi 11T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
836 (737min - 887max) MBit/s
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
836 (809min - 863max) MBit/s
Average of class Smartphone
  (last 2 years)
376 MBit/s
050100150200250300350400450500550600650700750800850900Tooltip
OnePlus Nord 2T; iperf3 receive AXE11000; iperf 3.1.3: Ø451 (397-461)
OnePlus Nord 2T; iperf3 transmit AXE11000; iperf 3.1.3: Ø884 (867-902)
GPS Test outdoors
GPS Test outdoors
Available satellite networks
Available satellite networks

Outdoors, our location is pinpointed with an accuracy of one meter after a minimal delay, which is a very good result. Numerous satellites are also available for positioning, and the SBAS system for higher accuracy is also on board.

So as to be able to make an even more in-depth assessment of the positioning accuracy in everyday use, we got on our bike and took the OnePlus Nord 2T as well as the Garmin Venu 2 smartwatch along for a comparison.

We can conclude that the Nord phone occasionally shows small inaccuracies, especially in narrow old-town alleys, but the comparison device doesn't navigate very well here, either. However, the positioning accuracy is very good in areas where houses aren't that close to each other; therefore, we can recommend the OnePlus Nord 2T as a navigation device.

Garmin Venu 2 positioning – Overview
Garmin Venu 2 positioning – Overview
Garmin Venu 2 positioning – Turning point
Garmin Venu 2 positioning – Turning point
Garmin Venu 2 positioning – Bridge
Garmin Venu 2 positioning – Bridge
OnePlus Nord 2T positioning – Overview
OnePlus Nord 2T positioning – Overview
OnePlus Nord 2T positioning – Turning point
OnePlus Nord 2T positioning – Turning point
OnePlus Nord 2T positioning – Bridge
OnePlus Nord 2T positioning – Bridge

Telephone and call quality – Moderate call quality

OnePlus uses Google's standard phone app. It has all the necessary functions. Of course, you can also use other apps from the Play Store if you want, but you should look for a reliable software developer in that case.

The internal earpiece tends to drone at maximum volume, and it generally reproduces voices in a slightly muffled way. The microphone doesn't pick up our voice that clearly, either, as the person on the other end of the line confirms. They sound a bit better over the speaker, but we have to be careful not to speak too quietly, or the hands-free microphone doesn't pick up our voice anymore. 

Cameras – Better in the dark

Front-facing camera sample
Front-facing camera sample

Compared to the predecessor, little has changed as far as the camera is concerned: There's still no macro lens, and the main camera with optical image stabilization still has a resolution of 50 megapixels. However, the aperture and therefore the light sensitivity are slightly higher.

Consequently, the main camera also does a good job brightening our comparison pictures, but it also creates a very bright sky in HDR mode; in addition, sharpness is rather mediocre upon closer inspection. In low light, however, the brightening is actually better than in the predecessor, and the level of detail is better here as well. That said, the camera doesn't perform at a high-end level.

Once again, the wide-angle lens takes decent snapshots, but by now, there are mobile phone cameras that provide a much better reproduction of image details.

Video recording remains available at 4K and 30 fps. You have to decide before recording if you want to use the wide-angle lens or the main camera; it's not possible to switch while recording. Although the autofocus occasionally responds with minimal delays, it works well overall, as does the brightness correction; this results in decent pictures.

The 32-megapixel front-facing camera does its job quite well, and it also provides decent detail reproduction in the hair area. This allows you to magnify selfies a bit if you want to.

Image Comparison

Choose a scene and navigate within the first image. One click changes the position on touchscreens. One click on the zoomed-in image opens the original in a new window. The first image shows the scaled photograph of the test device.

Main camera - FlowerMain camera - SurroundingsMain camera - Low lightWide-angle camera
click to load images


ColorChecker
13.2 ∆E
9.6 ∆E
11.5 ∆E
16.6 ∆E
13.7 ∆E
8.6 ∆E
10.6 ∆E
9.1 ∆E
10.4 ∆E
4.3 ∆E
8.2 ∆E
8.4 ∆E
5 ∆E
7.7 ∆E
8.9 ∆E
3.2 ∆E
6.8 ∆E
10.8 ∆E
5.5 ∆E
4.1 ∆E
7.3 ∆E
6.9 ∆E
6.4 ∆E
3.5 ∆E
ColorChecker OnePlus Nord 2T: 8.34 ∆E min: 3.15 - max: 16.63 ∆E
ColorChecker
21.6 ∆E
38.5 ∆E
28.8 ∆E
30.2 ∆E
32.2 ∆E
41.4 ∆E
36 ∆E
24.6 ∆E
24.5 ∆E
24.4 ∆E
43.7 ∆E
46.4 ∆E
19.5 ∆E
35 ∆E
16.9 ∆E
43.9 ∆E
27.8 ∆E
32.7 ∆E
40 ∆E
40.5 ∆E
39.4 ∆E
30.3 ∆E
22.2 ∆E
12.9 ∆E
ColorChecker OnePlus Nord 2T: 31.39 ∆E min: 12.89 - max: 46.41 ∆E

Accessories and warranty – Charger included

In contrast to the current trend, a charger is still included in the box of the OnePlus Nord 2T. In addition, you also get a case, a USB-C cable, and a SIM tool.

Once again, OnePlus' store offers a special Sandstone case and a screen protector for the Nord phone, both of which cost 23 Euros (~$24). There's also a special accessories package that includes TWS headphones and costs just under 67 Euros (~$71). A compatible replacement charger is currently unavailable from OnePlus.

The manufacturer offers a 24-month warranty for its smartphones.

Input devices and handling – 90 Hz touchscreen

The touchscreen can be used smoothly and without any issues. The display, which can be set to a refresh rate of 60 or 90 Hz, also contributes to this. It feels like you can navigate menu screens even more intuitively at 90 Hz.

The fingerprint sensor is hidden underneath the screen, and it's located quite far down. When you hold the phone in your hand, you often have to reposition it to reach the sensor. The recognition accuracy is good, and the smartphone is unlocked with a very short delay. It's annoying, however, that the fingerprint sensor isn't active all the time, and it doesn't respond when the display is completely turned off, for example.

Face recognition is also integrated, and it works well, but it's not quite as secure due to the 2D implementation that lacks hardware support.

Keyboard in portrait mode
Keyboard in portrait mode
Keyboard in landscape mode
Keyboard in landscape mode

Display – No DC dimming

Subpixel grid
Subpixel grid

When it comes to the display panel, nothing seems to have changed. The size, resolution, brightness, and measurements: The same or very similar values can be seen everywhere in the OnePlus Nord 2 and 2T. Once again, this is an AMOLED display with an expanded 1080p resolution.

The average display brightness is around 573 cd/m². We also observe PWM flickering in this device, something that is typical for OLED displays. Unlike older OnePlus phones, there's no DC dimming option here.

586
cd/m²
570
cd/m²
562
cd/m²
576
cd/m²
561
cd/m²
566
cd/m²
587
cd/m²
577
cd/m²
573
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 587 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 573.1 cd/m² Minimum: 1.9 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 96 %
Center on Battery: 561 cd/m²
Contrast: ∞:1 (Black: 0 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 2.67 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 4.1 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
98.3% sRGB (Calman 2D)
Gamma: 2.245
OnePlus Nord 2T
AMOLED, 2400x1080, 6.43
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
AMOLED, 2400x1080, 6.43
Motorola Moto G200 5G
IPS LCD, 2460x1080, 6.80
Xiaomi 11T
AMOLED, 2400x1080, 6.67
Samsung Galaxy A53
AMOLED, 2400x1080, 6.50
Screen
2%
-8%
33%
29%
Brightness middle
561
594
6%
512
-9%
781
39%
718
28%
Brightness
573
594
4%
488
-15%
782
36%
730
27%
Brightness Distribution
96
99
3%
87
-9%
94
-2%
92
-4%
Black Level *
0.36
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
2.67
2.74
-3%
3.42
-28%
2
25%
1.62
39%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
6.15
6
2%
5.9
4%
2.9
53%
4.21
32%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
4.1
4.2
-2%
3.7
10%
2.3
44%
2
51%
Gamma
2.245 98%
2.278 97%
7154 0%
2.28 96%
2.156 102%
CCT
7104 91%
7322 89%
1.944 334362%
6852 95%
6545 99%
Contrast
1422

* ... smaller is better

Screen Flickering / PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation)

To dim the screen, some notebooks will simply cycle the backlight on and off in rapid succession - a method called Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) . This cycling frequency should ideally be undetectable to the human eye. If said frequency is too low, users with sensitive eyes may experience strain or headaches or even notice the flickering altogether.
Screen flickering / PWM detected 193.1 Hz

The display backlight flickers at 193.1 Hz (worst case, e.g., utilizing PWM) .

The frequency of 193.1 Hz is relatively low, so sensitive users will likely notice flickering and experience eyestrain at the stated brightness setting and below.

In comparison: 53 % of all tested devices do not use PWM to dim the display. If PWM was detected, an average of 17900 (minimum: 5 - maximum: 3846000) Hz was measured.

PWM frequency
PWM frequency
0% brightness
0% brightness
25% brightness
25% brightness
50% brightness
50% brightness
75% brightness
75% brightness
100% brightness
100% brightness

Series of measurements with fixed zoom level and different brightness settings

We take a closer look at the color reproduction's accuracy in our tests with the spectrophotometer and the CalMAN software.

We notice a very slight blue tint in the grayscale, but this is also the only relevant deviation. Although there are generally more accurate displays on the mobile phone market, the color nuances are sufficiently accurate for the human eye on this panel.

CalMAN grayscale
CalMAN grayscale
CalMAN color accuracy
CalMAN color accuracy
CalMAN sRGB color space
CalMAN sRGB color space
CalMAN AdobeRGB color space
CalMAN AdobeRGB color space
CalMAN DCI-P3 color space
CalMAN DCI-P3 color space
CalMAN saturation
CalMAN saturation

Display Response Times

Display response times show how fast the screen is able to change from one color to the next. Slow response times can lead to afterimages and can cause moving objects to appear blurry (ghosting). Gamers of fast-paced 3D titles should pay special attention to fast response times.
       Response Time Black to White
24 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 19 ms rise
↘ 5 ms fall
The screen shows good response rates in our tests, but may be too slow for competitive gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 48 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (21.5 ms).
       Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey
6 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 3 ms rise
↘ 3 ms fall
The screen shows very fast response rates in our tests and should be very well suited for fast-paced gaming.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.2 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 13 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is better than the average of all tested devices (33.7 ms).

The smartphone can also be used outdoors on bright days. Nevertheless, you will notice the difference to Samsung's or Xiaomi's OLED panels, for example, which can generate much more brightness with their Boost mode, making them even more flexible during use. With the OnePlus Nord 2T, you have to move into the shade more often.

The viewing angles are almost perfect. When nothing is being reflected on the display, it's possible to see the screen content very well even from very flat angles.

Outdoor use
Outdoor use
Viewing angles
Viewing angles

Performance – SoC with strange results

At first glance, you could think that the OnePlus Nord 2T comes with a completely new SoC: However, the MediaTek Dimensity 1300 matches the Dimensity 1200 exactly in almost all areas, with the latter having been installed in the OnePlus Nord 2. Therefore, you shouldn't expect a performance leap, and those looking for the fastest smartphone processor in this price range will still be better served with the Motorola Moto G200.

The Dimensity 1300 delivers solid performance for everyday use, even when multitasking. Some benchmarks show lower results than expected, though. It's currently hard to tell whether this is due to OnePlus' software, the benchmarks, or the SoC, since the OnePlus Nord 2T is the first device that we review with this SoC.

Geekbench 5.5
Single-Core
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 Plus 5G, Adreno 660, 8192
1076 Points +159%
Average of class Smartphone
  (119 - 2138, n=219, last 2 years)
913 Points +120%
Xiaomi 11T
MediaTek Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9, 8192
857 Points +107%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
MediaTek Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9, 12288
809 Points +95%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Samsung Exynos 1280, Mali-G68 MP4, 6144
740 Points +78%
OnePlus Nord 2T
MediaTek Dimensity 1300, Mali-G77 MP9, 12288
415 Points
Average MediaTek Dimensity 1300
  ()
415 Points 0%
Multi-Core
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 Plus 5G, Adreno 660, 8192
3286 Points +22%
Average of class Smartphone
  (473 - 6681, n=219, last 2 years)
2996 Points +11%
Xiaomi 11T
MediaTek Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9, 8192
2916 Points +8%
OnePlus Nord 2T
MediaTek Dimensity 1300, Mali-G77 MP9, 12288
2700 Points
Average MediaTek Dimensity 1300
  ()
2700 Points 0%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
MediaTek Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9, 12288
2463 Points -9%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Samsung Exynos 1280, Mali-G68 MP4, 6144
1878 Points -30%
Antutu v9 - Total Score
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 Plus 5G, Adreno 660, 8192
794271 Points +32%
Average of class Smartphone
  (102602 - 1650926, n=153, last 2 years)
738503 Points +23%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
MediaTek Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9, 12288
604538 Points +1%
OnePlus Nord 2T
MediaTek Dimensity 1300, Mali-G77 MP9, 12288
600384 Points
Average MediaTek Dimensity 1300
  ()
600384 Points 0%
Xiaomi 11T
MediaTek Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9, 8192
570375 Points -5%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Samsung Exynos 1280, Mali-G68 MP4, 6144
409976 Points -32%
PCMark for Android - Work 3.0
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 Plus 5G, Adreno 660, 8192
18567 Points +74%
Xiaomi 11T
MediaTek Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9, 8192
12120 Points +14%
Average of class Smartphone
  (4761 - 21385, n=214, last 2 years)
11787 Points +10%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Samsung Exynos 1280, Mali-G68 MP4, 6144
11470 Points +7%
OnePlus Nord 2T
MediaTek Dimensity 1300, Mali-G77 MP9, 12288
10678 Points
Average MediaTek Dimensity 1300
  ()
10678 Points 0%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
MediaTek Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9, 12288
8486 Points -21%
BaseMark OS II
Overall
Average of class Smartphone
  (411 - 11438, n=166, last 2 years)
5759 Points +19%
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 Plus 5G, Adreno 660, 8192
5711 Points +18%
Xiaomi 11T
MediaTek Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9, 8192
5319 Points +10%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
MediaTek Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9, 12288
5130 Points +6%
OnePlus Nord 2T
MediaTek Dimensity 1300, Mali-G77 MP9, 12288
4856 Points
Average MediaTek Dimensity 1300
  ()
4856 Points 0%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Samsung Exynos 1280, Mali-G68 MP4, 6144
3626 Points -25%
System
OnePlus Nord 2T
MediaTek Dimensity 1300, Mali-G77 MP9, 12288
9996 Points
Average MediaTek Dimensity 1300
  ()
9996 Points 0%
Average of class Smartphone
  (2376 - 16475, n=166, last 2 years)
9672 Points -3%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
MediaTek Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9, 12288
9622 Points -4%
Xiaomi 11T
MediaTek Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9, 8192
9292 Points -7%
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 Plus 5G, Adreno 660, 8192
8546 Points -15%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Samsung Exynos 1280, Mali-G68 MP4, 6144
7157 Points -28%
Memory
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
MediaTek Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9, 12288
7277 Points +55%
Xiaomi 11T
MediaTek Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9, 8192
7144 Points +52%
Average of class Smartphone
  (670 - 12716, n=166, last 2 years)
6267 Points +33%
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 Plus 5G, Adreno 660, 8192
5648 Points +20%
OnePlus Nord 2T
MediaTek Dimensity 1300, Mali-G77 MP9, 12288
4699 Points
Average MediaTek Dimensity 1300
  ()
4699 Points 0%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Samsung Exynos 1280, Mali-G68 MP4, 6144
3855 Points -18%
Graphics
Average of class Smartphone
  (697 - 58651, n=166, last 2 years)
14220 Points +64%
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 Plus 5G, Adreno 660, 8192
13865 Points +60%
OnePlus Nord 2T
MediaTek Dimensity 1300, Mali-G77 MP9, 12288
8672 Points
Average MediaTek Dimensity 1300
  ()
8672 Points 0%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
MediaTek Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9, 12288
7754 Points -11%
Xiaomi 11T
MediaTek Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9, 8192
7516 Points -13%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Samsung Exynos 1280, Mali-G68 MP4, 6144
5178 Points -40%
Web
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 Plus 5G, Adreno 660, 8192
1665 Points +22%
Xiaomi 11T
MediaTek Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9, 8192
1604 Points +18%
Average of class Smartphone
  (10 - 2145, n=166, last 2 years)
1495 Points +10%
OnePlus Nord 2T
MediaTek Dimensity 1300, Mali-G77 MP9, 12288
1365 Points
Average MediaTek Dimensity 1300
  ()
1365 Points 0%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
MediaTek Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9, 12288
1276 Points -7%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Samsung Exynos 1280, Mali-G68 MP4, 6144
1210 Points -11%
AImark - Score v2.x
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 Plus 5G, Adreno 660, 8192
286905 Points +393%
Xiaomi 11T
MediaTek Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9, 8192
71546 Points +23%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
MediaTek Dimensity 1200, Mali-G77 MP9, 12288
71083 Points +22%
OnePlus Nord 2T
MediaTek Dimensity 1300, Mali-G77 MP9, 12288
58244 Points
Average MediaTek Dimensity 1300
  ()
58244 Points 0%
Average of class Smartphone
  (1043 - 139804, n=50, last 2 years)
21146 Points -64%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Samsung Exynos 1280, Mali-G68 MP4, 6144
4714 Points -92%

In terms of graphics performance, the Nord 2T performs much better with its Mali-G77 MP9, and it even frequently reaches first place in the offscreen tests in particular.

3DMark
Wild Life Extreme Unlimited
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
1453 Points +12%
OnePlus Nord 2T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
1295 Points
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
1256 Points -3%
Xiaomi 11T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
1205 Points -7%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
621 Points -52%
Wild Life Extreme
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
1564 Points +18%
OnePlus Nord 2T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
1324 Points
Xiaomi 11T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
1291 Points -2%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
1283 Points -3%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
636 Points -52%
Wild Life Unlimited Score
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
5711 Points +26%
OnePlus Nord 2T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
4548 Points
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
4214 Points -7%
Xiaomi 11T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
4194 Points -8%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
2275 Points -50%
Wild Life Score
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
5765 Points +25%
OnePlus Nord 2T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
4623 Points
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
4208 Points -9%
Xiaomi 11T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
4179 Points -10%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
2293 Points -50%
GFXBench (DX / GLBenchmark) 2.7
T-Rex Onscreen
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
121 fps +102%
Xiaomi 11T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
116 fps +93%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
81 fps +35%
OnePlus Nord 2T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
60 fps
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
59 fps -2%
1920x1080 T-Rex Offscreen
OnePlus Nord 2T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
200 fps
Xiaomi 11T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
185 fps -7%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
178 fps -11%
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
161 fps -19%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
92 fps -54%
GFXBench 3.0
on screen Manhattan Onscreen OGL
Xiaomi 11T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
106 fps +86%
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
81 fps +42%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
60 fps +5%
OnePlus Nord 2T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
57 fps
Samsung Galaxy A53
Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
56 fps -2%
1920x1080 1080p Manhattan Offscreen
OnePlus Nord 2T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
129 fps
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
124 fps -4%
Xiaomi 11T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
122 fps -5%
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
92 fps -29%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
61 fps -53%
GFXBench 3.1
on screen Manhattan ES 3.1 Onscreen
Xiaomi 11T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
75 fps +39%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
58 fps +7%
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
54 fps 0%
OnePlus Nord 2T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
54 fps
Samsung Galaxy A53
Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
35 fps -35%
1920x1080 Manhattan ES 3.1 Offscreen
Xiaomi 11T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
79 fps 0%
OnePlus Nord 2T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
79 fps
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
77 fps -3%
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
62 fps -22%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
38 fps -52%
GFXBench
on screen Car Chase Onscreen
Xiaomi 11T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
44 fps +7%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
41 fps 0%
OnePlus Nord 2T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
41 fps
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
35 fps -15%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
20 fps -51%
1920x1080 Car Chase Offscreen
OnePlus Nord 2T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
50 fps
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
47 fps -6%
Xiaomi 11T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
46 fps -8%
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
42 fps -16%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
23 fps -54%
on screen Aztec Ruins High Tier Onscreen
Xiaomi 11T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
33 fps +6%
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
33 fps +6%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
31 fps 0%
OnePlus Nord 2T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
31 fps
Samsung Galaxy A53
Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
15 fps -52%
2560x1440 Aztec Ruins High Tier Offscreen
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
21 fps +116%
Xiaomi 11T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
21 fps +116%
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
19 fps +96%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
10 fps +3%
OnePlus Nord 2T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
9.7 fps
on screen Aztec Ruins Normal Tier Onscreen
Xiaomi 11T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
49 fps +4%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
48 fps +2%
OnePlus Nord 2T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
47 fps
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
42 fps -11%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
23 fps -51%
1920x1080 Aztec Ruins Normal Tier Offscreen
OnePlus Nord 2T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
56 fps
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
54 fps -4%
Xiaomi 11T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
53 fps -5%
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
39 fps -30%
Samsung Galaxy A53
Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
26 fps -54%

Our review unit is also very fast when browsing the Internet. In practice, this means that websites load quickly and that images are often already available while scrolling.

Jetstream 2 - Total Score
Average of class Smartphone (13.8 - 351, n=173, last 2 years)
106.1 Points +58%
Motorola Moto G200 5G (Chrome97)
75.9 Points +13%
Average MediaTek Dimensity 1300 ()
67 Points 0%
OnePlus Nord 2T (Chrome 102)
66.955 Points
Samsung Galaxy A53 (Chrome 101)
63.5 Points -5%
Xiaomi 11T (Chrome 94.0.4606.85)
51.8 Points -23%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G (Chrome 92)
51.1 Points -24%
Speedometer 2.0 - Result
Average of class Smartphone (14.9 - 445, n=157, last 2 years)
107.1 runs/min +79%
Motorola Moto G200 5G (Chrome97)
79.8 runs/min +34%
OnePlus Nord 2T (Chome 102)
59.7 runs/min
Average MediaTek Dimensity 1300 ()
59.7 runs/min 0%
Xiaomi 11T (Chrome 94.0.4606.85)
54.1 runs/min -9%
Samsung Galaxy A53 (Chome 101)
51.24 runs/min -14%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G (Chome 92)
50.2 runs/min -16%
WebXPRT 3 - Overall
Motorola Moto G200 5G (Chrome97)
147 Points +126%
Average of class Smartphone (39 - 304, n=122, last 2 years)
133.1 Points +105%
Xiaomi 11T (Chrome 94.0.4606.85)
70 Points +8%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G (Chrome 92)
69 Points +6%
Samsung Galaxy A53 (Chrome 101)
69 Points +6%
OnePlus Nord 2T (Chrome 102)
65 Points
Average MediaTek Dimensity 1300 ()
65 Points 0%
Octane V2 - Total Score
OnePlus Nord 2T (Chrome 102)
33879 Points
Average MediaTek Dimensity 1300 ()
33879 Points 0%
Average of class Smartphone (4633 - 89112, n=213, last 2 years)
33503 Points -1%
Xiaomi 11T (Chrome 94.0.4606.85)
29912 Points -12%
Motorola Moto G200 5G (Chrome97)
28695 Points -15%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G (Chrome 92)
26207 Points -23%
Samsung Galaxy A53 (Chrome 101)
24159 Points -29%
Mozilla Kraken 1.1 - Total
Samsung Galaxy A53 (Chrome 101)
1920.3 ms * -37%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G (Chrome 92)
1809 ms * -29%
Average of class Smartphone (388 - 9999, n=173, last 2 years)
1595 ms * -13%
Xiaomi 11T (Chrome 94.0.4606.85)
1444 ms * -3%
OnePlus Nord 2T (Chrome 102)
1406.4 ms *
Average MediaTek Dimensity 1300 ()
1406 ms * -0%
Motorola Moto G200 5G (Chrome97)
1358 ms * +3%

* ... smaller is better

The UFS 3.1 storage is very fast, as it was in the predecessor. This also gives the OnePlus phone a significant speed advantage over some competitors. Loading times are short, and data transfers aren't slowed down, at least not by the storage solution. This makes it all the more unfortunate that the OnePlus Nord 2T only offers a USB 2.0 port, which becomes a bottleneck when exchanging data with other devices.

OnePlus Nord 2TOnePlus Nord 2 5GMotorola Moto G200 5GXiaomi 11TSamsung Galaxy A53Average 256 GB UFS 3.1 FlashAverage of class Smartphone
AndroBench 3-5
-5%
-14%
-31%
-40%
5%
-6%
Sequential Read 256KB
1891.3
1827
-3%
1898
0%
1790
-5%
510.1
-73%
Sequential Write 256KB
1300.6
1256
-3%
712
-45%
942
-28%
486.7
-63%
1134 ?(452 - 1873, n=87)
-13%
Random Read 4KB
235.8
223.7
-5%
155.9
-34%
139.3
-41%
229.9
-3%
Random Write 4KB
262.2
239
-9%
322.5
23%
133.3
-49%
210.8
-20%

Games – Gaming at a maximum of 60 fps

The OnePlus Nord 2T isn't explicitly advertised as a gaming phone, but its 90 Hz screen could at least enable HFR gaming to some degree. This didn't work in the games that we tested, though. We achieved a maximum of around 60 fps in Armajet as well as in the more demanding 3D shooter PUBG Mobile. We determined the fps rates with GameBench's tools.

If you have higher demands and set the graphics settings in PUBG Mobile to HD, you can only achieve around 40 fps. This is still acceptable, and most mobile games can be played on the smartphone without any issues. However, the impression remains that better results could have been achieved here.

Armajet
Armajet
PUBG Mobile
PUBG Mobile
051015202530354045505560Tooltip
OnePlus Nord 2T; Armajet: Ø59.3 (57-60)
OnePlus Nord 2T; PUBG Mobile; Smooth: Ø58.9 (55-60)
OnePlus Nord 2T; PUBG Mobile; HD: Ø39.9 (39-41)

Emissions – Runs hot

Temperature

The OnePlus smartphone can get pretty warm under prolonged load, which also has an impact on performance: It fluctuates heavily after several runs of a benchmark; it can return to the maximum values from time to time, but it then drops significantly again.

Max. Load
 44.6 °C
112 F
44 °C
111 F
36.3 °C
97 F
 
 45.7 °C
114 F
44.2 °C
112 F
36.7 °C
98 F
 
 43.8 °C
111 F
42.7 °C
109 F
36.5 °C
98 F
 
Maximum: 45.7 °C = 114 F
Average: 41.6 °C = 107 F
34.6 °C
94 F
40.6 °C
105 F
40.2 °C
104 F
36.7 °C
98 F
40.9 °C
106 F
42.1 °C
108 F
37 °C
99 F
41.7 °C
107 F
44.3 °C
112 F
Maximum: 44.3 °C = 112 F
Average: 39.8 °C = 104 F
Power Supply (max.)  39.9 °C = 104 F | Room Temperature 21.5 °C = 71 F | Fluke t3000FC (calibrated), Voltcraft IR-260
(-) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 41.6 °C / 107 F, compared to the average of 32.7 °C / 91 F for the devices in the class Smartphone.
(-) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 45.7 °C / 114 F, compared to the average of 35 °C / 95 F, ranging from 21.9 to 56 °C for the class Smartphone.
(±) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 44.3 °C / 112 F, compared to the average of 33.8 °C / 93 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 25 °C / 77 F, compared to the device average of 32.7 °C / 91 F.

3DMark Wild Life Stress Test

3DMark
Wild Life Stress Test Stability
Samsung Galaxy A53
Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
99.6 % +69%
Xiaomi 11T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
95.2 % +61%
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
80.4 % +36%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
61.4 % +4%
OnePlus Nord 2T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
59.1 %
Wild Life Extreme Stress Test
Samsung Galaxy A53
Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
97.8 % +48%
Xiaomi 11T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
91 % +38%
Motorola Moto G200 5G
Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
79 % +20%
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
66.6 % +1%
OnePlus Nord 2T
Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash
65.9 %
051015202530Tooltip
OnePlus Nord 2T Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash; Wild Life Extreme Stress Test; 1.0.9.1: Ø7.7 (5.25-7.97)
Motorola Moto G200 5G Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash; Wild Life Extreme Stress Test; 1.0.7.2: Ø7.57 (7.1-8.98)
Xiaomi 11T Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash; Wild Life Extreme Stress Test; 1.0.5.1: Ø7.08 (6.98-7.67)
Samsung Galaxy A53 Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash; Wild Life Extreme Stress Test; 1.0.9.1: Ø3.81 (3.75-3.84)
OnePlus Nord 2T Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1300, 256 GB UFS 3.1 Flash; Wild Life Stress Test Stability; 0.0.0.0: Ø24.1 (16.4-27.7)
Motorola Moto G200 5G Adreno 660, SD 888+ 5G, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash; Wild Life Stress Test Stability; 0.0.0.0: Ø28.8 (27.4-34.2)
Xiaomi 11T Mali-G77 MP9, Dimensity 1200, 128 GB UFS 3.1 Flash; Wild Life Stress Test Stability; 0.0.0.0: Ø24.6 (23.7-24.8)
Samsung Galaxy A53 Mali-G68 MP4, Exynos 1280, 128 GB UFS 2.1 Flash; Wild Life Stress Test Stability; 0.0.0.0: Ø13.7 (13.7-13.7)
Heat map - Front
Heat map - Front
Heat map - Back
Heat map - Back

Speakers

The sound of the OnePlus Nord 2T is at an average level: The speakers can get quite loud if desired, but it would be nice if they offered a bit more low mids. As a result, the sound isn't distorted, but it's a bit high-pitched, which makes it seem thinner than with higher-quality speakers. The earpiece is used as a second speaker to create a stereo effect.

Speakers or headphones can be connected either via the USB-C port or Bluetooth 5.2. This works smoothly in both cases, and headphones with a 3.5 mm plug can also be used with an adapter. All of the currently important Bluetooth audio codecs, such as aptX Adaptive and LHDC, are supported (apart from Samsung's proprietary codec).

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2039.244.22533.9353127304032.430.3503632.26330.927.58019.419.310019.923.612515.518.716015.932.320012.341.525012.951.331512.955.44009.959.550010.265.763013.467.28001771.5100014.275.7125012.875.8160011.778.7200010.277.9250011.676.531501375.740001577.950001675630014.673.6800015.265.61000015.964.41250016.363.31600016.659SPL26.287.4N0.767.3median 14.2median 67.2Delta1.9125338.644.538.433.728.833.434.535.837.630.128.621.323.52121.516.327.714.738.212.94514.351.21353.110.857.112.362.713.566.519.571.61578.514.177.914.97611.976.612.87615.472.616.573.216.767.517.272.31865.117.963.817.658.518.351.82886.10.962.1median 15median 65.12.210.6hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseOnePlus Nord 2TSamsung Galaxy A53
Frequency diagram (checkboxes can be checked and unchecked to compare devices)
OnePlus Nord 2T audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (87.4 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 30.1% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (14.4% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(±) | higher mids - on average 6.6% higher than median
(+) | mids are linear (5.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(±) | higher highs - on average 6.8% higher than median
(+) | highs are linear (4.8% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (23.6% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 47% of all tested devices in this class were better, 9% similar, 44% worse
» The best had a delta of 12%, average was 38%, worst was 134%
Compared to all devices tested
» 66% of all tested devices were better, 7% similar, 27% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Samsung Galaxy A53 audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (86.1 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 25.7% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (11.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(±) | higher mids - on average 8.4% higher than median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (7.1% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(±) | higher highs - on average 5.3% higher than median
(+) | highs are linear (6.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (24.1% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 50% of all tested devices in this class were better, 8% similar, 42% worse
» The best had a delta of 12%, average was 38%, worst was 134%
Compared to all devices tested
» 68% of all tested devices were better, 7% similar, 25% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Battery life – Charges a bit faster

Energy consumption

In terms of energy consumption, the OnePlus Nord 2T is roughly on par with the comparison devices, and it even requires slightly less energy under full load.

A new feature for the Nord 2T is the charging technology: SuperVOOC from the sister company Oppo is used, and it can charge the battery at a maximum of 80 watts. This is 15 watts more than in the predecessor, but in practice, it doesn't make that much of a difference in charging times: The smartphone takes just under 35 minutes to be fully charged again, and you can get enough battery life for a few hours of use in just a few minutes.

Power Consumption
Idledarkmidlight 0.9 / 1.3 / 1.7 Watt
Load midlight 4 / 6.8 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Metrahit Energy
Currently we use the Metrahit Energy, a professional single phase power quality and energy measurement digital multimeter, for our measurements. Find out more about it here. All of our test methods can be found here.
OnePlus Nord 2T
4500 mAh
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
4500 mAh
Motorola Moto G200 5G
5000 mAh
Xiaomi 11T
5000 mAh
Samsung Galaxy A53
5000 mAh
Average MediaTek Dimensity 1300
 
Average of class Smartphone
 
Power Consumption
-16%
-5%
-14%
-9%
0%
-14%
Idle Minimum *
0.9
0.8
11%
0.6
33%
0.78
13%
0.9
-0%
0.9 ?()
-0%
Idle Average *
1.3
1.2
8%
0.9
31%
1.86
-43%
1.3
-0%
1.3 ?()
-0%
Idle Maximum *
1.7
1.6
6%
1.5
12%
1.88
-11%
1.6
6%
1.7 ?()
-0%
Load Average *
4
5.7
-43%
7
-75%
3.98
-0%
5.7
-43%
4 ?()
-0%
Load Maximum *
6.8
10.9
-60%
8.4
-24%
8.78
-29%
7.3
-7%
6.8 ?()
-0%

* ... smaller is better

Energy consumption: Geekbench (150 cd/m²)

012345678910Tooltip
OnePlus Nord 2T: Ø3.48 (1.16-10.7)

Energy consumption: GFXBench (150 cd/m²)

0123456Tooltip
OnePlus Nord 2T; 1920x1080 Aztec Ruins Normal Offscreen: Ø6.2 (5.87-6.81)
OnePlus Nord 2T; Idle 150cd/m2: Ø1.386 (1.137-2.14)

Battery life

Although the battery of 4,500 mAh is just as large as in the Nord 2, you have to manage with less capacity compared to other smartphones on the market.

This isn't evident in the Wi-Fi test: The phone achieves a very good runtime of 15:49 hours here, which is on par with the predecessor and even slightly above the comparison devices. In the idle scenarios and while watching movies, though, it becomes noticeable that other smartphones have even more resources in this regard.

Nevertheless, the OnePlus Nord 2T can easily survive two workdays with normal use without charging.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
32h 16min
WiFi Websurfing
15h 49min
Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p
19h 18min
Load (maximum brightness)
4h 39min
Battery Runtime
Reader / Idle (sort by value)
OnePlus Nord 2T
4500 mAh
1936 min
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
4500 mAh
1926 min
Motorola Moto G200 5G
5000 mAh
2695 min
Xiaomi 11T
5000 mAh
2244 min
Samsung Galaxy A53
5000 mAh
2431 min
H.264 (sort by value)
OnePlus Nord 2T
4500 mAh
1158 min
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
4500 mAh
1126 min
Motorola Moto G200 5G
5000 mAh
1501 min
Xiaomi 11T
5000 mAh
1450 min
Samsung Galaxy A53
5000 mAh
1146 min
WiFi v1.3 (sort by value)
OnePlus Nord 2T
4500 mAh
949 min
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
4500 mAh
958 min
Motorola Moto G200 5G
5000 mAh
905 min
Xiaomi 11T
5000 mAh
813 min
Samsung Galaxy A53
5000 mAh
886 min
Load (sort by value)
OnePlus Nord 2T
4500 mAh
279 min
OnePlus Nord 2 5G
4500 mAh
272 min
Motorola Moto G200 5G
5000 mAh
229 min
Xiaomi 11T
5000 mAh
267 min
Samsung Galaxy A53
5000 mAh
246 min

Pros

+ fast storage
+ stylish case
+ good low-light camera
+ reasonable battery life
+ fast charging
+ good reception quality

Cons

- relatively short update policy
- SoC performance fluctuations
- slow Wi-Fi at times
- partly muffled speech
- strong heat development under load
- no wireless charging
- no DC dimming

Verdict – Barely any real updates

In review: OnePlus Nord 2T. Test device provided by OnePlus Germany.
In review: OnePlus Nord 2T. Test device provided by OnePlus Germany.

The OnePlus Nord 2T provides some updates compared to its predecessor, but they are rather marginal upon closer inspection: The main camera takes better photos in low light, OnePlus decided on a new design, and the new SoC brings some detail improvements, but it's very similar to the OnePlus Nord 2's centerpiece.

This results in a smartphone that hardly offers any incentive for owners of the predecessor to update. At the same time, it's still a budget phone with good performance, fast storage, long battery life, and a slightly more manageable format.

The strong heat development is also a problem with this phone, as well as the strange performance drops that we observe in benchmarks. However, the smartphone runs smoothly in everyday use, and OnePlus might still be able to correct this with an update. The slightly slower Wi-Fi in some scenarios, and the short update policy in relation to the rest of the market are also annoying.

The OnePlus Nord 2T is only a minor update compared with the predecessor. The SoC still seems to have slight issues with Wi-Fi and performance stability.

So the less expensive predecessor, the OnePlus Nord 2 with its established SoC, might even be the better choice at the moment. The Samsung Galaxy A53 is also a bit more compact, but you'll have to put up with significant performance losses for a similar price.

Price and availability

The OnePlus Nord 2T isn't officially available in the United States, but you can find it on Amazon or Newegg, for example, with prices starting at around $540.

OnePlus Nord 2T - 08/30/2022 v7
Florian Schmitt

Chassis
84%
Keyboard
67 / 75 → 90%
Pointing Device
94%
Connectivity
51 / 70 → 73%
Weight
89%
Battery
91%
Display
89%
Games Performance
53 / 64 → 83%
Application Performance
77 / 86 → 89%
Temperature
87%
Noise
100%
Audio
72 / 90 → 80%
Camera
72%
Average
79%
85%
Smartphone - Weighted Average

Pricecompare

Read all 2 comments / answer
static version load dynamic
Loading Comments
Comment on this article
Please share our article, every link counts!
> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > OnePlus Nord 2T smartphone review: Budget high-end phone with little innovation
Florian Schmitt, 2022-06-22 (Update: 2022-06-22)