Is the OnePlus 5 Truly the Successor to the OnePlus 2?
The OnePlus 5 has often been compared to its predecessor, the OnePlus 2. This comparison, however, fails to do justice to the significant advancements and improvements that the OnePlus 5 brings to the table. While the OnePlus 2 was praised for certain features, the OnePlus 5 offers a more refined and capable experience, focusing on essential elements like performance, battery life, and camera quality. In this article, we will explore why the OnePlus 5 is not just a step forward, but a leap in smartphone technology, compared to its predecessor.
The Rebuttal to Criticisms
The market has seen the OnePlus 5 receive some criticism. However, many of these criticisms can be effectively rebutted with a closer look at the features and user experience the OnePlus 5 offers. Let's explore the main points of contention and provide compelling reasons why the OnePlus 5 stands tall against these criticisms.
Same HD Resolution: Irrelevant Luxury
One of the primary criticisms of the OnePlus 5 is its resolution. It adheres to a qHD standard, which is often seen as a step backward. However, the importance of this resolution should not be overstated. It's crucial to understand that qHD, while not as high as some competitors, is more than sufficient for the average user. The small visual difference is negligible, and adopting a higher resolution would result in a significant strain on the battery. The OnePlus 5's display is one of the best OLEDS available, providing a vibrant and rich viewing experience despite its resolution. The battery performance on the OnePlus 5 is unmatched, delivering long-lasting usability and ensuring that users do not sacrifice battery life for display resolution.
The Bezels: Practicality Over Aesthetic
Another point of contention is the bezels. While some critics argue that the OnePlus 5 has bezels similar to competitors like Samsung S8 and LG G6, this criticism overlooks the practicality of the design. Modern smartphones with minimal bezels require protective cases, which can negate the advantages of a nearly bezel-less screen. The OnePlus 5's front-facing fingerprint sensor, while surrounded by bezels, still offers a secure and efficient user experience. Moreover, the slim profile of the OnePlus 5 means that it feels neither bulky nor cumbersome. The bezel-less design is not a necessity; it’s a choice that impacts the overall build and manufacturing costs. The OnePlus 5's form factor, combined with robust software, ensures that the bezels do not detract from the usability or aesthetic appeal.
Water and Dust Resistant: Reality vs Gimmick
Water and dust resistance specifications are often seen as mere gimmicks rather than practical features. The fact is, many modern smartphones, including the Samsung S8, offer water resistance. However, splash and water damage are covered under warranty only if the phone is dust and water-resistant (IP67 or IP68). The OnePlus 5, with its IP67 rating, offers a robust level of protection suitable for daily use. Dust resistance is even more crucial, as it prevents the ingress of dirt into the internal components, which can degrade the phone's performance over time. These features are more than just marketing; they are essential for maintaining a phone's longevity and usability.
Camera: The Evolution Continues
The OnePlus 5's camera has also faced criticism, particularly regarding its dual-lens setup. However, a closer examination of the camera's performance reveals that it outperforms even more advanced single-lens setups. The OnePlus 5's camera is fast, focuses accurately, and handles low-light conditions admirably. The bokeh effect, though a popular feature, exaggerates the importance of the dual-lens setup. The OnePlus 3 and 3T had excellent cameras, but the OnePlus 5 takes this performance to a new level, ensuring that users can capture stunning photos and videos without the need for an advanced feature set.
Software: Clean and Fast
The final argument often raised against the OnePlus 5 is the lack of special features or unique software capabilities. However, the software implementation by OnePlus is one of the cleanest and most powerful in the market. Unlike other manufacturers that heavily customize and refine the user interface, OnePlus keeps things simple and straightforward. The Android experience is optimized without compromising on performance or functionality. Significantly, users who participated in the beta program for the OnePlus 5 have reported that the updates are among the fastest and most reliable. While the Google Pixel line takes the lead in this regard, the OnePlus 5 stands as a strong contender, offering regular and substantial software updates to enhance the user experience.
Conclusion
The OnePlus 5 is not just a continuation of the OnePlus 2; it's a leap forward in terms of performance, design, and user experience. By prioritizing essential features like battery life, camera quality, and software performance, OnePlus has created a smartphone that sets new standards. Whether you are upgrading from the OnePlus 2 or considering the OnePlus 5 for the first time, it's clear that the OnePlus 5 stands as a testament to what a well-designed smartphone should be. In the ever-evolving world of smartphones, the OnePlus 5 shines as a beacon of innovation and reliability.