OnePlus One vs Nexus 5 - Battle of the Affordable Heavyweights
# OnePlus One vs. Nexus 5: A Comprehensive Comparison
## Introduction
Welcome back to another episode of *TechnoBuffalo*, brought to you by GoDaddy! In today’s video, we’re comparing two popular Android smartphones: the **OnePlus One** and the **Nexus 5**. We’ll be diving into their specs, design, performance, camera quality, and more to determine which one is the better buy for you. So, let’s get started!
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## Nexus 5 Overview
The **Nexus 5**, released in 2013, remains a favorite among Android enthusiasts despite being nearly a year old at the time of this video. Here are its key features:
- **Display**: A stunning **5-inch IPS LCD** with a resolution of **1920 x 1080 pixels**.
- **Processor**: Powered by a **2.3 GHz quad-core Snapdragon 800 chip**, which is more than capable for everyday tasks.
- **RAM and Storage**: Comes with **2 GB of RAM** and either **16 GB or 32 GB of internal storage** (no micro SD support).
- **GPU**: Equipped with the **Adreno 330 GPU**, making it great for gaming.
- **Battery**: A **2,300 mAh battery** that should last you through the day.
- **Camera**: Features an **8-megapixel rear camera** with **Optical Image Stabilization (OIS)** and a **1.6-second autofocus time**.
- **Software**: Runs on **stock Android 4.4 KitKat**, ensuring it receives the latest updates as soon as they’re available.
Available in three colors—black, white, and red—the Nexus 5 starts at **$350** for the 16 GB version or **$400** for the 32 GB model. It’s a great device for those who want a reliable, well-rounded smartphone with top-notch software support.
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## OnePlus One Overview
The **OnePlus One**, released in late 2014, is often hailed as one of the best Android phones for the price. Here are its specs:
- **Display**: A **5.5-inch IPS LCD** with a resolution of **1920 x 1080 pixels**.
- **Processor**: Features a **2.5 GHz quad-core Snapdragon 801 chip**, which is slightly more advanced than the Nexus 5’s processor.
- **RAM and Storage**: Comes with **3 GB of RAM** and either **16 GB or 64 GB of internal storage** (no micro SD support).
- **GPU**: Also uses the **Adreno 330 GPU**, similar to the Nexus 5.
- **Battery**: A **3,100 mAh battery** that promises excellent longevity throughout the day.
- **Camera**: Includes a **13-megapixel rear camera** with an **f/2.0 aperture** and dual LED flash. It supports **4K video recording** and **720p slow motion video**, making it ideal for photography enthusiasts.
- **Software**: Runs on **Cen Mod 11s**, a community-based open-source Android derivative that offers extensive customization options.
Available in two colors—silk white (16 GB) and sandstone black (64 GB)—the OnePlus One starts at **$300** for the 16 GB version or **$350** for the 64 GB model. Its premium build quality, powerful hardware, and flexible pricing make it a strong contender in the Android market.
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## Design and Build Quality
Both phones feature plastic builds that feel premium without the premium price tag. However, there are some differences:
- **Nexus 5**: Available in black, white, and red, with a matte finish on the black and red variants. It has a more compact form factor, which makes it easier to hold.
- **OnePlus One**: Features chrome bezels and a slightly curved design, giving it a sleeker look. Its larger display is well-integrated into its frame, making it feel more premium overall.
While the Nexus 5 may have a more compact design, the OnePlus One’s build quality feels more refined.
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## Screen Size
One of the most noticeable differences between these two phones is their screen size:
- **Nexus 5**: A **5-inch display** that’s great for single-handed use and offers sharp text and vibrant colors.
- **OnePlus One**: A **5.5-inch display** that provides extra screen real estate, making it ideal for watching movies or gaming.
While the Nexus 5 may feel more compact, the OnePlus One’s larger screen size is a significant advantage for media consumption and multitasking.
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## Performance
When it comes to performance:
- **Nexus 5**: Powered by the **Snapdragon 800 chip**, it offers smooth performance for everyday tasks like browsing, gaming, and video playback.
- **OnePlus One**: Features the slightly more advanced **Snapdragon 801 chip** and an additional **3 GB of RAM**, giving it a theoretical edge in multitasking and heavy workloads.
In real-world use, however, both phones perform similarly well. The OnePlus One’s slight hardware advantage is negligible for most users.
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## Camera Quality
The camera is another key area where these two phones differ:
- **Nexus 5**: Equipped with an **8-megapixel camera** and **OIS**, it delivers decent photos, especially after the software updates Google pushed out. However, its colors can sometimes appear washed out.
- **OnePlus One**: Features a **13-megapixel camera** with an **f/2.0 aperture** and no OIS. Despite relying on software stabilization, it produces sharper images in good lighting and performs well in low-light conditions. It also supports **4K video recording**, which is a significant plus.
While the Nexus 5’s OIS is a notable feature, the OnePlus One’s higher megapixel count and better low-light performance make it the stronger contender overall.
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## Software
Finally, let’s talk about software:
- **Nexus 5**: Runs on **stock Android 4.4 KitKat**, offering a clean and bloat-free experience. It receives updates immediately upon release, which is one of its biggest selling points.
- **OnePlus One**: Runs on **Cen Mod 11s**, a community-based version of Android that provides extensive customization options. While it’s great for tech-savvy users who enjoy tinkering with their devices, it may feel overwhelming for those who prefer stock Android.
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## Conclusion
After comparing the **OnePlus One** and the **Nexus 5**, it’s clear that both phones have their strengths. The **Nexus 5** is a solid choice if you’re looking for a compact device with excellent software support and immediate access to the latest updates. On the other hand, the **OnePlus One** offers better build quality, a larger screen, a superior camera, and a more affordable price tag.
While the Nexus 5 is still a great device, it’s worth keeping an eye out for its successor, the **Nexus 6**, which could be announced any day now.
So, there you have it! We hope this comparison helps you decide which phone is right for you. If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to leave them in the comments below. Stay tuned for more tech reviews and comparisons on *TechnoBuffalo*—and don’t forget to hit that subscribe button for more content like this!
Thanks for watching!