The launch of the OnePlus 15 sent ripples through the smartphone industry, but not necessarily for reasons OnePlus fans would hope for. Despite boasting the best battery life we've ever tested on an Android device, this latest flagship has faced significant backlash from certain corners of the Android community. Much of the criticism centers on perceived downgrades, especially in the camera department, compared to its predecessor, the OnePlus 13.
Perceived Downgrades That Aren't Really Downgrades
On paper, the OnePlus 15's camera hardware might appear less impressive. Its main sensor was swapped from the high-end LYT-T808 to the IMX906, the ultrawide now uses an OmniVision OV50D sensor, and the telephoto lens sports a Samsung JN5 module. Additionally, subtle changes like a slightly lower display resolution, a smaller bottom speaker, a reduced haptic motor size, one fewer microphone, and a smaller NFC antenna have all been pointed out by critics.
However, these changes have minimal impact on real-world usage. Having actually used both devices, it’s clear that none of these tweaks hinder performance or user experience. In fact, the OnePlus 15 delivers equally strong camera results, even outperforming the OnePlus 13 in custom tests with more natural, less overprocessed images.
The audio remains robust with loud, bass-rich speakers and smooth haptic feedback, while NFC-based features like Google Wallet function identically. If anything, the OnePlus 13 doesn’t outshine its successor in any tangible way.
Exceptional Battery Life: A Welcome Trade-Off
The most notable upgrade on the OnePlus 15 is its huge leap in battery life. This phone easily lasts two days under typical use, a milestone many have been waiting for. The battery endurance is so strong that draining it completely requires intentional effort.
For some users – including myself – this kind of stamina is worth sacrificing minor advantages in camera hardware. After all, Android’s diverse ecosystem means not every phone must dominate every single category. Unlike Apple's lineup, where the iPhone Pro Max must be the all-around champ, Android gives consumers a variety of options tailored to different priorities.
If a certain device doesn't meet your needs, there’s always another model to consider. The OnePlus 15 shouldn’t be dismissed just because of a sensor swap that doesn’t affect everyday performance except for the most pixel-focused enthusiasts.
The Real Challenge: Oppo Find X9 Pro Overshadows OnePlus 15
The bigger problem for the OnePlus 15 isn’t its minor camera or feature changes but the presence of the Oppo Find X9 Pro. This closely related flagship is essentially the blueprint from which the OnePlus 15 was derived. While it comes with a higher price tag and is harder to obtain, the Find X9 Pro feels more polished and complete, with a superior camera and only a slightly shorter battery life.
Having reviewed the Find X9 Pro, it’s clear that the OnePlus 15 falls just short of that level of refinement. While this gap doesn’t cause immediate concern for the OnePlus 16, it does highlight the limits OnePlus faces within its parent company ecosystem. Realistically, OnePlus won’t quite match the premium polish of Oppo devices anytime soon.
