The OnePlus 15 is undoubtedly a well-rounded smartphone, but it has drawn its fair share of criticism—mostly due to certain camera performance compromises when held against its predecessor, the OnePlus 13. In particular, the ultrawide camera on the OnePlus 15 leaves much to be desired, failing to meet the high standards set by competing flagship devices.
The Importance of a True Ultrawide Camera
What makes an ultrawide camera valuable? Simply put, it allows you to capture a much broader scene than your main wide camera, or get exceptionally close to your subject for dramatic, immersive shots. This core principle has been consistent across nearly every smartphone brand offering ultrawide lenses—most of which provide an approximate 120º field of view. This equates to a 13–14mm full-frame equivalent focal length (around 0.5X–0.6X zoom), which is considered an industry standard and delivers tangible versatility in everyday photography.
The majority of flagship ultrawide cameras follow this recipe because the extra width enables photographers to fit more into the frame without the need to physically move back, all while enhancing creative possibilities.
The OnePlus 15’s Ultrawide: Missing the Mark
Unfortunately, the OnePlus 15 departs from this established norm by equipping only a 116º ultrawide camera, roughly equivalent to 16mm. Although the numerical difference between 120º and 116º (or 13mm and 16mm) may seem minor on paper, its practical impact is quite significant. In effect, the ultrawide camera on the OnePlus 15 feels more like a “wider wide” lens rather than a genuine ultrawide.
This limitation severely diminishes the ultrawide's purpose, as the camera no longer allows users to capture dramatically broader scenes, putting it at a disadvantage compared to the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, iPhone 17 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro, whose ultrawide lenses offer much more expansive views.
Visual Comparisons Speak Louder Than Words
Examining side-by-side camera samples, it’s clear that the OnePlus 15’s ultrawide doesn't capture nearly as much scenery within the frame compared to its flagship rivals. The reduced field of view restricts creative freedom, making other phones' ultrawide cameras far more effective tools.
Why Can't You Just Step Back?
Some may argue that taking a few steps backward solves this limitation. However, this isn't always feasible — think tight interiors, crowded spaces, or artistic intentions demanding proximity to the subject. Moreover, stepping back to compensate beats the purpose of having a dedicated ultrawide lens in the first place.
Ultrawide photography isn’t just about squeezing more into the frame; it’s about intimacy and immersion, enabling you to get closer and engage deeply with your subject and scene. This philosophy, echoed by photography experts like Ken Rockwell, is what makes ultrawide lenses an essential part of the mobile photography arsenal.
