What to know
- The OnePlus 13 is an exceptional device with a faster Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, advanced AI features, brighter flat display, improved cameras, larger battery with wireless charging, and robust IP68+IP69 durability.
- The OnePlus 12 matches is a great device even today, even if it packs a slightly outdated yet powerful processor, similar cameras and display, lower water-resistance (IP65), a bit lesser battery and is slightly heavier and bigger for the same display size.
- OnePlus 12 matches its younger sibling with many of the same features (except a few AI additions, Project Starlight goodies, and battery capacity) but at a slightly lower price point.
- OnePlus 13 is currently selling for Rs 70K while OnePlus 12 is available for Rs 65K without factoring any bank discounts. But we expect OnePlus 12 prices to go down substantially in the next few months.
- Given all of the above, the simpler solution would be to get iQOO 13 instead and skip OnePlus.
With OnePlus 13, OnePlus has turned out a flagship killer once again. Wait, scratch that, the device has become the flagship itself now. Read our OnePlus 13 review here to learn why that's the case now. The new device offers flagship level features at a not-so-flagship level prices.
In fact, there are even some industry pioneering features on the OnePlus 13 that you'd be hard pressed to find anywhere else. Be it the huge battery, the A++ graded display, or under-the-hood specs, OnePlus 13 is one for the ages. But how big a jump does it make from last year's OnePlus 12 - an underrated device that is a banger in its own right.
To that end, we devised a head-to-head comparison of OnePlus 13 and OnePlus 12 to see if the goodies on the new OnePlus device justify its jump in cost.
OnePlus 13 vs OnePlus 12: Specs comparison and quick verdict
Here's a complete spec sheet of the two devices for comparison.
Feature | OnePlus 13 | OnePlus 12 |
---|---|---|
Processor | Snapdragon 8 Elite (3nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4nm) |
RAM | Up to 24GB LPDDR5X | Up to 16GB LPDDR5X |
Storage Options | 256GB/512GB/1TB UFS 4.0 | 256GB/512GB UFS 4.0 |
Display | 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED, 1440x3168 px, 120Hz, 4,500 nits peak brightness | 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED, 1440x3168 px, 120Hz, 4,500 nits peak brightness |
Main Camera | Triple 50MP (wide, ultra-wide, periscope telephoto, 3x optical zoom) | 50MP wide, 48MP ultra-wide, 64MP periscope telephoto |
Front Camera | 32MP | 32MP |
Battery | 6,000mAh, silicon-carbon technology | 5,400mAh |
Charging | 100W wired, 50W wireless, reverse wireless charging | 100W wired, 50W wireless charging |
Operating System | OxygenOS 15 (based on Android 15) | OxygenOS 14 (based on Android 14) |
AI Features | Advanced AI photo editing, battery optimization, personalized suggestions | Basic AI features for performance and photo optimization |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth v5.4, full-area NFC, eSIM, magnetic accessory support | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth v5.4, NFC, dual SIM support |
Design | Flat edges, IP69 rating, colors: White, Obsidian, Blue | Curved edges, IP65 rating, colors: Silver, Emerald, Black |
Durability | IP69 (superior water and dust resistance) | IP65 (standard water and dust resistance) |
Dimensions | 163.1 x 74.1 x 8.5 mm, 210g | 163.5 x 74.3 x 8.6 mm, 205g |
Given OnePlus 13 retails for Rs 70,000 and OnePlus 12 for Rs 64,999 without factoring bank discounts, to me personally, it is a no brainer that you should go for OnePlus 13 as it does offer significant improvements in performance and gaming, and durability (IP68/69 ratings), battery, AI features, and more.
However, even though op12 currently sells for Rs 64,999 and saves you only Rs 5,000 over OnePlus 13, we expect 12's prices to go down significantly in the next few months and the difference will be more than now. If that happens, OnePlus 12 would be an excellent choice.
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Right now, we would recommend you to buy the iQOO 13 smartphone if you are looking to save some money as this device gets you almost everything good you get with OnePlus 13 and that too for a price of Rs 55,000 – saving you a good Rs 15,000.
>> Read our comparison of iQOO 13 and OnePlus 13 here.
With iQOO 13, you get the same Snapdragon 8 Elite processor that powers the OnePlus 13, thus the similar performance (including gaming) and future proofness. Small losses in features like wireless charging, lack of quad-core display, and some other little things are not worth the extra Rs 15,000 OnePlus 13 needs over iQOO 13.
Moreover, with iQOO 13, you get even faster wired charging at 120W (compared to 100W in OnePlus 13), better software experience (though lesser update by a year), dynamic light around the camera island in the back, and lastly, a flat display for those who prefer it over quad-curve displays.
Not a bad, deal, eh?
There is also another device in this range that gets you the same supremely powerful at-the-moment Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and other goodies that OnePlus 13 offers, and that's the Realme GT 7 Pro – yes, from OnePlus's sister company only. The specs and features are truly close, but why I am primarily mentioning the GT 7 Pro is its bold yet totally fashionable orange color that looks purely extravagant to look at. It's an eye catcher. Officially called Mars Orange, I really like this color, and recommend it to people who love to use their phone without a case and need a classy and snazzy device. Read our review here to learn more about the Realme GT 7 Pro.
In nutshell, we would recommend you to seriously consider iQOO 13 over OnePlus 12 when looking to save some money over OnePlus 13.
OnePlus 13 vs OnePlus 12: Detailed comparison (cateory by category)
Both OnePlus 13 and OnePlus 12 (which is barely a year old) are exceptional devices in their own right. But how big a jump does the newly launched OnePlus 13 make over its predecessor? Let's find out.
Speed and Performance
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The OnePlus 13 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, built on a 3nm architecture, delivering enhanced performance and energy efficiency. It offers configurations with up to 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM, which is the fastest RAM type there is currently, ensuring seamless multitasking and swift app launches.
In contrast, the OnePlus 12 features the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, based on a 4nm process, with up to 16GB of RAM. While still powerful, it falls short of the OnePlus 13 in terms of raw performance and efficiency. Still, if you take OnePlus 13 out of the equation, OnePlus 12 is a solid device in terms of performance.
The performance leap in OnePlus 13 is too big to ignore. Thanks to Snapdragon 8 Elite, the last year's processor look 3 years old suddenly, such is the gap between performance benchmark numbers. Though, practically, the last year's top devices do perform very well, and in general use, Snapdragon 8 Elite can't make its impact easily known. So, you are in good hands even if you opt for phones (like OnePlus 12) that are powered by last year top processor in Snapdragon 8 gen 3.
Only if you are into gaming, and want to secure phone's life even more with the best processor currently available, then you shall opt for OnePlus 13 over op12 – more so because the whole reason behind this is saving money, and the difference between the cost of two devices, that is the money saved by opting for OnePlus 12, is not that much to ignore the big leap in performance (including gaming).
Hence, go for OnePlus 13 if you care about performance even if it costs a bit more.
Display
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Both models boast a 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a resolution of 1440x3168 pixels and a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, 4500 nits of peak brightness, ensuring vibrant visuals and smooth scrolling.
Additionally, the OnePlus 13 features subtle curved edges (called a quad-curve display) and an IP69 rating, offering superior water and dust resistance compared to the OnePlus 12's IP65 rating.
In fact, OnePlus 13 also boasts of Aqua 2.0 technology that lets you use your device even if it's wet - a life saver for those rainy seasons. There's also a new Glove mode that lets you use your device without taking off your gloves and subjecting them to the elements in colder, wintery conditions. It's truly an all-season device, if there ever was one.
Now, the gains in display are trivial to be honest even if opt for OnePlus 13. You get equally good display with OnePlus 12, too. So, if display is your concern, you can forego OnePlus 13 and save some money.
Cameras
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The OnePlus 13 is equipped with a triple 50MP camera setup: a wide-angle main camera (50MP), an ultra-wide lens ((50MP with a 120-degree field of view), and a periscope telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom (also 50MP). This configuration delivers high-quality photos with excellent color accuracy, thanks to its collaboration with Hasselblad (which has been going on for some years now).
The OnePlus 12 also offers a versatile camera system, including a 50MP main camera, a 48MP ultra-wide camera, and a 64MP periscope telephoto lens. While it provides impressive imaging capabilities, the OnePlus 13's updated sensors and software enhancements offer a slight edge in photo and video quality.
Again, cameras a nearly similar. OnePlus 13 has much better ultrawide camera compared to OnePlus 12, but the latter does have faintly better telephoto camera sensor.
If camera is your concern, you can get OnePlus 13 but don't over consider this and saving money with OnePlus 12 is not a bad idea either as camera gains are small.
AI Features
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The OnePlus 13 introduces advanced AI functionalities such as Intelligent Search, AI Unblur, and AI Reflections Eraser, enhancing user experience through intelligent photo editing. Other Google AI services such as Circle to Search, PassScan, and Magic Compose are also good to see. These AI-driven features contribute to a more intuitive and efficient user experience.
OnePlus 12 offers all these AI capabilities as well. The only thing it lacks is the Intelligent Search feature that uses AI to look up files and calendar events and provide personalized AI search. While both are future-proof options, OnePlus 13 slightly edges over OnePlus 12.
Practically, AI features a bit overrated and you might not use them much, but if really care about them, you can consider OnePlus 13.
Operating System and updates
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The OnePlus 13 runs on OxygenOS 15, based on Android 15, providing the latest features and security updates. OnePlus has committed to four years of OS updates and six years of security support for this model, ensuring longevity.
The OnePlus 12 operates on OxygenOS 14, based on Android 14, with a standard update cycle. While it offers a smooth user experience, it doesn't match the extended support provided for the OnePlus 13.
Also, you will get more OS and security updates with OnePlus 13 naturally as it's newer.
As far as software is concerned, you are fine with OnePlus 12 as it too will get the OxygenOS 15 update soon (in fact, it is already available as beta). If you want to save some money with OnePlus 12, then there is not enough in OnePlus 13 software to compel you to not do so.
Battery
The OnePlus 13 houses a 6,000mAh silicon carbon battery, offering longer usage times and improved durability. It supports 100W wired charging, 50W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging, providing flexibility for various charging needs.
The OnePlus 12 comes with a 5,400mAh battery, supporting similar charging speeds.
The increased capacity and advanced battery technology in the OnePlus 13 result in better overall battery performance.
Connectivity
Both smartphones support Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth v5.4, and dual SIM capabilities, ensuring robust connectivity options. Fortunately, both OnePlus devices have the ability to use an eSIM as well. But there can only be two SIMs active at a time. However, the OnePlus 13 includes enhanced features like full-area NFC and support for magnetic accessories, offering added convenience for users (especially if they already have these accessories lying around).
Design
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The OnePlus 13 showcases a modern design with flat edges, a slim profile, and a premium build, available in Black, White, and Blue color options, with a faux leather option in Blue. Its IP69 rating ensures superior durability against water and dust.
The OnePlus 12 features a sleek design with curved edges and is available in Silver, Flowy Emerald, and Silky Black. While aesthetically pleasing, it offers a lower level of water and dust resistance with an IP65 rating for water and dust proofing.
Here, definitely go for OnePlus 13 as there are big gains. The design and feeling of OnePlus 13 is a lot superior than OnePlus 12 and extra durability by IP68/69 is very worthwhile.
Project Starlight
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OnePlus has also unveiled Project Starlight - a ₹6,000 crore investment initiative over the next three years to improve device durability, better connectivity options, and improved customer service.
For starters, OnePlus 13 adds a new protective layer on the AMOLED display that addresses the perennial green line issue on such displays, while also providing lifetime warranty against these defects.
As per Project Starlight, OnePlus 13 is the first device in India to support 5.5G connectivity. In collaboration with the network provider Jio, the new 5.5G connectivity offers a 380% speed boost over 4G speeds. The project also includes a 'Steady Connect' feature that gives extended Bluetooth connectivity up to 360 meters.
The company is also looking to expand its service centers by 50% by mid-2026, as well as online hotline support, WhatsApp assistance, and live chat options.
Which one should you get?
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The OnePlus 13 is a clearly the better device compared to the OnePlus 12 in several key areas:
- Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and higher RAM configurations make it faster and more efficient.
- Display: Its brighter screen, better IP rating, and improved durability stand out.
- Camera: Though both phones feature versatile setups, the OnePlus 13’s enhanced hardware and software edge ahead in photo and video quality.
- Battery and Charging: The larger capacity and advanced battery tech in the OnePlus 13 offer better longevity.
- Software and AI: OxygenOS 15 and advanced AI features provide a more modern and seamless experience. Though, OnePlus 12 will soon get OxygenOS 15, and with it, Android 15.
That said, the OnePlus 12 remains a great device, particularly for users looking for a slightly more affordable option while still enjoying flagship-level performance and features.
If you already have the OnePlus 12, there aren't any true industry-defining features on the OnePlus 13 to warrant an upgrade. But if you're looking to get a new device, OnePlus 13 clearly takes the cake.
Personally, I would recommend iQOO 13 over both OnePlus 13/12 – it costs about Rs 55,000 (without considering bank discounts).
If you insist remaining with OnePlus only, then go for OnePlus 12 (59K on Flipkart, BTW) unless you really need advanced/extra AI features that OnePlus is bundling with the OnePlus 13. To be frank, those AI features may look exciting but you may not end up using them at all, and you can get those features using an app like Photo Studio Pro.
Where OnePlus 13 truly excels massively is durability thanks to IP69 and IP68 ratings, as OnePlus 12 cannot offer you that at all. So, if you need IP68 or IP69, then OnePlus 13 is the choice got you. Else, the performance, camera and display are only marginal updates in OnePlus 13 while battery is not only a little upgrade only, not worth the extra Rs 9,000 you will need to spend for OnePlus 13.
Hence, basically, unless you need IP68/69 ratings and the best currently performance available in the market, you are good sticking with the OnePlus 12 and save some money. That said, iQOO 13 a lot batter choice than either of OnePlus 12 and 13, so do consider that first.
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