OnePlus 15R Launched; Free Imaging Grip with vivo X300 Pro

Prices for newly launched smartphone models are decreasing quickly; however, these newcomers face competition from lower-priced older models.

The OnePlus 15R is currently listed as 'coming soon' on Amazon but will be available shortly. This year's R-model boasts an impressive 7,400mAh battery, an upgrade from the 6,000mAh of the 13R, along with an enhanced water resistance rating of IP68/IP69K compared to IP65. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 (non-Elite), a significant improvement over the two-year-old Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The telephoto camera has been removed; however, the main camera remains at 50MP (1/1.56”, OIS) while the ultra-wide camera retains its 8MP specification. The 6.83” display may support a higher refresh rate of 165Hz compared to the 120Hz of its predecessor, but it is not an LTPO panel like the previous model. On a positive note, purchasers receive a free storage upgrade valued at €100, with both the 256GB and 512GB versions currently selling for €700.

While examining the 15R, it's important to contrast it with the flagship OnePlus 15. This model has its own set of downgrades relative to the 13, yet it costs only €200 more than the 15R, which is currently receiving a small €50 discount.

The OnePlus 15 features an LTPO display and the more advanced Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, accompanied by a similarly substantial 7,300mAh battery, supporting both 80W wired and 50W wireless charging. Additionally, it includes a 50MP periscope lens with a 3.5x/80mm zoom capability.

For €700, consumers might consider purchasing the Xiaomi 15T Pro instead. It utilizes the Dimensity 9400+ chipset (in contrast to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5) and offers a similar display—a 6.83” panel featuring 12-bit colors and a 144Hz refresh rate (although it is also not an LTPO panel).

The 15T Pro's camera configuration is superior, with a 50MP main sensor (1/1.31”, compared to 1/1.56”), a dedicated 50MP 5x/115mm periscope (which the OnePlus does not have), and a 12MP ultra-wide (compared to 8MP). However, the Xiaomi device has a smaller battery at 5,500mAh while offering 90W wired and 50W wireless charging compared to the OnePlus' 7,400mAh (80W wired only).

A few months ago, we reviewed the vivo X300 Pro Photography Kit. Although it is an excellent product, it is currently only available in China. However, PGYTECH offers an alternative kit priced at €200. Amazon includes this kit for free with the purchase of the vivo X300 Pro, in addition to a €100 voucher. The Pro is among the best camera phones available today—check out our video review for more information.

Recently, the price of the Motorola Edge 70 dropped from €720 to €525. Powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4, this phone has a slim profile (6mm thick and weighing 159g), which limits battery capacity. However, the 4,800mAh battery achieved a respectable 13:36h Active Use Score. It supports fast wired (68W) and wireless charging (15W). The 6.7” 10-bit 120Hz OLED display and a dual camera setup (50MP main and 50MP ultra-wide) enhance the offering.

For this price, the Poco F8 Pro is also a viable alternative. It is powered by last year's Snapdragon 8 Elite and possesses a comparable 6.59” 12-bit 120Hz display (with resolutions of 1156p+ vs. 1220p+). Also, it features a 50MP main camera (1/1.55”), a dedicated 50MP telephoto camera with 2.5x optical zoom, and an 8MP ultra-wide camera. While it's not the slimmest or lightest option (8mm thick and weighing 199g), the device has a larger 6,210mAh battery (17:35h Active Use Score) with 100W wired charging only.

The Motorola Razr 60 Ultra has seen a significant price reduction since its debut. It comes equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and features a dual-camera system (50MP main and 50MP ultra-wide). Its 4,700mAh battery is substantial for a flip foldable device and offers a 15:10h Active Use Score, supporting 68W wired and 30W wireless charging options. The Ultra boasts a 4” cover display and a 7” inner display.

For a budget-friendly option featuring a dedicated telephoto lens, the Nothing Phone (3a) Pro includes a 50MP periscope camera (3x/70mm), a 50MP main camera (1/1.56”), and an 8MP ultra-wide lens, along with a 50MP selfie camera. It has a 6.77” 1080p+ 10-bit 120Hz OLED display and a 5,000mAh battery with 50W wired-only charging, powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3.

P.S. The Motorola Signature is still not available, but pre-ordering from Motorola.com before Monday will earn you complimentary Moto Buds Loop and a Moto Watch Fit, valued at €228.