OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G : The OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G, launched back in April 2023, continues to turn heads as a value-packed mid-ranger in India’s cutthroat smartphone market. Priced under Rs 20,000, it delivers flagship-like charging and a massive camera sensor that punches above its weight.
Launch Hype and Initial Buzz
OnePlus dropped the Nord CE 3 Lite 5G on April 4, 2023, with deliveries starting April 11, aiming straight at budget 5G buyers craving smooth performance.
It hit shelves with bold claims – a 108MP camera, 67W charging, and Snapdragon muscle – quickly becoming a Flipkart bestseller. Early adopters loved the Pastel Lime finish and slim 8.3mm build, weighing just 195g for easy one-hand use.
The phone rode high on OxygenOS 13.1 promises, including two Android upgrades and three years of security patches, keeping it relevant even now.
Pricing and Availability Scoop
Current street prices hover around Rs 17,750-19,999 for the 8GB/128GB or 256GB variants, down from launch Rs 19,999 thanks to festive deals and competition from Samsung A-series.
You can expand storage up to 1TB via hybrid microSD, a rarity in this segment. Amazon and Flipkart stock it in Chromatic Gray too, with NFC in select markets for contactless pays.
Bank offers shave off extra bucks, making it a steal compared to pricier Realme or Moto rivals.
Display and Multimedia Magic
A 6.72-inch IPS LCD with 120Hz refresh and FHD+ resolution (391ppi) delivers fluid scrolls for gaming and Netflix binges, peaking at 680 nits outdoors.
Dual stereo speakers pump 200% Ultra Volume Mode, thumping bass in PUBG sessions or YouTube marathons – 17 hours of video playback on a charge.
Gorilla Glass protection shrugs off daily scratches, though some users gripe about line issues on LCD panels after heavy use.
Performance Powerhouse Under Hood
Snapdragon 695 5G chipset with octa-core CPU (2×2.2GHz) and Adreno 619 GPU handles multitasking like a champ – AnTuTu scores around 412k. 8GB RAM plus virtual expansion keeps 20+ apps humming without lags, perfect for COD Mobile at 60fps high graphics.
Side fingerprint scanner unlocks in a blink, backed by gyro and proximity sensors for seamless calls. Gaming tools like GPA Frame Stabilizer cut stutters, though heavy titles warm it up a tad.
Camera Setup That Surprises
The star 108MP main sensor (f/1.8, PDAF) with 9-in-1 binning grabs sharp daylight shots and 3x lossless zoom without telephoto fuss.
Portrait mode shines with bokeh flares and edge detection, while 2MP macro/ depth aids versatility. 16MP selfie cam nails HDR groupies, and EIS stabilizes 1080p videos.
Low-light holds up decently, beating many sub-20k phones, though colors pop more in edited GCam ports users swear by.
Battery Life and Charging Glory
5000mAh pack lasts 8-10 hours screen time on 5G, powering 8.8 hours PUBG or WhatsApp video chats.
67W SUPERVOOC hits 80% in 30 minutes via USB-C, with smart Battery Health Engine dodging overcharge for 4-year longevity. No wireless, but 3.5mm jack and OTG cover basics for wired audio fans.
Software Updates and User Gripes
Ships with Android 13/OxygenOS 13.1, now eligible for OxygenOS 15 or 16 betas as OnePlus expands stable rollouts in 2026.
Clean UI skips bloat, but some report heating during prolonged gaming or bending flex in slim frame. OTAs fix most glitches, keeping it zippy for daily drivers.
Real-World Verdict from Owners
Users praise all-day battery and loud speakers for media hogs, with smooth 5G on Jio/Airtel bands. Drawbacks like no IP rating or radio sting a bit, but at this price, it crushes expectations for students and commuters.

OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G
Three years on, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G remains a smart pick for budget hunters seeking big battery, fast charging, and capable cams without breaking the bank.
Also Read this – Privacy Policy
Ongoing updates ensure it stays fresh amid newer launches, proving value endures in India’s smartphone jungle.