The OnePlus Nord 4 5G still feels like a smart and practical choice in 2026, even though it originally launched back in mid-2024. In a market where new smartphones drop almost every month, it’s not easy for a device to stay relevant for this long. But the Nord 4 manages to do that quite well. With features like a premium metal unibody design, super-fast 100W charging, and storage options going up to 256GB, it continues to attract buyers who want a near-flagship experience without spending too much. Thanks to recent price cuts and consistent software updates, this phone still holds strong value in India’s competitive mid-range segment.
Launch and Pricing Update
The OnePlus Nord 4 5G was officially unveiled on July 16, 2024, and went on sale soon after. At the time of launch, the base variant with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage was priced at around Rs 29,999. However, as time passed and newer devices started entering the market, OnePlus gradually reduced the pricing. By early 2026, the same base model is often available for around Rs 23,999 during sales or promotional offers. The higher variant with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage usually falls between Rs 27,385 and Rs 29,999, depending on availability and discounts. These price drops have made the Nord 4 even more appealing, especially for buyers waiting for the next Nord upgrade but wanting a reliable phone right now.
Design and Durability
One of the biggest highlights of the Nord 4 is its design. In a segment where most smartphones use plastic backs, this one stands out with its metal unibody construction. It gives a solid, premium feel the moment you hold it. The phone measures 162.6 x 75 x 8mm and weighs around 199.5g, which makes it slightly on the heavier side but still comfortable for daily use. The build quality feels sturdy and long-lasting, which is something users really appreciate over time. It also comes with an IP54 rating, meaning it can handle light splashes and dust without issues. Color options like Oasis Green, Obsidian Midnight, and Mercurial Silver add a stylish touch, and many users have noticed that the phone doesn’t easily get scratched or worn out compared to plastic alternatives.
Display Performance
The Nord 4 features a large 6.74-inch Fluid AMOLED display, and honestly, it’s one of the best parts of this phone. The resolution of 1240 x 2772 ensures sharp visuals, while the 120Hz refresh rate keeps everything smooth, whether you’re scrolling social media or playing games. The display also supports HDR10+, which means better contrast and more vibrant colors when watching videos. One of the standout aspects is its peak brightness of around 2150 nits, making it easily usable even under direct sunlight. The inclusion of LTPO technology is another plus, as it automatically adjusts the refresh rate based on what you’re doing, helping save battery while still delivering a fluid experience.
Hardware and Software
When it comes to performance, the Nord 4 doesn’t disappoint. It runs on the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processor, which is quite powerful for a mid-range device. Whether you’re multitasking, gaming, or using heavy apps, the phone handles everything smoothly. It comes with up to 12GB RAM and fast UFS 4.0 storage on higher variants, which means faster app loading times and better overall responsiveness. On the software side, the phone runs OxygenOS 15 based on Android 14. OnePlus has also promised multiple Android updates along with long-term security patches, which is great for users who plan to keep their phone for a few years. The UI feels clean, fast, and user-friendly, without unnecessary clutter.
Camera Capabilities
The camera setup on the Nord 4 is reliable, though not perfect. It features a 50MP Sony LYT-600 main sensor with optical image stabilization, which helps in capturing stable and clear photos. In good lighting conditions, the pictures come out sharp with natural colors and decent dynamic range. The phone also supports 4K video recording at 60fps, which is a nice addition for content creators. There’s an 8MP ultrawide camera that works fine for group shots and landscapes, although it’s not the strongest in low light. On the front, you get a 16MP selfie camera that does a good job for video calls and casual selfies. Software updates have improved HDR performance over time, but low-light photography is still average compared to some competitors.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is another area where the Nord 4 shines. It packs a 5500mAh battery, which easily lasts a full day and often stretches to one and a half days with moderate use. Even heavy users can expect around 8 to 9 hours of screen-on time, which is quite impressive. But the real highlight is the 100W SuperVOOC fast charging. With the included charger, the phone can go from almost empty to full in under 30 minutes. This makes it extremely convenient for people who are always on the go. While it doesn’t support wireless charging, the fast wired charging more than makes up for it, and thermal performance during charging remains stable.
Verdict: Value That Still Holds Up
Even after nearly two years since its launch, the OnePlus Nord 4 5G continues to be a strong contender in the mid-range category. It offers a premium metal design, a bright and smooth display, reliable performance, and incredibly fast charging, all at a now more affordable price. Sure, it has a few minor downsides like average low-light camera performance and slight heating during heavy usage, but overall, it delivers where it matters most. For anyone looking for a balanced smartphone with good storage options like 256GB and long-term software support, the Nord 4 is still a solid choice in 2026.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is based on available specifications, user experiences, and market trends as of 2026. Prices and features may vary depending on region, offers, and updates from the manufacturer. Buyers are advised to check official sources or retailers before making a purchase decision.
