The OnePlus 13 and OnePlus 13R, the newest additions to OnePlus’s popular smartphone lineup, boast significant upgrades. Following in the footsteps of their predecessors, these Android phones feature enhanced cameras, faster processors, and innovative touchscreen functionalities like glove usage on their Gorilla Glass screens (up to 0.5cm thick). Pre-release rumors suggested a shift to flat screens and larger batteries, moving away from the curved displays of the OnePlus 12 and 12R. Curved screens, a common yet debated feature seen in phones like the Google Pixel 8 Pro and Motorola Edge 50, are being abandoned by some manufacturers, including Samsung with its Galaxy S24 Ultra. This design choice can be a deciding factor for many consumers. So, do the OnePlus 13 and 13R follow this trend?
OnePlus 13: Embracing the Flat Screen Design
A person taking the OnePlus 13 out of a pocket.
The rumors are confirmed: the OnePlus 13 features a flat screen. This change eliminates the potential drawbacks of curved displays while maintaining the functionality of the OnePlus 12. Key features like the ProXDR Display, with its dynamic pixel brightening and dimming for glare reduction, and AquaTouch, which distinguishes between fingers and water droplets, are retained in the OnePlus 13. The display measures 6.82 inches diagonally, boasting a 3168 x 1440 QHD+ resolution at 510 ppi. A 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 4,500 nits, also present in the OnePlus 13R, complete the package.
OnePlus 13R: Flat Screen and Impressive Specs
Both colors of the OnePlus 13R next to each other.
Mirroring the OnePlus 13, the 13R also adopts a flat display. Slightly smaller at 6.78 inches diagonally, it maintains the 120Hz refresh rate and 4,500 nits peak brightness. The resolution is 2780 × 1264 with 450 ppi.
Flat vs. Curved: A Matter of Preference
Curved screens offer little improvement in display quality. Some users appreciate the seamless blending of visuals into the edges and the immersive experience created by the curved glass. However, these screens can sometimes distort pixels at the edges. Others favor curved screens for their ergonomic design, finding the added surface area more comfortable to hold.
Ultimately, the choice between flat and curved displays comes down to personal preference. With the OnePlus 13 and 13R, the decision is made for you: both models offer a flat screen experience, eliminating the need to weigh the pros and cons of curved displays.
