After three months of consistent use, the OnePlus 13 continues to impress, setting a new standard for my Android phone experience. While the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra will be my primary device for the coming weeks, I anticipate missing the OnePlus 13. This article explores why this phone has become my preferred Android device.
An Unusually Long-Term Relationship
The OnePlus 13
Twelve weeks with one phone may not seem remarkable, but in my line of work, where I frequently switch between Android devices, it’s an eternity. Even with other appealing phones available, I consistently chose the OnePlus 13. This wasn’t due to a lack of alternatives, but rather a testament to the phone’s overall excellence and lack of irritating quirks. I didn’t need to switch, and I didn’t even want to.
OxygenOS 15: A Refined Experience
Previously, my experience with OxygenOS was a mixed bag due to the influx of ColorOS elements. Features like excessive system notifications, subpar notification management, and convoluted menus drove me back to phones like the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold. However, OxygenOS 15 has rectified these issues, resulting in a software experience I genuinely enjoy. It’s no longer about tolerance; it’s about genuine appreciation.
Premium Hardware and Design
A person using the XPan mode on the OnePlus 13.
While I’ve kept my OnePlus 13 (Midnight Ocean model) in its official Sandstone case for protection and enhanced wireless charging, the phone’s underlying design is a significant upgrade from its predecessor. The smooth vegan leather back panel offers a premium feel, and subtle design refinements, like the repositioned Hasselblad “H” logo, add a touch of elegance.
A photo taken with the OnePlus 13
A photo taken with the OnePlus 13
A photo taken with the OnePlus 13
A photo taken with the OnePlus 13
A photo taken with the OnePlus 13
Beyond aesthetics, the OnePlus 13 boasts impressive battery life, lasting well into a third day with my moderate usage. The Snapdragon 8 Elite performs admirably without overheating, and the camera, enhanced by Hasselblad’s expertise, produces stunning images with distinctive colors and tones. Even the XPan mode, once considered a gimmick, has become a favorite feature.
A High Bar for Competitors
The back of the OnePlus 13.
The OnePlus 13 sets a high standard for competitors like the Galaxy S25 Ultra and Google Pixel 9 Pro. To win me over, the S25 Ultra needs to match the OnePlus 13’s portability, design, battery life, software reliability, and camera performance. The OnePlus 13’s competitive pricing further strengthens its appeal, offering similar specifications to the S25 Ultra at a significantly lower cost.
Focusing on Core Smartphone Functionality
While AI features are present, the OnePlus 13 avoids overhyping them. This understated approach is refreshing, as it prioritizes core smartphone functionalities without pushing potentially unnecessary features. Ultimately, the OnePlus 13 excels at being a smartphone, and that’s why it’s been my preferred device for the past three months. If you’re considering a new Android phone, the OnePlus 13 is a solid choice you won’t regret.
