OnePlus finally hit the mark with the 12R in 2024, offering a compelling blend of features and value. The OnePlus 13R aims to build on that success, boasting camera improvements as a key selling point. But do these upgrades justify the $100 price increase? This article delves into a detailed camera comparison between the OnePlus 13R and 12R to determine if the 13R’s camera truly delivers a noticeable leap forward.
White OnePlus 13R held in hand over blue OnePlus 12R.
The OnePlus 13R inherits the 12R’s value proposition but with a refreshed design. The flat edges align with the industry trend, differentiating it visually from the 12R. While the rear camera modules appear similar, the 13R replaces the 12R’s dedicated macro lens with a 2X telephoto lens, promising improved portrait capabilities and sharper zoomed images. OnePlus also claims to have enhanced the camera algorithm, especially for the primary 50MP sensor, incorporating features like the OnePlus 13’s Snapshot functionality for improved detail, lighting, and HDR. Coupled with a newer processor and faster memory, the 13R should theoretically produce superior images. Let’s examine real-world performance to see if these claims hold true.
OnePlus 13R vs. 12R: Real-World Camera Comparison
White OnePlus 13R held in hand over blue OnePlus 12R.
The following image comparisons showcase the subtle yet significant differences between the OnePlus 13R and 12R cameras. The OnePlus 13R images are on the left, while the OnePlus 12R images are on the right.
Primary Camera Performance
Despite sharing the same 50MP sensor, the primary camera results differ noticeably. The OnePlus 13R produces sharper images with better saturation, contrast, and a more neutral white balance. The 12R’s images exhibit a haze in darker areas and a warmer tone, making them less appealing.
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review wide angle 1
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review wide angle 1
The 13R also demonstrates superior dynamic range, capturing brighter shadows and revealing more detail in darker areas, as evidenced in the junkyard bus photo. The improved shadow detail is further reinforced in the subsequent image of foliage, where the 13R renders more vibrant greens and better-lit background elements.
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review wide angle 4
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review wide angle 4
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review wide angle 3
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review wide angle 3
Ultrawide Camera Performance
The ultrawide camera comparison reveals a similar trend, with the 13R delivering more saturated and contrasted images. However, the differences in shadow detail are less pronounced than with the primary camera. Both phones maintain consistent colors across their respective primary and ultrawide lenses, despite lacking specialized color tuning.
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review wide angle 2
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review wide angle 2
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review ultra wide angle 1
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review ultra wide angle 1
Zoom and Telephoto Performance
The 2X telephoto lens is a significant upgrade for the 13R. While the 12R relies on digital zoom and cropping, the 13R utilizes its dedicated telephoto sensor, resulting in crisper images with a more natural bokeh, as demonstrated in the flower photo. The telephoto lens also provides sharper images at higher zoom levels, although it can struggle in low-light conditions due to its smaller aperture.
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review zoom 2
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review zoom 2
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review zoom 1
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review zoom 1
Portrait Mode
The 13R’s telephoto lens significantly enhances portrait mode, creating a more refined bokeh and capturing greater detail, particularly in facial features and textures. While the 12R’s portrait mode performs admirably, the 13R consistently produces more pleasing results with better subject separation and background blur. However, the 13R’s tendency towards oversaturation in some portrait shots needs refinement.
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review portrait 3
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review portrait 3
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review portrait 1
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review portrait 1
Low-Light and Night Photography
Both phones struggle in low-light portrait mode. However, the 13R’s 2X lens captures slightly more detail and texture compared to the 12R.
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review portrait 6
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review portrait 6
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review portrait 7
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review portrait 7
In extreme low-light conditions, such as moon shots, both phones exhibit chromatic distortion. The 13R produces sharper images when zoomed, but its color accuracy needs improvement.
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review oplus 262144
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review oplus 262144
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review oplus 262144
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review oplus 8650752
Macro Photography
Replacing the dedicated macro lens with the primary camera for macro shots proves to be a positive change for the 13R. The result is improved focus and image quality compared to the 12R’s dedicated macro lens.
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review macro
oneplus 13r vs 12r camera review macro
OnePlus 13R Camera: A Worthy Upgrade?
White OnePlus 13R and blue OnePlus 12R held together in hand.
The OnePlus 13R’s camera represents a significant step up from the 12R. The telephoto lens, improved image processing, and enhanced dynamic range contribute to a better overall photography experience. While not a revolutionary leap, the upgrades are noticeable and justify the price difference for users seeking improved camera performance. The 13R is a compelling option for those prioritizing camera quality while also benefiting from other enhancements offered by the newer model.
