Category: Hardware

OnePlus 8T

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OnePlus 8T
OnePlus 8T

The OnePlus 8T is a notable release from OnePlus, building upon the foundation set by the OnePlus 8 and introducing several enhancements. Here’s an in-depth review of the OnePlus 8T:

Overview:

Launched in late 2020, the OnePlus 8T was positioned between the OnePlus 8 and the OnePlus 8 Pro, offering a blend of features from both. With a focus on fast charging, a smooth display, and a refined software experience, the 8T aimed to solidify OnePlus’s position in the premium smartphone segment.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 11, with OxygenOS 11 on top.
  2. Display: 6.55-inch Fluid AMOLED with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, boasting a 120Hz refresh rate.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm SM8250 Snapdragon 865.
  4. Memory: Options of 8/12 GB RAM with 128/256 GB UFS 3.1 internal storage.
  5. Camera: Quad rear camera setup – 48 MP primary sensor, 16 MP ultrawide lens, 5 MP macro sensor, and a 2 MP monochrome sensor. The front camera is a 16 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 4500 mAh non-removable battery with an impressive 65W Warp Charge, promising a 0 to 58% charge in just 15 minutes and 0 to 100% in 39 minutes.
  7. Other Features: In-display fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, 5G connectivity, and an aluminum frame.

Pros:

  1. Fast Charging: The 65W Warp Charge is one of the device’s standout features, ensuring ultra-rapid battery top-ups.
  2. Display: The 120Hz Fluid AMOLED display provides a buttery-smooth and vibrant viewing experience.
  3. Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 865, the device offers top-tier performance, suitable for everything from multitasking to gaming.
  4. OxygenOS: Widely praised for its speed, customization options, and near-stock experience.
  5. Build and Design: The device offers a premium feel with its glass back and aluminum frame.

Cons:

  1. Camera Performance: While the camera setup is versatile, it might not be the best in its class, especially when compared to more premium flagships.
  2. Lack of Wireless Charging: Unlike the OnePlus 8 Pro, the 8T does not support wireless charging.
  3. Lack of Official IP Rating: While OnePlus claimed the phone had some form of water and dust resistance, it didn’t come with an official IP rating.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the OnePlus 8T faced competition from:

  • Samsung Galaxy S20 FE: Offering a 120Hz AMOLED display, versatile camera setup, and wireless charging.
  • Xiaomi Mi 10T Pro: With its 144Hz IPS LCD display, Snapdragon 865, and 108 MP primary camera.
  • Google Pixel 5: Known for its stock Android experience, excellent camera software processing, and compact size.

Launch Date:

The OnePlus 8T was announced in October 2020.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Camera Inconsistencies: Some users found the camera software processing to be inconsistent, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
  2. Thermal Management: A few users reported the device getting warm during extended gaming or high-performance tasks.
  3. OxygenOS 11 Controversies: While OxygenOS is generally well-received, the 11th iteration brought some design changes that weren’t universally loved.

Conclusion:

The OnePlus 8T is a testament to OnePlus’s commitment to delivering a premium experience at a relatively more accessible price point. It offers a combination of features and performance that challenges many flagship devices in the market. While there are areas that could be improved, especially in the camera department, the overall package is compelling for those seeking a high-end experience without the traditionally high-end price tag. The device further solidified OnePlus’s position in the premium smartphone market.

Google Pixel 4a (5G)

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Google Pixel 4a 5G
Google Pixel 4a 5G

Overview:

The Google Pixel 4a (5G), unveiled in 2020, was a part of Google’s endeavor to bring 5G connectivity to its more affordable Pixel lineup. Positioned between the Pixel 4a and the Pixel 5, the Pixel 4a (5G) aimed to offer a blend of features from both devices, making it an attractive option for those wanting 5G capabilities without the flagship price.

Features:

  • Operating System: Launched with Android 11, benefiting from direct and prompt updates from Google.
  • Display: 6.2-inch OLED capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels.
  • Processor: Qualcomm SDM765 Snapdragon 765G Octa-core.
  • Memory: 6 GB RAM with 128 GB internal storage (non-expandable).
  • Camera: Dual rear camera setup with a 12.2 MP primary sensor and a 16 MP ultrawide lens. An 8 MP front camera.
  • Battery: 3885 mAh non-removable battery with fast charging capabilities.
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, and 5G connectivity.
  • Other Features: Rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, stereo speakers, and deep Google Assistant integration.

Pros:

  • Value Proposition: The Pixel 4a (5G) offered a lot of the features of the Pixel 5, including the same primary camera and processor, but at a lower price point.
  • 5G Connectivity: Ready for next-gen network speeds, making it future-proof for the coming years.
  • Camera Capabilities: Retaining the Pixel series’ reputation for excellent photography, the device delivered impressive shots, especially given its price.
  • Larger Display: The 6.2-inch display was appreciated by those who prefer larger screens for media consumption and browsing.
  • Pure Android Experience: The device offered a bloat-free, stock Android experience with the promise of timely updates.

Cons:

  • No Wireless Charging: Unlike the Pixel 5, the Pixel 4a (5G) lacked wireless charging capabilities.
  • Build Material: Made of polycarbonate, it didn’t have the premium feel of some competitors.
  • No Water Resistance: The device wasn’t IP-rated for water or dust resistance.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In 2020, with the rise of 5G and a focus on affordable yet powerful devices, the Google Pixel 4a (5G) faced competition from:

  • OnePlus Nord: Offering a 90Hz display, multiple cameras, and a competitive price point.
  • Samsung Galaxy A71 5G: Samsung’s mid-range 5G offering with a large display and versatile camera setup.
  • iPhone SE (2nd generation): Apple’s budget-friendly offering, though lacking 5G, was known for its powerful A13 Bionic chip and compact design.

Launch Date:

The Google Pixel 4a (5G) was announced in September 2020 and released in November 2020.

Common Issues/Problems:

  • Availability: Initially, the availability of the Pixel 4a (5G) was limited in certain regions, leading to some frustration among potential buyers.
  • Speaker Quality: Some users reported inconsistencies in speaker quality, especially when comparing the top and bottom speakers.
  • Battery Life Variability: While many found the battery life sufficient, some heavy users or those in areas with weak 5G signals reported faster battery drain.

Conclusion:

The Google Pixel 4a (5G) was a strategic device for Google, aiming to strike a balance between affordability and performance, especially in the realm of 5G connectivity. It successfully brought many of the beloved features of the Pixel series, particularly the camera capabilities, to a wider audience. While it made some compromises compared to the flagship Pixel 5, it was generally well-received for its value proposition and overall user experience.

Xiaomi Mi 10T Pro

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The Xiaomi Mi 10T Pro is part of Xiaomi’s Mi 10 series, which aims to offer flagship-level features at a competitive price point. Here’s an in-depth review of the Xiaomi Mi 10T Pro:

Overview:

Launched in 2020, the Xiaomi Mi 10T Pro was introduced as a more affordable alternative to the Mi 10 Pro, offering a mix of high-end specifications and features tailored for users seeking performance and camera capabilities.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 10, with Xiaomi’s MIUI 12 on top.
  2. Display: 6.67-inch IPS LCD with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels and a 144Hz refresh rate.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 865.
  4. Memory: Options of 8 GB RAM with 128/256 GB internal storage.
  5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup – 108 MP primary sensor, 13 MP ultrawide lens, and 5 MP macro sensor. The front camera is a 20 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 5000 mAh non-removable battery with 33W fast charging.
  7. Other Features: Side-mounted fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, and 5G connectivity.

Pros:

  1. Camera Capabilities: The 108 MP primary sensor offers detailed shots and versatile photography capabilities.
  2. Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 865, the device delivers smooth and responsive performance across tasks.
  3. Display: The 144Hz refresh rate ensures ultra-smooth visuals, making it great for gaming and general usage.
  4. Battery Life: The 5000 mAh battery ensures the phone lasts through a full day of moderate to heavy use.
  5. Value for Money: Given its specifications, the device offers excellent value, especially when compared to other flagship phones in the same price range.

Cons:

  1. IPS LCD Display: Unlike the Mi 10 Pro’s AMOLED display, the Mi 10T Pro uses an IPS LCD. While it’s high-quality, it doesn’t offer the deep blacks and vibrant colors of an AMOLED.
  2. MIUI Experience: While MIUI offers a plethora of features, it might come across as heavy for users who prefer a stock Android experience. Additionally, there have been reports of occasional ads in the UI.
  3. Lack of Wireless Charging: The Mi 10T Pro does not support wireless charging.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the Xiaomi Mi 10T Pro faced competition from:

  • OnePlus 8T: Offering a 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 865, and a cleaner software experience with OxygenOS.
  • Samsung Galaxy S20 FE: Featuring a 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 865 (or Exynos 990 depending on the region), and a versatile camera setup.
  • Realme X50 Pro: With its 90Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 865, and 65W fast charging.

Launch Date:

The Xiaomi Mi 10T Pro was announced in September 2020.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Experience: Some users reported occasional lags and stutters in MIUI, especially with third-party apps.
  2. Camera Processing: While the 108 MP sensor is impressive, some users felt the camera software processing could be inconsistent, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
  3. Weight: Due to the large battery and camera module, some users found the device to be slightly on the heavier side.

Conclusion:

The Xiaomi Mi 10T Pro is a commendable offering in the flagship segment, especially for users who prioritize camera capabilities and performance. With its high-refresh-rate display, robust performance, and impressive camera setup, it provides a balanced smartphone experience for its price. While there are certain areas where compromises are evident, such as the display technology and lack of wireless charging, the overall package is compelling for those seeking a balance between features, performance, and price. For users who want flagship features without the typically associated flagship price tag, the Xiaomi Mi 10T Pro is a strong contender.

Xiaomi Mi 10T

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The Xiaomi Mi 10T is part of Xiaomi’s Mi 10 series, which is known for offering high-end specifications at a competitive price point. Here’s an in-depth review of the Xiaomi Mi 10T:

Overview:

Launched in 2020, the Xiaomi Mi 10T is positioned as a flagship device within Xiaomi’s lineup, aiming to provide users with top-tier performance, camera capabilities, and design aesthetics without breaking the bank.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 10, with Xiaomi’s MIUI 12 on top.
  2. Display: 6.67-inch IPS LCD with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels and a 144Hz refresh rate.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 865.
  4. Memory: Options of 6/8 GB RAM with 128 GB internal storage.
  5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup – 64 MP primary sensor, 13 MP ultrawide lens, and 5 MP macro sensor. The front camera is a 20 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 5000 mAh non-removable battery with 33W fast charging.
  7. Other Features: Side-mounted fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, 5G connectivity, and Gorilla Glass 5 protection.

Pros:

  1. Display: The 144Hz refresh rate ensures a buttery-smooth user experience, making scrolling and animations feel extremely fluid.
  2. Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 865, the device handles everything from daily tasks to intensive gaming seamlessly.
  3. Battery Life: The 5000 mAh battery ensures long-lasting usage, suitable for users who are on the go.
  4. Camera Capabilities: The 64 MP primary camera captures detailed shots, and the overall camera setup offers versatility for different shooting scenarios.
  5. Value for Money: Given its specifications, the device offers excellent value, especially when compared to other phones in the same price range.

Cons:

  1. IPS LCD Display: While the 144Hz refresh rate is a standout feature, the use of an IPS LCD panel instead of AMOLED might be a downside for some users who prefer deeper blacks and more vibrant colors.
  2. MIUI Experience: While MIUI offers a range of features, it might come across as heavy for users who prefer a stock Android experience. Additionally, there have been reports of occasional ads in the UI.
  3. No Wireless Charging: The device does not support wireless charging, which some users might expect in this price range.
  4. No Official IP Rating: The device lacks an official IP rating for water and dust resistance.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the Xiaomi Mi 10T faced competition from:

  • OnePlus 8T: Offering a 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 865, and a versatile camera setup.
  • Samsung Galaxy S20 FE: Featuring a 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 865 (or Exynos 990 depending on the region), and a versatile camera setup.
  • Realme X50 Pro: With its 90Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 865, and a 64 MP primary camera.

Launch Date:

The Xiaomi Mi 10T was announced in September 2020.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Experience: Some users reported occasional lags and stutters in MIUI, especially with third-party apps.
  2. Camera Processing: While the hardware is impressive, some users felt the camera software processing could be inconsistent, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
  3. Weight: Given the large battery and the overall build, some users found the device to be a bit on the heavier side.

Conclusion:

The Xiaomi Mi 10T is a commendable offering in the flagship segment, especially for users who prioritize a high refresh rate display and solid performance. With its 144Hz display, reliable performance, and impressive camera setup, it provides a balanced smartphone experience for its price. While there are certain areas where compromises are evident, such as the display technology and lack of wireless charging, the overall package is compelling for those seeking a balance between features, performance, and price. For users who want flagship features without the typically associated flagship price tag, the Xiaomi Mi 10T is a strong contender.