OnePlus 8

Overview:

Launched in 2020, the OnePlus 8 was introduced alongside its more feature-packed sibling, the OnePlus 8 Pro. While the Pro variant was aimed at those seeking the absolute best, the OnePlus 8 was designed for users who wanted a flagship experience without some of the bells and whistles (and the associated price tag).

Features:

1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 10, with OnePlus’s OxygenOS on top.
2. Display: 6.55-inch Fluid AMOLED with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels and a 90Hz refresh rate.
3. Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 865.
4. Memory: Options of 8/12 GB RAM with 128/256 GB internal storage.
5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup – 48 MP primary sensor, 16 MP ultrawide lens, and 2 MP macro sensor. The front camera is a 16 MP shooter.
6. Battery: 4300 mAh non-removable battery with 30W Warp Charge fast charging.
7. Other Features: In-display fingerprint scanner, 5G connectivity, stereo speakers, and UFS 3.0 storage.

Pros:

1. Performance: With the Snapdragon 865 at its heart, the OnePlus 8 delivers smooth and responsive performance across tasks.
2. Display: The 90Hz Fluid AMOLED display offers a smooth scrolling experience, vibrant colors, and deep blacks.
3. Fast Charging: The 30W Warp Charge ensures a quick battery top-up, getting the phone from 0% to about 50% in just 22 minutes.
4. OxygenOS: Known for its clean and bloat-free experience, OxygenOS offers a near-stock Android feel with added customization options.
5. Design: The device boasts a sleek and premium design, with a slim profile and attractive color options.

Cons:

1. Camera Performance: While the camera setup is decent, it might not be on par with other flagship devices, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
2. Lack of Wireless Charging: Unlike the OnePlus 8 Pro, the standard OnePlus 8 does not support wireless charging.
3. No Official IP Rating: While the OnePlus 8 Pro received an official IP rating, the standard OnePlus 8 did not (though it’s built with some water resistance in mind).

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

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

• Samsung Galaxy S20 FE: Offering a 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 865 (or Exynos 990 depending on the region), and a versatile camera setup.
• Xiaomi Mi 10: Featuring a 90Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 865, and a 108 MP primary camera.
• Realme X50 Pro: With its 90Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 865, and 65W fast charging.

Launch Date:

The OnePlus 8 was announced in April 2020.

Common Issues/Problems:

1. Camera Consistency: Some users and reviewers noted that while the camera could produce great shots, it sometimes lacked consistency, especially in low-light scenarios.
2. Lack of Telephoto Lens: Unlike the Pro variant, the OnePlus 8 missed out on a telephoto lens, limiting its zoom capabilities.
3. Battery Life: While the battery life was generally good, the 90Hz display could drain the battery faster under heavy usage.

Conclusion:

The OnePlus 8 is a solid offering in the flagship segment, especially for users who prioritize performance and a clean software experience. With its high-refresh-rate display, reliable performance, and fast charging, it provides a balanced smartphone experience for its price. While there are certain areas where compromises are evident, such as the camera performance and lack of wireless charging, the overall package is compelling for those seeking a balance between features, performance, and price. For users who want a flagship experience without breaking the bank, the OnePlus 8 remains a strong contender in the segment.