OnePlus Nord N30 5G vs Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
If you're looking for a phone that won't die on you during a long day, the Nord N30 5G is definitely worth considering. However, the iPhone SE offers a powerful A15 Bionic chip that provides flagship-level performance, making it a great option for those who prioritize speed and efficiency. Its compact design is easy to handle, weighing only 5.09oz, compared to the Nord N30's heftier 6.88oz. Key specs: Display: 6.72" vs 4.7" and Refresh: 120 Hz vs 60 Hz.
Why compare these? Both the OnePlus Nord N30 5G and Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) are budget-friendly smartphones competing in the same market segment. This makes them direct rivals for buyers looking for budget-friendly features and performance in 2026. Understanding their differences helps you choose the right one for your specific needs.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | OnePlus Nord | Apple iPhone |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.4★ (1,496 reviews) | ✓4.5★ (225 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Fastest charging in the US budget segment (50W wired) | Most affordable entry point into the new iPhone ecosystem |
| Main Drawback | No ultrawide camera (replaced by low-utility macro/depth sensors) | Dated design with thick top and bottom bezels |
| Market Position | Budget | Budget |
OnePlus Nord N30 5G
Android
1 Android OS upgrade (to Android 14) and 3 years of security updates
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm)
Adreno 619
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
iOS
Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022)
Apple A15 Bionic (5nm)
Apple GPU (4-core graphics)
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: OnePlus Nord N30 5G vs Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
OnePlus Nord N30 5G
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
| Criterion | OnePlus Nord N30 5G | Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.4(1,496)Amazon | ★4.5(225)Best Buy |
Operating System | Android | iOS |
Software Support | 1 Android OS upgrade (to Android 14) and 3 years of security updates | Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022) |
Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm) | Apple A15 Bionic (5nm) |
Graphics | Adreno 619 | Apple GPU (4-core graphics) |
RAM | 8GB LPDDR4X (Plus up to 8GB Virtual RAM) | 4GB |
Storage | 128GB UFS 2.2 (Expandable via microSDXC up to 1TB) | 64GB / 128GB / 256GB NVMe |
Display Size | 6.72" | 4.7" |
Screen Type | IPS LCD, 120Hz, 680 nits (HBM) | Retina HD LCD (IPS) |
Resolution | 2400 x 1080 (FHD+) | 1334 x 750 pixels (326 ppi) |
Refresh Rate | 120Hz (Adaptive: 30/48/50/60/90/120Hz) | 60Hz |
Peak Brightness | 550 nits (Typical) / 680 nits (High Brightness Mode) | 625 nits (Typical) |
Main Camera | 108MP Samsung S5KHM6, f/1.7, EIS, 3x Lossless Digital Zoom | 12MP Wide, f/1.8, OIS, Digital Zoom up to 5x |
Ultra-Wide Camera | No (Not supported) — Includes 2MP Depth + 2MP Macro | No (Not supported) |
Telephoto Camera | No (Not supported) | No (Not supported) |
Optical Zoom | No (Not supported) | No (Not supported) |
Digital Zoom | Up to 6x | Up to 5x |
Video Recording | 1080p @ 30fps | 4K @ 60fps; 1080p @ 60fps; Slo-mo 1080p @ 240fps |
Front Camera | 16MP, f/2.4 | 7MP FaceTime HD, f/2.2, 1080p @ 30fps |
Battery | 5,000mAh | 2,018mAh (Approximate) |
Wired Charging | 50W SUPERVOOC (Charger included) | 20W Fast Charging (50% in 30 min) via Lightning |
Wireless Charging | No (Not supported) | 7.5W Qi Wireless (No MagSafe magnetic alignment) |
Connectivity | 5G (Sub-6), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 5.1, NFC | 5G (Sub-6 GHz only - No mmWave), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0, NFC |
USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | Lightning Connector (USB 2.0 speeds) |
Durability | No official IP rating | IP67 (Dust/Water Resistant up to 1m for 30 min); Ion-strengthened glass |
Dimensions | 6.52 x 2.99 x 0.33 in (165.5 x 76.0 x 8.3 mm) | 5.45 x 2.65 x 0.29 in (138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm) |
Weight | 6.88 oz (195 g) | 5.09 oz (144 g) |
Biometrics | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor, Face Unlock | Touch ID (Fingerprint sensor in Home button) |
Extras | Stereo speakers (200% Ultra Volume Mode), 3.5mm Headphone Jack, microSD slot | Stereo speakers, Dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM), Dual eSIM support |
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OnePlus Nord N30 5G
Android
1 Android OS upgrade (to Android 14) and 3 years of security updates
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm)
Adreno 619
8GB LPDDR4X (Plus up to 8GB Virtual RAM)
128GB UFS 2.2 (Expandable via microSDXC up to 1TB)
Pros
- Fastest charging in the US budget segment (50W wired)
- Large 120Hz display is smooth and responsive
Cons
- No ultrawide camera (replaced by low-utility macro/depth sensors)
- LCD panel lacks the contrast of OLED competitors (e.g., Galaxy A15 5G)
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
iOS
Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022)
Apple A15 Bionic (5nm)
Apple GPU (4-core graphics)
4GB
64GB / 128GB / 256GB NVMe
Pros
- Most affordable entry point into the new iPhone ecosystem
- Compact and lightweight design is easy to use with one hand
Cons
- Dated design with thick top and bottom bezels
- Small 4.7-inch LCD screen lacks the vibrancy of OLED competitors
Which one is better?
Grab the iPhone SE if you prefer a compact design and the iOS ecosystem - it's lighter and offers smooth integration with Apple services.
Who should buy each?
Choose the OnePlus Nord N30 5G if: you need a long-lasting battery for all-day use, you enjoy gaming with a smooth 120Hz display, or you want fast charging to get back on the go quickly.
Choose the Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) if: you prefer a lightweight phone for one-handed use, you want a powerful processor for apps and games, or you value water resistance with its IP67 rating.
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.5★ vs 4.4★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Apple iPhone
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 1,496 reviews vs 225
→ Choose OnePlus Nord
Fastest charging in Priority
Fastest charging in the US budget segment (50W wired)
→ Choose OnePlus Nord
Most affordable entry Priority
Most affordable entry point into the new iPhone ecosystem
→ Choose Apple iPhone
Conclusion
There is no wrong answer here. Focus on the features you will use daily and pick the model that aligns with them.
Bottom line: The Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) leads with a 4.5★ rating versus 4.4★. That said, OnePlus Nord N30 5G could still be the right pick depending on your specific priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: OnePlus Nord N30 5G or Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)?
OnePlus Nord N30 5G is the better choice if you prioritize fastest charging in the us budget segment (50w wired). Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) wins if you value most affordable entry point into the new iphone ecosystem. Both are rated highly (4.4★ vs 4.5★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between OnePlus Nord N30 5G and Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)?
Key differences: OnePlus Nord N30 5G offers fastest charging in the us budget segment (50w wired), while Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) stands out with most affordable entry point into the new iphone ecosystem. Consider that OnePlus Nord N30 5G no ultrawide camera (replaced by low-utility macro/depth sensors). Meanwhile, Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) dated design with thick top and bottom bezels. Check the detailed specs table above for a complete comparison.
+Where can US buyers get the best price?
For US buyers, Amazon typically offers competitive pricing with Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. We recommend comparing prices on both products using our affiliate links above—prices fluctuate regularly, and you may find sales or deals.
+Is this comparison up to date?
Yes, this comparison is current for 2026. We regularly verify specs, ratings, and availability. Last verified: January 27, 2026. PageBen uses affiliate links for monetization, but our recommendations are research-driven and independent.
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