Cheaper isn’t always better, and neither is the most expensive option. The OnePlus 13 (review) and iQOO 13 (review) are currently two of the hottest contenders in the high-performance Android smartphone space. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, these devices offer top-notch performance, premium design, and excellent camera capabilities. However, with a price difference of ₹15,000, these two smartphones cater to different types of users.
While their on-paper specifications are almost identical, here are five key differences between the OnePlus 13 and iQOO 13 that make them completely different smartphones:
The iQOO 13 and OnePlus 13 feature 2K-resolution screens that are sharp, colour-accurate, and bright. However, the iQOO 13 has a flat display with a higher refresh rate of 144Hz, but can only be unlocked in gaming mode. In contrast, the OnePlus 13 features an advanced quad-curved 120Hz display that combines the practicality of a flat screen with the premium aesthetic of a curved display. For gamers, the iQOO 13 might be more appealing, while for everyday use, the OnePlus 13 has a slight edge.
Both the iQOO 13 and the OnePlus 13 sport a triple 50 MP camera setup, but the tuning makes a difference. The iQOO 13 includes a 2x telephoto lens, whereas the OnePlus 13 offers a 3x telephoto lens. Additionally, the OnePlus 13 benefits from Hasselblad tuning, giving it the upper hand in terms of overall camera performance.
Despite their similar hardware, the software experience on these phones is vastly different. Both devices ship with the latest Android 15 OS, but the OnePlus 13’s OxygenOS 15 is leagues ahead of the iQOO 13’s FunTouchOS 13. OxygenOS offers smoother animations, a bloatware-free experience, a wide array of AI features, and extensive customization options. While both devices will receive four major Android updates, the iQOO 13 is eligible for five years of security updates, compared to six years for the OnePlus 13.
The iQOO 13 is one of the fastest-charging smartphones available, boasting 120W wired fast charging. The OnePlus 13, though slightly behind with its 100W wired charging, compensates with 50W wireless charging and reverse wireless charging. Additionally, with the right case, you can even add MagSafe-like wireless charging capabilities to the OnePlus 13.
The iQOO 13 starts at ₹54,999, making it ₹15,000 cheaper than the ₹69,999 base model of the OnePlus 13. Even with additional discounts, the price difference remains significant. For those seeking the most affordable Snapdragon 8 Elite-powered smartphone, the iQOO 13 is an unbeatable option. However, if you value the added features of the OnePlus 13, the extra ₹15,000 may be worth it. Notably, the OnePlus 13 offers configurations with up to 1TB of storage and 24GB of RAM, whereas the iQOO 13 maxes out at 512GB of storage and 16GB of RAM.
We hope this comparison helps you choose the right Snapdragon 8 Elite-powered phone that suits your needs!