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OnePlus’ R-series of models is known to offer the experience of its flagships, like the recently unveiled OnePlus 15, at a budget-friendly price. In this regard, the OnePlus 15R, which was launched today (December 17), along with the OnePlus Pad Go 2, is no different.
The OnePlus 15R offers a high-end Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, a massive 7,400 mAh battery, and a refined camera setup. Priced at Rs 49,999 (12GB+512GB), the 15R aims to strike a balance between flagship performance and affordability, with the Shenzhen-based smartphone brand looking to cement its position in the mid-range Android segment even as the Indian consumer market gradually shifts from value to premium devices.
Here are my thoughts after spending a few weeks with the OnePlus 15R.
My review unit came in Mint Breeze with a standard glass back, although the OnePlus 15R also comes in Charcoal Black and an India-exclusive Electric Violet featuring a fiberglass back, similar to the Sand Storm OnePlus 15. In terms of the build, the smartphone feels grippy, which is a practical advantage for a device intended for gaming and related tasks.
The OnePlus 15R makes a notable departure from its predecessor by not having the Alert Slider. In its place, the device features a Plus Key. This multipurpose key can be pressed to take images, start recording, and take screenshots for AI analysis with Mind Space.
The rear of the phone features vertically stacked cameras in a squircle-shaped camera bump, another major design change from the 13R, that extends outward. An IP69K rating along with IP66, IP68, and IP69 certifications, add a robust layer of protection against dust and water, making it one of the most durable phones in its class.
OnePlus has clearly prioritised visual fluidity and responsiveness with the 15R. The 1.5K AMOLED panel with 165Hz refresh rate and ProXDR for higher dynamic range, brings it on par with its premium sibling. The colours are punchy and the contrast is deep, providing an immersive experience for video consumption and daily scrolling of social media. It can go up to 1,800 nits of brightness and go down to as low as 1 nit, which is said to help prevent eye fatigue if, like me, you can’t resist doomscrolling at 1am in the night.
Performance is where the OnePlus 15R truly justifies its place in the lineup. Being among the first to ship with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 mobile processor gives this phone a level of future-proofing that is rare at this price point. The chip handles demanding applications and heavy multitasking without showing signs of strain. Combined with the G2 Wi-Fi chip for more stable internet throughput, the device feels optimised for a world that relies heavily on cloud gaming and high-speed data.
The software experience on OxygenOS 16 feels streamlined and intuitive. Built on Android 16, the operating system is designed to leverage the raw power of the Snapdragon chipset while keeping the interface clean. The focus here is on speed, and the lack of unnecessary clutter allows the hardware to shine. Whether you are editing a 4K video or jumping between several apps (app switching), the 15R maintains a level of composure that emulates the flagship OnePlus 15.
The dedicated Touch Response Chip is another thoughtful addition that speaks directly to hardcore gamers. In my testing, the device managed to feel more connected to my fingertips.
The removal of the telephoto lens might disappoint those who rely on optical zoom, but the 50 MP primary and 8 MP ultra wide dual camera setup is a capable performer. It captures images with detail and natural colour reproduction, aided by the DetailMax Engine. The ability to record 4K video at 120fps is another high-end feature that will likely appeal to videographers.
Perhaps the most surprising upgrade is the 32 MP front camera. By adding auto focus and 4K video support to the selfie lens, OnePlus says it has addressed a long-standing request from customers. In my time with the device, I found that the upgraded front camera makes the smartphone significantly better for video calls. Speaking of, here are some photos from the rear cameras.
The 7,400 mAh battery is yet another big sell for the OnePlus 15R. In a market where 5,000 mAh is considered standard, this massive increase in capacity changes how you interact with the phone. It is also impressive considering the smartphone maintains a manageable form factor despite the larger cell.
Additionally, the OnePlus 15R has 80W SUPERVOOC charging support, which ensures that even a short stint on the power outlet provides considerable hours of usage. Not to mention that you can reverse charge other devices with a Type C to C cable.
While it is true that wireless charging is missing, the speed of wired charging and the massive capacity of the battery itself could be a winning bargain for customers in value conscious markets like India.
With an upgraded front camera, better battery, and a processor that leads the pack, the 15R offers more than just a taste of the flagship OnePlus 15; it stands as a formidable contender in its own right. For anyone seeking a device that handles intensive tasks with ease while lasting through several days of use, the OnePlus 15R appears to be a thoughtful evolution of the R-series.
