Tushar Mehta / Android Authority
OnePlus typically launches its flagship with an R-branded companion. The latter is characterized by slightly less impactful specifications, including a relatively dull display, a less appealing camera, or a generation-old processor. This year, however, the OnePlus 15R has earned a separate launch, independent of the OnePlus 15‘s shadow. That’s because the gap between the two phones is closing, as they share several features on their spec sheets, and these similarities help elevate the OnePlus 15R closer to the status of a flagship Android phone — even though it’s still a flagship-killer at heart.
My colleague Joe Maring reviewed the OnePlus 15R and wasn’t quite convinced it is the appropriate update to the 13R, especially given the downgraded cameras, OxygenOS 16’s shift towards an iOS-like aesthetic, and a $100 price bump. While I don’t disagree, I view the OnePlus 15R as packing all the essential bits from the flagship 15, especially for those craving performance and longevity. And if you’re not looking for the swankiest of features, the OnePlus 15R may be worth your consideration.
While I have been enjoying the OnePlus 15 since its launch last month, here are five reasons I would still recommend the OnePlus 15R over it for most people.
Would you buy the OnePlus 15R over the OnePlus 15? 18 votes Yes, the 15R has all the features I need. 17 % No, I'd buy the OnePlus 15. 50 % I'm on the fence. 11 % I wouldn't buy either. 22 %
Promising performance, and the same smooth 165Hz experience
Joe Maring / Android Authority
One of the main reasons I mentioned the closing gap between the OnePlus 15 and the 15R is the display. The 15R also has a 165Hz AMOLED panel. While it uses an LTPS AMOLED panel, which is less advanced than the OnePlus 15’s LTPO, it is equally capable of running (certain supported) games at a charming 165fps.
Backing that ability on the OnePlus 15R is a Snapdragon 8 Gen 5. Despite its deficiencies compared to the latest Elite, this non-Elite variant delivers exciting performance. While the specifications, including core frequencies, position it below the Snapdragon 8 Elite, I found its performance to be strikingly close — at least while testing CPU capabilities using synthetic benchmarks, particularly Geekbench 6.
OnePlus 15 OnePlus 15R OnePlus 13
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