In the fast-moving world of smartphones, OnePlus has once again dropped back-to-back flagships that push boundaries while stirring up debates. The OnePlus 12 was already a powerful all-rounder with flagship-grade internals, great cameras, and solid build quality. But now that the OnePlus 13 is here, the question arises is the upgrade worth it?
If you’re stuck choosing between these two heavyweights, this detailed comparison of the OnePlus 12 vs 13 will help you figure out which phone suits your needs best in 2025.
Design and Build
At first glance, both phones carry the classic OnePlus design DNA. The OnePlus 12 has a rounded camera housing with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 front and a glass back that feels premium and solid. The OnePlus 13, however, opts for a fresh design with a boxier camera module and slightly flatter edges, making it feel more modern and grippy in hand.
Both phones weigh around 220g and are IP65-rated for water resistance, not flagship-leading protection, but enough for daily use. The OnePlus 13’s subtly improved aesthetics and sturdier feel may win over those who care about looks and ergonomics.
Verdict: OnePlus 13 feels like a visual and tactile refresh, while the OnePlus 12 still holds its premium charm.
Display
Both phones feature a 6.82-inch AMOLED LTPO display with QHD+ resolution and 1-120Hz adaptive refresh rate. They’re bright, sharp, and offer stunning color accuracy.
But here’s the twist: the OnePlus 13’s display peaks at 4,500 nits, compared to 4,500 nits on the OnePlus 12. In real-world use, that translates to slightly better outdoor visibility and HDR playback on the newer model. Touch response has also been fine-tuned, especially during gaming.
Verdict: Both displays are excellent, but OnePlus 13 takes the lead in outdoor brightness and touch precision.
Performance: Snapdragon vs Snapdragon, Gen to Gen
The OnePlus 12 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, which still holds its own with superb multitasking and gaming performance. It’s paired with up to 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage.
The OnePlus 13 takes things a notch higher with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, offering better AI handling, more efficient power use, and faster GPU performance. RAM goes up to 16GB as well, with the same UFS 4.0 speeds.
In day-to-day use, you may not see massive differences. But during extended gaming sessions, the OnePlus 13 stays cooler and delivers smoother frame rates.
Verdict: Both are fast, but OnePlus 13 is built for the long haul with better thermal control and future-proofed performance.
Software Experience
Both phones run on ColorOS (based on Android), with the OnePlus 12 shipping with Android 14 and the OnePlus 13 launching on Android 15.
The real gain on the OnePlus 13 is longer software support and a more refined version of the UI, with smoother animations, better AI integration (like real-time transcription, AI summarization), and advanced privacy tools.
If you’re someone who keeps a phone for 3+ years, the OnePlus 13’s software future is more promising.
Verdict: OnePlus 13 has the edge for long-term users and AI-first workflows.
Cameras
Here’s where things get nuanced.
The OnePlus 12 offers a triple camera setup:
- 50MP main (Sony IMX890, OIS)
- 48MP ultra-wide
- 64MP 3x telephoto
The OnePlus 13 also has a triple system, but with slightly reworked sensors:
- 50MP main (newer Sony sensor with better low-light)
- 50MP ultra-wide
- 50MP 3x telephoto (IMX882)
In practice, both phones take great shots in daylight. However, the OnePlus 13 pulls ahead in night photography and portrait sharpness. It also processes HDR faster and better, thanks to Snapdragon 8 Gen 3’s ISP improvements.
Selfies are handled by a 32MP front camera on both, and they’re excellent for video calls and vlogging.
Verdict: OnePlus 13 refines camera processing and excels in low light; OnePlus 12 is still solid across the board.
Battery and Charging
Both phones house a 5,400mAh battery and support 100W wired charging, taking around 26-28 minutes to go from 0 to 100%.
Wireless charging? That’s available on both top 50W on the OnePlus 12 and same for the OnePlus 13.
Battery optimization is a bit better on the OnePlus 13, especially under heavy AI or background processing, but in casual daily use, they’re nearly identical.
Verdict: Draw. Both offer class-leading fast charging and dependable battery life.
Price and Value
The OnePlus 12 starts at a slightly lower price (due to age), making it a solid value in 2025. The OnePlus 13, meanwhile, commands a premium for better AI features, newer chipset, and brighter display.
If you’re already using a OnePlus 12, you might not find enough reason to switch. But if you’re upgrading from an older device, the OnePlus 13 offers a more future-proof experience.
Verdict: The OnePlus 12 is better value; the OnePlus 13 is better future-proofed.
Final Verdict: OnePlus 12 vs 13 Which One Should You Buy?
If you’re looking for a reliable, high-performing flagship with an excellent display, camera, and fast charging, both phones deliver.
- Choose OnePlus 12 if you want flagship specs at a slightly lower price and don’t mind skipping the latest AI features.
- Choose OnePlus 13 if you care about longer updates, better low-light photos, brighter screen, and next-gen AI tools.
In the end, the OnePlus 13 refines everything the 12 did well, but not in a revolutionary way. For many users, the OnePlus 12 remains a great deal. For those who want the very latest, the 13 is worth it.
FAQs
Which phone has better performance?
The OnePlus 13 is faster thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
Are the displays different?
Same size and resolution, but OnePlus 13 gets brighter and smoother.
Is the camera better on OnePlus 13?
Yes, especially in low-light and HDR situations.
Do both support wireless charging?
Yes, both support 50W wireless charging.
Which is more durable?
Both have Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and IP65 water resistance.
Which phone is more future-proof?
OnePlus 13, with newer software and longer update support.
Is the OnePlus 12 still worth buying?
Absolutely it’s still powerful and now more affordable.
Do both phones support AI features?
Yes, but the OnePlus 13 has more advanced AI tools built-in.
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