The OnePlus 10T 5G: A Powerhouse Phone With Some Tradeoffs
The OnePlus 10T 5G is a fascinating device. It boasts a top-of-the-line Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC and blazing-fast 150W charging, making it a compelling option for those seeking raw performance and lightning-quick battery replenishment. However, the 10T 5G also makes some notable compromises, like sacrificing the beloved alert slider and offering a less impressive camera system compared to its flagship sibling, the OnePlus 10 Pro. This leads to a key question: is the OnePlus 10T 5G the right phone for you?
In this in-depth review, we’ll break down the 10T 5G’s performance, cameras, battery life, software, features, and design. We’ll also consider its target audience and help you decide if its strengths outweigh its weaknesses.
Design: Familiar Yet Different
Perhaps the most controversial feature of the OnePlus 10T 5G is the absence of the iconic alert slider. Known for its distinctive design and functionality, the alert slider has been a staple in OnePlus phones since the beginning. Its removal has sparked debate among fans, with some seeing it as a necessary compromise for better antennas and 150W charging circuitry, while others believe it’s an unnecessary sacrifice.
"The OnePlus 10T’s design feels like a compromise, a willingness to relinquish a long-held legacy feature for what OnePlus claims are more practical advancements, but which come across as questionable for those who value the alert slider," states a tech reviewer from Gadgets360.
Beyond the alert slider, the OnePlus 10T boasts a distinctive aesthetic. Its two unique finishes – Moonstone Black and Jade Green – offer a stark contrast in texture. The Moonstone Black option has a rough finish inspired by volcanic rock, providing a secure grip and a sophisticated look. The Jade Green version, on the other hand, is completely smooth and reflective, making fingerprints quite visible.
The phone’s camera module echoes the design of the OnePlus 10 Pro, but with a notable difference. Instead of the metal frame extending around the back, the 10T’s camera module is integrated into the glass rear panel, resulting in a seamless appearance.
With its 8.75mm thickness and 203g weight, the OnePlus 10T 5G is a bit on the heavier side for a premium phone. However, its rounded frame and contoured rear ensure comfortable handling. The front and rear panels are protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5, and the phone comes with a matte rubber case and pre-applied screen protector.
Powerful Performance: Built for Speed and Gaming
Under the hood, the OnePlus 10T packs the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC, delivering significant performance enhancements compared to its predecessor. This chipset shines in several areas:
- Faster and more efficient processing: The upgraded Cortex-X2 core runs at up to 3.2GHz, ensuring buttery-smooth performance for everyday tasks and demanding applications.
- Enhanced graphics and AI capabilities: The Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 boasts improved Adreno GPU performance, resulting in smoother graphics for gaming and other visually intensive tasks.
- Next-generation cellular modem: The Snapdragon X65 modem delivers faster 5G speeds and enhanced network connectivity.
To handle the power of the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1, OnePlus has implemented a sophisticated cooling system, making the phone a haven for gaming enthusiasts.
Battery Life: The Fastest Charging Phone Around?
The OnePlus 10T boasts a 4800mAh battery with 150W SuperVOOC Endurance Edition charging technology, making it one of the fastest-charging smartphones available. Here’s what makes it so special:
- Split battery design: The battery is divided into two physical cells, allowing for parallel charging at up to 75W each.
- Ultra-fast charging speeds: OnePlus claims a full charge in under 20 minutes and 26 hours of usage per charge cycle.
- Safety measures: OnePlus emphasizes its commitment to battery safety and longevity, incorporating various safety features such as smart charging algorithms, temperature sensors, and specialized battery chemistry.
During testing, the OnePlus 10T demonstrated remarkable charging speeds:
- 10% in 2 minutes
- 20% in 3 minutes
- 35% in 5 minutes
- 54% in 15 minutes
- Fully charged within 20 minutes
However, it’s important to note that these rapid charging speeds require the use of the included charger and OnePlus’ own USB cable.
Software: OxygenOS 12.1 and a Glimpse of OxygenOS 13
The OnePlus 10T 5G ships with OxygenOS 12.1, which is a feature-rich Android skin. However, it lacks the same minimalist and slick design of older versions, attributed to the merger with Oppo and its ColorOS development team. While OxygenOS 12.1 is functional, some users might find it less visually appealing.
The phone will receive an update to OxygenOS 13 later in the year, offering a redesigned experience with new features.
Camera: A Step Down From Flagship Standards
While the OnePlus 10T 5G packs a 50-megapixel main camera with optical stabilization and a Sony IMX766 sensor, the remaining cameras (8-megapixel ultra-wide and 2-megapixel macro) fall short of expectations. This lack of camera prowess is one of the most significant compromises compared to the OnePlus 10 Pro.
The absence of Hasselblad branding and the less capable hardware are further indications of the 10T 5G’s positioning as a more value-oriented offering.
The camera app offers a few interesting features, such as 10-bit photo capture and HEIF photo format support, but picture and video quality are merely adequate. Daytime photos lack consistent exposure and detail, while nighttime shots are decent but not exceptional.
Verdict: A Solid Choice for Specific Users
The OnePlus 10T 5G is a compelling phone with undeniable performance, impressive charging speeds, and a decent battery life. However, its compromises in design and camera capabilities might not appeal to everyone.
Here’s who the OnePlus 10T 5G is a good choice for:
- Gamers: The powerful Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC and robust cooling system make it a great option for those who prioritize gaming performance.
- Power users: Those who demand peak performance for demanding applications will appreciate the 10T 5G’s processor and RAM.
- Heavy users: The lightning-fast charging speeds are a lifesaver for those who use their phones frequently and need a quick recharge.
- OnePlus loyalists: Fans of the OnePlus brand looking for a performance-focused upgrade might find the 10T 5G a worthy successor.
However, the OnePlus 10T 5G might not be the best fit for:
- Camera enthusiasts: The camera system is not as impressive as those found on other flagship phones.
- Those who value IP ratings: The 10T 5G lacks an IP rating, making it less resistant to water and dust.
- Fans of the alert slider: The absence of this feature will be a dealbreaker for many OnePlus enthusiasts.
Overall, the OnePlus 10T 5G is an interesting phone that occupies a unique space in the market. Its performance and charging capabilities are undoubtedly impressive. However, its compromises in design and camera functionality should be carefully considered before making a purchase.
