OnePlus 12 Review
Introduction
If we aim to rank domestic mobile phone manufacturers based on sentiment, OnePlus is undoubtedly among the top contenders, possibly even in the top three. Over an extended period, OnePlus, with its “Never Settle” motto, has solidified itself as the epitome of coolness in the minds of many users.
However, the market proves to be unforgiving. The increasingly sophisticated custom UIs from various manufacturers have rendered HydrogenOS, renowned for its simplicity and cleanliness, seemingly outdated. During the OnePlus 7 era, the OnePlus community resonated with complaints about the usability challenges of HydrogenOS.
Following a familiar narrative, OnePlus reverts to OPPO, and with the OnePlus 9 series, ColorOS completely supersedes HydrogenOS. OnePlus has transitioned from being a niche geek brand to a mass-market player, focusing on price-performance ratios.
While this shift may be challenging for some to accept, loyal customers continue to eagerly anticipate OnePlus products, particularly the OnePlus 12, touted as the brand’s 10th-anniversary masterpiece.
The editor’s OnePlus 12 review features a striking green color, specifically the 16GB + 512GB version. All the content in this article is based on the phone provided for review, originally published on AnTuTu by author Houxiangyu.
Specifications
| Model | OnePlus 12 |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.82 inches Flexible OLED Oriental screen, 3216 × 1440p resolution, BOE X1 substrate, 1-120Hz adaptive refresh, Corning Gorilla Glass |
| SoC | Snapdragon 8 Gen3 |
| RAM | 12GB/16GB/24GB LPDDR 5X |
| ROM | 256GB/512GB/1TB UFS 4.0 |
| Camera | 50MP LYTIA LYT-808 Wide Angle 64MP OV64B Telephoto 48MP IMX581 Ultra Wide Angle 32MP IMX615 Front Camera |
| Battery | 5000mAh |
| Charging | 100W Wired, 50W Wireless |
| OS | ColorOS 14 based on Android 14 |
| Size | 164.3 × 75.8 × 9.15mm |
| Weight | 220g |
| Colors | White, Green, Black |
| Other | NFC, IP65 Rating, USB 3.2 |
Design
In terms of appearance, the OnePlus 12 inherits the classic design of the OnePlus 11. It retains the signature circular camera module and the metal DECO on the left side of the camera module. The overall outline remains identical to the OnePlus 11, even though the OnePlus 11 emphasized “K-type light and shadow,” there are differences in the details of the camera module between the two generations.
Observing our pictures might suggest dust particles on the OnePlus 12’s lens module, but these are actually small “starlights” beneath the rear camera cover glass. They appear as dust due to lighting conditions, as evident in the pictures but challenging to discern. Simultaneously, the decorative ring on the edge features fine scales, text logos surround the camera module, and the entire camera module of the OnePlus 12 is larger.
Furthermore, the flash unit of the OnePlus 12 has been relocated to the upper left corner of the metal DECO. Regarding body materials, the three colors of the OnePlus 12—white, pale green, and rock black—correspond to ceramic glass, emerald glass, and silk glass processes, respectively. When contemplating a purchase, besides color, consider the feel.
The pale green phone in the editor’s hand feels somewhat like frosted glass, but with a touch that seems to have heavier graininess compared to ordinary frosted glass. The etched patterns on the body exude an antique feel and are completely resistant to fingerprints.
The dimensions of the entire OnePlus 12 are 164.3 × 75.8 × 9.15mm, with a weight of about 220g. The hand-held feeling is noticeable, but thanks to the continuous curved surface design, it remains comfortable in the hand.
Moreover, OnePlus maintains a high level of trustworthiness in terms of button craftsmanship. Whether it’s the three-stage button on the left or the volume and power buttons on the right, they exhibit tightness without any looseness. There is only minimal subtle shaking when force is applied, and the key travel is relatively long. However, it’s not difficult to press, offering a crisp feel with moderate feedback.
Display
On the front of the fuselage, the OnePlus 12 features a 6.82-inch screen with a resolution of 3216 × 1440, providing a delicate display at 510 ppi. The screen supports 1-120Hz LTPO 3.0 adaptive refresh, boasts a peak brightness exceeding 3000nit, and a global excitation brightness of 1600nit. With DCI-P3 100% color gamut, JNCD averaging 0.35, native 10-bit support, and HDR 10+ certification, it stands as the first domestic DisplayMate A+ 2K screen, delivering an impressive visual experience.
Additionally, the screen incorporates 2160Hz high-frequency PWM dimming at low brightness and DC-like dimming at high brightness, catering to individuals with sensitive eyes.
Performance and Gaming
Powering the OnePlus 12 is the Snapdragon 8 Gen3 mobile platform, complemented by LPDDR5X memory and UFS 4.0 flash memory. This configuration ranks among the top levels in the current market. The device includes an ultra-large VC uniform heating plate covering an area of up to 9140 square millimeters. The “Laval Airway” design, initially launched on the Ace 2 Pro, enhances performance release. With a starting temperature of 23.9°, the AnTuTu V10 version achieved an impressive score of 2,202,606, placing it among the best among the Snapdragon 8 Gen3 products.
Practical performance is crucial, especially in gaming. During the test, Genshin Impact, a demanding game, exhibited an average frame rate of 60.29 frames over a 30-minute test, providing a smooth gaming experience. The OnePlus 12 maintained a consistently high frame rate, hovering above 60 frames for an extended period.
In the Genshin Impact test, when the room temperature was approximately 23°, the maximum temperature on the front reached 40.9°, and on the back, it reached 45.2°.
Subsequently, Honkai: Star Rail was tested with all options set to the highest level. The OnePlus 12 achieved an average frame rate of 59.50 frames over a 30-minute test, showcasing smooth gameplay. Notably, the frame rate curve exhibited more drops, attributed to frame freezes during certain game transitions. However, actual combat scenarios showed a complete frame rate, especially evident in the second half of the game, featuring BOSS battles.
At a room temperature of around 23°C, the OnePlus 12 experienced a maximum temperature of 42.1° on the front and 44.0° on the back during the Honkai: Star Rail test.
Camera
The OnePlus 12 has globally introduced Sony’s new imaging brand LYTIA’s LYT-808 sensor, generating high anticipation. Marketed as a CMOS second only to the one-inch outsole, this sensor, after the editor’s test and research, is found to share physical parameters closer to the IMX789 on the OnePlus 9 Pro. Nevertheless, during actual shooting, the LYT-808 demonstrates technical and algorithmic advantages, particularly in challenging backlight situations. The OnePlus 12 excels in restoring sunlight and accurately reflecting surrounding leaf colors.
Complementing the main camera, the OnePlus 12 features a 48-megapixel IMX581 ultra-wide-angle/macro lens and a 64-megapixel OV64B super light and shadow periscope telephoto. Enhanced by Hasselblad’s color adjustment, this configuration represents OnePlus’s most high-end imaging setup. Notably, the multi-focal capabilities of the OnePlus 12 mark a significant improvement.
Whether capturing the flavor and color of the ultra-wide-angle and main camera or the clarity of the telephoto, the OnePlus 12 impresses. The 20X sample exhibits remarkable clarity, showcasing the advantage of the OV64B periscope telephoto. Additionally, the ultra-wide-angle lens can double as a macro lens. In addition, OnePlus 12 is a product that is very suitable for shooting at the 70mm focal length.
The OnePlus 12, said to be crafted by the imaging team of the OPPO Find series in collaboration with Hasselblad, presents flagship imaging algorithms. The images carry a visual appeal similar to the OPPO Find X6 Pro, showcasing warmth that aligns with the so-called “Hasselblad flavor.” The warmer tones are particularly well-suited for scenes evoking a sense of warmth.
In low-light scenarios, the HDR algorithm of the OnePlus 12 appears aggressive. While the main camera’s night scene HDR performance is commendable, the telephoto end’s radical HDR, aimed at highlighting light signs, results in an overall darker scene. Despite this flaw, the OnePlus 12 holds its own in the 4K RMB price range, boasting a strong overall camera strength.
Battery and Charging
The charging and battery solution of the OnePlus 12 incorporates a combination of 100W fast charging and a 5400mAh large battery. This configuration is currently regarded as a top-notch solution, addressing the demands for both fast charging and a sizable battery.
Testing the charging speed of the OnePlus 12 from a 5% battery level, it charged to 28% in 5 minutes, 52% in 10 minutes, 74% in 15 minutes, and reached 92% in 20 minutes. The total time required to charge to 100% was 24 minutes.
Regarding battery life, the editor conducted tests in a fixed environment with 5G single card usage, connected to WiFi, room temperature around 20°C, and screen brightness set to 50%. Simulating heavy use, the total screen-on time reached 5 hours, with 39% remaining power. This level of battery life is considered excellent, allowing for a full day’s usage under normal conditions with no issues charging once a day.
Conclusion
Reviewing the OnePlus 12’s configuration, the editor finds it satisfactory. The Oriental Screen competes well with any domestic high-end display. The device boasts the current flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen3 platform for performance, a commendable heat dissipation design, and an enjoyable gaming experience. In terms of imaging, the combination of LYT-808, IMX581, and OV64B is a strength at this price point.
The OnePlus 12 also features a substantial 5400mAh battery and a “rare” telephoto fingerprint sensor this year. Additionally, it includes the Android camp’s best X-axis linear motor for an optimal experience. While lacking “Pro” in its name, the OnePlus 12’s configuration is more nuanced than a standard version. However, compared to the Pro variant of Friends, it may lack a bit of appeal and unique product features, making the OnePlus 12 a slightly better choice than its predecessor.
Choosing the OnePlus 12 is certainly not a disappointment. If budget allows, the Pro variant of Friends with IP68 rating is recommended. Yet, within its price range, the OnePlus 12 offers a superior experience.
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