OnePlus 5T Review and Comparison

I've switched to the OnePlus 5T smartphone. As the latest high-end model from OnePlus, I find it very user-friendly.
Since there are many articles comparing it with the iPhone X and Pixel 2, I'd like to focus on the differences from my previous model and share my personal evaluation and comparison, including the purchase process.

https://oneplus.net/5t

My Previous Smartphone was a Low-End Model

My previous smartphone was also a OnePlus device, specifically the OnePlus One, an entry-level model.

I won't go into details about how I thought I was buying the Two at a discount but ended up with the One, but let's just say it was a valuable lesson.

My Current Smartphone is a High-End Model

There are two versions of the OnePlus 5T, differing in memory and storage capacity. I purchased the more affordable 6GB/128GB model.

From here, I'll list the changes compared to my old One.

[Added] Extremely Fast Facial Recognition

The facial recognition is so fast that it's almost unbelievable. When I wake up the screen by pressing the power button while facing the phone, I can't even see the unlock screen.

As the settings page warns, the facial recognition may not be entirely secure, as it can be fooled by a photo. However, considering the convenience it offers, I think it's a worthwhile trade-off.

[Added] Convenient Fingerprint Recognition

The back of the phone has a round fingerprint sensor. You can use your fingerprint or pattern to unlock the phone, which is useful for sensitive operations like payments.

Moreover, sliding up or down on the sensor allows you to display the notification screen. On recent large-screen smartphones, it can be a hassle to reach the top of the screen to view notifications, but this mechanism makes it easy to operate with one hand. It's extremely convenient.

[Added] Case Included

The phone comes with a dedicated case, which is a nice bonus. Since the case is designed to work with the fingerprint sensor, it's a bit tricky to find a compatible case otherwise.

The included case is made of thin vinyl and provides decent protection without adding bulk.

[Added] Dual SIM Support

You can use two nano SIM cards, which is convenient for switching between different plans.

[Changed] Thinner Bezels = Larger Screen

Although the phone's body is roughly the same size as the One, the thinner bezels and lack of a home button make the screen feel much larger.

You'll notice the difference especially on the home screen and when playing games. It's a refreshing change.

[Changed] Thinner Design

While it may not seem like a significant change at first glance, the phone is noticeably thinner when you hold it.

The One had a bulge in the middle, but the 5T's flat design makes it much easier to hold.

[Changed] Improved Camera

As a non-expert, I can't comment on the technical details, but the camera takes much brighter and more vibrant photos.

The dual lenses seem to make it easier to focus, and the background blur effect is very convenient for Instagram users.

[Changed] Higher Price

At $500, the OnePlus 5T is relatively expensive, especially compared to the $200 One. However, considering the high-end specs, I think it's a good value.

[Changed] No More USB Cable Orientation Issues

The USB-C cable eliminates the need to worry about the orientation of the cable. It's a small but welcome change.

[Changed] Faster Processing Speed

The CPU has also been upgraded, making screen transitions and other operations much faster.

[Changed] Android Version Upgrade from 6 to 7

The phone runs a custom OS, but the underlying Android version has been upgraded from 6 to 7. I'm looking forward to the upcoming upgrade to 8.

If needed, you can also install custom ROMs like LineageOS (CyanogenMod). The installation method is documented on the forum.

[Changed] Weaker Vibration

The vibration is more subtle than the One, which can make it harder to notice when the phone is in your pocket.

Other Good Things About OnePlus Devices

• They support a wide range of frequency bands, so you can avoid the disappointment of buying a phone that doesn't work well in Japan.
• OnePlus has a high profile, so you can easily find information online.
• The user forum is very active, and you can usually find solutions to any problems you encounter.

Purchase Process

I bought my previous One from AliExpress, but this time I used GearBest. Occasionally, they offer coupons that can help you save money.

https://www.gearbest.com/

I won't go into the usual caveats about buying from overseas online retailers, but you can search for them online if needed.

By the way, I ordered the phone on Priority Line during the New Year's holiday and received it in about 5 days, including weekends. It was very fast.

Conclusion

Compared to my previous low-end model, the OnePlus 5T offers many improvements, making it a more comfortable and convenient device to use.

With its high-end features and affordable price, I highly recommend the OnePlus 5T to Android users who haven't upgraded their phones in a while.