I’ve reviewed a few camera phones over the past year from the likes of OnePlus, Honor, and Oppo, and still my favourite to use has been the OnePlus 13.
OnePlus 13
I’ve been using the OnePlus 13 as my main phone since it made waves in January 2025. I have been a OnePlus user for a while now; my previous phone was the original OnePlus Nord. Described as ‘the ultimate flagship powerhouse’, everything and the kitchen sink were put into this phone in hopes of toppling Apple, Samsung and Google off their podiums.
The OnePlus 13 continues the firm’s streak of creating high-quality and well-performing models, and the 13 has even more to offer in terms of features, software, build and design for a competitive price.
Reassurance
The phone can produce excellent image quality in the range of conditions I’ve used it, and the overall care and detail given to hardware offers more day-to-day reassurance. In particular, the IP68/69 ratings have given me more confidence to use the phone outdoors in the rain, near water (just not salt water) and, if I felt that way inclined, putting it in a dishwasher. I’ve also had my fair share of drops, and there have been no scratches or cracks as a result.
Since I’m using other phones too, there are a couple of things that would be nice to have, like a selfie camera with autofocus which is now seen on the new OnePlus 15.
But as a genuine OnePlus user, I can say that the company’s phones are made to last. This phone gives you lots for your money, as you’d hope for a flagship: high water and dust resistance rating, the option for wireless charging, durable build, great cameras and lots of features. The battery life is fantastic and very reliable, which is great if, like me, you’re using social media often, always taking lots of photos, and messaging friends and the family group chat regularly.
For more inspiration, have a look at our buying guides and latest reviews.
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- Best smartphones for portrait photography
- Best smartphones for low light
The views expressed in this column are not necessarily those of Amateur Photographer magazine or Kelsey Media Limited. If you have an opinion you’d like to share on this topic, or any other photography related subject, email: ap.ed@kelsey.co.uk
