OnePlus has officially launched the OnePlus 15R in India, positioning it as a performance-forward smartphone for users who want flagship-level power without paying ultra-premium prices. At first glance, it looks like a big leap forward — a new Snapdragon chipset, a much larger battery, faster display refresh rate, and longer software support.
But for many users, especially those already using or considering the OnePlus 13R, the real question is simple: how big is the upgrade, and does it justify the price jump?
In this detailed comparison, we break down the OnePlus 15R vs OnePlus 13R across performance, display, battery, cameras, software longevity, and real-world usage to help you decide whether upgrading makes sense.
Table of Contents
Design and Build: Familiar DNA, Tougher Body
At a design level, OnePlus hasn’t radically changed its approach. Both phones follow the brand’s clean, minimal design language with flat edges and a premium glass-and-metal feel.
The OnePlus 15R, however, takes durability a step further. While the OnePlus 13R offers solid everyday protection, the 15R introduces an IP66 + IP68 + IP69 + IP69K rating, making it significantly more resistant to water, dust, and high-pressure sprays. This is a major upgrade for users who travel frequently, work outdoors, or simply want peace of mind.
The 15R is slightly heavier at 219g, largely due to its massive battery, whereas the OnePlus 13R feels a bit lighter and easier to handle for long one-handed use.
Verdict:
OnePlus 15R wins on durability
OnePlus 13R feels more manageable in hand
Display Comparison: 165Hz vs 120Hz Experience
The OnePlus 15R features a 6.83-inch Full-HD+ AMOLED display with a 165Hz refresh rate, pushing it firmly into gaming-focused territory. It also offers 100% DCI-P3 color coverage, Gorilla Glass 7i protection, and advanced eye comfort features like Reduced White Point and Motion Cues.
The OnePlus 13R, on the other hand, comes with a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 2780 × 1264 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate.
It is still a sharp, vibrant panel and more than sufficient for most users.
In real-world usage:
Scrolling feels smoother on the 15R, especially in gaming and fast UI transitions
Media consumption quality is excellent on both
Battery drain is slightly higher on 165Hz if not dynamically managed
Verdict:
OnePlus 15R for gamers and power users
OnePlus 13R is still excellent for everyday use
Performance: Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 vs Older Snapdragon Platform
This is where the biggest difference lies.
The OnePlus 15R is powered by Qualcomm’s 3nm Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, clocked up to 3.8GHz, paired with LPDDR5x Ultra RAM and UFS 4.1 storage. It also includes a new G2 Wi-Fi chip and a dedicated touch response chip for faster input recognition.
The OnePlus 13R uses an octa-core Snapdragon chipset with a peak clock speed of 3.3GHz While still powerful, it is clearly a generation behind in efficiency and sustained performance.
In practical terms:
Gaming sessions last longer on the 15R without thermal throttling
App launches and multitasking feel snappier on the newer chip
Power efficiency is noticeably better on the 15R
Verdict:
OnePlus 15R is a clear winner for performance-heavy users
OnePlus 13R still handles daily tasks smoothly
Software and Update Policy: Long-Term Value Matters
Software support is becoming a key buying factor, and OnePlus has made its intentions clear with the 15R.
OnePlus 15R: Android 16-based OxygenOS 16, 4 OS updates + 6 years of security patches
OnePlus 13R: Ships with OxygenOS 15 based on Android 15
with a shorter update runway
This means the 15R will remain relevant, secure, and compatible with new Android features for several more years.
Verdict:
OnePlus 15R offers significantly better long-term value
Camera Comparison: Evolution, Not Revolution
On paper, both phones feature a 50MP primary rear camera, but the difference lies in processing.
The OnePlus 15R uses a Sony IMX906 sensor with OIS, powered by the same DetailMax imaging engine found on OnePlus flagship models. It supports 4K video recording at up to 120fps, Cinematic Video, Multi-View Video, and advanced video zoom.
The OnePlus 13R also offers a 50MP rear camera but without the flagship-level processing enhancements seen on the newer model.
Selfie lovers will appreciate the 32MP front camera on the 15R, which supports 4K recording — a noticeable upgrade.
Verdict:
OnePlus 15R for video creators and photography enthusiasts
OnePlus 13R remains capable for casual photography
Battery and Charging: Massive Leap Forward
Battery life is another area where the OnePlus 15R pulls far ahead.
OnePlus 15R: 7,400mAh silicon-carbon battery, 80W fast charging
OnePlus 13R: 6,000mAh battery
OnePlus claims the 15R’s battery retains 80% capacity even after four years, which is impressive for long-term users. In real-world use, the 15R easily delivers two days of moderate usage, something the 13R struggles to match consistently.
Verdict:
OnePlus 15R is one of the best battery phones in its segment
Connectivity and Extras
The OnePlus 15R supports the latest standards:
Wi-Fi 7
Bluetooth 6.0
Infrared remote
Advanced global navigation including NavIC
The OnePlus 13R supports 5G and 4G VoLTE connectivity, but lacks the newer wireless standards.
Verdict:
OnePlus 15R is more future-ready
Price Comparison and Value
OnePlus 15R: Starts at Rs. 47,999 (effective price Rs. 44,999 with offers)
OnePlus 13R: Typically available at lower discounted prices depending on retailer
If you already own a OnePlus 13R, the upgrade makes sense only if you value:
Longer software support
Much better battery life
Flagship-level performance
For new buyers, the OnePlus 15R clearly offers better long-term value despite the higher upfront cost.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the OnePlus 15R if you want:
Top-tier performance and gaming capability
Massive battery life
Longer Android and security updates
Better camera processing and video features
Choose the OnePlus 13R if:
You want a more affordable OnePlus experience
Your usage is mostly everyday apps and media
You find it at a significant discount
In short, the OnePlus 15R is a true generational upgrade, not just a spec refresh. It sets a new benchmark for performance-focused smartphones in India, while the OnePlus 13R continues to be a solid option for value-conscious buyers.
OnePlus 15R vs OnePlus 13R: Specification Comparison
| Feature | OnePlus 15R | OnePlus 13R |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Year | 2025 | 2024 |
| Starting Price (India) | Rs. 47,999 (effective Rs. 44,999 with offers) | Lower, depends on discounts |
| Display Size | 6.83-inch AMOLED | 6.78-inch AMOLED |
| Resolution | Full-HD+ (1272 × 2800) | 2780 × 1264 |
| Refresh Rate | 165Hz | 120Hz |
| Protection | Gorilla Glass 7i | Not specified |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 (3nm) | Snapdragon (Octa-core, up to 3.3GHz) |
| RAM | 12GB LPDDR5x Ultra | 12GB RAM |
| Storage | 256GB / 512GB (UFS 4.1) | 256GB |
| Rear Camera | 50MP Sony IMX906 (OIS) + 8MP ultra-wide | 50MP rear camera |
| Front Camera | 32MP | Not specified |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K @ 120fps | Standard 4K support |
| Battery Capacity | 7,400mAh | 6,000mAh |
| Fast Charging | 80W wired | SUPERVOOC (in-box charger) |
| OS Out of the Box | Android 16 (OxygenOS 16) | Android OxygenOS 15 |
| Software Updates | 4 OS + 6 years security | Fewer updates |
| Durability | IP66 + IP68 + IP69 + IP69K | Not specified |
| Connectivity | 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, NFC, IR blaster | 5G, 4G VoLTE |
| Weight | ~219g | Lighter than 15R |
| Best For | Power users, gamers, long-term buyers | Value buyers, everyday usage |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is OnePlus 15R better than OnePlus 13R?
Yes. The OnePlus 15R is a significant upgrade with a newer Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chip, much larger battery, faster 165Hz display, better camera processing, and longer software support compared to the OnePlus 13R.
Q2. Should OnePlus 13R users upgrade to OnePlus 15R?
Upgrading makes sense if you want much better battery life, flagship-level performance, and longer Android updates. If your OnePlus 13R is working fine and you’re satisfied with performance, the upgrade is not essential.
Q3. Which phone is better for gaming, OnePlus 15R or 13R?
The OnePlus 15R is clearly better for gaming thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, 165Hz display, improved touch response chip, and better thermal efficiency.
Q4. Does OnePlus 15R have better battery life than OnePlus 13R?
Yes. The OnePlus 15R’s 7,400mAh battery offers noticeably longer usage compared to the 6,000mAh battery on the OnePlus 13R, often lasting up to two days on moderate use.
Q5. How long will OnePlus 15R receive Android updates?
OnePlus has promised four major Android OS updates and six years of security patches for the OnePlus 15R, making it more future-proof than the OnePlus 13R.
Q6. Is OnePlus 13R still worth buying in 2025?
Yes, if you find it at a good discount. The OnePlus 13R still delivers solid performance, a good AMOLED display, and reliable battery life, making it a value-for-money option.
