OnePlus’ latest mid-ranger is the true sequel to last year’s OnePlus Nord. Meanwhile, Google’s latest budget/mid-ranger is the Pixel 5a. Both phones are in the same price bracket, but which should you choose for raw power? Our Google Pixel 5a vs OnePlus Nord 2 bout will answer that question.
Our own Gary Sims pit the two phones against one another using his Speed Test G suite. It’s probably of little surprise to know that the Nord 2 wins handily in every category. It basically decimated the Pixel 5a. This is mostly due to its processor being a specialized version of the MediaTek Dimensity 1200 while the Pixel 5a’s processor is the much weaker Snapdragon 765G.
See also: Our full Google Pixel 5a review
However, the Google Pixel 5a vs OnePlus Nord 2 winner might not affect your buying decision. The Pixel 5a is available only in the United States and Japan, while the Nord 2 is not available in the US. Therefore, your location might be the sole determining factor for which phone you get.
Also, keep in mind that raw power isn’t everything. Google’s camera software is superior to OnePlus’s for example, and the Pixel 5a features an IP rating which the Nord 2 does not. If all you care about is processing speeds, though, the Nord 2 is the definitive choice.