If you’re searching for a compelling gaming or all-rounder phone without breaking the bank, the OnePlus 11R has likely caught your attention. Launched as a “lite” version of the premium OnePlus 11, the 11R aimed for that elusive sweet spot: reliable performance, sleek design, and mid-range pricing.
But it’s 2025 now, and with a few flagship cycles and software updates (or the lack thereof) behind us, the critical question arises – is the OnePlus 11R still worth investing in?
Let’s dive into the details.
First Impressions Matter — Aesthetic Appeal & Display
For a phone that’s now over a year old, the OnePlus 11R still commands attention. Its curved glass back, stylish color finishes, and premium aluminum frame create a device that feels far from budget. It’s the kind of phone that you wouldn’t mind showing off among fellow tech enthusiasts.
Display Excellence
The OnePlus 11R boasts a 6.74-inch Fluid AMOLED panel with a stunning 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+ support. In simple terms, this translates to:
- Smooth Scrolling: Navigating through apps feels fluid and responsive.
- Vibrant Colours: You’ll experience rich and balanced colors without oversaturation.
- Brightness: It holds strong, even in direct sunlight, although peak summer afternoons can challenge this capability.
For binge-watching or gaming marathons, the display remains capable of rivaling more expensive models. Once you experience 120Hz alongside a sharp 2772×1240 resolution, going back to anything less feels like reverting to a dial-up connection.
Performance That Delivers
Performance is where the OnePlus 11R has made its mark.
Powered by the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset, it may not feature the latest flagship model, but it still delivers substantial performance. With a configuration supporting up to 16GB of RAM, multitasking becomes a breeze — whether you’re scrolling through social media while streaming music or pausing a game.
Gaming Prowess
Heavy-duty titles like Genshin Impact and Call of Duty Mobile are easily handled by this device. Its efficient cooling system ensures that it won’t turn into a hand-warmer during those tense late-night gaming sessions.
Moreover, with robust 5G support, it positions itself well against competitors in urban areas, especially in India where 5G is steadily emerging.
Key Performance Highlights
- Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset for swift performance.
- Up to 16GB of RAM for seamless multitasking.
- 5G support for fast internet connectivity.
Camera Capabilities: A Mixed Bag
This section highlights where the OnePlus 11R starts to show some limitations.
Main Camera Performance:
Featuring a 50MP Sony IMX890 main sensor, the camera produces commendable results in daylight. Expect:
- Sharp Images: Daytime shots are clear and vibrant.
- Accurate Colours: Colour reproduction remains reliable.
- Handled Shadows Well: HDR performance is decent.
However, both ultra-wide and macro cameras feel like afterthoughts. The ultra-wide shots often lack detail and contrast, while the macro camera leaves much to be desired, best forgotten after a single use.
Camera App Stability
Some users have reported occasional bugs in the camera app, such as freezing or inconsistent focusing. While not crippling, these issues may frustrate photography enthusiasts who expect a smooth shooting experience.
For those who don’t prioritize smartphone photography, the 11R’s camera setup will suffice. However, if you’re hoping to create high-quality content, it might be time to rethink your options.
Battery Life: Dependable and Fast Charging
In the arena of battery life, the OnePlus 11R shines.
5000mAh Battery:
- Day-Long Usage: Regular use sees most users through a full day and beyond, even with heavy activity.
- 100W SUPERVOOC Charging: Charge from 0 to 100% in approximately 25 minutes — a true marvel.
This combination of endurance and fast charging remains unmatched in its price range, offering users remarkable reliability.
Software Experience: Room for Improvement
Let’s address the software — the prominent concern many users face.
OxygenOS Feedback
Once a cherished choice among Android users, OxygenOS has lost some of its former luster. Features now include:
- Cluttered Interface: Users have reported increasing amounts of bloatware.
- Inconsistent Updates: The frequency and quality of updates have declined, raising concerns about overall performance.
Though still functional, OxygenOS may not excite long-term OnePlus fans. Here’s to hoping future updates will revitalise the experience.
Aging Gracefully: Is It Holding Up?
As smartphones age, their performance can vary. With the 11R, it seems to deliver a mixed experience. As we step into 2025, it handles 90% of daily tasks like a pro, be it browsing, gaming, or managing everyday apps.
However, some issues have emerged:
- Battery Drain: Certain users report increased drain over time.
- Overheating: In some cases, direct sunlight exposure can lead to overheating.
Despite these issues, it remains a robust contender within its pricing tier, boasting impressive build quality and performance.
Longevity Assessment
- Daily Usage: Adequate for browsing, gaming, and calls.
- Potential Drawbacks: Battery efficiency could decline as usage continues.
Limited Edition: Strategic Market Positioning
OnePlus’s decision to keep the 11R exclusive to the Indian market may have seemed peculiar initially but turned out to be a strategic move. This exclusivity enables OnePlus to focus on delivering pricing and features that cater specifically to the discerning Indian user.
This unique positioning adds an element of exclusiveness, almost like having a best-kept secret.
What’s in the Box?
Expect nothing extravagant but no disappointments either. Inside the packaging, you’ll find:
- The OnePlus 11R phone.
- 100W charger — a rarity in many flagship models today.
- A sturdy transparent case.
- USB-C cable.
- SIM ejector and basic paperwork.
Bonus points for eliminating dongles from the equation!
Final Verdict
If you’re on the lookout for a combination of performance, display quality, and efficient charging in an elegant package without overspending, the OnePlus 11R remains a solid choice.
Though it’s not without flaws — including its average ultra-wide camera, sluggish software updates, and potential long-term durability concerns — it still holds strong, particularly for gamers and multitaskers.
The ongoing love for the “R” series among OnePlus enthusiasts speaks volumes. The 11R effectively nails many aspects.
FAQs
Q1: Is the OnePlus 11R still worth its price in 2025?
Absolutely, especially if you value performance, display, and charging speed over camera versatility or the latest software features.
Q2: How is gaming performance on the OnePlus 11R in 2025?
It remains impressive, with the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset and ample RAM ensuring smooth gameplay, although some titles may limit refresh rates to 60Hz.
Q3: Has the software experience declined?
Yes, updates have become less frequent, and bloatware has increased. Some bugs have surfaced in the camera app, too.
Q4: Does it support 5G in India?
Yes, it supports major 5G bands and performs well on Jio and Airtel networks in urban areas.
Q5: How’s the main camera in everyday use?
In good lighting, the main camera does well, while low-light and ultra-wide/photo modes can underperform.
Q6: Can it last a full day on battery?
Easily. Users report around 6-7 hours of screen-on time, and ultra-fast charging brings it back to 100% within 30 minutes.
Q7: Is OnePlus 11R better than OnePlus Nord series models?
For gamers and power users — definitely. It offers better performance and build quality compared to most Nord models.
