5 Phones to Consider Instead of the OnePlus 12

Looking for alternatives to the OnePlus 12? Explore our top picks in this list of 5 phones to consider. Each option offers unique features and strengths, compelling alternatives to the OnePlus 12.

Samsung’s flagship phones are always worth considering, and the Samsung Galaxy S24 series is no exception. Among the trio, the Samsung Galaxy S24 stands out as the most affordable, yet it's still powerful and stylish.

Samsung Galaxy S24

The Galaxy S24 is smaller and cheaper than its siblings, but it packs the same punch with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, matching the power of the OnePlus 12. Its 6.2-inch display, while smaller, is perfect for those who prefer a compact phone. The Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen and 120Hz refresh rate ensure smooth performance and vibrant visuals.

However, the S24 isn't perfect. Its battery lasts over a day, which is great, but it falls short of the OnePlus 12’s two-day battery life. Charging is slower too, at 25W compared to OnePlus' 80W. The OnePlus 12 also offers more RAM and storage options. Despite this, the S24 remains a fast and capable device.

Price-wise, the Galaxy S24 starts at $800 for 128GB of storage, the same as a OnePlus 12 with twice the storage. Still, the S24 has its advantages, such as preferred software and a wealth of features like Galaxy AI and DeX Mode. Plus, Samsung promises seven years of updates, compared to OnePlus’ four, making it a great long-term investment.

Google Pixel 8 Pro

Samsung isn't the only competitor for OnePlus; Google has made significant strides with its Pixel phones. The Google Pixel 8 Pro is a pricier option, starting at $999, but there are several reasons you might choose it over the OnePlus 12 despite the higher cost.First, there's the cleaner software. Google creates Android, so the Pixel’s version is the closest to "stock" you can get, with some exclusive features. This makes it fast, smooth, and ensures it gets updates immediately. It also promises seven years of upgrades, matching Samsung's update policy.

Second, the Pixel 8 Pro's camera is exceptional, among the best on any smartphone. While the OnePlus 12 has a good camera, it doesn’t match the Pixel’s. Google’s superior software and AI enhancements help with editing and framing, and the Pixel integrates Google Assistant and the new Google Gemini chatbot deeply into the phone.

However, the OnePlus 12 has its strengths too. It’s $200 cheaper than the Pixel 8 Pro, which is a significant saving. Its battery technology is superior, offering faster charging and longer battery life. Additionally, it provides more RAM and storage options.

If camera performance is your priority and you can overlook the battery life, the Google Pixel 8 Pro is a compelling alternative. But for those who prioritize battery longevity and value, the OnePlus 12 remains a strong contender.Both phones are excellent, each with its own strengths. The Samsung Galaxy S24 is a well-rounded smartphone with solid specs and features, offering a balanced package compared to the spec-heavy OnePlus 12.

Motorola Edge Plus (2023)

Motorola might not be a sleeping giant, but it’s certainly snoozing, with its glory days behind it. However, the Motorola Edge Plus (2023) challenges this notion. Priced at $800, like the OnePlus 12, the Edge Plus rivals the OnePlus 12 in battery life and charging speed, even if it falls short in power.

 First, let’s talk design. The Edge Plus is stunning, with a frosted back that feels velvety and sleek. It's lightweight, too, unlike many flagship phones. The standout feature is the screen: a 6.7-inch AMOLED panel that curves on all four sides, creating a bezel-free effect. It boasts a 165Hz refresh rate, surpassing the OnePlus 12’s 120Hz display. The Edge Plus is not only beautiful but also unique without being flashy.

 In terms of battery and charging, the Edge Plus is impressive. Its 68W charging rate is close enough to the OnePlus 12’s 80W that the difference is minimal. Both phones offer around two days of battery life, providing excellent endurance.

 However, the Edge Plus has its drawbacks. Its Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, while powerful, doesn’t match the OnePlus 12’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. The Edge Plus also falls short in software support, offering three years of updates compared to OnePlus’ four. It also lacks variant options for storage, though the single 512GB option is substantial.

 One significant advantage of the Motorola Edge Plus is its price. Often available at discounted rates, especially during sales, it can be found for around $700 or less, adding extra value to an already enticing package.

OnePlus 12R

Interestingly, one ofthe best alternatives to the OnePlus 12 comes from its own lineup. The OnePlus 12R is essentially a slightly toned-down version of the flagship, positioning it as a flagship killer for OnePlus’ own top model.

 What makes the OnePlus 12R a great alternative is clear. Priced at just $500, it offers only minor downgrades, making the $300 price difference a substantial bargain. For instance, the 12R uses the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 — last year’s flagship chip, which remains very powerful, even if it isn’t as strong as the 8 Gen 3. It comes with 8GB or 16GB of RAM, which matches most 2024 flagship phones, and offers 128GB or 256GB of storage. These specs are slightly lower than those of the OnePlus 12, but at $500, it’s an exceptional deal.

 Some features do take a hit due to the lower price. The ultrawide and macro camera lenses aren’t as good, and while it retains the beloved 80W wired charging, there’s no wireless charging.

 Essentially, the OnePlus 12R is a distilled version of the OnePlus 12. It captures the essence of what makes the flagship great, shedding some extras. While it might seem counterintuitive to desire a pared-down version if you love the OnePlus 12’s robust specs, the $300 savings make the OnePlus 12R a highly attractive option.

OnePlus Open

For our final pick,let’s take a curveball approach. If you're considering the OnePlus 12, it's safe to assume you appreciate OnePlus’s design and software. So why not choose the company’s most technologically advanced phone? The OnePlus Open, OnePlus’s first folding smartphone, is an impressive debut.

 The main reason to buy the OnePlus Open is its innovative folding design. The outer display is a 6.31-inch Super AMOLED that unfolds into a large 7.82-inch inner screen. The wider outer screen makes it more usable compared to other foldables, and the near-square inner display is easier to handle. The hinge is less stiff than other foldables, making it easier to open but less stable when half-folded.

 Do the specs matter? If you’re drawn to the idea of a folding phone, they might not. However, it’s worth noting that while the OnePlus Open uses the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, the OnePlus 12’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is more powerful. The Open's 67W fast charging is also slower than the OnePlus 12’s 80W. Still, the performance difference is minimal, so don’t let slightly lower specs deter you if you’re fascinated bythe folding concept.

 Here’s the catch: The OnePlus 12 is notable for its strong specs at an $800 price point, while the OnePlus Open starts at $1,700. You could buy two OnePlus 12s and still have $100 left over. The OnePlus Open is for those willing to invest significantly in a smartphone, which is somewhat contrary to the original OnePlus ethos of offering flagship specs at a lower price. Nevertheless, the OnePlus Open is a fantastic smartphone and an excellent alternative to the OnePlus 12.