OnePlus will launch its next mid-range phone in Milan next week, but the company has already revealed what it will look like.
The upcoming Nord 4 marks a major shift in phone design, ditching the Nord 3’s plastic frame for a metal unibody design that instantly stands out from the crowd. As OnePlus puts it, it’s “the first all-metal smartphone of the 5G era.”
Lots to love
Taking the phone out of the box, the first thing I noticed was how premium it feels. If I wasn’t familiar with phones and you told me this was a flagship device, I would have believed you.
The switch to aluminum on the back and sides of the phone means it’s heavier than your average mid-range phone, but it’s less likely to fall out of your hands. Even if it does, the extra durability over a glass-backed device means I’m confident it’ll survive most drops without damage.
Another plus is the improved grip, which means I can comfortably use the Nord 4 without a case. There’s no need for an unsightly case that often detracts from the phone’s attractive design.
I particularly like the metallic finish of the Obsidian Midnight version I presented to you for review, which looks unique and sophisticated without the need for garish colors.
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
But it’s not all good news
However, the design of the OnePlus Nord 4 doesn’t impress me in all areas.
The big issue I have is the two-tone finish on the back, which means there’s a glass panel on the top quarter of the phone. It’s similar to early Google phones, up to and including the Pixel 3 in 2018.
It’s pretty neat, but the reflectivity poses two problems. First, it means that part of the phone acts like a mirror. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to look in the mirror every time I pick up my phone.
Additionally, this is the only part of the device that picks up visible fingerprints, which appeared within seconds of picking it up. While you don’t need a case for durability, you may want one to keep the glass in presentable condition. This could have been easily avoided by giving the glass a matte finish.
Of course, design is only a small part of the overall smartphone experience. The Nord 4’s new design has more strengths than weaknesses, but ultimately our ability to recommend it will depend on how the phone performs in other areas.
Don’t miss our full review of the Nord 4 when it launches on July 16, when it will be joined by a new tablet, smartwatch, and wireless earbuds.
