Nothing Phone 3a Pro vs OnePlus 13R: Which Premium Mid-Range Smartphone Should You Buy?

The Nothing Phone 3a Pro has launched in India, offering a premium mid-range experience with a transparent design and a 3x telephoto lens. However, it faces stiff competition from the OnePlus 13R, a device known for its flagship-grade performance and powerful battery. If you're confused between these two smartphones, this detailed comparison will help you decide which one is worth buying.

Price Comparison

The Nothing Phone 3a Pro is priced at ₹29,999 for the base model with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage. The 8GB RAM and 256GB storage variant costs ₹31,999, while the high-end model with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage is available for ₹33,999.

On the other hand, the OnePlus 13R is a slightly more premium offering. The 12GB RAM and 256GB storage variant costs ₹42,999, while the top-end version with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage is priced at ₹49,999.

Clearly, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro is the more affordable option, while the OnePlus 13R justifies its higher price with better hardware.

Design & Display Comparison

The Nothing Phone 3a Pro features Nothing’s signature transparent design, making it a unique choice in the market. It comes with an IP64 rating for dust and water resistance, which adds durability. The device sports a 6.77-inch Flexible AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and an impressive 3000 nits of peak brightness.

On the other hand, the OnePlus 13R opts for a sleek and boxy frame with an IP65 rating, offering better water resistance. It boasts a 6.78-inch ProXDR AMOLED display with 1.5K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and 4500 nits of peak brightness. Additionally, Gorilla Glass 7i protection enhances the screen’s durability.

Between the two, the OnePlus 13R provides a brighter and more durable display, making it a better choice for outdoor usage. However, if you prefer a unique and stylish design, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro stands out.

Performance & Software Comparison

The Nothing Phone 3a Pro is powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 processor, which is paired with up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. It runs on Nothing OS 3.1, based on Android 15, and comes with three years of Android updates and four years of security updates.

In contrast, the OnePlus 13R is equipped with the more powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, offering better performance for gaming and multitasking. It provides up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, making it a more future-proof device. The OnePlus 13R runs on OxygenOS 15, also based on Android 15, but comes with four years of Android updates and five years of security updates.

If performance and long-term software support matter most to you, the OnePlus 13R is the better choice. However, if you want a balance between price and performance, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro still offers great value.

Camera Comparison

For photography enthusiasts, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro features a 50MP primary camera with OIS (Optical Image Stabilization). It also includes a 50MP periscope lens with 3x optical zoom and OIS, along with an 8MP ultrawide camera. On the front, the phone boasts a 50MP selfie camera, which is ideal for high-resolution selfies and video calls.

The OnePlus 13R, on the other hand, also offers a 50MP main camera with OIS, a 50MP telephoto lens, and an 8MP ultrawide camera. However, it features a 16MP front camera, which is significantly lower in resolution than its competitor.

If you are looking for better zoom capabilities and a high-resolution front camera, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro is the better option. But if you want a reliable camera system with flagship-level optimization, the OnePlus 13R still holds its ground.

Battery & Charging Comparison

The Nothing Phone 3a Pro packs a 5000mAh battery with 50W fast charging support. However, it does not include a charger in the box, which means you’ll need to purchase one separately.

In contrast, the OnePlus 13R offers a larger 6000mAh battery with 80W SuperVOOC fast charging, ensuring quicker power-ups. Additionally, OnePlus provides a charger in the box, making it a more convenient choice.

For users who prioritize battery life and fast charging, the OnePlus 13R is the clear winner.

Final Verdict: Which Phone Should You Buy?

Buy the Nothing Phone 3a Pro if:

• You prefer a unique and eye-catching transparent design.
• You need a superior telephoto camera and a high-resolution selfie camera.
• You want a premium smartphone at a more affordable price.

Buy the OnePlus 13R if:

• You need flagship-level performance with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset.
• You prefer a brighter, more durable display with Gorilla Glass protection.
• You want a bigger battery, faster charging, and a charger included in the box.

Both smartphones offer excellent features, but the OnePlus 13R is the better choice for performance-focused users, while the Nothing Phone 3a Pro is perfect for those who want a stylish design and a strong camera setup at a lower price.