Choosing between the OnePlus Nord 2 and the Samsung Galaxy A52 can be a tough decision. Both sit in the mid-range smartphone segment, offering strong features at competitive prices. But when it comes to real-world performance, long-term usability, and overall value, which one truly delivers more? This in-depth analysis breaks down key aspects—from chipset performance to software experience—so you can determine whether upgrading to the Nord 2 from the A52 (or choosing it over) makes sense for your needs.
Performance and Hardware: Power Under the Hood
The heart of any smartphone lies in its processor, and here’s where the Nord 2 pulls ahead decisively. It’s powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 1200-AI, a chipset built on a 6nm process with an octa-core CPU configuration including an ARM Cortex-A78 prime core clocked at up to 3.0 GHz. In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy A52 runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 750G—a solid performer but built on an older 8nm process with less aggressive clock speeds.
Real-world usage reflects this difference. The Nord 2 handles multitasking more smoothly, launches apps faster, and sustains higher frame rates during gaming. Benchmarks back this up: the Dimensity 1200-AI scores around 700,000 on AnTuTu v9, while the Snapdragon 750G hovers near 320,000. That’s more than double the raw power.
RAM and Storage Options
Both phones come in multiple configurations:
| Model | RAM Options | Storage Options | Expandable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| OnePlus Nord 2 | 8GB / 12GB | 128GB / 256GB | No |
| Samsung Galaxy A52 | 6GB / 8GB | 128GB / 256GB | Yes (up to 1TB) |
While the A52 offers expandable storage—a clear advantage for users who take lots of photos or download media—the Nord 2 compensates with higher RAM options. Having 12GB of RAM means better app retention and future-proofing as Android becomes more memory-hungry.
Display and Design: Comfort Meets Style
Design preferences are subjective, but build quality and screen performance matter objectively. The A52 features a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, Full HD+ resolution, and Gorilla Glass 5 protection. It’s bright, vibrant, and excellent for media consumption.
The Nord 2 also uses a 6.43-inch Fluid AMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution and 90Hz refresh rate. While still smooth and colorful, the slightly lower refresh rate is noticeable compared to the A52’s buttery 120Hz. However, the Nord 2’s display is tuned for better touch response, making it feel snappier during scrolling and gaming.
In terms of design, the A52 has a sleek matte plastic back that resists fingerprints, IP67 water and dust resistance, and stereo speakers. The Nord 2 opts for a glossy finish, lacks official IP rating, and only has a single bottom-firing speaker. For users who value durability and audio quality, the A52 takes the lead here.
“Mid-range phones now compete on premium features, but small differences in build and sealing can impact daily reliability.” — David Kim, Mobile Analyst at TechPulse Weekly
Camera Comparison: Photos That Impress
Photography capabilities often sway purchasing decisions. Let’s break down the setups:
- Nord 2: 50MP main (Sony IMX766, f/1.88), 8MP ultrawide, 2MP macro
- A52: 64MP main (f/1.8), 12MP ultrawide, 5MP macro, 5MP depth
On paper, the A52 seems stronger with more lenses and higher megapixels. But sensor quality matters more than numbers. The Nord 2’s Sony IMX766 sensor is larger and captures significantly more light, especially in low-light conditions. Night mode shots from the Nord 2 show better dynamic range, less noise, and more natural color reproduction.
Daylight performance is close, but the Nord 2 excels in portrait mode thanks to better edge detection and background blur algorithms. Video recording is another win for OnePlus—it supports 4K at 60fps, while the A52 maxes out at 4K 30fps and lacks advanced stabilization features found in OxygenOS.
Real Example: Weekend Traveler’s Dilemma
Sarah, a travel blogger, used the A52 for six months before switching to the Nord 2. She noticed immediate improvements during a trip to Iceland. In dimly lit cafés and snowy landscapes, her Nord 2 captured clearer low-light images without grain. “I didn’t need to pull out my DSLR as often,” she said. “The Nord 2 handled golden hour shots better, and the video stabilization made handheld clips usable without a gimbal.”
Battery Life and Charging: Speed vs Longevity
The Nord 2 packs a 4500mAh battery with 65W fast charging—capable of going from 0% to 100% in just 35 minutes. The A52 has a slightly larger 4500mAh battery too, but charges at only 25W, taking about 75 minutes for a full charge.
In daily usage, both last a full day under moderate load. However, the A52’s 120Hz display and less efficient chipset drain power faster during extended streaming or navigation. The Nord 2, despite its powerful chip, benefits from the energy-efficient Dimensity architecture and adaptive brightness tuning.
If quick top-ups are important—say, during a lunch break or before heading out—the Nord 2’s Warp Charge gives it a major convenience edge.
Software Experience: Clean vs Feature-Rich
OnePlus uses OxygenOS (based on stock Android), known for its clean interface, minimal bloatware, and timely updates. The Nord 2 launched with Android 11 and received Android 13, with a promise of three years of OS upgrades.
Samsung’s One UI, based on the A52, offers deeper customization, split-screen multitasking, enhanced privacy controls, and longer support commitments—up to four Android versions and five years of security patches. However, it comes with pre-installed Google and Samsung apps that some users find intrusive.
OxygenOS feels faster and lighter, but One UI provides more tools for productivity and personalization. Your preference depends on whether you prioritize speed and simplicity or functionality and flexibility.
Is the Nord 2 Worth the Upgrade? Checklist
Before making the switch from the A52 to the Nord 2—or choosing between them—ask yourself these questions:
- Do I want faster app performance and better gaming capability? → Nord 2 wins
- Is expandable storage essential for storing photos, videos, or music? → A52 wins
- Do I shoot often in low light or record videos regularly? → Nord 2 wins
- Do I value water resistance and stereo speakers? → A52 wins
- Do I hate waiting for my phone to charge? → Nord 2 wins
- Am I planning to keep the phone for more than two years? → Consider A52’s longer software support
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Nord 2 beat the A52 in everyday tasks?
Absolutely. Thanks to its superior processor and optimized software, the Nord 2 handles daily tasks like browsing, messaging, and social media with greater fluidity. Apps launch faster, and animations are smoother, even after prolonged use.
Does the A52 have better long-term software support?
Yes. Samsung guarantees up to four major Android updates and five years of security patches for the A52. The Nord 2 receives three OS upgrades and three years of security updates, which may limit its longevity for users who keep phones longer.
Which phone holds resale value better?
Historically, Samsung devices retain value slightly better due to brand trust and consistent update cycles. However, the Nord 2’s strong specs help it remain desirable in the second-hand market, especially among performance-focused buyers.
Final Verdict: Who Should Upgrade?
The OnePlus Nord 2 isn’t just an incremental upgrade over the Samsung A52—it’s a different kind of device altogether. It prioritizes raw performance, rapid charging, and photographic quality over ruggedness and software longevity.
If you’re a power user who plays games, records videos, or values lightning-fast responsiveness, the Nord 2 is absolutely worth the upgrade. Its camera, especially in low light, sets a new benchmark in its class. The 65W charging alone can change how you interact with your phone daily.
But if you live an active lifestyle requiring water resistance, rely on external storage, or plan to keep your phone beyond three years, the A52 remains a smarter, more balanced choice. Its combination of durability, display smoothness, and long-term software support makes it ideal for conservative upgraders.
浙公网安备
33010002000092号
浙B2-20120091-4
Comments
No comments yet. Why don't you start the discussion?