Is a OnePlus 7 Pro Upgrade Worth It From a OnePlus 3T?
The OnePlus 7 Pro is undoubtedly a step forward from the OnePlus 6T, featuring substantial improvements in design and performance. However, the upgrade from a OnePlus 3T is a significant consideration given the gap in price and the not-so-old age of the OnePlus 3T. Is it worth the investment?
Price and Value
The OnePlus 7 Pro brings a price tag that's significantly higher than the OnePlus 6T. Starting at $670 from OnePlus, this upgrade is not only a testament to the company's advancements in hardware but also reflects a considerable investment. The OnePlus 3T, released just six months before the 6T, was still quite modern and robust. With a similar core experience, the decision to upgrade becomes intriguing yet challenging.
Design and Audio
The OnePlus 7 Pro is not just a continuation of the brand's design philosophy but represents a new level of quality. The phone feels more substantial and offers improved audio quality. The stereo speakers provide great audio separation and more volume, while the haptics have seen a dramatic improvement. This level of tactile feedback adds to the overall user experience, making the phone feel more premium than its predecessor.
Display and Performance
The display is arguably the most noticeable upgrade in the OnePlus 7 Pro. The QHD resolution is a huge leap from the 6T's Full HD, providing a significantly crisper visual experience. Additionally, the 90Hz refresh rate is a game-changer for both gaming and everyday use. This refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and motion, making the overall user experience faster and more responsive. Sunlight readability has also been greatly improved, allowing for better visibility.
The fingerprint sensor is a significant step up, even though it remains optical. The newer sensor is 30% larger and faster, which enhances convenience and speed. Despite not having the advanced telephoto and wide-angle lenses, the optics on the 7 Pro are robust and provide excellent image quality.
Software and Battery
Under the hood, the OnePlus 7 Pro is still a OnePlus phone. OxygenOS runs smoothly on the 7 Pro, providing a consistent and feature-rich experience. While the 7 Pro does come with higher-end specifications, the difference is not immediately apparent when upgrading from a OnePlus 3T. For most users, the core experience remains largely the same, meaning that the 3T can still perform just as well for the next year or so.
Power-wise, the 4000mAh battery is larger than the 3T, but the 7 Pro's higher display brightness and 90Hz refresh rate quickly drain the battery. In practice, users might find that battery life is effectively the same as the 3T, with slightly faster drain during intensive use.
Conclusion
Upgrading from a OnePlus 3T to a OnePlus 7 Pro is a significant decision, and while the upgrade brings impressive features and improvements, it may not always be the best choice based on price alone. However, for those who want the latest technology or those who currently use their OnePlus 3T as a backup or emergency phone, the 7 Pro can offer a significant upgrade with minimal compromise.