OnePlus 13 Launch

In a week packed with smartphone unveilings, the OnePlus 13 made its global debut, capturing the attention of tech enthusiasts and casual users alike. Although the pricing has seen a slight increase, savvy shoppers will appreciate the €100 discount on the 16/512GB variant, which effectively prices it at last year’s OnePlus 12 level. Additionally, customers can opt for a more budget-friendly 12/256GB model; however, it is currently without any promotional discount. Fans are also abuzz with anticipation for the upcoming OnePlus 13R version, expected to further widen the brand’s market reach.

Our hands-on experience with the OnePlus 13 during a photo tour in the captivating landscapes of Sri Lanka led to a comprehensive review of the device, complete with video highlights. Notably, OnePlus has committed to providing four years of OS updates along with six years of security patches, ensuring longevity and security for its users.

Poco X7 Series Launch

On a parallel note, Xiaomi has also launched the highly anticipated Poco X7 series this week, with both the standard and Pro models now available in the UK market. The two devices are tailored for different types of users, primarily differing in performance capabilities and battery specifications.

The Poco X7 Pro houses a robust Dimensity 8400 Ultra chipset, paired with lightning-fast UFS 4.0 storage, making it a strong contender in the mid-range segment. Both models boast stunning 6.67-inch flat 120Hz OLED displays with remarkable 12-bit color support (Dolby Vision and HDR10+), protected by Gorilla Glass 7i. With a resolution of 1,220 x 2,712 pixels, these displays provide a vibrant viewing experience.

The powerhouse 6,000mAh battery featured in the Poco X7 Pro supports an exhilarating 90W HyperCharge, achieving a full charge in just 42 minutes. Meanwhile, the vanilla Poco X7 offers savings of €70 but at the cost of downgraded specs, using the older Dimensity 7300 Ultra chipset and UFS 2.2 storage, along with a smaller 5,110mAh battery and slower 45W charging (taking 52 minutes for a full charge).

Both devices are rated IP68 for water and dust resistance, with durable Gorilla Glass Victus shielding their displays. Camera capabilities are another area where they shine, featuring a triple camera system consisting of a 50MP main lens (with Optical Image Stabilization), an 8MP ultra-wide camera (120° field of view), and a 20MP front-facing camera. However, it's essential to note that the Poco X7 struggles with video recording, maxing out at 4K @ 30fps, while the Pro variant offers 4K @ 60fps recording capabilities.

Comparison with Poco F6 and Realme GT 6T

In comparison, the Poco X7 Pro can also be evaluated against the Poco F6 from the F-series, which is offered at a similar price point. The F6 features the more powerful Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset, making it a more performance-oriented option. While it comes with a comparable OLED display and a solid 5,000mAh battery, its lower IP64 rating suggests that it provides less water and dust resistance.

For those willing to spend a bit more, the Realme GT 6T is available for €60 over the X7 Pro, and it’s powered by the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chipset. It boasts a slightly larger 6.78-inch display and a 5,500mAh battery with fast 120W charging. This model also features an impressive 32MP selfie camera, rounding out a compelling package.

Stay tuned for more updates as these exciting models make waves in the European market!