Redmi 15 challenges OnePlus Nord CE in the affordable premium segment

The mid-range smartphone market is heating up again, with the Redmi 15 taking on the OnePlus Nord CE. Both phones promise flagship-like features at a fraction of the price, but they approach value in very different ways. UK buyers looking for performance, display quality, and battery endurance will find this comparison particularly interesting.

The Redmi 15’s biggest headline feature is its enormous 7,000mAh battery. It easily outpaces the Nord CE’s 4,500mAh unit, offering close to two full days of moderate use. The trade-off is in charging speed, as Redmi’s 33W fast charging is slower than OnePlus’s signature Warp Charge, which remains among the quickest in the category. If long battery life is your top priority, Redmi is the clear winner.

Display technology is where these two diverge sharply. The Redmi 15 offers a large 6.9-inch Full HD+ LCD display with a smooth 144Hz refresh rate. It feels fluid for gaming and scrolling, but the LCD panel lacks the deep contrast and vivid colours of AMOLED. The OnePlus Nord CE, with its AMOLED display and 90Hz refresh rate, delivers richer tones and better visibility outdoors. For users who prioritise visual experience, the Nord CE still holds an advantage.

Under the hood, the Redmi 15 runs the Snapdragon 685 chipset with up to 16GB of dynamic RAM, giving it ample power for multitasking. The Nord CE’s Snapdragon 750G, however, provides stronger graphics and slightly better gaming performance. For everyday use, both perform well, but OnePlus still edges ahead in raw power and software smoothness.

On the software front, the Redmi 15 ships with HyperOS 2 based on Android 15, offering a clean interface with added personalisation features. OnePlus’s OxygenOS on the Nord CE remains a fan favourite, known for its minimal bloat and snappy feel. While both promise long-term updates, OnePlus typically has a better track record for delivering them faster.

The camera setup on the Redmi 15 includes a 50MP primary sensor with an AI depth assist. It’s reliable for daylight photography but doesn’t push the limits in low light. The OnePlus Nord CE, featuring a 64MP main sensor, produces slightly sharper and more colour-accurate images. If photography matters most, OnePlus remains the better all-rounder.

Design-wise, the Redmi 15 brings a bold and sturdy body with IP64 splash resistance — a nice upgrade for this price point. The Nord CE, meanwhile, keeps a slimmer, more elegant form factor that feels premium in hand. Xiaomi’s design leans towards practicality and endurance, while OnePlus focuses on comfort and minimalism.

In the UK, pricing further distinguishes the two. The Redmi 15 is expected to retail around £159 for its 6GB+128GB model, making it one of the most affordable large-screen smartphones with a huge battery. The Nord CE, depending on configuration, usually sits near the £250 range. That difference alone makes Redmi a tempting choice for value hunters.

If you prioritise battery, screen size, and long-term endurance, the Redmi 15 offers unbeatable worth for its price. It’s the better choice for users who want a big display and long runtime without spending much. However, if you care about photography, premium feel, and smoother performance, the OnePlus Nord CE justifies its higher cost.

Overall, this clash comes down to what kind of value you seek. The Redmi 15 wins on endurance and price, making it the best pick for practical buyers. The OnePlus Nord CE wins on finesse and experience, standing out as the more refined option for those willing to pay a bit extra for a touch of flagship polish.