Hello everyone,
I’m currently in the process of reviewing the OnePlus 13, as part of The Lab contest in the OnePlus Community. In this thread I want to give you a sneak peek at the device as well as my first impressions on the unboxing and first hands-on experiences.
If there is anything you’d like to know about this device, drop me a message in the comments below. I’d love to engage!
A more streamlined unboxing experience
Compared with previous OnePlus devices, the OnePlus 13’s unboxing felt pretty standard. OnePlus always had the tradition of adding small things to elevate your first encounter with the device — for example, the OnePlus 12 had a huge list of users who had an impact on the brand’s history, stickers were often present, and even a welcome card from the founder of the company.
Due to the new EU charging standard law, the phone doesn’t come with a charger, and I understand that. I mean… it’s the law. But other regions get a case while the EU doesn’t (I’ve ordered it from AliExpress, BTW, and it’s pretty cool), and inside the packaging you only have… this (and the phone, of course).
Is it more eco-friendly? For sure. Is it more cost-effective? 100%. Does is change the overall user experience? Not really. But still, I would’ve liked to see some effort being put into making the unboxing experience more memorable.
Arguably the best OnePlus design to date
While the packaging may have left something to be desired, the minute I grabbed the phone, I was in love with it. Despite being one of the biggest OnePlus devices to date, the curved sides (both on the display and the back), make the device feel incredibly comfortable to hold.
What’s more, it doesn’t feel as heavy as you’d expect looking at it. It’s just a joy to use.
The overall design is understated (especially in this black color), but premium. I didn’t really love the renders for this version (I was hoping to get the blue model), but once I got to see it in person, I was amazed by the finish they put into this CMF (color, materials, finish).
It only shows when the light hits it at the right angle, but it makes it feel… special. What do you think about it?
Well, that’s all I have for you in this first look. If you guys aree interested, I’ll post a more comprehensive review later on, more focused on specific use cases and, of course, the camera experience. Until then, see you in the comments.
